Artistic rendering โ Event may differ
Alexandria's Biggest Holiday Weekend
Experience a magical holiday weekend in historic Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, from December 5-7, 2025. This beloved event features the vibrant Scottish Christmas Walk Parade with clans and Scottie dogs, and the spectacular Holiday Boat Parade of Lights illuminating the Potomac River. Immerse yourself in festive cheer, explore charming streets, and enjoy a truly memorable winter getaway.
What to Expect
Historic Scottish heritage meets dazzling holiday waterfront celebrations.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Not specified
- Parking: Information on parking is available on the plan your visit section of the website.
- Accessibility: The website includes an accessibility system. Press Control-F11 to adjust for visual disabilities and screen readers, or Control-F10 for an accessibility menu.
- Pets: Not specified
Other Christmas Events Near Alexandria
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, history enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, historic, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (outdoor events)
Special Events & Promotions
- 54th Annual Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade
- 25th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
- Featured in Good Housekeeping as a Best Place to Travel in December 2024
- Named a Top 5 Best City in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure 2025
Location
Event Details
Duration
3 days
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Old Town Alexandria
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Visit Alexandria
Food & Drink
Local food and beverages are available during the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights festivities.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade, as it's a popular event.
- Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as December in Alexandria can be chilly, especially near the waterfront.
- Consider using the free trolley or bus services to navigate Old Town and avoid parking hassles.
- Explore the shops and restaurants in Old Town before or after the main events for a complete holiday experience.
- Look for specific event schedules for the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights to find out about dockside festivities and activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alexandria's Biggest Holiday Weekend?
It's an annual celebration in Old Town Alexandria featuring the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade and the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, showcasing local heritage and festive holiday spirit.
When does the event take place?
The event is scheduled for December 5-7, 2025.
What are the main attractions?
The main attractions are the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade on December 6th and the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights on the same evening.
Is there a cost to attend?
The provided information does not specify ticket prices or admission fees, suggesting it may be a free community event.
How can I get around Old Town during the event?
Visitors can utilize the free trolley and bus services available in Alexandria to navigate the area and avoid parking challenges.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.