Art at the Center Classes
Evening Drawing. Wednesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. Focus on improving drawing skills through fun activities that explore seeing and drawing from observation.
Art in the Afternoon. Wednesdays or Thursdays, 1:15-2:30 p.m. Fridays 4-5:15 p.m. This studio class is designed for artists age 4-6 and includes an introduction to paint, clay, collage and drawing.
After School Studio. Wednesdays or Thursdays, 4:15-5:45 p.m. This studio class is designed for artists ages 7-12 and includes instruction and studio work in paint, clay, collage and drawing.
Art at the Center is located at 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane. Visit www.artatthecenter.org or call 703-201-1250.
Wednesday/Oct. 17
Decorative Tile Show. 9:30 a.m. The Alexandria/Mount Vernon Antiques Club will feature member Carolyn McDonald, with her collection of Decorative Tiles. Open to the community. Call 703-765-4573 to reserve a seat. Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Rd.
Free Concert. 7:30 p.m. Recognized as one of the “finest all-male collegiate choral groups in the country,” the Notre Dame Glee Club will be performing in Bishop Ireton’s Garwood Whaley Auditorium, 201 Cambridge Rd. Free and open to the public. Donations appreciated.
Antique Collection. 9:30-11 a.m. Alexandria/Mount Vernon Antiques Club will feature long-time member, Carolyn McDonald, with her collection of decorative tiles. Free and open to the public. At Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Rd.
The Great Zucchini Show. 10 a.m. The wonder of magic, silliness of comedy, and interactive nature of The Great Zucchini's show keeps children on the edge of their seats. At Mt. Vernon Unitarian Church Chapel, 1909 Windmill Ln. Admission is $10/child; children under 2 and adults are free. For tickets, email Carrie O'Neill at fundraising@forthuntpreschool.com.
Training Seminar. 7-9 p.m. Explore the possibilities of teaching young children in a museum-based setting. Participants will engage in hands-on activities that illustrate first hand what object-based learning looks like and explore the integration of children's literature objects, art and story-telling as it relates to projects and themes in early learning. The speakers are Lynann Derrick, Early Childhood Museum Educator and Director at Colonial Nursery School, and Rebecca Cohen, Children's Librarian and Storyteller. Free and open to the public. To reserve a spot, contact Sarah Christie at events@forthuntpreschool.com. At Fort Hunt Preschool, 1909 Windmill Ln.
Thursday/Oct. 18
Fashion Show and Luncheon. 10 a.m. The Yacht Haven Garden Club presents their 29th annual Fashion Show and Luncheon, “Viva La Diva” at the Fort Belvoir Officers Club, 5500 Schulz Circle. Email deborah.alea@verizon.net or call 703-447-1315.
Historic Train. 10 a.m. Model Railroad Club presents the history of the C & O’s Famous Passenger Train – The George Washington as well as discussing the Chesapeake and Ohio Historical Society’s Annual Meeting. Call 703-765-4573 to reserve a seat. Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Rd.
Fundraiser for Breast Cancer. 5-9 p.m. Come help raise funds for Avon Foundation for Women-Avon Walk for Breast Cancer by participating in Pizza Hut Fundraiser Night. Order from Pizza Hut on Oct. 18 and the organization will receive 20 percent of the sales generated. Please be sure to pick up a fundraiser ticket and bring it to Pizza Hut. At Penn Daw Pizza Hut, 6321 Richmond Hwy. Call 703-765-8900.
Book Sale. 4-8:30 p.m. Friends of Beatley Central Library. This book sale opens to members and the public interested in books, DVDs and CDs at an affordable price. 5005 Duke St. Visit http://www.alexandria.lib.va.us. or call 703-746-1702.
Friday/Oct. 19
Poems & Stories. 7 p.m. Actors from the Georgetown Theatre Company will read stories and poems by Edgar Allan Poe at the Athenaeum, including The Cask of Amontillado, The System of Doctor Tarr, Professor Fether and more. A coffee and dessert reception follows the stories. Admission $10. Visit www.nvfaa.org. The Athenaeum is located at 201 Prince St.
