june 29–july 5, 2026
What's New
FEATURED EVENT
Conversational Tour: America250 - Who We Remember
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N Royal Street
Fridays, July 10 and July 17
5 p.m.
$15 per person, Historic Alexandria Members: $12/person
Purchase tickets.
Kick-off the weekend with a conversational tour that uses the history of Gadsby's Tavern Museum to reflect on who we remember in history and why. Participants will build connections with each other as well as between past and present. Option to purchase water, soda, or locally crafted beer or hard cider available upon arrival. For more information, visit Alexandriava.gov/America250.
Stay Safe as Temperatures Rise
This week, Alexandria is expecting well above average temperatures. These high temperatures pose serious health risks, especially for older adults, children, and people with medical conditions or without air conditioning. Temperatures during this period could feel as high as 110+ degrees.
City Resources for Extreme Heat
For city resources and tips on how to stay safe in extreme heat, visit the City’s heat safety web page and the City’s Seasonal and Emergency Warming & Cooling Options webpage.
Upcoming Events
View the Historic Alexandria Calendar
Yoga on the Magnolia Terrace
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
July 2 - October 22
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 6 p.m.
Saturdays: 9 a.m. & 10:15 a.m.
$10 a class (no class July 4)
Purchase Tickets
Join our friends at Carlyle House for an hour-long gentle flow Yoga Class on Carlyle House’s Magnolia Terrace. Please bring water, a towel, and a yoga mat. Wear comfortable yoga wear. Class may be canceled due to inclement weather, you will receive an email if class is canceled. Tickets are non-refundable unless class is cancelled by the museum.
Alexandria Community Cookout
Casa Chirilagua, 4100 Mt. Vernon Ave.
Tuesday, June 30 (Rain date: July 2)
6-7:30 p.m.
Free
Join us at the City of Alexandria Community Cookouts! A great time for neighbors and families to come together and connect with community resources. What began as a small departmental project has grown into a major community initiative. Today, more than 50 City agencies and nonprofit organizations participate in the cookouts - including Historic Alexandria. These events have reached and served over 20,000 residents and are now proudly supported by the City Manager’s Office. For more information and a list of upcoming Alexandria Community Cookouts, go to https://www.alexandriava.gov/rpca/alexandria-community-cookouts
Historic Happy Hours
Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
Thursday, July 2
5-7 p.m.
Free
Unwind in Old Town at Historic Happy Hours while connecting with Alexandria's history as we mark the nation’s 250th! Join us inside at the historic Lloyd House where drinks will be available for purchase. The speaker is author Kathryn Goodwin Tone and she will be talking about Thomas Paine.
Tavern Games Night: America250
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N Royal Street
Friday, July 3
7 p.m.
$10 per person
Purchase tickets (Limited seats available).
Join us for our Game Night series. It's almost the United State's 250th birthday! The $10 cover includes tavern games and bar trivia about the Declaration of Independence and American Revolution. Cash bar includes alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Please note this event takes place up one flight of stairs in the historic Ballroom of Gadsby’s Tavern Museum.
Specialty Tour: Hamilton's BFF & Frenemies
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street
Saturday, July 4, 11, 18, and 25
11 a.m. - noon
$15 per person, Historic Alexandria Members: $12/person
Purchase tickets.
Inspired by the musical Hamilton, learn how the paths of Washington, Lafayette, Jefferson, Madison, and Burr all intersected with this local tavern. Includes discussion of the issues they faced and how their choices impacted local citizens. Please note tour involves ascending and descending stairs. Arrive no later than 5 minutes prior to tour time to check in.
Swedish Marching Band Concert
John Carlyle Square Park, 300 John Carlyle Street
Sunday, July 5
11a.m. - noon
Free
Experience the music, energy, and excitement of Göta Lejon, the Marching Show Band from Gothenburg, Sweden! Talented young performers are traveling from Sweden to entertain audiences of all ages with a lively marching band and dance performance. Presented by the Alexandria Sister Cities Committee.
Family Day with Jr. Docents
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street
Sundays, July 5 through the summer
2-5 p.m.
Normal admission fee for self-guided visit
Every Sunday afternoon this summer, guests can learn from and be inspired by the museum's Jr. Docents--students 4th grade and older. In addition to stationed tours, Jr. Docents offer additional hands-on activities and a chocolate-making demonstration.
Trivia Night at Historic Sites
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
July 10th & 24th
7 p.m.
$15 per person (includes snacks and mocktails)
Purchase Tickets
Staff at Carlyle House Historic Park host bi-weekly trivia nights throughout the summer in the beautiful Carlyle House gardens. Test your knowledge on everything from pop culture to history!
Advance registration is required. Capacity is limited, so register early! Teams are limited to 6 people. No outside alcohol is permitted. Having trouble registering? Call 703-549-2997 or email carlyle@nvrpa.org.
Each trivia night features a different theme, with prizes awarded to the winning team each week and a grand prize for the team that earns the most points over the summer.
