Central Nova News

The city of Alexandria is hosting a series of events and activities throughout April and May, offering residents and visitors an opportunity to engage with the area's rich history and culture.

On April 24, a Spring2ACTion Party will be held at the Lloyd House from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The event aims to raise funds for "What the Public Thinks Counts: Reframing the Black Image," an exhibition on Moss Kendrix. Donations serve as admission to the event.

The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum will feature in WETA Arts' April episode, highlighting Felicia Curry's preparation for a cabaret tribute to Sammy Davis Jr. alongside baritone Aaron Reeder. Viewers can stream full episodes on PBS platforms.

April 23 marks the Joseph McCoy Remembrance Event at Penny Hill Cemetery, commemorating McCoy's lynching in 1897 with a wreath-laying ceremony. The same day, Ewald Park will host a Community Cookout from 6 to 7:30 p.m., providing free food and activities for families.

A book signing event celebrating "Hip Hop @ 50" will occur at the Alexandria Black History Museum on April 27. The book features essays from a symposium held at Howard University in October 2023.

On May 4, the Alexandria-Caen Sister City Committee will hold a Spring Jazz Fête at Lloyd House Garden. Tickets are $55 for adults and $22 for those aged 17 and under.

La Musique de la Garde Nationale Parisienne concert is scheduled for May 7 at the Lyceum, while on May 9, Andrew Finn Magill and Alan Murray will perform as part of the Traditional Music Series Concert at the same venue.

Children aged five to eight can attend Story Time for Little Historians on May 11 at the Alexandria Black History Museum. This free event aims to educate children about Black History through storytelling.

A lecture titled "Remember the First Ladies" featuring Diana Carlin, Anita McBride, and Nancy Kegan Smith will take place on May 21 at the Lyceum. The program discusses First Ladies' influence on American society.

Throughout May, Gadsby's Tavern Museum offers specialty tours every Sunday morning, allowing participants to explore rarely opened spaces within its historic buildings.

Various museums in Alexandria have updated their operating hours. Notably, Historic Alexandria receives city funding but relies heavily on donations and grants for its broader initiatives.

Upcoming commission meetings include HARC Advocacy Meeting on May 7 and ACRP Remembrance Steering Committee later that day.