Central Nova News

The City of Alexandria is set to mark its 275th anniversary with a celebratory event on July 13 at Oronoco Bay Park. The festivities will include music, activities, and a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. Admission is free.

The schedule at Oronoco Bay Park features performances by Munit Mesfin at 6 p.m., remarks by Mayor Justin Wilson, and poetry from Alexandria Poet Laureate Zeina Azzam. At 8 p.m., City Council members will distribute cupcakes sponsored by Wegmans, followed by a performance by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra at 8:30 p.m. The evening will conclude with fireworks accompanied by the orchestra and cannons from the U.S. Army Presidential Salute Battery.

This year introduces two additional locations for activities and food trucks: Canal Center Plaza and Waterfront Park. Canal Center Plaza will host live jazz by Yellow Door Concert and an exhibition in the Gallery, while Waterfront Park offers a dance party with DJ One Luv and art projects organized by the Office of the Arts.

Food truck vendors will offer a range of flavors, including new offerings from Port City Brewing Company featuring their special Alexandria 275th Anniversary Beer. Lawn seating is available at both Oronoco Bay Park and Waterfront Park; attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets but should refrain from grilling or bringing pets.

Visitors are advised to use alternative transportation options such as biking or walking. Bike Valet DMV will provide complimentary valet services for bikes, scooters, and strollers at Oronoco Bay Park.

In case of bad weather, the event will be moved to July 14 at 6:00 p.m. For more information, visit alexandriava.gov/birthday or call the Special Events Hotline at 703-746-5592.

Acknowledgments go to the 2024 City Birthday Advisory Team for their assistance in organizing this year's lineup.