Nov. 12, 19 & 27 and Dec. 4, 10 & 18
Community Singers Wanted. The West Potomac choirs invite alumni, parents, and community to rehearse and perform Part I (Christmas section) of Handel’s Messiah. We rehearse 6:30-8:30 p.m. through Nov. 19; 6:30-9 p.m. through Dec. 18 with orchestra. At West Potomac High School in the Springbank Auditorium. Visit information is at http://westpotomacchoirs.org.
Fridays & Saturdays/Through Nov. 17
Port City Playhouse. 8 p.m. Alexandria’s award-winning theatre company continues its 2012-13 season with the regional community theatre premiere of The Soul Collector. There will be a performance on Tuesday, Nov. 13 too. Saturday matinees will be available on Nov. 10 & 17 at 2 p.m. Port City Playhouse performs at The Lab at Convergence, located at 1819 N. Quaker Ln. General admission tickets are $14-18. Visit portcityplayhouse.org.
Through Nov. 25
Photography exhibition: “Telling Images.” Opening reception is Nov. 2, 7-10 p.m. See photographic techniques and interpretations that tell a story without words. Call 703-960-3873, email jldtifft@cox.net or visit www.TheDelRayArtisans.org.
Through Dec. 2
Free Art Exhibition. This juried photography exhibition — open to all artists nationally and internationally—explores the theme of upheaval in our personal lives and throughout the world. A reception on Nov. 8, from 6-8 p.m. occurs during 2nd Thursday Art Night and features a talk by juror Brie Castell at 7 p.m. Target Gallery (Studio 2), 105 North Union St. Call 703-838-4565, x4 or visit www.torpedofactory.org/target.
Through Jan. 24
Watercolors and Collagraph Prints: African Encounters: Coast to Coast. The Alexandria Black History Museum will open an exhibition of watercolors and collagraph prints entitled African Encounters: Coast to Coast. Artist Kathleen Stafford explores the landscape, architecture, and people of Africa, providing a kaleidoscope of variety and color for the eye. Free and open to the public. The Alexandria Black History Museum is located at 902 Wythe St. and is open from Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit www.alexblackhistory.org.
Wednesday/Nov. 7
Author Series. 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Alma Katsu will talk about The Reckoning, second book of the Taker Trilogy at the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Call 703-746-1702.
Uncorked - An Evening of Wine and Cheese Pairing. 7-9 p.m. Wine, cheese, and chocolates catered by The Curious Grape and light hors d'oeuvre provided by the Symphony Orchestra League of Alexandria. Also, there will be a silent auction. At the home of Stevie and Gardner Gillespie, 2414 Ridge Road Dr. Contact Susan Yonts-Shepard at seysrls@verizon.net or call 703-823-4020.
Free Film. 6:45 p.m. Duncan Library in Del Ray will present the sixth film in its free Noir at Duncan film series. The film stars Burt Lancaster, Ava Gardner, and Edmund O'Brien. The Library is located at 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Post-screening discussion begins at approximately 9 p.m. at St. Elmo's. Films in the series screen on the first Wednesday of the month at Duncan Library. Seating is limited to 40 viewers. Call 703-746-1705.
Thursday/Nov. 8
War at the Birchmere. $49.50. Visit http://war.com or www.Birchmere.com.
Art Night at the Torpedo Factory 6-9 p.m. Free. Browse open studios and galleries, interact with artists, and enjoy refreshments at this free event held on the second Thursday of each month. Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Call 703-838-4565.
Slavery Discussion. 6:30-8:30 p.m. The National Park Service and the Office of Historic Alexandria co-sponsor a program called Refugees from Slavery: Contrabands in Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia at the Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St. Prof. Chandra Manning of Georgetown University will explain the history of the Contrabands, men and women who escaped slavery during the Civil War. Afterward, there will be further discussion about who the Contrabands were and how they can be remembered by a panel consisting of researchers, descendants, rangers, and local historians from across the region. Free and open to the public. Seating may be limited. RSVP by calling 703-746-4356.
Art Focus Group. 7:30- 9 p.m. Making Marks and Making Meaning: Drawing and Early Literacy Connections. Classes are $25 each or $200 for the 10 class series. A school or group of teachers can share the registration for the full series. At 2804 Sherwood Hall Ln. Call 703-201-1250.
Nov. 8 through Dec. 3
Free Photography Exhibition. Andrew Zimmermann: Cold River. This solo exhibition of large-format black and white photographs captures the “character of blankness.” The opening reception takes place on Nov. 8 from 6:30-8 p.m., during 2nd Thursday Art Night. The Art League Gallery, 105 North Union St. Call 703-683-1780 or visit www.theartleague.org.
Nov. 8-25
Free Exhibition: Blurring the Line. To complement the FotoWeek panel discussion on Nov. 15 surrounding the issues of fine art vs. commercial photography, this exhibition features artwork by the photographers serving on the panel. Site 2 & 3 Galleries, 105 North Union St. Call 703-838-4565, x 4 or visit www.torpedofactory.org/target.