Lafayette Wine Dinner at Gadsby's Tavern Museum. 7-9:30 p.m. Celebrate General Lafayette's visit to Alexandria, enjoy an evening of French and Virginia wines specially paired with a four-course dinner. Tickets are $100 per person and reservations are required. A vegetarian entrée option is available with advance notice. To make reservations, call 703-746-4242 or visit www.gadsbystavern.org.
Book Sale. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Friends of Beatley Central Library. This book sale opens to members and the public interested in books, DVDs and CDs at an affordable price. 5005 Duke St. Visit http://www.alexandria.lib.va.us. or call 703-746-1702.
Trunk Show with Fiber Artist Jen Athanas. 6-9 p.m. Meet artist Jen Athanas, maker of Jen-a-Fusion Fashion Accessories, at A Show of Hands. 2301 Mt Vernon Ave. Call 703-683-2905 or visit www.ashowofhands.biz.
Wee Ones Storytime. 10:30-11 a.m. Explore the exciting world around us with some of our favorite stories and songs. Ages 2 and under. Free. Hooray for Books is located at 1555 King Street. Visit www.hooray4books.com or call 703-548-4092.
Saturday/Oct. 20
Spirits, Suffering and Society. 6-9 p.m. A re-enactment focusing on the social aspects of dying in a Civil War hospital. Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden, 614 Oronoco St. Call 703-548-1789.
Frog Pond’s 3rd Annual Fall Festival. 10 a.m.-noon. This family friendly festival will offer entertainment, light food and drink along with arts, crafts and other kid-friendly activities. 7204 Harrison Ln. Suggested donation $5.
“AMTRAK High Speed Rail.” 10 a.m. Model Railroad Club presents the story of the AMTRAK High Speed Rail on the Northeast Corridor (NEC). Call 703-765-4573 to reserve a seat. Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Rd.
Annual Mega Bazaar. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Hollin Hall Senior Center is holding a Mega Craft Sale. More than 30 crafters, silent auction with services and new merchandise, bake sale, door prizes and lunch will be featured. Free. 1500 Shenandoah Rd. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request. Call 703-324-4600, TTY 711.
Flea Market. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. At the Lincolnia Senior Center, 4710 N. Chambliss St. Bake sale, jewelry, clothing, plants, white elephants and more. Call 703-914-0223.
2012 MVHS Fall Fest. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Arts, Crafts, Rummage Sale. Offering inside tables, parking lot space at a nominal rate for vendor sales. If you are interested in participating as a vendor (arts, crafts, other) or a family garage sale space, contact Ron Skaggs at MVHSFallfest@gmail.com. Rain or Shine. Mount Vernon High School, 8515 Old Mount Vernon Rd.
Spooky Saturdays at the Athenaeum. 1-2 p.m. Making scary pop-up cards. Free. Recommended for children 6-9 years old. The Athenaeum is located at 201 Prince St. Visit www.nvfaa.org.
250th Anniversary of the Election of George Washington to the Vestry. 4:30-7 p.m. Local George Washington interpreter, Greg Fisher, will be discussing such topics as the role of a vestryman in Truro Parish, the planning and building of Pohick Church, and his hopes for the future as he leaves for Philadelphia as a delegate to the first Continental Congress. The program will be followed by a discussion, a reception and book-signing by Mary V. Thompson, author of “In the Hands of a Good Providence: Religion in the Life of George Washington.” Tickets are $10 per person or $25 per family. For reservations call 703-372-1296. Pohick Church is located at 9301 Richmond Hwy in Lorton, at the corner of U.S. 1 & Telegraph Road. Visit http://www.pohick.org.
