This Week in Historic Alexandria - June 22, 2026

june 22-28, 2026

What's New

FEATURED EVENT

Conversational Tour: America250 - Who We Remember
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N Royal Street
Fridays, June 26, 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.

9th Annual Alexandria Pride Festival
John Carlyle Square Park
Saturday, June 27
2-6 p.m.
Free

The Alexandria LGBTQIA+ Task Force invites you to the 9th Annual Alexandria Pride Fair! Enjoy live music, DJ, LGBTQ+ story time, 100 exhibitors, food trucks, health services, mobile art lab, dancing, the annual reading of the Pride Proclamation by City Council members, and more! All ages welcome! While you're there, stop by Historic Alexandria's table. For more information, visit the Task Force's homepage.

Juneteenth 2026: A Weekend of Remembrance and Celebration

The Washington Revels Jubilee Voices celebrate Juneteenth with a concert at Shiloh Baptist Church in Alexandria on June 19, 2026.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in commemorating Juneteenth 2026. We were honored to gather with the community for the Memorial at Douglass Cemetery, enjoy the inspiring Washington Revels Jubilee Voices Concert, and celebrate at the Juneteenth Festival. Many visitors also explored Alexandria's African American heritage sites throughout the day, reflecting on the history and resilience that Juneteenth represents. We appreciate everyone who helped make this year's observance meaningful and memorable.

Upcoming Events

View the Historic Alexandria Calendar

Yoga on the Magnolia Terrace
Carlyle House Historic Park, 121 N. Fairfax Street
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
Southern Towers, 4900 Seminary Rd.
Wednesday, June 24 (Rain date: June 25)
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

Alexandria Historical Society Presents The American Revolution and the Fate of the World with Dr. Richard Bell
Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington Street
Wednesday, June 24
7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
Admission is $5 for non-members and free for members.

The Alexandria Historical Society (AHS) will host award-winning historian Dr. Richard Bell for a lecture, The American Revolution and the Fate of the World. As Alexandria and the nation approach the 250th anniversary of American independence, Dr. Bell's presentation will offer a timely and thought-provoking look at the global consequences of the American Revolution and its impact far beyond the thirteen colonies.

Pop Culture Trivia: Bravo Edition
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco Street
Thursday, June 25
7 p.m.
$12 per person
Purchase Tickets Online

The first of three pop-culture trivia nights in the Lee-Fendall garden, Bravo Trivia will test your reality tv knowledge. The event consists of three rounds and a final question, feel free to make a team or come on your own. Topics will cover everything from housewife franchises to spin-off series.

Trivia Night at Historic Sites
Carlyle House Historic Park, 21 N. Fairfax Street
June 26th, July 10th & 24th, and August 7th & 21st
7 p.m.
$15per person (includes snacks and mocktails)
Purchase Tickets

Staff members at Carlyle House Historic Park combine their knowledge to create bi-weekly trivia nights throughout the summer in the beautiful gardens of the Carlyle House. Test your knowledge on everything from pop culture to history.

Registration must be done in advance. Limited capacity so register early! Teams are limited to 6 people. No outside alcohol is allowed. Having trouble registering? Please call 703-549-2997 or email [email protected]

Each trivia night will have a different theme. There will be weekly prizes for the winning team as well as a grand prize for the team that wins the most points over the entire summer! Please note that 2026 Trivia Night at Historic Sites will be located at Carlyle House.

June 26th- 1976

July 10th- Alexandria History

July 24th- Mystery Literature

August 7th-Musicals

August 21st-1970s Music

Specialty Tours: Preservation of Carlyle House
Carlyle House Historic Park, 21 N. Fairfax Street
Saturday, June 27th
1:30-3 p.m.
$8 per person
Purchase Tickets

In the 19th century, James Green made renovations to John Carlyle's stone mansion to bring it up-to-date. When NOVA Parks purchased Carlyle House in 1970, the decision was made to bring it back to Carlyle's 18th century mansion. Join our experts in an in depth exploration of the changes the architects made using photographs and artifacts.

Family Day with Jr. Docents
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N Royal Street
Sundays, June 28 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.

Historic Happy Hours
Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
Thursday, July 2
5-7 p.m.
Free

Join us for Historic Happy Hours as we deep dive into history in a fun setting throughout the city! Unwind in Old Town at Historic Happy Hours while connecting with the work of Historic Alexandria as we mark the nation's 250th! Historic Alexandria staff will share recent research during the event.

Tavern Games Night: America250
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N Royal Street
Friday, July 3
7 p.m.
$10 per person
Purchase tickets.

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. Event takes place in the second floor ballroom. 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. to 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.

Specialty Tour: Poisons at the Apothecary Museum
The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 South 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.

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

Plan your Visit

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 [email protected] or call 703.746.4554, Virginia Relay 711.

This Week in Alexandria's History

More from This Day in History

On June 22, 1937, the Alexandria City Council appropriated $2,500 to construct a baseball field at the old Almshouse property at Monroe Street and U.S. Route 1. The 18th century Almshouse, built to house indigent Alexandrians, had been auctioned off by the city several years earlier for a boarding house, but returned to city ownership when the new owner's finances reversed during the Great Depression. Unable to find a use or market for the property, city fathers decided to construct a ball field for recreational use adjacent to the building, which was then used for the storage of baseball equipment. The new ball field proved immensely popular and today is known as Simpson Field.

Upcoming Commission and Committee Events

Commissions Supporting Historic Alexandria

• June 22 Alexandria Sister Cities Committee
  Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington Street
  7-8:30 p.m..

• June 22 George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee (GWBCC)
  Zoom Meeting, register online to join
  7-8:30 p.m.

• July 7 Public Records Advisory Commission (PRAC)
  Archives and Records Center, 801 S. Payne Street
  7:30 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.