Central Nova News

The city of Alexandria is hosting a variety of cultural and historical events this week, offering residents and visitors opportunities to engage with the area's rich heritage.

A highlight is the "Pop-Up Archaeology - Buried Ships of Robinson Landing Exhibit," which presents scale models of 18th-century vessel remnants excavated in 2018. The exhibit is located at the corner of The Strand and Pioneer Mill Way. According to Alexandria Archaeology, “archaeologists use these digital and physical models to compare ship construction and to answer questions about the age and use of the vessels.”

In conjunction with ALX275, the Alexandria Film Festival will screen "The Arc of Oblivion" on July 26 at the Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum. This documentary examines humanity's desire to archive memory. A panel discussion featuring ACHS students will follow. This event receives support from grants provided by the NEA and City of Alexandria.

For those interested in fitness, Carlyle House Historic Park offers "Yoga on the Magnolia Terrace-Happy Hour" sessions on select Fridays through September. These classes serve as fundraisers for new museum exhibits.

Lee-Fendall House Museum hosts trivia nights every other Friday during summer, with themes like "Summer Olympics." Participants must be over 21 years old.

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum will hold an event titled "Science Behind Harry Potter" on July 28, allowing visitors to explore herbology referenced in the popular book series.

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum invites families every Sunday through Labor Day weekend for its Family Day program featuring young historians who share stories about the tavern's history.

Looking ahead, August brings more events such as the Friendship Firehouse Festival celebrating its 250th year on August 3. Additionally, a remembrance event for Benjamin Thomas will occur on August 8 at Shiloh Baptist Church with speaker Rachel Laser addressing issues related to race education in public schools.

The Arts Enrichment Program for Youth Grant Program aims to fund nonprofit organizations developing arts programs throughout Alexandria from September through December. Applications are due by August 16 via SurveyMonkey's online portal.

Finally, various museums in Alexandria have announced their operating hours for visitors seeking educational experiences throughout summer weekends.