The Connection

Alexandria — Ongoing

Winter Classes. Beginning in Feb. 20 at Art at the Center, 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane. Children ages 6-10 can participate. Register at www.artatthecenter.org or 703-201-1250.

Occupied City: Life in Civil War Alexandria Exhibition. At The Lyceum, Alexandria’s History Museum, 201 South Washington Street. Open daily through September, this exhibit traces life in Alexandria following Virginia’s decision to secede from the Union in May 1861. See how Robert E. Lee’s hometown was transformed literally overnight from a prosperous commercial port into a supply, hospital, and transportation center for the Union Army, and find out why Alexandria became a destination for African Americans seeking freedom. Explore the experiences of Alexandrians and others who lived here during this tumultuous time, through their own words, as well as in period photographs and collections items. The Lyceum is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, from 1-5 p.m. Suggested admission is $2. Visit www.alexandriahistory.org or call 703-746-4994.

Art Exhibit. Alexandria artist Francis Seeger will display “People” in the Athenaeum Gallery, 201 Prince St. through Feb. 24. Free. Features a number of the artist’s larger figural paintings. Often appearing to be waiting for time to pass or expressing a touch of boredom, Seeger’s subjects are captured with vibrant palette. Visit www.nvfaa.org or 703-548-0035.

Life in Civil War Alexandria Exhibition. Daily exhibit traces life in Alexandria following Virginia's decision to secede from the Union in May 1861. Through September 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.

Tavern Toddlers. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Mondays through the end of April. Designed for walkers through 36 months and their caregivers. Tavern Toddlers features a weekly open playtime in Gadsby’s historic ballroom. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is located at 134 North Royal St. Call 703-746-4242 or visit www.gadsbystavern.org.

Through March 17

Theater Performance. “Ladies Swing the Blues,” a world premiere by Thomas W. Jones II and William Knowles at Metrostage, 1201 N. Royal St. Explore the jazz folklore, mythologies and backstage stories of the ’40s and ’50s with four legendary jazz divas as they gather to commemorate the passing of jazz legend Charlie Parker. Performances are 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 $50 (students $25). For tickets call 800-494-8497 or visit www.metrostage.org, Groups/Info 703-548-9044. Fully accessible, free parking.

Through March 3

Art Exhibit. See “Fabricated: An Exhibition of Wearable Art” at Target Galley in the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Visit www.torpedofactory.org/target for more on the exhibit.

Wednesday/Feb. 6

Concert Tour. Alfie Boe, who starred as Jean Valjean in the 25th anniversary concert of “Les Miserables” in London will perform at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. For tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com/Alfie-Boe-tickets or birchmere.com.

Lecture. 7 p.m. at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. Dr. Peter Henriques will discuss why George Washington decided to stop being friends with George Mason, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. $12/person; $10/GTMS member and volunteer. Reservations recommended. 703-746-4242.

Movie. 6:45 p.m. at Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Watch a noir romance starring Humphrey Bogart and Gloria Grahame. A discussion will follow at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub. Free. Call 703-746-1705 for title.

Atomic Swing Club. 9-11 p.m. at Nick’s Nightclub, 642 S. Pickett St. $10. Visit www.gottaswing.com for more.

Wednesdays through Feb. 6

Picture Writing: Literacy through Art. 7-8:30 p.m. at Art at the Center, 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane. Children ages 8-12 will receive an introduction to an approach to writing that integrates visual modes of thinking at every stage of the writing process. $150/student. Register at www.artatthecenter.org or 703-201-1250.

Thursday/Feb. 7

Art Focus Group. 7:30-9 p.m. Printmaking — explore both direct and indirect print-making processes with stamping and mono-print trays. 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.

Performance. Sera Cahoone opens for Kathleen Edwards at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500 for tickets.

Creative Writing Session. 1 p.m. at Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Road. Get the creative juices flowing with the help of Camilla Clocker and Julie Ellis. Free, open to the public. 703-765-4573.

Lecture. 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Virginia Tech Center for Public Administration and Policy, 1021 Prince St. William Resh will give the lecture. RSVP to www.eventbrite.com/event/5430524846#.

Mother Goose Time. 10 a.m. at Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Children ages 12-24 months can enjoy stories, activities and more. Free. 703-746-1705.

Story Time. 10:30 a.m. or 3 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Children ages 3-5 can enjoy stories, activities and more. Free. Registration required, 703-746-1702 ext. 5.

Story Time. 11 a.m. at Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Children ages 3-5 can enjoy stories and more. Free. 703-746-1705.

Classic Film Series. 3:30 p.m. at Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road. Watch “David Copperfield” in honor of Charles Dickens’ 200th birthday. Free. 703-746-1704.

Story Time. 4 p.m. at Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Children ages 3 and up can enjoy stories and more. Free. 703-746-1703.

Paws to Read. 5:30 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Children in grades 1-6 can read to friendly dogs. Registration required, 703-746-1702 x5.

Pajama Party. 7 p.m. at Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road. Children ages 3-6 can come dressed in their favorite outfit/pajamas and listen to stories. Free. 703-746-1704.