Friday/Nov. 9
Fashion Show. 10:30 a.m. The Board of Lady Managers of Inova Alexandria Hospital will celebrate its 140th anniversary at their Annual Fashion Show, Luncheon and Silent Auction at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center. Physicians, nurses and staff from the hospital will model fashions from Lord & Taylor. Proceeds benefit Inova Alexandria Hospital surgical services. Tickets are $45-$140. Contact Lynda West at 703-836-8853
Friday-Saturday/Nov. 9-10
Play. 7:30 p.m. St. Stephen’s & St Agnes School will perform the drama, “I Never Saw Another Butterfly.” The play is based on the works of art and poetry by Jewish children who lived in the World War II concentration camp of Theresienstadt, and centers around Raja, a child who survived to tell her story. Performed by the Cappies award-winning Stage One Players. Matinee performance is on Nov. 10 at 2 p.m. At St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School, Chapel/Performing Arts Center, 1000 St. Stephen’s Rd. Tickets are $5. Visit www.sssas.org/arts or 703-212-2950.
Friday/Nov. 9-11
Alexandria Antiques Show & Sale. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission is $12, $10 with ad. The Alexandria Antiques Show will feature 31 selected National and International prominent antiques dealers who will offer an extensive assortment of 18th- and 19th-century furniture from around the world, objects d'art, and worldly treasures including fine art, decorative art, accessories, silver, antique jewelry much more, from the exceptional to the extraordinary. George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Dr. Call 973-927-2794.
Nov. 9-18
Oklahoma! Mount Vernon Community Children’s Theatre, now in its 32nd season, presents Oklahoma, featuring a cast of 43 children and teenagers, ages 8-18. Performances will be held at Bryant Alternative School, 2709 Popkins Ln. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. To purchase online visit www.mvcct.org.
FotoWeekDC at the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Free. In conjunction with the 5th annual FotoWeekDC Festival, celebrating photographic excellence in the DC metro area, the Torpedo Factory Art Center is offering a series of free, photography-themed exhibitions and special programming throughout the month of November. The complete schedule is online at www.torpedofactory.org/fotoweek. Torpedo Factory Art Center is located at 105 North Union St.
Saturday/Nov.10
Vegan Beauty Workshop. 2-3 p.m. Learn about making cuticle cream, a purse-size winter relief pod, a jar gloss and a lip stick at the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Call 703-746-1743 to sign up.
Fort Hunt Preschool Play EXPO and Family Fall Festival. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Family Play EXPO and Family Fall Festival will feature lego engineering, yo-yo experts, an obstacle course, nature games, storytelling, and live music. Programs at FHP—a parent cooperative—encourage children to discover, engage, and explore the world around them through vibrant play. Free. At Fort Hunt Preschool grounds, 1909 Windmill Ln. Email alumni@forthuntpreschool.com, or visit http://www.forthuntpreschool.com.
Fundraiser. 4 p.m. Poetry and tea are on the menu at the annual fundraiser for Project Discovery at the Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St. Donations are welcome at the event or can be mailed to the Office of Youth Services, 2525 Mt. Vernon Ave. Make checks or money orders payable to Project Discovery Alexandria. All donations are tax deductible. Donations of $500 or more should be made by Nov. 1 to ensure inclusion in the Annual Special Recognition Legacy Program. Contact Ron Frazier at 703-746-5967 or ron.frazier@alexandriava.gov.
Concert. 8 p.m. Featuring Kim Allen Kluge, conductor; Yefim Bronfman, piano; Hovhaness: Symphony No. 2, “Mysterious Mountain;” I. Andante con moto Mussorgsky/Ravel: Pictures at an Exhibition; Newman: Little Women (1994); Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 in E Flat Major, “Emperor,” Op. 73.” At Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall & Arts Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St.Tickets start at $40 adult, $35 senior, $15 students and $5 for all youth (18 & under). Purchase online at alexsym.org or call 703-548-0885. Free pre-concert chat one hour prior to each performance.
Photography Lecture. 1 p.m. Free. Photographer Andrew Zimmermann reveals his inspiration and techniques for creating the black and white imagery appearing concurrently in his solo show, Cold River. The Art League Gallery, 105 North Union St. Call 703-683-1780 or visit www.theartleague.org.
Concert. 7:30 p.m. National Men’s Chorus will begin its 14th season with a concert of music appropriate for Veterans Day at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 1301 Collingwood Road. The program will be conducted by Founder and Artistic Director, Thomas Beveridge, and will feature the renowned pianist, Thomas Pandolfi. The Chorus will perform a selection of American patriotic music, including The Star Spangled Banner, with a rarely heard verse by Oliver Wendell Holmes and a new verse by Jay Kelly Wright; songs of the American Wars, including Chester, Tenting Tonight, The Battle Hymn of the Republic, Ballad of the Green Berets, and A Sentry’s Prayer by Fred Gray, written to honor his son fighting in Afghanistan. Tickets are at the door for $20 and free for students and children. Visit www.nationalmenschorus.org or call 202-244-7191.
Historic Preservation Conference. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. A conference focusing on historic preservation in Del Ray will be held at George Washington Middle School cafeteria (1005 Mount Vernon Ave.). This free event is for the general public and aimed at educating residents about Del Ray history and exploring ways to preserve the neighborhood’s historic fabric. Visitwww.delraycitizen.org/events.php.