Lecture on The Story of Toby the Learned Pig. Doors open at 3 p.m. and the lecture begins at 3:30 p.m. Join Gadsby's Tavern Museum for a special lecture from Russell Potter, Rhode Island College professor and author of PYG: The Memoirs of Toby the Learned Pig. Potter will talk about his research and learned pigs in 18th-century Alexandria, as well as read excerpts from the book. After the lecture, enjoy a special book signing, including Toby-approved refreshments. $20 per person and $15 for members of Gadsby's Tavern Museum Society and Gadsby's Tavern Museum volunteers. Tickets may be purchased by calling 703-746-4242 or through www.gadsbystavern.org.
Historic Huntley. Boy Scouts can hear the chilling tales during an overnight stay. Historic Huntley also hosts programs for scouts to earn merit badges, for homeschoolers seeking out local history, and for the general public. Information about all of the programs at Historic Huntley is available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley-meadows-park/historic-huntley.htm or by calling Huntley Meadows Park at 703-768-2525. Historic Huntley is located at 6918 Harrison Ln.
Kids’ Class: Halloween Cookie Decorating. 1-2:30 p.m. Ages 4+ learn how to roll and cut cookie dough and then decorate cookie shapes using colored icing and candy. Children take home what they make. Admission: $35. Advance registration is required. Call 703-548-2868 to secure a spot. Sugar Cube, 1218 King St.
Book Sale. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friends of Beatley Central Library. This book sale opens to members and the public interested in books, DVDs and CDs at an affordable price. 5005 Duke St. Visit http://www.alexandria.lib.va.us. or call 703-746-1702.
Concert. 7 p.m. Choralis presents a concert of American choral music, including gospel, spirituals, folk, Native American and classical by Echos and the Cantus youth choirs. At Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall & Arts Center, Northern Virginia Community College, 3001 N. Beauregard St. Tickets are $5 for students of 13-22; free for children under 12; $30 -$55 for adults. Visit www.choralis.org or call 703-237-2499.
Fundraiser Walk/Run. 8 a.m. The Alexandria Walk to Fight Breast Cancer raises money for mammograms and diagnostic testing to uninsured and underinsured women. Participants have the option of either the 1.5K, 3.5K or 5K walk or run. This year’s Walk will be held at the AMC Hoffman Theatres and the Hoffman Center, located at Eisenhower Avenue and Swamp Fox Road. On-site registration begins at 6:30 a.m. and the opening ceremony begins at 8 a.m. Visit www.alexcancerwalk.com.
Free Concert. 1-2 p.m. Eclipse Chamber Orchestra is celebrating its 21st season by holding a free concert for children and parents, featuring a narrative accompaniment to Aaron Copland’s classic Appalachian Spring. At George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Dr. Visit www.eclipseco.org.
Biking. 10 a.m.-noon. This is a family-friendly 7-mile ride from Jones Point Park to National Harbor and back. This ride will be on bike paths all the way. There are two hills (the Wilson Bridge is like a long gradual hill) and one gravel section. Participants can stop at National Harbor for about 30 minutes to have fun before returning. Families with children are encouraged to attend. Children under 16 are legally required to wear a helmet. Meet at the Jones Point Park, near the restrooms. Bring a bicycle and water. Free. To RSVP, contact Jonathan Krall at jonathan@jonathankrall.net.
Oktoberfest & Silent Auction. 3-7 p.m. The entire community is invited to St. Aidan's annual Oktoberfest. The Kinderfest, from 3-5 p.m., is hosted by St. Aidan's Day School and includes a variety of games and activities for children. Oktoberfest features live German music, great food and drink. There will be a variety of grilled wurst, homemade hot German potato salad and other treats. The silent auction includes a range of gift items and donated services. At St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, 8531 Riverside Rd. Call 703-360-4220, or visit http://staidansepiscopal.com/drivingdirections.
Free Lecture. 1-3 p.m. Donald Dahmann, a geographer in independent practice with ongoing research that includes preparation of a history of the Old Presbyterian Meeting House, will talk about The 1805 Diary of the Rev. Dr. James Muir. at Alexandria Library located at 717 Queen St.
