Photo by Chris Cruz courtesy of Visit Alexandria
ALX Jazz Fest takes place this summer in Alexandria.
Spring is in the air and the City of Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities is bringing the energy. From glow parties and jazz on the waterfront to family picnics and fireworks on the Potomac, there is something happening in every corner of our city. Grab your calendar. You are going to want to mark a few dates.
*Events are free unless otherwise stated.
Spring Highlights and Special Events
Adopt A Park 2026 Season Kickoff
Wednesday, March 18, 6-7:30 p.m. | 2900 A Business Center Drive
Meet fellow volunteers, request supplies, and get ready for another season caring for the parks we love. New volunteers are always welcome.
World Water Day
$5 | Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center
Discover how the water cycle and our Chesapeake Bay watershed keep our planet thriving. Learn through fun, hands-on activities for the whole family on March 21. Register here!
Nature Walk at Dora Kelley
Saturday, March 21, 12 p.m. | Dora Kelley Nature Park
Join Natural Resource Managers Raychel Frye and Katrina Napora for a guided walk through the woods. Talk plants, explore the trails, and keep an eye out for special spring blooms as the season comes to life.
Armstrong Spring Tech Refresh
Saturday, April 11, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Leonard Armstrong Recreation Center
Clear out unwanted electronics for free and learn about important digital safety topics affecting today’s youth. Declutter and learn something new all in one stop.
Le Brunch en Bleu
Saturday, April 25 | 12-4 p.m. | William Ramsay Recreation Center
Bring blankets, tables, chairs, food, and friends for a relaxed afternoon gathering in Alexandria’s West End. All are welcome for connection and community.
RecFest
Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Patrick Henry Recreation Center
A celebration of everything RPCA offers. Enjoy demos, meet instructors, explore summer camps, arts, sports, nature programs, and even register on site. It is your one stop shop for fun.
Asian American Pacific Islander Month Celebration
Saturday, May 30, 3-7 p.m. | Patrick Henry Recreation Center
Celebrate culture, history, and community through food, live performances, art, youth activities, and storytelling in this vibrant family-friendly event.
48th Annual ALX Jazz Fest
Friday, June 12, 12-6 p.m.; Saturday, June 13, 12-9 p.m.; Sunday, June 14, 12-6 p.m. | Waterfront Park
ALX Jazz Fest celebrates its 48th annual event as part of the Sails on the Potomac series honoring the USA’s 250th anniversary, featuring three days of music: Americana Roots (Friday), American Jazz and Poetry (Saturday), and Future Sounds of America (Sunday).
Juneteenth Block Party
Friday, June 19, 4-7 p.m. | Charles Houston Recreation Center
Come and celebrate the people, contributions, traditions and culture of Black Americans who have helped build and shape America. Enjoy food, live music, dance presentations, and recreation programming in celebration of this national holiday.
Alexandria and USA Birthday Celebration
Sunday, July 12 | Oronoco Bay Park
Celebrate Alexandria’s 277th birthday and the USA’s 250th with live music, food, and a fireworks finale over the Potomac River at 9:30 p.m. A can’t-miss summer night.
Kids and Teens
Nerf the Turf
$19, Ages 7-12
Fridays, April 17 & June 5, 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Patrick Henry Elementary School
Build teamwork and sportsmanship in this instructor-led foam dart showdown. Bring your gear; we’ll provide the ammo.
Dodgeball Fanatics
$19, Ages 7-12
Fridays, April 24 & May 15, 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Patrick Henry Elementary School
Duck, dip, dive, and dodge in a safe and structured environment designed for skill building and fun.
Animals in the Park
Saturday, April 25, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | Windmill Hill Park
Meet RPCA staff and some of the wildlife from the Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center.
K Pop Hunters Glow Party
$5, Ages 6-10
Saturday, April 25, 1-3 p.m. | Charles Houston Recreation Center
Dance to your favorite movie hits, create arts and crafts, and glow under colorful lights with friends.
Alexandria Spring Invitational Cheer Competition
Price varies, Saturday, April 25, 2 p.m. | Alexandria City High School
Watch talented cheer squads bring the energy, spirit, and skill to the mat. From high-flying stunts to powerful routines, this exciting competition is packed with teamwork and Alexandria pride.
Mother’s Day Spa
$15, Ages 5 & up
Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Mount Vernon Recreation Center
Moms and daughters can enjoy facials, manicures, food, and quality time together for a memorable Mother’s Day celebration.
Parents Night Out
$25, Ages 5-12
Fridays, May 8 & June 12, 6:30-8:45 p.m. | Mount Vernon Recreation Center
Enjoy an evening out while your kids enjoy games and activities in a safe and energetic setting.
Charles Houston Kiddie Cabaret
$6, Ages 1-5
Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Charles Houston Recreation Center
Dress up, dance to kiddie favorites, enjoy lunch, and celebrate in style with a parent or guardian.
For Adults
Charles Houston Line Dance Social
Ages 18+
Tuesdays, April 14 & May 12, 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Charles Houston Recreation Center
Enjoy an evening of toe-tapping fun. No experience needed. Just bring your enthusiasm.
Live on Top of The Hill Concert Series
Ages 18+
Fridays, June 27 & July 25, 12-3 p.m. | William Ramsay Recreation Center
Relax with live folk, cover, and mariachi music in a welcoming community setting.
Top of The Hill Adult Social
Ages 18+
Friday, July 31, 6:30-9 p.m. | William Ramsay Recreation Center
Connect, unwind, enjoy games and themed nights, and meet new friends in this casual summer gathering.
Explore full details and register at alexandriava.gov/RPCA/Events.