Sunday/Nov. 11
Kids Takeover Gadsby's Tavern Museum. 2-3:30 p.m. Visitors touring Gadsby's Tavern Museum will meet 18th century characters bringing to life the people who visited and worked in a tavern. This event’s planned by a team of 5th through 7th grade volunteers as part of the Museum's Kids Take Over the Museum challenge. In honor of Veteran's Day and the American Legion Post # 24's support of the Museum, the students invite all veterans and active duty military and their families to attend for free. Admission is $5 per adult and $3 per child (ages 5 through 12). Visit www.gadsbystavernrestaurant.com.
Symposium: “A Lifetime of Learning through Play.” 3-5 p.m. Fort Hunt Preschool is celebrating 50 years of learning through play with a symposium on learning through play across a lifetime. Engage with a panel of experts to examine the critical places of play and discovery in the journey of learning. A panel discussion on the importance of play for all ages. Free. Hollin Meadows Elementary School, 2310 Nordok Place. Email alumni@forthuntpreschool.com or visit http://www.forthuntpreschool.com.
Birchmere Show. 7:30 p.m. London-based singer/songwriter Lianne La Havas, who recently was nominated for the UK's Mercury Prize, will be performing at the Birchmere Theatre located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Concert. 3 p.m. Featuring Kim Allen Kluge, conductor; Yefim Bronfman, piano; Hovhaness: Symphony No. 2, “Mysterious Mountain;” I. Andante con moto Mussorgsky/Ravel: Pictures at an Exhibition; Newman: Little Women (1994); Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 in E Flat Major, “Emperor,” Op. 73.” At Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall & Arts Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St.Tickets start at $40 adult, $35 senior, $15 students and $5 for all youth (18 & under). Purchase online at alexsym.org or call 703-548-0885. Free pre-concert chat one hour prior to each performance.
Jazz at Meade. 4 p.m. The Committee for Jazz at Meade will feature Will Smith and the W.E.S Group. At Meade Church, 322 N Alfred St. Donation is $15. Light refreshments will be served, and parking is available in the church's lot and on the street. Visit www.meadechurch.org.
Through Nov. 11
Wax Works. The exhibition will feature six artists whose work begins at the definition of ‘encaustic’ and explores the application, functionality and versatility of wax as a medium. Free. The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Visit www.nvfaa.org.
Birchmere Show: Lianne La Havas. $20. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Monday/Nov. 12
Free School Concert. 7 p.m. The Mount Vernon Area Honors chorus began this year for selected 6th grade students from the Mount Vernon High School pyramid elementary schools. Their original concert date was canceled by Frankenstorm Sandy. People now have a chance to hear them and the singers from Walt Whitman Middle School and Mount Vernon High School as well at Little Theater at Mount Vernon High School.
Tuesday/Nov. 13
Fundraising. 12:30-2:30 p.m. Mount Vernon Quilters Unlimited will hold its annual fundraising event to support its educational projects. Completed quilts, wall hangings, table covers, totes, fabric, quilting projects and gift items will be sold at Silent, Live, and Other Auctions, as well as a fixed-price table. The event also features a bake sale. A lunch will be available for $5. Admission free. Everyone welcome. At Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Rd.
Swing Dance Lesson. 8:30-10:30 p.m. A drop-in beginners’ swing dance lesson with America’s top instructors, Tom & Debra. $10. Clarinetist Halley Shoenberg will be featured all night on the music of Benny Goodman. The swank setting includes tiered seating for a great view, large dance floor, classic deco bar, and fantastic light fare. The Carlyle Club is at 411 John Carlyle St. Call 703-548-8899.
Free Photoshop for Artists. 1-4 p.m. Photographer John Burgess lectures and demonstrates how to create CDs for digital entries and size images for digital submissions. Call 703-683-1780 or email gallery@theartleague.org to register. The Art League Gallery, 105 North Union St. Call 703-683-1780 or visit www.theartleague.org.
Wednesday/Nov. 14
History Presentation. 7:30 p.m. Join the Friends of Dyke Marsh to hear Matthew Virta, cultural resources program manager at the U.S. National Park Service, examine Dyke Marsh’s colorful history, from Native American Indian times to the present. The presentation will be held at the Huntley Meadows Park Visitor Center, 3701 Lockheed Blvd. Call 703-768-2525 or visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
Free Workshop: Exhibition Prints. 1-4 p.m. Join photographer John Burgess for his popular workshop on how to calibrate monitors and printers to create accurate color photographic prints. Call 703-683-1780 or email gallery@theartleague.org to register. The Art League Gallery, 105 North Union St.
Nov. 14 & 15
Birchmere Show. 7:30 p.m. Striking Matches to open for John Hiatt & The Combo. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Thursday/Nov. 15
Annual NOVA Jazz Night. 7:30 p.m. Featuring the NOVA Alexandria Jazz Ensemble and NOVA Jazz Combo At the Carlyle Club located at 411 John Carlyle St. Call 703-548-8899. No cover charge, donations requested.