Storytime with Llama Llama. 10:30 a.m. Join for a Llama-themed storytime, followed by a very special meet and greet with the character himself. Bring cameras. Ages 6 and under. Free. Hooray for Books is located at 1555 King Street. Visit www.hooray4books.com or call 703-548-4092.
Author B.G. Hennessey. 2-3:30 p.m. Gear up for Halloween as B.G. Hennessey presents The Scary Places Map Book, an interactive exploration of famous scary places. RSVP info@hooray4books.com. Ages 5-10. Free. Hooray for Books is located at 1555 King Street. Visit www.hooray4books.com or call 703-548-4092.
Sunday/Oct. 21
Cauldron Tea. 2 p.m. Come to the Carlyle House terrace for a spooky afternoon tea that will be sure to cast a spell on your Halloween celebrations. After the tea, guests are invited to tour the museum and learn about 18th century funeral and mourning practices in Virginia. Costumes welcome. Admission: $25. Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax St. Call 703-549-2997.
Concert. 7 p.m. Focus Alexandria presents folk artist David Roth with special guest Lea at Church of the Resurrection, 2280 N. Beauregard St. Tickets are $18 general, $15 in advance at www.focusmusic.org. Call 703-501-6061.
Jazz Concert. 4 p.m. The Committee for Jazz at Meade will feature Anita King 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.
Book Sale. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friends of Beatley Central Library. This book sale opens to members and the public interested in books, DVDs and CDs at an affordable price. 5005 Duke St. Visit http://www.alexandria.lib.va.us. or call 703-746-1702.
“Eclipse for Kids." 1 p.m. A special open rehearsal of the Eclipse Chamber Orchestra featuring Copland, Elgar, R Strauss and Ravel. A donation is appreciated. Free admission. At George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Dr. Visit www.eclipseco.org.
Walk for Homeless Animals. 9 a.m. The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is hosting the Alexandria Shelter Walk for Homeless Animals, a family-friendly community event to benefit the residents of the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter and help raise awareness about the problem of pet overpopulation. The 1.5-mile walk begins and ends at Market Square and walkers and their four-legged companions will travel through the historic neighborhoods of Old Town Alexandria. All proceeds from the event assist the League in combatting overpopulation and promoting responsible animal care. Open to the public. Prizes will be awarded to top fundraisers and a raffle will be held. Contact Patrick Cole at 703-746-5655 or 703-585-7065, or email pcole@AlexandriaAnimals.org.
Book Launch with Rachel Blumenthal and Juliette Kopp. 2-3 p.m. Celebrate with local authors Rachel Blumenthal and Juliette Kopp as they present their books, One Recumbent Mommy and Wherever I Am, I Will Love You Still. RSVP info@hooray4books.com or rachel@rachelblumenthalbooks.com. Ages 3 and up. Free. Hooray for Books is located at 1555 King Street. Visit www.hooray4books.com or call 703-548-4092.
Through Oct. 21
Jacques Brel. The classic compilation of Brel’s brilliant music about life and death, love and loss, will be in performance at MetroStage Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets, $48-55, at 800-494-8497 or www.metrostage.org. MetroStage, 1201 N. Royal St. Call 703-548-9044.
Tuesday/Oct. 23
Hot Buttered Nuggets. 9-11p.m. Eclectic musicians will perform various shows Rockabilly, Swing and Jazz. $10. The Carlyle Club, 411 John Carlyle St.
Preschool Fair. 9 a.m.-noon. Attending preschools will have a table set up with information about their school and parents will circulate in an open-house fashion. All parents are welcome and admission is free. At First Baptist Church, 2932 King St. Contact momspreschoolfair@gmail.com with questions.
Oct. 23 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.
Oct. 23 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. At Multiple Exposures Gallery located at 105 N. Union St. #312. Call 703 683-2205. Visit www.torpedofactory.org.
