The Alexandria Police Department is advising residents and visitors to plan for multiple events today that will affect traffic and access in Old Town and along the Route 1 corridor. At the same time, early voting continues for the November 4 general election.
A protest against President Trump’s policies will span much of the day, beginning with a demonstration along Route 1 in 90 minutes and continuing with an afternoon rally at Market Square. A City Council public hearing meeting and the weekly farmers’ market are also underway or starting soon.
Route 1 protest begins at 9:30 a.m.
The “No Kings – Hands Across Alexandria” protest is scheduled from 9:30 to 11 a.m. today along the sidewalks of northbound Route 1, stretching from Powhatan Park at the intersection of North Patrick Street and Westover Street to Potomac Yard at East Glebe Road.
Organizers are calling for a peaceful sidewalk protest against what they describe as “Trump’s illegal and authoritarian actions.” Staging areas with volunteers, sign-making tables and water will be available at Powhatan Park and Neighborhood Park.
APD said drivers and pedestrians should expect periodic congestion along Route 1 and adjacent intersections during the demonstration. Officers will be present to ensure the safety of participants and travelers.
Participants can take Metro from Potomac Yard or Braddock Road stations to join a separate No Kings protest at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington from noon to 3 p.m.
City Council public hearing
Alexandria City Council is holding a public hearing meeting from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 301 King St. The meeting is also available via government channel 70, streaming on the city’s website, or via Zoom.
Farmers’ market open, afternoon rally at Market Square
The Old Town Farmers’ Market is open from 7 a.m. to noon at Market Square.
AlexDEMs will host “No Kings Day Alexandria 2” at Market Square beginning at 2:30 p.m.
The city will close several streets from 1 to 6 p.m.:
- 100 block of North Royal Street
- 100 block of North Fairfax Street
- 300 block of King Street
Early voting access
The Office of Voter Registration & Elections at 132 N. Royal St. is open for in-person early voting from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today.
The next Saturday early voting session at the Royal Street location is scheduled for October 25, with Sunday hours on October 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Extended evening hours will be available October 27-30, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
A second early voting location opens Friday, October 24, at Charles Beatley Jr. Central Library on Duke Street.
Designated voter parking is available on the west side of the 100 block of North Royal Street. Pedestrian access to the elections office will be maintained despite nearby street closures.
Voters can also request ballots by mail through the Virginia Department of Elections website or drop completed ballots in the secure outdoor drop box in front of the elections office.
The deadline to request a mailed ballot is 5 p.m. on October 24. Mailed ballots must be postmarked by 7 p.m. on Election Day and received by the elections office by noon the Friday after the election.
APD recommends using public transportation to reach Market Square and Old Town today. Residents should allow extra travel time, follow posted detours and heed directions from police and event staff.
For a complete look at all events happening in Alexandria this weekend, visit ALXnow’s weekend roundup.