Blurring the Line: Fine Art vs. Commercial Photography. 7pm. Free. The Art League and Target Gallery present a panel discussion examining the similarities and differences between fine art and commercial photography. Moderated by Torpedo Factory artist Craig Sterling, panelists include Allen Beland, Jesse Cohen, Lindsay Harris, Greg Knott, and Pamela Viola. Torpedo Factory Art Center’s Main Hall, 105 North Union St. Call 703-838-4565 or visit www.torpedofactory.org.
History of Trains. 10 a.m. Model Railroad Club presents “History of the Pullman Experience in the Golden Age of Rail Travel” including AMTRAK’s version of the Pullman Experience today, the Auto Train version of luxury travel today, and a film clip of riding on the Dover Harbor Pullman Car. Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Road. Call 703-765-4573 to reserve a seat.
Thursday & Friday/Nov. 15 & 16
School Theatre. 7:30 p.m. The 7th-graders of Burgundy Farm Country Day School will perform “Haroun and the Sea of Stories,” a mythological fantasy that combines an exciting adventure story with hilarious physical theatre. The performance is family-friendly. Tickets are $5 at the door. At Burgundy Farm Country Day School, 3700 Burgundy Road.
Nov. 15 through Dec. 23
"A Broadway Christmas Carol" A cross between the classic Charles Dickens tale and uproarious song parodies of favorite Broadway show tunes. From Thursday through Sunday. 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday; 3 and 8 p.m. on Saturday; 3 and 7 p.m. on Sunday. At MetroStage, 1201 N. Royal St. Call 703-548-9044 or visit www.metrostage.org.
Nov. 15 through Jan. 6, 2013
Net Worked: Horjus, Lister, and Pearson. Opening reception is on Sunday, Nov. 18, from 4 to 6 p.m. Free. At the Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Visit www.nvfaa.org.
Friday-Saturday/Nov. 16-17
St. Mary’s Annual Christmas Bazaar. Bazaar begins with the Quite the Stir! Preview Party on Friday from 7-9 p.m., in the school’s gym. Attendees will get an early peak at vendors’ merchandise as they enjoy hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and a special signature libation. Tickets are $30 per person in advance, or $35 per person at the door. The Christmas Bazaar is on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Mary’s School. This year, the Christmas Bazaar will feature more than 60 vendors specializing in arts, jewelry, ceramics, clothing, and more. The event will include a Bake Sale and Christmas Café, as well as children’s games, prizes and activities, book sale, and pictures with Santa Claus. At St. Mary’s School at 400 Green St.
Saturday/Nov. 17
Cider Assembly Ball 8-11 p.m. Reservations required. This evening in the 1780s will feature a variety of English country dances in the ballroom, live music, cash bar showcasing Virginia ciders and seasonal dessert collation. Period costume optional, “after-five” attire encouraged. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. Call 703-746-4242
Run for Shelter 5K/10K + Fun Run. 8 a.m. Carpenter’s Shelter and Pacers are hosting their second annual Run for Shelter 5K/10K + Fun Run. Musicians from the Del Ray School of Music will be performing along the course route. All proceeds benefit Carpenter’s Shelter and its work on behalf of homeless individuals, children, and families. It is an out and back course, starting at the USPTO Madison Building on Eisenhower Avenue. 5K/10K registration is $35 and Fun Run registration is $30. On-site registration will be available for $40 beginning at 7 a.m. Free parking is available in the USPTO East Parking Garage located on John Carlye Street. Visit www.runforshelter10k.com or tweet @Run4Shelter10k.
Candlelight Concert. 7:30 p.m. Presented by The Suspicious Cheese Lords, this concert will be held at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 8009 Fort Hunt Road. Admissions are $20, $15 for seniors, $10 for students and teachers. Call 703-765-4342.
Holiday Shop. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. The event features a day-long bazaar of 50 artisans from the metro area as well as the popular Country Kitchen featuring savory chutneys and baked goods from the MVUC kitchen; Helene's Boutique, with upscale resale decorative household items; and the Jewelry Box shop with estate jewelry. At the Mount Vernon Unitarian Church, 1909 Windmill Lane. A quilt made by the Church Quilters will be raffled off. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5. Proceeds are used by the E.T. Group to fund church projects. Call 703-765-5950 or visit www.mvuc.org.
Belle Masquerade. 8 p.m. J Weeks Entertainment presents “Belle Masquerade: A Beautiful Disguise,” a play that captures the faces of women and their struggles in the dark. At Nannie J. Lee Memorial Recreation Center at 1108 Jefferson St. Tickets are $12. Call 202-642-4227 or visit www.JWeeksEntertainment.com.
Fridays & Saturdays/Through Nov. 17
Port City Playhouse. 8 p.m. Alexandria’s award-winning theatre company continues its 2012-13 season with the regional community theatre premiere of The Soul Collector. There will be a performance on Tuesday, Nov. 13 too. Saturday matinees will be available on Nov. 10 & 17 at 2 p.m. Port City Playhouse performs at The Lab at Convergence, located at 1819 N. Quaker Ln. General admission tickets are $14-18. Visit portcityplayhouse.org.
Sunday/Nov. 18
New Birchmere shows will go on sale. Noon through Ticketmaster.com. or call 800-745-3000. The Birchmere Box Office is open from 5-9 p.m. any night of a show. An evening with Sam Bush & Del McCoury, two old.