Themes:
- July 10 – Alexandria History
- July 24 – Mystery Literature
- August 7 – Musicals
- August 21 – 1970s Music
Specialty Tour: Poisons at the Apothecary Museum (SOLD OUT)
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S. Fairfax Street
Sunday, July 12
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
$15 per person, Historic Alexandria Members: $12/person
Purchase tickets
Explore the sinister side of medicine during this one-hour guided tour examining historic poisons, their uses at the Apothecary, and what modern science tells us today. Recommended for adults. Please arrive a few minutes early to check in.
Alexandria Historical Society Presents “Alexandria’s Patriots Remembered: A Revolutionary Walk Through the Old Presbyterian Meeting House”
Old Presbyterian Meeting House, 323 South Fairfax Street
Saturday, July 18
10 a.m.
$25 for non-members and $20 for Alexandria Historical Society members
Purchase tickets
Join the Alexandria Historical Society on “Alexandria’s Patriots Remembered: A Revolutionary Walk Through the Old Presbyterian Meeting House.” Presented as part of the Alexandria Historical Society’s History Behind the Scenes series and Alexandria’s 250th celebration, this tour will explore one of the city’s most significant founding era landmarks: the Old Presbyterian Meeting House, its 18th-century burial ground, and the men and women whose lives connected the congregation directly to the American Revolution and the early republic. More information about the Alexandria Historical Society is available at www.AlexandriaHistoricalSociety.org
Grown-Up Field Trip: Archaeology Museum
Alexandria Archaeology Museum, 105 North Union Street, #327
Sunday, July 19
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
$15 per person, Historic Alexandria Members: $12/person
Purchase tickets
Our popular grown-up field trip series continues with a trip to Alexandria Archaeology Museum for Ship Science.
Why would a ship be found underground? Use dendrochronology and other scientific methods to uncover the mystery behind one of Alexandria’s 18th century ships discovered along the waterfront. Join other adults as you explore objects and primary sources, dive into conversations, and get hands-on as you learn more about Alexandria's history.
This program takes place in the Archaeology Museum, located on the third floor of the Torpedo Factory, which is accessible by elevator.
Historic Alexandria is encouraging residents and businesses to show their local 250th spirit by joining the citywide Plant for America250 initiative. The Plant for America250 initiative, promoted by the City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Beautification Commission, encourages residents and businesses to plant native species in patriotic colors as a way to honor America’s milestone anniversary while supporting a more resilient and sustainable future.
Learn more about Plant for America250.
Alexandria Archaeological Commission Now Accepting Nominations for Brenman Award
The Alexandria Archaeological Commission (AAC) is now accepting nominations for the Bernard “Ben” Brenman Archaeology in Alexandria Award. The AAC established this award to celebrate the contributions of the late Ben Brenman, who devoted himself to finding, preserving, and sharing Alexandria’s rich and diverse heritage. Brenman was a founding member of the AAC, a City of Alexandria commission that was the first of its kind established in the United States, and served as its chair for 21 years.
The Brenman Award, established in 2007, is open to businesses, organizations, families, professional preservationists, volunteers, students, and other individuals who have demonstrated work or efforts in archaeological investigation, research, site protection, education, public interpretation, open space design, collections, or conservation. Nomination forms are available at alexandriava.gov/archaeology/ben-brenman-award-for-archaeology or by calling the Alexandria Archaeology Museum at 703.746.4399. The deadline for nominations is Wednesday, July 1.
Ben Brenman Awards are presented during Virginia Archaeology Month in October and are announced by Alexandria City Council proclamation at a City Council meeting.
Recent recipients of the Brenman Award include: Carr Properties, Marian Van Landingham, Archaeology Summer Camp counselors, EYA RTS Construction, LLC, AECOM, Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory, African American Heritage Trail Committee, Eagle Scout Griffin Burchard, the Fort Ward Interpretive Committee, community historian McArthur Myers, retired City Archaeologist Francine Bromberg, preservation advocate S. Kathleen Pepper, volunteer Anna Lynch, and preservation advocate Bill Dickinson. Past winners include: archaeologists, educators, grassroots organizations, cultural resource management firms, Alexandria residents, former Alexandria Archaeological Commission members, historians, developers, and generous donors.
For a complete list of past Award recipients and details, please go to the AAC website.
Appointed by City Council, the 15-member AAC develops goals and priorities for Alexandria’s archaeological heritage. The commission works closely with residents, government agencies, developers, and teachers to promote archaeology in the city.
Support Historic Alexandria
Your gift fuels preservation, education, and programs that bring Alexandria’s past to life. Donations, special revenue, and grants make it possible to expand educational programs, conserve treasured collections, and support our dedicated staff. Your gift today helps preserve Alexandria’s history for generations to come.
Historic Alexandria Museum Hours
Friday, July 3: Alexandria Archaeology Museum, the Alexandria Black History Museum, the Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, the Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site, Freedom House Museum, Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum will be open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, July 4: Alexandria Archaeology Museum will be closed. The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum will be open until 7 p.m. All other Historic Alexandria Museums will be open for their regularly scheduled Saturday hours.
