Presidents Day

There are typically parades held on Presidents Day in various cities and towns across the United States. These parades often feature marching bands, floats, and other displays that celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of U.S. presidents throughout history. Some cities that hold Presidents Day parades include Alexandria, Virginia; Sarasota, Florida; and San Francisco, California. Additionally, some cities and towns hold events and activities, such as historical reenactments or museum exhibits, that commemorate the lives and legacies of past presidents on this holiday. However, it is worth noting that the specific events and activities held on Presidents Day can vary depending on the location and the local traditions and customs.

Presidents Day is a federal holiday in the United States, and as such, many businesses and government offices, including those in Alexandria, Virginia, are typically closed on this day. However, there are some events and activities that are planned in Alexandria to commemorate the holiday. Here are a few examples:

  • Alexandria Black History Museum: The Alexandria Black History Museum hosts an annual Presidents Day event that features historical reenactors portraying presidents and first ladies, as well as live music, children’s activities, and food vendors.
  • George Washington’s Mount Vernon: Although it is located just outside of Alexandria in Mount Vernon, Virginia, George Washington’s estate hosts an annual Presidents Day Weekend event that includes special programming, demonstrations, and tours related to the lives of the country’s first president and other historic figures.
  • Alexandria Symphony Orchestra: The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra typically hosts a special concert on Presidents Day weekend that features patriotic music and other selections related to American history.
  • Alexandria Historical Society: The Alexandria Historical Society may host events or tours related to the history of the city

Several U.S. presidents have connections to Alexandria, Virginia, either through their personal lives or through their official duties. Here are a few examples:

  1. George Washington: George Washington is perhaps the most famous figure associated with Alexandria, as his Mount Vernon estate is located just a few miles south of the city. Washington also had close ties to many of Alexandria’s early residents and is said to have visited the city frequently during his lifetime.
  2. John Adams: John Adams, the second president of the United States, lived briefly in Alexandria in 1800 when he was serving as vice president under President Washington.
  3. James K. Polk: James K. Polk, the 11th president of the United States, visited Alexandria in 1847 during the Mexican-American War. He reportedly reviewed troops at the city’s Cameron Mills Arsenal before continuing on to the front lines of the conflict.
  4. Abraham Lincoln: Although he never visited Alexandria himself, President Abraham Lincoln had a significant impact on the city during the Civil War. In 1861, Union forces occupied Alexandria and used it as a key supply and transportation hub for the duration of the conflict.

Alexandria, Virginia is located approximately 7 miles south of Washington, DC. There are several ways to get from Alexandria to DC by bus or train.

  1. Metrorail: The Washington Metro’s Blue and Yellow lines both serve Alexandria, with several stations located throughout the city. From most Metro stations in Alexandria, it is possible to travel directly to downtown DC and other parts of the city using the Metrorail system.
  2. Amtrak: Amtrak’s Northeast Regional and Vermonter train lines both stop in Alexandria, with frequent service to destinations throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. From the Alexandria Amtrak station, it is possible to connect to other Amtrak trains or to take a short Metro ride to reach DC.
  3. VRE: The Virginia Railway Express is a commuter rail system that operates between northern Virginia and Washington, DC. Several VRE stations are located in Alexandria, with frequent service to downtown DC and other destinations in the region.
  4. Bus: Several bus companies, including Megabus and Greyhound, offer service between Alexandria and Washington, DC. Buses typically depart from the King Street Metro station or other locations in the city and provide direct service to downtown DC and other destinations.