With 90-degree days, I think it’s safe to say that summer is here. When winter crept into April and our May days became hotter and hotter, it sure felt like we were robbed of spring! But despite the inevitable heat and humidity, there’s something special about Alexandria in the summer. It reminds me just how perfect an ice cream cone can be on a hot day (when of course, just seeing someone walk by with a scoop of Jeni’s or Pops tells my stomach on any given night that it is a must, not a need!) Summer also reminds me how much of a historical town we have when we see flocks of tours gathered around a plaque where George (or his friend, friend-of-a-friend, or doctor of sorts) once stopped. Lastly, summer reminds me there is always time for fun - families are out on summer break, our real estate market calms down, and the sun is out longer, which means there are more hours in the day to fill with new adventures.

Here are just a few things to look forward to happening in Alexandria:

June 10-11: Mount Vernon Summerfest

• Experience Mount Vernon after-hours and taste craft beers from across the region. Tickets include a commemorative tasting cup and eight tasting tickets. Additional tastings are available to purchase on-site.

• June 10-11, 6pm - 9pm at Mount Vernon Estate

• Tickets are $40 for Members, $48 for the General Public

June 17-18: Portside in Old Town Summer Festival

• This free festival features an array of live music, local craft beer from Port City Brewing Company, and fun for the whole family on the Alexandria waterfront. New this year, the event merges with the 44th Annual Alexandria Jazz Fest on Friday evening to showcase jazz performances and readings by Alexandria poets. Saturday, the festival continues with an eclectic musical lineup, local food, hands-on art and history activities, and more.

• June 17, 6pm - 9pm, and June 18, 1pm - 9pm at Waterfront Park (bottom of Prince Street). It’s free admission!

June 16 and July 21: Old Town Art Walk

• On the third Thursday of every month, take a self-guided tour of Old Town Alexandria and explore the fine art and studio crafts found in art galleries and boutique shops.

• 5pm - 8pm at various Old Town shops: explore more here.

June 25: Old Town Arts & Crafts Festival

• This is a free event at Market Square, featuring over 70 local and regional artists and crafters who showcase their pieces across various mediums, including pottery, stationery, fabrics, paintings, jewelry, photography, and more.

July 9: Alexandria’s Birthday Celebration

• Celebrate Alexandria’s 273rd birthday and the 246th birthday of the United States with fireworks along Alexandria’s waterfront. Scope out a spot at Oronoco Bay Park for a great view of the show!

• 3pm - 8pm at 301 King Street

What are you most looking forward to this summer? We’ll share our favorites throughout the coming months, and we’re looking forward to sunny days ahead. Time to queue up some Beach Boys and stock up on SPF - welcome summertime!