Needlework Workshop. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Learn about 18th-century samplers, participate in a workshop and begin needlework project. After the workshop, participants can walk over to Carlyle House for a tour of the 1753 home of John Carlyle, a merchant and town founder of Alexandria. For beginners and intermediate. Reservations are required. Call 703-549-2997 to register. Admission is $20 (includes materials). At The Athenaeum located at 201 Prince St.
Through Nov. 18
Free Art Exhibition. Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery announces the opening of the juried show “Black and White.” Black and white may be expressed as color, value, feelings, politics and/or mood. Jewelry, sculpture, clothing, and wall pieces are some of the items that will be exhibited. The gallery is located in Studio 18 of the Torpedo Factory Art Center at 105 N. Union St. Visit www.torpedofactory.org.
Tuesday/Nov. 20
Chrisette Michele & Alex Boyd. 7:30 p.m. $59.50. Visit www.alexboydmusic.com/ or http://thisischrisettemichele.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Call 703-549-7500 or visit www.birchmere.com.
“Discovering the Past through Documents and Dirt.” 1 p.m. Presented by Pamela Cressey. She will explain how using the written records, wills, deeds etc. and the archaeological finds together can provide major insights to expand our appreciation of the past. Free and open to the public. The Hollin Hall Senior Center is located four miles south of Alexandria just off Fort Hunt Road at 1500 Shenandoah Road. Visit www.MVGenealogy.org or call 703-660-6969 or email publicity@mvgenealogy.org.
Wednesday/Nov. 21
Santa Claus. 9:30 - 11 a.m. The Alexandria/Mount Vernon Antiques Club will feature Kevin Rawlings, who will be in costume as he portrays Santa Claus during the Civil War Years of the 1860s. Free. Public invited. At Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Road. Call Ann Connell at 703-360-4979.
Friday/Nov. 23
Alexandria Black Friday Sale and Festivities. 6 a.m. and all day. Following in the tradition of Black Friday kicking off the holiday shopping season, local retailers will open early on Black Friday offering once-a-year deals to lure shoppers to Old Town Alexandria. Participating stores will open at 6 a.m. offering initial discounts of up to 30 percent off. At 8 a.m., the discounts drop to 20 percent off and 10 percent off starting at 10 a.m. To make the shopping experience even easier, the city has waived all parking fees in city-owned garages and parking meters for the day. Stay for the city’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7 p.m. Call 703-746-3301 or visit www.alexandriava.com.
Friday/Nov. 23 through Nov. 24
THE SELDOM SCENE & DRY BRANCH FIRE SQUAD at the Birchmere. $35.00. Visit www.seldomscene.com, www.drybranchfiresquad.com or www.Birchmere.com.
Nov. 23 through Dec. 9
Old Town Boutique District's Window Wonderland. Come out to Old Town Alexandria and view the festive Window Wonderland of holiday lights and decorations on display at our local boutiques. Shoppers are invited to vote for their favorite window décor via Facebook and Twitter. Throughout Old Town Alexandria. Visit www.oldtownboutiquedistrict.com.
Nov. 24 through Dec. 23
Santa Claus is Coming to Old Town. Santa and Mrs. Claus are back in Old Town Alexandria to take pictures with children every Saturday and Sunday between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Presented by the Old Town Boutique District in partnership with the City of Alexandria and Bike and Roll Alexandria and with the support of area businesses. The cost for pictures is $15 for a 5 x 7 print. Hours: Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. except for Dec. 1 (Scottish Walk Parade day) when hours are 1-5 p.m.; Sundays, noon-5 p.m. At Bike and Roll Alexandria, One Wales Alley. Call 703-501-6289 or visit www.oldtownboutiquedistrict.com.
Sunday/Nov. 25
Duncan Sheik. 7:30 p.m. $29.50. Visit www.duncansheik.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Birchmere Show. 7:30 p.m. Courrier to open for Duncan Sheik 'Sunset Sessions Tour.’ The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Coffee + Critique + Conversation. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free. Photographers and art enthusiasts of all levels are invited to engage in friendly dialogue and share their portfolios, projects, ideas, and questions. Multiple Exposures Gallery (Studio 312), 105 North Union St.
Call 703-683-2205 or visit www.multipleexposuresgallery.com.
Through Nov. 25
"Fotographers at the Factory Invitational Exhibit.” Juried by LensWork founder and editor, Brooks Jensen. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursdays 12-9 p.m. The opening reception is on Nov. 11 from 2 to 4 p.m. Free and open to the public. At Multiple Exposures Gallery located at 105 N. Union St. #312. Call 703 683-2205. Visit www.torpedofactory.org.
Photography exhibition: “Telling Images.” See photographic techniques and interpretations that tell a story without words. Call 703-960-3873, email jldtifft@cox.net or visit www.TheDelRayArtisans.org.
Monday/Nov. 26
James Fortune & Jessica Reedy 'Celebrate Christmas.' 7:30 p.m. $29.50. Visit jessicareedymusic.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Tuesday/Nov. 27
Graham Parker & The Rumour Reunion. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $35. Visit http://www.grahamparker.net. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Thursday/Nov. 29
Torpedo Factory Art Center Holiday Open House. 6-9 p.m. Free. Join the Torpedo Factory Art Center’s artists for the annual Holiday Open House. Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts while enjoying sweets and savories from Bread & Chocolate. Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Call 703-838-4565 or visit www.torpedofactory.org.