Wednesday/Oct. 24
Art on the Rocks. 6-9 p.m. An art-inspired cocktail competition hosted by The Art League at the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Must be 21 or older to attend. The Art League Gallery, 105 N. Union St. 703-683-1780.
Author Series. 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Spend a spooky evening with L.B. Taylor and talk about The Ghosts of Virginia at the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Call 703-746-1702.
Dance with DJ Dabe Murphy. 9-11 p.m. $6. At Nick’s Nightclub, 642 South Pickett St.
Thursday/Oct. 25
Ghosts and Folklore. 7 p.m. Alexandria is one of the most haunted cities in the country. Michael Lee Pope (author of Ghosts of Alexandria) and JJ Smith (author of Haunted Alexandria and Northern Virginia) join Betty Ward of Footsteps to the Past to share stories of the Female Stranger, Swope House and Ramsay House. A coffee and dessert reception follows the stories. Those who dare may take a short ghost walk at the end of this event. Admission $10. The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Call 703-548-0035.
Thursday-Saturday/Oct. 25-27
Steel Magnolias. Group Therapy Productions presents Robert Harling’s comedy-drama Steel Magnolias at the Convergence Sanctuary 1801 N. Quaker Ln. All proceeds from the show will benefit Empowered Women International. Hours are 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 25 & 26, 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Oct. 27. Tickets/suggested donations are $20. Tickets may be purchased by emailing gt.productions9@gmail.com.
Oct. 25-28
Fall Haul Extended Hours Sale. Twig Thrift Shop located at 106 North Columbus St. holds its Fall Haul Extended Hours Sale. In addition to regular store hours from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the shop will be open extended evening hours on Thursday, Oct. 25, and Friday, Oct. 26, from 5-8 p.m., regular Saturday hours 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and extended hours on Sunday, Oct. 28, from 1-4 p.m.. All proceeds benefit Inova Alexandria Hospital. Call 703-683-5544 or visit www.thetwig.org.
Saturday/Oct. 27
Choreographers Collaboration Project Fall Concert. 7 p.m. Admission: $10 adults, $5 kids 12-17, kids under 12 free. "Standing Room Only" is a modern dance concert created specifically for the Athenaeum gallery space to allow the audience to see the dances and Athenaeum artwork from multiple perspectives. 201 Prince St. Call 703-683-2070.
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. Special guests for Tom Paxton’s 75th birthday celebration show to include Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxers, Debi Smith, Robin Bullock and more. Visit http://www.cathymarcy.com or http://debismith.com/ or http://www.robinbullock.com/ At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave.
Spooky Saturdays at the Athenaeum. 1-2 p.m. Eerie Origami. Free. Recommended for children 6-9 years old. The Athenaeum is located at 201 Prince St. Visit www.nvfaa.org.
Trick or Treat with the Boo-tiques. 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Ghouls and goblins, witches and wizards of all ages will be trick or treating with the Old Town Boutique District this Halloween. 35 member stores will be handing out treats — and maybe some tricks.
Funeral & Ghost Tour. 6-9 p.m. Step back in time and be a part of this historic funeral and learn about mourning practices in early America. Admission is $15 including a ghost tour of Old Town, during which participants will visit the candlelit Carlyle House to view the coffin and pay respects to surviving family members. At 9 p.m., return to Carlyle House to escort John Carlyle’s body to the Old Presbyterian Meeting House and visit his lantern-lit grave. Call 703-683-3451 to purchase ticket. Reservations are recommended. Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax St.
Book Signing. 2-4 p.m. Lela Lane, a resident of Alexandria, will be available to sign copies of her book, Bloodlines: The Ancestry, at Grounded Coffee Shop, 6919 Telegraph Rd.
Saturday & Sunday/Oct. 27 & 28
Fall Harvest Family Days. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mount Vernon welcomes the autumn season with Fall Harvest Family Days. The entire family will enjoy autumn activities including horse-drawn wagon rides, wheat treading in the 16-sided barn, a straw bale maze, early-American games and demonstrations. In addition to meeting “George Washington,” visitors can also learn 18th-century dance steps! Potomac River sightseeing cruises are half-price while supplies last. Fall Harvest Family Days is included with admission to the estate this weekend: $15 adults; $14 seniors; $7 children 6-11; free for children under 5. Visit www.MountVernon.org.
