Fall festival season is heating up in Alexandria, with signature events, new restaurant openings, and unique experiences highlighting the best of local arts and historic charm this September.
Looking to kick off autumn with some culture? These events offer perfect opportunities to enjoy Virginia’s beautiful fall weather while exploring Alexandria’s artistic and historic treasures. Plus, recently named a Top 5 Best U.S. City by Travel + Leisure, Alexandria is bringing fresh openings and local flavor to the season.
Made in ALX Fall Maker’s Market
Sept. 6, noon-5 p.m. Port City Brewing Company, 3950 Wheeler Ave., West End Free admission
Start your holiday shopping early with the area’s most fun sip-and-shop event! Port City Brewing will welcome more than 20 local makers with interesting items for all ages. This kid-friendly and pet-friendly event will include music, food and prizes, plus multiple make-and-take stations where you can create fabric prints, design jewelry and paint.
The event is a collaboration between Port City Brewing and Made in ALX, a collective of Alexandria-based artists, creators and makers. There’s plenty of free parking both on the street and in the lot across from the brewery.
Colonial Market and Fair at Mount Vernon
Sept. 13-14, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy. Included with admission ($20 adults, $10 youth ages 6-11, free for children 5 and under)
Step back in time for food and wares by colonial artisans, theatrical entertainment, live music, and demonstrations — all included in the regular price of admission. This authentic 18th-century marketplace features handcrafted food and wares made by colonial artisans, including jewelry, metalwork, handblown glass, and reproduction 18th-century goods. Meet General Washington, hear live music, and watch as expert artisans demonstrate period crafting techniques.
The event takes place on Mount Vernon’s 12-acre field and provides a perfect opportunity to explore the entire estate and gardens while experiencing colonial-era trades and crafts.
George Washington Patriot Run
Sept. 7 George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate
Cross the finish line with George Washington’s Mansion in view. Registration is now open for the annual 10-miler and 5K race. Participants receive a t-shirt and finisher medal, and the Finish Festival offers music, food and beverages, and a free beer for each runner.
23rd Annual Alexandria Art Festival
Sept. 13-14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 300 John Carlyle St., Carlyle
More than 100 juried artists from across the country will showcase their work at John Carlyle Square in what’s become one of the region’s premier outdoor art shows. The festival is rated as one of the top 100 art shows in the nation by Sunshine Artist Magazine and features everything from life-sized sculptures to paintings, jewelry, pottery and textiles — all made in the USA.
The festival takes place in Alexandria’s vibrant Carlyle neighborhood, which boasts numerous natural open spaces and parks along with retail and entertainment options. Admission is free, making it perfect for families and art lovers on any budget.
Parking is available at several nearby garages: Colonial Parking Garage locations at 1925 Ballenger Ave. and 333 John Carlyle St., plus the USPTO East Parking Garage at 551 John Carlyle St.
The Twig’s 83rd Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour
Sept. 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Self-guided walking tour through Old Town Tickets: $45
Take advantage of Virginia’s lovely autumn weather while getting exclusive access to some of Old Town’s most beautiful private homes and gardens. This self-guided walking tour, hosted by The Twig (the Junior Auxiliary of Inova Alexandria Hospital), showcases historic residences featuring original and preserved structures, curated artwork and historical collections.
The tour has been a beloved Alexandria tradition since 1941, originally started by the hospital’s Senior Auxiliary as a fundraiser. Since 1997, The Twig has continued the tradition, raising more than $5 million for Inova Alexandria Hospital over nine decades.
Home highlights often include period architecture, unique antiques and carefully maintained gardens perfect for fall viewing. The tour provides a rare opportunity to see inside properties that are typically private while supporting local healthcare.
Tickets can be purchased online at thetwig.org. On the day of the event, participants check in at one of several Old Town locations to receive wristbands and tour books.
Virginia Spirits Month at Mount Vernon
Throughout September George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate
Virginia Spirits Month is the perfect time to learn the history of George Washington’s whiskey made at Mount Vernon, attend a special weekend distillery tour and tasting, and purchase presidential whiskey with a 20 percent discount in person and online. Weekend whiskey tastings are available to sample Mount Vernon’s spirits made using 18th-century distilling methods.
Coming Soon: Old Town Cocktail Week
Sept. 25-Oct. 5 40+ participating restaurants and bars throughout Old Town
Celebrate an extended Old Town Cocktail Week as more than 40 local restaurants serve up creative cocktails and host special events. Sip featured drinks, learn the art of the perfect martini, or discover secret pop-up bars. New this year: hotel packages include private in-room martini experiences, mixology classes and more.
New This Fall: Continues Arcade
Now Open
Full-service restaurant, bar, and arcade
Step back in time at the newly opened Continues Arcade, featuring 50+ original arcade cabinets, Skee-Ball, and pinball machines that run on nostalgic tokens. Beyond the games, discover a full-service restaurant and bar from Iron Chef alum Brian Lacayo and Chef Advisor Spike Mendelsohn (Top Chef favorite), bringing serious culinary star power to this playful hotspot. Perfect for date nights or family fun with a retro twist.
New Opening: Milk & Honey
Recently opened Southern-inspired cuisine
Enjoy made-from-scratch meals at this just-opened Black-owned restaurant, served with love and the celebration of soulful Southern flavors. The modern twist on Southern comfort food features decadent brunch plates and dishes that are as warm and inviting as the fall season itself.
These September events showcase Alexandria’s diverse cultural offerings, from contemporary local artisans to authentic colonial experiences, giving residents and visitors plenty of ways to celebrate the arrival of fall.
Know of other great September events happening in Alexandria? Tell us about them in the comments.
