Good morning, Alexandria! With the date marked as Saturday, August 9, 2025, the 221st day of the year, the city is buzzing with excitement as residents and visitors prepare for a weekend filled with shopping, community events, and cultural experiences.
Today, Alexandria transforms into a shopper’s paradise with the annual Sidewalk Sale, which stretches throughout Old Town and beyond. This highly anticipated shopping extravaganza is set against a backdrop of farmers markets, live music, and various community happenings, showcasing the city’s vibrant commercial spirit coupled with its rich historical heritage.
For early risers, the day kicks off with two bustling farmers markets. The Old Town Farmers’ Market at Market Square Plaza opens its doors at 7 a.m., while the Del Ray Farmers’ Market follows an hour later at Pat Miller Neighborhood Square.
History enthusiasts can immerse themselves in Alexandria’s Civil War history as the Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden presents a ‘Beyond the Battlefield’ walking tour at 10 a.m. This is complemented by a specialized Civil War Hospital Tour at 2 p.m., providing a unique glimpse into the city’s past.
Those looking to engage in fitness activities might opt for yoga on the Magnolia Terrace at Carlyle House or participate in ‘Fitness At The Brewery’ at Aslin ALX.
As the day progresses, the entertainment scene in Alexandria offers a variety of choices ranging from intimate acoustic sessions to full-fledged theatrical productions. The Little Theatre of Alexandria is set to present ‘Kinky Boots’ both today and tomorrow, and music aficionados will have the opportunity to enjoy performances from the Sharon Clark Trio at Laporta’s Restaurant as well as the tribute band 1964 at The Birchmere.
Comedy lovers are also in for a treat, with improv at The Lyceum and Comedy Night at Alexandria Bier Garden scheduled for Saturday night. The community spirit shines through with events like the 3rd Annual Project Backpack Giveaway and the Back-2-School Slam Jam, giving families a chance to come together as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
As Sunday rolls in, the momentum continues with three additional farmers markets across the city, allowing residents from the West End to Four Mile Run Park to stock up on fresh produce.
The day will conclude with a chamber music performance at The Lyceum, alongside a magical specialty tour of the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. This weekend effectively highlights Alexandria’s dual role as a contemporary urban hub while also serving as a custodian of American history.
For those interested in the most-read articles from Friday, August 8, 2025, the top stories included a tragic incident involving a man who died after jumping from a 15th-floor balcony during an FBI arrest attempt on King Street. Other notable articles reported on the opening of Umiya Sushi at a long-vacant site in Alexandria, while opportunities for local acting were highlighted with three film projects currently casting in the city. Additionally, food enthusiasts learned about a proposed 24-hour Mexican restaurant in Del Ray facing neighbor opposition and a French bakery and cafe that filed paperwork to open at 701 King Street in Old Town.
Looking ahead, the weekend’s events include:
– Saturday, August 9, features the Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market starting at 9 a.m., along with yoga on the Magnolia Terrace at Carlyle House.
– The METWC 2025 Annual Community Back-2-School Slam Jam Events kicks off at 10 a.m., alongside the 3rd Annual Project Backpack Giveaway and various community activities like the Trash Trekkers initiative at Coolidge Burke Branch Library.
– Notable live music performances throughout Saturday include Rich Russman at 219 Restaurant, Sharon Clark Trio at Laporta’s Restaurant, and the theatrical performance of ‘Kinky Boots’ at The Little Theatre of Alexandria, all contributing to a lively atmosphere.
– Sunday, August 10, will see the continuation of local markets spread from the West End to Four Mile Run Park, followed by engaging activities such as Kids Arts & Crafts at Hops N Shine and Board Game Bliss at Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library.
– The highlight will be a specialty tour titled ‘A Magical Apothecary’ at the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, scheduled at 11 a.m.
As the weekend unfolds, Alexandria offers its residents and visitors a remarkable blend of shopping, community connection, and historical exploration, ensuring unforgettable experiences and cherished memories abound. From local produce to entertainment options, the city serves as a vibrant community hub, catering to diverse interests while holding steadfast to its historical roots.
image source from：alxnow