Friday/Feb. 8

Organ Recital. 7:30 p.m. at Grace Episcopal Church, 3601 Russell Road. Kyle Babin, director of music, will present works by Bach, Byrd and more. Freewill offering. 703-549-1980.

Chamber Players Concert. 8 p.m. at The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St. Hear the United States Air Force Band brass trio and brass soloists. Free. Visit www.usafband.af.mil or 202-767-5658.

Rock Against Hunger. 7 p.m. at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 8009 Fort Hunt Road. Hear music by local band Black Moon Tonic, enjoy pizza, drinks and more. $15/adult; $10/student; children under 10 free. Portion of the proceeds benefit UCM.

Feb. 8 through March 17

Art Exhibit. See Matthew D. Kiehl’s “Craft and Character: Wasteland” at the Schlesinger Center Margaret W & Joseph L. Fisher Gallery. See an exploration of pen and ink on paper. Free.

Saturday/Feb. 9

Children’s Art Workshop. 1-3 p.m. at Del Ray Artisans gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave. Children ages 5-12 can enjoy expressing their creativity in this hands-on workshop. $10/DRA member; $12/non-member. Registration first-come, first served and 30 students max. Register by Feb. 3 at www.TheDelRayArtisans.org.

Music Performance. Celebrate the City of Alexandria with a performance by the Alexandria Symphony, the Alexandria Choral Society and more at 8 p.m. at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St. Tickets are $5/youth; $10/student; and start at $40 for adults. 703-548-0885.

Civil War Songs & Letters. 7 p.m. at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Dead Men’s Hollow will perform songs of the Civil War and new, original songs about the war; actors will read letters and diary entries from that time period. Reception to follow. $10/person.

Opening Reception. 3-5 p.m. at the Schlesinger Center Margaret W & Joseph L. Fisher Gallery. Meet Matthew D Kiehl and see his exploration of pen and ink on paper. Free.

Valentine’s Dinner and Dance. 7 p.m.-midnight at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 8710 Mount Vernon Highway. Enjoy a cash bar, food and more. Proceeds benefit Progreso Literacy and Citizenship Center. Tickets are $30/person and available at GSCC or Progreso LCC or at the door.

Lecture. 1:30 p.m. at Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Michael Lee Pope will discuss his new book “Shotgun Justice: One Prosecutor’s Crusade Against Crime and Corruption in Alexandria and Arlington.” Free. Light refreshments to follow.

Mountain Music Project. 8 p.m. at the Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St. Watch the documentary “Mountain Music Project” and then enjoy some music. $20/non-member; free for FSGW members, but donation requested. 301-717-4641.

Civil War Recruiting Day. 1-4 p.m. at Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site, 4301 W. Braddock Road. Learn about period clothing and equipment, watch drills and more. Free.

Saturday Matinee Screening. 1 p.m. at Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Features a Tarzan movie starring Johnny Weismuller and a second film starring Abbott and Costello. Free. Call 703-746-1705 for titles.

Valentine’s Day Cookie Workshop. Three sessions at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. or 3 p.m. at Occasionally Cake, 207 King St. Participants will be able to decorate cookies, get a demonstration and a cookie box to take home. $25/person. Reservations required at www.occasionallycake.com or 703-647-9638.

Teen Production. 7:30 p.m. at Heritage Presbyterian Church, 8503 Fort Hunt Road. See “The Pink Panther Strikes Again.” $10 available only at the door.

Balducci's Wine Day. 8 a.m.-8 p.m., at Balducci's, 600 Franklin St. Join professional winemakers, importers and aficionados as they sample various wines, trade recommendations and share stories; 25 percent off 12-plus bottle purchases. www.balduccis.com.

Peace, Love and Chocolate for the Cure. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at 1200 Croton Drive. Enjoy a fundraiser and ladies’ social benefiting breast cancer. RSVP to Holly at hjracer@gmail.com or 703-835-5534

Indoor Fly Fun. West Potomac High School is holding an event at the high school from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. for people who love model airplanes. Free, but a small fee for those who want to fly their plane.

Saturday Stories. 11 a.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. All ages can enjoy stories and songs. Free. 703-746-1702.

Meditation. 11 a.m. at Burke Library, 4701 Seminary Road. Take a free workshop and be guided through meditation and the proper breathing techniques. 703-746-1704.

Jewelry Workshop. 2 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Shannyn will help people capture the literary inspirations of Jane Austen, Emily Bronte and others in this romance inspired workshop. Free. Registration required, 703-746-1743.

Author Signing. 2-4 p.m. at Grounded Coffee Shop, 6919 Telegraph Road. Pat Britz will read and sign copies of “Animals Need Zz’s Too.” Free. Visit www.groundedcoffeeshop.com/ or 703-341-6612.

Swordsmen’s Rendezvous. Noon-4:30 p.m. at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. See a re-enactment of 18th-century swordplay, display of weapons and more. Recommended for families with children in grade 2 and up. $6/person. Reservations required, visit www.gadsbystavern.org or 703-746-4242.