Alexandria Archaeology Museum
Tuesdays–Fridays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays, 1 –5 p.m.
Alexandria Black History Museum
Thursdays & Fridays, 11 a.m.– 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays, 1– 5 p.m.
Open until 8pm on June 19 as part of the Juneteenth festival.
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum
Thursdays & Fridays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays, 1 – 5 p.m.
Fort Ward Museum
Thursdays & Fridays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays, 1 – 5 p.m.
Freedom House
Thursdays & Fridays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays, 1 – 5 p.m.
Friendship Firehouse Museum
Saturday, July 18, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
Thursdays & Fridays, 11 a.m.– 4 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sundays through Tuesdays, 1– 5 p.m.
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Wednesdays–Fridays, 11 a.m.– 4 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.;* Sundays & Mondays 1 - 5 p.m.
*Extended Saturday hours at the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum every Saturday in June and July, giving visitors additional time to explore one of Alexandria’s most unique historic sites.
Virginia 250 Passport
Historic Alexandria is proud to join 70 premier historic destinations across Virginia in the launch of the Virginia 250 Passport, a first-of-its-kind statewide tourism journey celebrating America’s 250th. Featured Alexandria museums include Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, the Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, and the Alexandria Black History Museum. The passport offers prizes and discounts to encourage families to explore Virginia’s rich history together. Beginning November 11, 2025, free passports will be available at major historic sites and Virginia Welcome Centers. Learn more at VirginiaHistory.org/250Passport.
New Exhibit: Stories of U.S.: Collections Capture Our History – Now open
A silver coffee pot, a family story, a business letter, or a photograph -- each provide a glimpse into the past. The Office of Historic Alexandria collects these items and memories to reflect our community and preserve the moments that define us. This exhibition, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, showcases recently acquired objects, many on view for the first time at the Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum. These pieces provide a powerful, tangible connection to both our local history and national story..
New Exhibit: Buglers & Brass Bands: Soldier Musicians in the Civil War - Now open
Fort Ward opened a new exhibit on May 16, 2026 that explores the essential role that music played in the daily life of the Civil War soldier, both in camp and on the battlefield. The exhibit features a variety of musical instruments and sheet music of the period from the Museum’s extensive Civil War collection. The exhibit will be on view through May 2027.
Exhibit: Women in Business: We Were Always Here
Gadsby's Tavern Museum's new exhibit featuring Hannah Griffith, a female coffeehouse operator at this location, is now open! The exhibit is included in regular admission. Visitors will be able to see primary sources up close to explore how women appear (and don’t) in the historical record in the 18th century. In addition to Hannah’s story, visitors will learn about the female business owners on the block around City Hall today, highlighting how women continue to be an important part of Alexandria’s business community. All of the women-owned businesses facing City Hall are included in this exhibit—14 total owned by 17 women! The exhibit will be up through March 2027.
Exhibit: Disease and the Apothecary
Explore how epidemics like Smallpox, Yellow Fever, and Influenza shaped Alexandria’s past and how science and public health saved lives. Included with admission. Free for Alexandria residents! The new exhibit is also available online.
Exhibit: Aboard Ship with the Jack-Tars of the Union Navy
A new exhibition at Fort Ward Museum opened October 2. The exhibit focuses on the U.S. Navy during the Civil War and is being held in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Navy on October 13, 1775. The exhibition will continue through 2026. The exhibit, with pictures of select objects, is also available online.
Explore with Ease – The New Museum Mobility Guide
Historic Alexandria and the Department of Transportation & Environmental Services (T&ES) have launched a colorful, easy-to-use map and guide connecting all of Alexandria’s museums via walking, biking, and transit. The guide also acts as a passport—visit every site and earn a prize! Available at museums, rec centers, public libraries, and more.
Visit our website and follow us on social media to discover new things about your hometown. For more information, visit alexandriava.gov/Historic. Admission to City of Alexandria museums is complimentary for city residents.
For reasonable disability accommodation, contact Nicole Quinn at historicalexandria@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.4554, Virginia Relay 711.
This Week in Alexandria's History
On June 29, 1933, Alexandria City Council repealed the City’s Prohibition laws. As the country moved to abolish Prohibition and the City saw fine revenue decrease, the City repealed its local laws against alcohol, though offenders could still be prosecuted under State law.
Upcoming Commission and Committee Events
Commissions Supporting Historic Alexandria
July 7 Public Records Advisory Commission (PRAC)
Archives and Records Center, 801 S. Payne Street
7:30 p.m.July 8 Alexandria Sister Cities Event Planning Subcommittee
Lily's Chocolate and Coffee, 631 King Street
7-8:30 p.m.July 8 Alexandria Historical Restoration and Preservation Commission (AHRPC)
Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
8-9:15 a.m.July 15 Alexandria Archaeological Commission (AAC)
Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
7-9 p.m.July 21 Historic Alexandria Resources Commission (HARC)
Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
7-9 p.m.