In 2026, the United States commemorates the semiquincentennial of the Revolution. The City of Alexandria helped construct the foundation of the revolution. From the creation of the Fairfax Resolves to the hometown of George Washington, Alexandria played a unique role in the birth of our new nation and its legacies today. Museums and organizations across the city tell this story through tours, exhibitions, public art, programs, wayfinding signs, and more. Join us as we celebrate and commemorate America’s Story in Alexandria.
Signature Event: Sails on the Potomac
Alexandria will be hosting Sails on the Potomac from June 12 – 14, 2026 as a Sail 250 Virginia℠ 2026 Affiliate Harbor. This three-day event will highlight Alexandria’s unique role in the birth of our new nation and its impact on today. Join us as we commemorate America’s Story with music, family activities, exhibits, tours, public art, educational programs, and more!
Calendar of Events
For Alexandria Library events reasonable disability accommodation, contact jgregorio@alexlibraryva.org.
For Historic Alexandria events reasonable disability accommodation, contact historicalexandria@alexandriava.gov.
Plant for America250
The City of Alexandria in partnership with the Beautification Commission is commemorating America250 by encouraging residents and businesses to plant red, white, and blue native plants. These “patriotic gardens” were also planted in 1976.
When you plant red, white and blue natives this year, you're turning the America250 historic milestone into an opportunity for collective action—nurturing democracy while planting the seeds for a more resilient and sustainable future.
Take the pledge and let us know you are planting for America250!
Virginia 250 Passport
America 250 City Art Poster Contest
In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026, the City of Alexandria is proud to announce its participation in the national America 250 City Art Poster Project, sponsored by the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) and the National Endowment for the Arts. The community is invited to submit artwork that reflects civic pride, historical connection, and optimism for the future.
One poster will be selected by Mayor Gaskins to represent the City of Alexandria and will be showcased at the USCM 94th Annual Meeting in Long Beach, California, from June 4–7, 2026. Additionally, the winning artwork will be included in an official national digital publication and commemorated as part of the local city's celebration.
“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, Alexandria is excited to take part in the National Conference of Mayors poster competition, which invites creativity, reflection, and civic pride” said Mayor Alyia Gaskins. “Programs like this encourage residents, especially our young people, to explore our nation’s past and imagine its future through art.”
The winning artwork will be announced at a public reception on Thursday, April 23 at 7:00 p.m. at the Torpedo Factory Art Center where all of the submitted artwork will be on display.
Key Details:
- Theme: Celebrating local history, community, and the future (nonpartisan).
- Submission Deadline: Friday, April 17, 2026.
- Format: vertical orientation, 24 inches wide by 32 inches tall
- Eligibility: Open to artists of all ages who live, work, and/or study in Alexandria.
Free poster paper will be available at regional recreation centers and arts partners. For full contest guidelines, technical specifications, and submission instructions, please visit alexandriava.gov/arts.
Community Events
Learn more about the events happening throughout our community and Virginia, visit the VA250 events page.
Additional Resources
Media Kit Access
If you are a member of the media and would like access to our online media kit for information and photos, please submit your information to this form.