Thursday & Friday/Nov. 29 & 30
WILL DOWNING. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $69.50. Visit www.willdowning.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Through Nov. 30
Art Exhibition. The Gallery at Convergence presents “pitture e parole” (“Paintings and Words”), a solo exhibition from artist, Lynne Elizabeth Heiser. A portion of all sales benefit Convergence programs including Artist's Way, Convergence Shared Artists Studios, and the Lab All Ages. Opening reception on Oct. 6 from 7-9 p.m. Email Lynne@in2itCreative.com or call 703-915-0917 to RSVP. Call 703-998-6260 or visit www.convergenceccf.net.
Friday-Saturday/Nov. 30-Dec. 1
Annual Campagna Center Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend. On Dec. 1, more than 100 Scottish clans dressed in colorful tartans will parade through the streets of Old Town. They'll be joined by pipe and drum bands from around the region, as well as terriers and hounds of every description. The Saint Andrew's Society of Washington, D.C., partners with the Campagna Center and the City of Alexandria to host the annual parade. Other events of the weekend include A Christmas Marketplace and A Taste of Scotland, both on Nov. 30, and the Campagna Center’s Holiday Designer Tour of Homes on Dec. 1. Consistently ranked by the Southeast Tourism Society as one of the top 20 events in the South, this event has grown from a small informal parade to an entire weekend filled with events and festivities. Free for parade and marketplace; $100 Taste of Scotland (general admission); $35 Designer Tour of Homes. Call 703-549-0111 or visit scottishchristmaswalk.com.
Alexandria Harmonizers Holiday Dinner Theater. Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Featuring seasonal favorites in caroling and choral masterpiece sets; a light hearted musical play starring the one and only "Jack In The Box"; plus a delicious dinner served by your singing Harmonizer waiters. Reserved table seating. Adults $30, children $15, seniors $25. Purchase tickets at www.harmonizers.org. Venue: First Baptist Church of Alexandria, 2932 King St. Call 571-969-1377 or visit www.harmonizers.org.
Friday-Sunday/Nov. 30-Dec. 2
Del Ray Artisans’ 17th annual Holiday Market. Handmade work from local artists plus bake sale. Reception is on Friday, from 6-9 p.m. The hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m.on Saturday and noon-4 p.m. on Sunday. Visit TheDelRayArtisans.org/HolidayMarket.
Nov. 30 through Dec. 16
The Little Theatre of Alexandria’s “A Christmas Carol.” 8 p.m. Ring in the holiday season with a return of the classic by Charles Dickens. Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly Victorian humbug, travels with ghostly guides through Christmas past, present, and future to find the true meaning of the holidays. Complete with special effects, Victorian carols, and Tiny Tim, “A Christmas Carol” is a must for the entire family. Little Theatre of Alexandria is located at 600 Wolfe St. Call 703-683-0496 or visit www.thelittletheatre.com for showtimes or to purchase tickets. $15 (does not include service fees).
Saturday/Dec. 1
New Birchmere shows will go on sale. Noon through Ticketmaster.com. or call 800-745-3000. The Birchmere Box Office is open from 5-9 p.m. any night of a show. Chris Smither with Andy Friedman.
Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. Alexandria's Historic Waterfront at the foot of Cameron Street. At sundown, Alexandria's harbor lights up when more than 50 illuminated boats cruise the Potomac River at the historic waterfront, led by Alexandria's fireboat Vigilant and Washington, D.C.'s fireboat John Glenn. Call 703-746-3301 or visit www.alexandriava.com.
An Advent Quiet Day Workshop. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. With David Vryhof, SSJE of The Society of Saint John the Evangelist. Pause to consider the nature of gratitude, the expression of gratitude, and the lens of gratitude through which we can see the world and all its creatures. In McMurray Commons. Registration begins at 9 a.m. The $35 fee covers breakfast and a light lunch, as well as tea and coffee. Contact Phil Lyons at PhilipBLyons@AOL.com or 703-960-6468.
Dec. 1-25
The Christmas Attic's Holiday Advent Calendar. The Christmas Attic, has partnered with area schools, churches, and community groups again to help produce its annual temporary exhibition featuring illuminated canvases of art for The Christmas Attic’s Holiday Advent Calendar Event. Each day at sundown, the store will reveal “advent art” featuring a variety of local holiday creations. All art will be placed either in the windows or on the brick of the building on the front side facing Union Street. Visitors can picture the entire building being transformed into an advent calendar. There will be holiday entertainment and activities inside the store for shoppers to enjoy on a variety of nights. At the closing of the Advent Calendar event, the canvases of advent art will be available for auction at a post-event celebration (to be scheduled). Proceeds from the auction will go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-Atlantic. At The Christmas Attic, 125 S. Union St. Call 703-548-2829 or visit www.christmasattic.com.
Friday, Dec. 2
Christ Church’s Nine Lessons and Carols service. 5 p.m. The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is a worship service celebrating the birth of Jesus that is traditionally followed at Christmas. Contact Jason Abel at jabel@ccalex.org or 703-549-1450 ext. 104. Christ Church is located at 118 N. Washington St.
