While most cities will blast off fireworks on the Fourth of July, Alexandria has its own celebration later this month.
Alexandria’s 275th birthday party (and the United States’ 248th birthday party) is set for Saturday, July 13.
Alexandria was founded in 1749 and re-chartered in 1852 (after a brief time as a part of the District of Columbia).
The birthday celebration will include a performance by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra and a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. The birthday party starts at 6 p.m. and includes cupcakes, items from local vendors and live music at Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison St. Canal Center Plaza in Old Town North will also have a viewing party with local vendors and more.
July 4: An American Birthday Celebration at Mount Vernon Estate, including daytime fireworks (free with estate admission). Events include a morning Wreath-laying, a naturalization ceremony and daytime fireworks. Learn more here.
July 3 and 4: A Capitol Fourth in Washington, D.C. along the National Mall. The dress rehearsal is free and open to the public on July 3, but does not include fireworks. On July 3 and 4, public access to the West Front of the Capital opens at 3 p.m. More information, including a detailed schedule, performers and more are available at pbs.org/a-capitol-fourth. There are plenty of vantage points along the waterfront in Alexandria, including Jones Point, Waterfront Park, Oronoco Bay Park and the Canal Center. Many people also gather at the George Washington Masonic Memorial to watch, too.