Sunday/Oct. 28
QuinTango Cabaret. 5-8 p.m. Admission: $25 + $25 dinner. Proceeds from this event support QuinTango's work in Alexandria Public Schools, with StringTango classes for 5th graders and dance workshops for all ages. Carlyle Club, 411 John Carlyle St. Call 703- 548-6811
“Carmina Burana and Choral Dances.” 4 p.m. At the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on the Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community College, 3001 North Beauregard St. Visit www.newdominion.org. Prices are $30 (general admission), $25 for seniors, and $5 for students and children.
Time Capsule Tour. Thomas Dolby’s first U.S. full-band tour since the release of his critically hailed A Map of the Floating City. At the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit http://www.birchmere.com/
“Carmina Burana and Choral Dances.” 4 p.m. at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on the Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community College, 3001 North Beauregard St. Tickets are available at www.newdominion.org or at the door. $30 (general admission), $25 for seniors, and $5 for students and children.
Mad Science. 2-3:40 p.m. Come to the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum (located at 107 South Fairfax St.) to explore where real science and mad science collide. Tours start every 20 minutes, featuring historic medicines with surprising side effects. Admission is $6 per person ages 5 and up. Reservations recommended at www.apothecarymuseum.org. Girl Scout and Boy Scout groups are welcome (program completes the Brownie Home Scientist badge). Come in costume-mad scientist/sci-fi encouraged-and receive a special take-home goodie. Call 703-746-3852.
Annual Halloween Dog Walk. 1 p.m. The Dog Park shop on King Street is organizing the popular Halloween Dog Walk. Trick-or-treating dogs and their humans are invited to stop by the Dog Park for a map and bag and then visit participating businesses for more treats. Free. The Dog Park, 705 King St. Call 703-888-2818.
Concert. 5 p.m. Words&Music, Inc. presents A Celebration of All Hallow's Eve featuring Schumann's Spanisches Liederspiel and other musical treats for Halloween. The concert will take place at The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St. Ticket prices are $25 for adult and $18 for students and seniors. 20 percent discount will be offered for members of the military and their families. Visit alexandriava.gov/Lyceum.
Through Oct. 28
Homage. Free exhibition including “In the Garden” by Luisa Mesa, Target Gallery’s “Homage: Past Influences.” At Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Visit www.torpedofactory.org or call 703-838-4565.
Play: "And Then There Were None." 8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27 and 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 21 and 28. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for children and seniors. Tickets and information are available online at www.acctonline.org. Call 703-660-2611 Aldersgate, United Methodist Church, 1301 Collingwood Rd.
2nd Annual “Taste of Fair Trade.” Ten Thousand Villages, located at 915 King St., will celebrate Fair Trade month with its second annual “Taste of Fair Trade.” Call 703-684-1435 or visit www.alexandria.tenthousandvillages.com
Scheduled Tastings:
Oct. 20-21: Iced tea, lemonade and other refreshing beverages.
Oct. 27-28: Sample wines from South America and South Africa.
Oct. 29 through Nov. 4
Art Exhibition. Día de los Muertos: The Art of Remembrance - Exhibition & Celebration. There will be a Costume and Dance Party on Friday, Nov. 2, 8-11 p.m.. Tickets: $15 in advance, $20 at door, or two for $35. Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Visit
www.torpedofactory.org/dayofthedead.
Tuesday/Oct. 30
Poetry Presentation. 10:30 a.m. Join the “Tuesdays at Two” writing group showcasing talented local writers and poets. Free and open to the public. Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Rd. Call 703-765-4573 to reserve a seat.
