Alexandria was founded in 1749 by Scottish merchants and named after John Alexander, the Scotsman who owned the land that became Alexandria. Alexandria celebrates its heritage annually with the iconic Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. This year the 54th annual parade takes place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 11 am – 1 pm. Dozens of Scottish clans dressed in colorful tartans parade through the streets of Old Town, joined by pipe and drum bands from around the region, as well as terriers, and you’ll even see The Goodhart Group marching in the parade– be sure to stop by and say hello!

Read on for the events of this fabulous weekend in Old Town Alexandria. For official event details and the latest updates, visit the Campagna Center website and the Visit Alexandria website.

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54th Annual Taste of Scotland

Sponsored by Passport Auto

• 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm

• Friday, December 5th

• ALX Community Atrium, 277 South Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

Join us for this legendary holiday party and fundraiser featuring a robust Scotch tasting menu (including over 30 Scotch varieties and other whiskeys), decadent seasonal catering, music, and entertainment. This event is a fundraiser for The Campagna Center’s core programs that help children and families from birth to career.

• Admission: Tickets start at $150 per person.

• VIP Access: Sponsorships and Host-level Tickets include VIP entry at 6:30 pm.

• Get Tickets: Purchase Tickets Here (Link to Campagna Center’s Event Page)

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54th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade

Sponsored by Wegmans

• Saturday, December 6

• 11 am – 1 pm

• Old Town Alexandria – View Parade Route Map

The parade celebrates Alexandria’s Scottish heritage and benefits the needs of low-income mothers and children through The Campagna Center’s programs. The event is produced by Visit Alexandria in partnership with Campagna Center and the City of Alexandria. Mayor Alyia Gaskins will serve as the Grand Marshal. We too are proud sponsors of the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend!

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25th Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

Sponsored by Amazon

• Saturday, December 6

• Dockside festivities: 2 pm – 8 pm

• Parade starts: 5:30 pm

• Old Town Alexandria Historic Waterfront

Old Town Alexandria’s historic waterfront will shine as dozens of brightly lit boats cruise along the Potomac River shoreline. Enjoy dockside festivities at Waterfront Park from 2 pm – 8 pm, including a pop-up beer garden from Port City Brewing Company, food, and family-friendly activities. Santa arrives by fireboat at the Torpedo Factory Art Center at approximately 3:30 pm!

• More Details: Visit Alexandria Boat Parade Information

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Love Old Town? Let Us Help You Call It Home.

Whether you’re looking for a historic Old Town rowhouse along the parade route or a waterfront condo with a view of the Boat Parade, The Goodhart Group knows the neighborhoods that make Alexandria special.

Sue Goodhart | sue@thegoodhartgroup.com | 703-362-3221 Allison Goodhart DuShuttle | allison@thegoodhartgroup.com | 703-266-7277 Looking for more real estate insights and the latest listings delivered right to your inbox? Sign up for our newsletter right here.