Through Dec. 2
Free Art Exhibition. This juried photography exhibition — open to all artists nationally and internationally—explores the theme of upheaval in our personal lives and throughout the world. A reception on Nov. 8, from 6-8 p.m. occurs during 2nd Thursday Art Night and features a talk by juror Brie Castell at 7 p.m. Target Gallery (Studio 2), 105 North Union St. Call 703-838-4565, x4 or visit www.torpedofactory.org/target.
Tuesday/Dec. 4
Birchmere Shows. The Brian Setzer Orchestra. Extravaganza 2012 US Tour. 8 p.m. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Ln. Tickets on sale through www.Strathmore.org or call 301-581-5100
Wednesday/Dec. 5
Author Series with Elizabeth Schuch. 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Schuch will discuss her personal memoir, “More Than Bipolar: A Memoir of Acceptance and Hope,” at the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or call 703-746-1702.
Thursday/Dec. 6
White Christmas with Peter White, Mindi Abair, & special guest TBA at the Birchmere. $49.50 Visit www.peterwhite.com/ or www.mindiabair.com/
Art Focus Group. 7:30-9 p.m. Clay in the Classroom: Sculpture, Sensory Exploration and Community Building. Learn about the many benefits of good clean play with mud in the classroom. Classes are $25 each or $200 for the 10 class series. A school or group of teachers can share the registration for the full series. At 2804 Sherwood Hall Ln. Call 703-201-1250.
Friday/Dec. 7
Holiday on the Avenue. 6-9 p.m. The entire community comes together to light the neighborhood Christmas tree. Even Santa attends. This joyous celebration is followed by an evening stroll down the Avenue, which is illuminated by thousands of candles, called “luminarias.” Del Ray Farmer's Market at Mount Vernon Ave. and E. Oxford Ave. Call 703-746-3301 or visit www.visitalexandriava.com.
Friday-Sunday/Dec. 7-9
Del Ray Artisans’ 17th annual Holiday Market. Handmade work from local artists plus bake sale. Reception is on Friday, from 6 to 9 p.m. The hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m.on Saturday and noon-4 p.m. on Sunday. Visit TheDelRayArtisans.org/HolidayMarket.
Saturday/Dec. 8
Christmas Open House. 12-4 p.m. Join a Civil War-era Santa at this family-fun holiday event that explores how Christmas was observed during the Civil War. The program features living-history interpreters, a Victorian Christmas tree, period music, refreshments, readings of “The Night Before Christmas” and a patriotic Santa Claus inspired by Thomas Nast’s Civil War cartoon. Guided tours of the fort, weather permitting. At Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site, 4301 W. Braddock Rd. Call 703-746-4848 or visit www.historicalexandria.org Admissions are $2 for adults, $1 for children.
Breakfast with Santa. 9 a.m. Join for the 5th annual Breakfast with Santa. The elves will begin seating at 9 a.m. as we eagerly await Santa’s arrival. There will be plently of time to sit on Santa’s lap and share list with him. A full breakfast buffet will be available. At Carlyle Club, 411 John Carlyle St., Call 703-548-8899 or visit www.thecarlyleclub.com Admissions are $28.95 for adults; $15.95 for kids age 4-12; free for age 3 and under.
Holiday Gifts Jewerly Workshop. 2-3 p.m. Free. Make four unique holiday gifts, stamp tags, and make your own gift boxes. Limited to 12 participants. At the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or call 703-746-1702.
Saturday-Sunday/Dec.8-9
Historic Alexandria Candlelight Tours. Special pre-sale discount if tickets purchased before Dec. 1. Take a break from the fast pace of the season and enjoy the unique charm and history of Old Town at this popular holiday event. Tour Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, Carlyle House, Lee-Fendall House and the historic Bank of Alexandria building by candlelight and enjoy seasonal decorations, entertainment and light refreshments. Special this year – a holiday taste of historic chocolate, co-sponsored by the Historic Division of Mars, Inc. Saturday from 6-9 p.m.; Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m. At Gadsby's Tavern Museum, Carlyle House, Lee-Fendall House. Call 703-746-4242 or visit www.historicalexandria.org. Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $5 for children.
Sunday/Dec. 9
Christmas Music. 9:45 a.m. The Plymouth Haven Baptist Church Children’s Choir will present their Christmas music presentation in the Fellowship Hall, 8600 Plymouth Dr. Open to the public.
Birchmere Show: An Intimate Holiday Evening with Raul Malo. 7:30 p.m. $29.50. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Monday/Dec. 10
A John Waters Christmas 'Command Performance!' at the Birchmere. $49.50 (John will be signing copies of books purchased at the show!) Visit www.dreamlandnews.com/ or
www.Birchmere.com. On Sale Fri. July 27 at noon.
Wednesday/Dec. 12
Author Series with Dennis Pogue. 7-8:30 p.m. Pogue will discuss his book, Founding Sprits: Geoge Washington and the Beginnings of the American Whiskey Industry at the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or call 703-746-1702.
