George Washington Birthday Celebration Events

The Restaurant Cherry Challenge
Sponsored by

The “Cherry Challenge” is a competition among the finer restaurants in Alexandria – with their customers as the judges!

Each restaurant develops its own cherry beverage, appetizer, entrée, and/or dessert in honor of our distinguished native son.

An updated list of participating restaurants and photos of their drinks and dishes can be found here.

The Hunt for Washington
Sponsored by Lafayette College

A fun and challenging hunt for clues about Alexandria and George Washington that takes families and individuals to places in Old Town associated with the General.  Just print your Clue Sheet and bring it with you as you solve the clues on the date/time of your choosing in February.  You can submit your completed Clue Sheets to be entered into a prize drawing!

2026 Clue Sheets will be posted by January 31, 2026, but you still can download either of the Clue Sheets below and take the Hunt now. You will not be able to submit your completed Clue Sheets for the prize drawing, but you can enjoy learning more about George Washington and Old Town Alexandria!

Clue Sheet #1: North Old Town
Clue Sheet #2: South Old Town
Old Town Alexandria map

Hamilton’s BFFs & Frenemies Tour
11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street

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.
Cost: $15 per person, tickets available online here.

Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the Revolution
12 noon-1:00 p.m.
Old Presbyterian Meeting House
321 S. Fairfax St.

Join the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Sons of the American Revolution as they honor the Unknown Soldier of the Revolution. 
Cost: FREE, no registration required.

The George Washington Birthday Parade
2:00-4:00 p.m.
Old Town Alexandria - view parade route here.

Thousands of spectators will line the streets of Old Town Alexandria to cheer on the oldest and largest George Washington Birthday Parade in the country!  This year’s parade theme is Virginia’s Son ~ America’s Founding Father, celebrating George Washington’s leading role in the founding of our country during the 250th Anniversary of the United States.

George Washington’s Birthnight Dinner
6:30 p.m.
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street

Enjoy a four-course period inspired dinner with wine honoring Washington’s Birthnight at Gadsby’s Tavern. General Washington, portrayed by Brian Hilton, will be in attendance to share in the festivities. In addition, this year’s program will focus on the legacy of Washington and Bicentennial effect. Cocktail attire recommended. Cost: $150 per person. Tickets available online here.

Visit a Historic Site!

Alexandria’s historic sites will be open regular operating hours on Parade Day. In addition, the following sites will be open:

Friendship Firehouse Museum
107 S. Alfred Street: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Christ Church
118 N. Washington Street: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Old Presbyterian Meeting House
323 S. Fairfax Street: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Friendship Firehouse Annual Breakfast
8:30 a.m.– 9:00 a.m. Social Time
9:00-11:00 a.m. Breakfast
Westin Old Town Alexandria Ballroom
400 Courthouse Square

Join the movers and shakers of Alexandria at this historic breakfast celebrating the 250th anniversary of our country! 
Keynote speaker: General George Washington
Cost: $50 per person and tables of 10 at $500
Register here.

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Special Hours
11:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street

Tour two historic taverns that George Washington visited! Constructed in 1785 and 1792, these taverns witnessed the development of the young Republic and were part of key events, including Washington’s Birthnight Ball (a birthday celebration). Learn more about the people of these spaces and how their choices still resonate today.
Cost: $5 admission; City of Alexandria residents free. 
Guided tours available at 1:15, 2:15, and 3:15 p.m. for an additional cost.

Hamilton’s BFFs & Frenemies Tour
11 a.m.-noon
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street

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.
Cost: $15 per person, tickets available online here. http

George Washington Memorial Society Reception
6:00 p.m.
George Washington Masonic National Memorial
101 Callahan Drive

The GWMNM will host its annual reception for members of the George Washington Memorial Society (GWMS). The GWMS comprises a select group of members who are dedicated to supporting the Memorial https://gwmemorial.org. This private reception is open to all individuals who are current members of the Society. White tie formal (black tie optional)

George Washington Symposium
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
George Washington Masonic National Memorial
101 Callahan Drive

Come and learn about a variety of topics from seasoned researchers. Eleanor Breen, the City Archeologist of Alexandria, will present “Life in Alexandria in the 1770s on the Eve of Revolution.” Shelby Chandler of the James Monroe Memorial Society will speak on “The Relationship between George Washington and James Monroe.” A third speaker will also make a presentation. Cost: $50 per person, tickets available here.

George Washington Birthday Gala
6:00-10:00 p.m.
George Washington Masonic National Memorial
101 Callahan Drive

Celebrate Washington’s birthday with people from around the country in the beautiful and historic George Washington Masonic National Memorial. White tie formal (black tie optional). Reception followed by banquet. Evening also includes a silent auction.
Cost: $275 per person, tickets available here.