The weather was crisp and cool as hundreds of revelers sang holiday carols at the annual lighting of the Del Ray Christmas Tree and Menorah on Sunday night.
The 36-foot-tall tree is the tallest ever in Del Ray. It was donated by “Mango” Mike Anderson and Bill Blackburn of the Homegrown Restaurant Group.
A holiday tradition is around the corner in Del Ray, and some festive helpers are needed.
The 15th annual Del Ray Holiday Season Kick-Off starts at 5 p.m. this Sunday at Pat Miller Neighborhood Square on 2311 Mount Vernon Avenue. The event features holiday songs performed by the Alexandria Children’s Chorus, appearances by city leaders and even Santa Claus himself.
How much is Grandma’s old brooch worth? You can find out next month, as antique appraisals are coming to Del Ray.
On Thursday, Sept. 4, experts in American furniture, rare books, autographs, and clothing will be on hand from 6 to 8 p.m. in the parking lot of Del Ray Psych and Wellness (1900 Mount Vernon Avenue).
Get ready to dance, because the third annual Wilderness Kids Alexandria Music Festival is around the corner.
The free family-friendly event will be held Sunday, Sept. 28, from 12 to 5 p.m., at Pat Miller Neighborhood Square (2311 Mount Vernon Avenue). Local bands the MAYSUNS, the Derds (Del Ray Dads), Beachface, and Czars of Leisure will perform, and the fundraising event includes raffles, craft-making, and lawn games.
Skipping July 4?
Del Ray’s monthly First Thursday street festival is returning with its “Red, White and Bloom” theme on July 3 from 6 p.m. until sunset.
Get fresh batteries for your lightsaber, because a Star Wars party is coming to an Alexandria neighborhood not so far, far away.
Del Ray’s First Thursday (Sept. 7) will feature a costume contest, music from The B-Sides, a selfie station and photo opportunities with special guests Darth Vader, his ne’er-do-well grandson Kylo Ren and members of the 501st Garrison Tyranus Legion.
The Del Ray Farmers’ Market was declared the winner of the Heart of Del Ray Award on Friday morning.
The award, which is an annual popularity contest, was voted on by more than 1,000 people, and founder Pat Miller was presented with a large red heart symbolizing the nonprofit’s place in the community. The award is always presented just before Valentine’s Day, which this year is on Tuesday, Feb. 14. The oversized heart will be hung outside in the square.
In case you missed it, the lighting of the Del Ray Christmas and menorah was packed on Sunday.
The evening was full of families and friends caroling with hot chocolate with marshmallows.