Friday/Dec. 14 and 15
Four Bitchin’ Babes 'Jingle Babes!' featuring Sally Fingerett, Debi Smith, Deidre Flint, Marcy Marxer at the Birchmere $35.00 Visit www.fourbitchinbabes.com/ or www.Birchmere.com. On Sale Fri. July 20 at noon.
Friday-Sunday/Dec. 14-16
Del Ray Artisans’ 17th annual Holiday Market. Handmade work from local artists plus bake sale. Reception is on Friday, from 6-9 p.m. The hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m.on Saturday and noon-4 p.m. on Sunday. Visit TheDelRayArtisans.org/HolidayMarket.
Sunday/Dec. 16
Christmas Celebration. 10:30 a.m. Plymouth Haven Baptist Church located at 8600 Plymouth Dr. presents their Adult Choir Christmas Celebration entitled, Agnus Dei, and followed by dinner in the fellowship hall. The public is invited, and RSVP is required for non-members at 703-360-4370.
Wednesday/Dec. 19
Birchmere Show: Chatham County Line 'Electric Holiday Tour.’ 7:30 p.m. $22.50. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Thursday/Dec. 20
CARBON LEAF at the Birchmere. $27.50 Visit http://carbonleaf.com/
Friday/Dec. 21
Pieces Of A Dream at the Birchmere $35.00 Visit www.piecesofadream.net/ or www.Birchmere.com
Saturday/Dec. 22
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Bill Kirchen’s Honky Tonk Holiday Show. $29.5 Visit http://billkirchen.com/.
Sunday/Dec. 23
Christine Lavin & Uncle Bonsai 'Just One Angel' at the Birchmere. $25.00 Visit www.christinelavin.com/ or www.unclebonsai.com/ or www.Birchmere.com
Sunday/Jan. 6
An Evening of Musical/Political Humor with Mark Russell. 7:30 p.m. $49.50. Visit www.markrussell.net/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Thursday/Jan. 24, 2013
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Jeffrey Osborne. $65. Visit http://www.jeffreyosborne.com/
Saturday/Feb. 2
Charles Ross One Man Star Wars Trilogy. 7:30 p.m. $35. Visit www.onemanstarwars.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Sunday/Feb. 10
10,000 Maniacs. 7:30 p.m. $35. Visit www.maniacs.com/ The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Saturday/Feb. 23
Harmony Sweepstakes 2013 'Mid Atlantic Regional.' 7:30 p.m. $29.50. Visit www.harmony-sweepstakes.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Thursday/Feb. 28
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. $45. Visit http://www.nittygritty.com/
Mar. 1-3
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. The Bacon Brothers. $39.5. Visit http://baconbros.com/
Mar. 15-16
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. The Average White Band. $35. Visit http://www.averagewhiteband.com/
Open Through 2012
The Marshall House Incident Exhibition:This exhibit at Fort Ward features objects from the museum collection to tell the notable story about the event that launched the Civil War in Alexandria. Fort Ward Museum (4301 West Braddock Rd.) is open Tuesday - Saturday, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday, from noon - 5 p.m. Visit www.fortward.org or call 703-746-4848.
SPECIAL COLLECTIONS / Local History & Genealogy
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St.
Tel: 703-746-1703, Fax: 703-746-1708
Mon 1 p.m.-9 p.m.; Tues 2 p.m.-9 p.m.; Wed 10 a.m.-7p.m.; Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m-5 p.m.
SPECIAL COLLECTIONS NEW HOURS. Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Alexandria Library is pleased to extend the operating hours of its Special Collections branch, which will now be open every Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
TALKING BOOK SERVICE - For Blind and Physically Handicapped
5005 Duke St. (Second Floor), 22304
Tel: 703-746-1760 Fax: 703-746-1738 TTY (Hearing Impaired): 703-746-1790
Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday/Nov. 10
Stephanie Mills. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $69.50. Visit www.stephaniemillsmusic.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Sunday/Nov. 11
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF DJANGO featuring Lulo Reinhardt's Latin Swing Ensemble, Les Doigts de l'Homme and Norig Gadji & Sebastien Giniaux. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $35.00. Visit www.herschelfreemanagency.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Friday/Nov. 16
MICHAEL FRANKS. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $45.00. visit http://michaelfranks.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Saturday/Nov. 17
PAULA POUNDSTONE. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $39.50. Visit www.paulapoundstone.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Friday/Jan. 18, 2013
The Northern Virginia Fine Arts Society (NVFAA) is pleased to announce the next four scheduled SLAM ALEXANDRIA spoken word poetry events at the Athenaeum in Old Town. Admission is free for all, but attendees interested in competing in the poetry slam can pay an entry fee of $10 for a chance to win a $100 cash prize. Featuring live music, scheduled artists, and an open mic, SLAM ALEXANDRIA is hosted by Shelly Bell and co-sponsored by the NVFAA and Shelly B. Arts. The event starts at 7 p.m. and is located at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St.
Through Sept. 2013
Life in Civil War Alexandria Exhibition. Daily exhibit traces life in Alexandria following Virginia's decision to secede from the Union in May 1861. At The Lyceum, Alexandria's History Museum, 201 South Washington St. Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Suggested admission $2. Visit www.alexandriahistory.org or call 703-746-4994.