Doggie Happy Howl-o-ween Costume Contest. Registration 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.; contest begins at 6 p.m. Jackson 20 and Kimpton’s Hotel Monaco Alexandria host their annual Doggie Happy Howl-o-ween Costume Contest. Local pets and their human companions can model their Halloween finest while competing for prizes in a contest in the outdoor courtyard. Open to the public. Prizes will be awarded. Registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis, for a limited number of entries. Spectators are welcome. Event will be held in the restaurant’s courtyard; use the Royal Street entrance. Admission is TBD. At Jackson 20 Restaurant, 480 King St. Call 703-842-2790.
Tuesday-Wednesday/Oct. 30-31
Roaring 20s Halloween Soiree. 5:30-8 p.m. Party like the Fitzgeralds at this Roaring 20s-themed Halloween Soiree at historic Two-Nineteen Restaurant and Basin Street Lounge. Attendees are encouraged to arrive in 20s inspired dress to enjoy popular 1920s gourmet cuisine by Chef Ryan Ross and specialty cocktails. Live blues music, premium cigars, and a charity underground poker tournament are also featured at this event (proceeds to benefit the D.C. Central Kitchen). Visit http://www.eventbrite.com/org/2778794346.
Through Oct. 31
“SKYSCAPE.” Paintings of the sky landscape, by Maremi Hooff Andreozzi runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Tuesdays at Huntley Meadows Park Visitor Center, 3701 Lockheed Boulevard, call 703-768-2525. Visit www.maremi.com.
Thursday/Nov. 1
6th Annual Alexandria Film Festival. The festival brings high-quality short and feature length films, documentaries, filmmaker panels and arts presentations to Alexandria. Presented by the Alexandria Commission for the Arts and the City of Alexandria Office of the Arts from Nov. 1-4. Call 703-746-5592
Friday/Nov. 2
Día de los Muertos Costume & Dance Party. 8-11 p.m. Presentation of the 4th annual Day of the Dead extravaganza featuring an exhibition of artist-made altars and a festive Costume & Dance Party. Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Call 703-838-4565.
Fridays & Saturdays/Nov. 2 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. 2
Death Comes to Carlyle House. To commemorate the 232nd anniversary of the death of John Carlyle, Carlyle House presents an exhibit on the mourning practices of 18th-century Virginia through the experience of the Carlyle household. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. from Tuesday through Saturday, noon-4 p.m on Sunday. Admission: $5/adults, $3/children, Free for members. Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax St. Call 703-549-2997.
Nov. 2-25
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.
Saturday/Nov. 3
Church-wide Yard Sale. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. The public is welcome to come and shop. Baked goods and lunch also available for sale. At Cameron United Methodist Church located at 3130 Franconia Rd. Rain or Shine. If you want to be a seller, contact Marilyn by Oct.22 at 703-765-6817 to purchase a table for $20.
Movie: Courageous. 3 p.m. The movie will be shown in the fellowship hall of Plymouth Haven Baptist Church, 8600 Plymouth Dr. Refreshments will be served.
Through Nov. 4
Pulse4Artists – “4 Ways Of Color” 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Gallery West, 1213 King St. The opening reception will be Saturday, Oct. 13 from 5-7 p.m. Call 703-549-6006 Visit www.Pulse4Artists.com.
Exhibition of 2D and 3D Artwork. Featuring ceramic artist Daiva Balkus and photographer Ruth Ann Lowery. At Gallery West, located at 1213 King St. Visit www.gallery-west.info.
Tuesday/Nov. 6
Election Day Dinner. Jackson 20 Chef Brian McPherson has created a three-course, Andrew Jackson-inspired menu, available for $20 on Election Day for those wearing an “I Voted” sticker. The restaurant is located at 480 King St. For reservations and more information call 703-842-2790 or visit www.jackson20.com or www.facebook.com/Jackson20.
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.
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.
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/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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 & 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-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.
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.
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
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/
*On Sale Fri. July 13 at noon. www.Birchmere.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.
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.
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.
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.
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.