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.

Ladies 18th-Century Tea. 3 p.m. or 3:15 p.m. at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. Sip the museum’s special blend and eat period-inspired delicacies. $35/person. Reservations required. 703-746-4242.

Music Performance. Celebrate the City of Alexandria with a performance by the Alexandria Symphony, the Alexandria Choral Society and more at 3 p.m. at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St. Tickets are $5/youth; $10/student; and start at $40 for adults. 703-548-0885.

Film Day. 2 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Watch “Akeelah & the Bee” in honor of African-American History Month. Free. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or 703-746-1702.

Capital Wind Symphony Concert. 8 p.m. at Bishop Ireton High School, 201 Cambridge Road. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door, and $5 discounts for seniors and students. The program will include works by Robert Russell Bennett, Malcolm Arnold, Wagner and Mendelssohn. For tickets and additional information, see www.capitalwindsymphony.org, or for other questions contact 703-822-8282.

Teen Production. 3 p.m. at Heritage Presbyterian Church, 8503 Fort Hunt Road. See “The Pink Panther Strikes Again.” $10 available only at the door.

Music Performance. 3 p.m. at Bishop Ireton High School, 201 Cambridge Road. Hear the world premiere of “I Have Felt To Soar” by Christopher Weiss, winner of the 2012 Washington Metropolitan Philharmonic Association Composition Competition; piano recording artist Anna Balakerskaia and solo violinist Zino Bogachek will perform with the Washington Metropolitan Philharmonic. $20/general; age 18 and under are free. Visit www.wmpamusic.org for more.

Civil War Sunday. 1-5 p.m. at Alexandria Archaeology Museum, 105 N. Union St. See an original May 26, 1861 edition of the “New York-Tribune” detailing Col. Elmer Ellsworth’s death in Alexandria, an exhibit on a Lee Street archaeological site and more. Free. Visit www.alexandriaarchaeology.org or call 703-746-4399.

Through Feb. 10

Art Exhibit. Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery, located in the Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., has on display “QR Codes.” Free. Visit www.Potomacfiberartsgallery.com.

Call for Applicants. Apply for the Visiting Artist Program for residency at the Torpedo Factory. Visit www.torpedofactory.org for details on how to apply.

Monday/Feb. 11

Performance. John Mayall celebrates “80th Birthday Celebration Tour!” at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500 for tickets.

Deadline for Submission. All entries for “Trash Talk” can be submitted to Target Gallery, Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St. Visit www.torpedofactory.org or 703-838-4565.

Duncan Poetry Society Meeting. 7 p.m. at Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Discuss the sonnets of William Shakespeare, bring a favorite to read, or, if time permits, read a piece of published or unpublished original work. Free. 703-747-1704.

Little One-Ders. 10:30 a.m. or 11:15 a.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Children ages 12-23 months can enjoy stories and more. Registration required, 703-746-1702 ext. 5.

Baby Time. 11 a.m. at Duncan Library, Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Children up to 11 months can hear stories and more. Sign up half-hour before it begins. Free. 703-746-1705.

Animal Shelter Visit. 3:30 p.m. at Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. An employee from the shelter will talk about the animals they have, their habits and more. Animals usually come along. For children in grades K to 5. Free. 703-746-1705.

Read, Sing & Play Baby. 4 p.m. at Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Children up to 11 months can enjoy stories and more. Free. 703-746-1703.

Interfaith Book Club. 7 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Read nonfiction works that strive to find common ground through recognizing and celebrating common values. Free. Call 703-746-1743 for title.

Let’s Talk Books. 7 p.m. at Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Discuss “The Black Count” by Thomas Reiss. Free. 703-746-1703.

Auditions. 6 p.m. at Jeb Stuart High School. Audition for The Youth Orchestras of Fairfax. Contact Teresa Smith at teresa@tyof.org to arrange an audition. Audition materials can be found atwww.tyof.org/.

Tavern Toddlers. 10:30 a.m.-noon at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. Toddlers, walkers through 36 months old, can enjoy crafts, playtime and more. $7/group of three which must include an adult; or $30/5-week pass. No reservations required. Visit www.gadsbystavern.org or call 703-746-4242.

Tuesday/Feb. 12

Antique Furniture: Fake, Fraud or Genuine? 7 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Dr. Oscar Fitzgerald, local author and professor, will discuss the principles that guide antique dealers and collectors to distinguish the fake from the genuine and the masterpiece from the mistake. Free. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or 703-746-1702.

Stories and Songs. 10 a.m. or 11 a.m. at Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Children ages 1-4 can enjoy stories and more. Sign up half-hour before. Free. 703-746-1705.

Mother Goose Time. 10:15 a.m. at Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen ST. Children ages 12-24 months can enjoy games, rhymes and more. Free. 703-746-1703.

Time For 2s. 10:30 a.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Children age 24-36 months can enjoy stories and more. Free. Registration required, 703-746-1702 ext. 5.

Tuesday Tots. 11 a.m. at Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road. Children ages 2-3 can enjoy stories and more. Free. 703-746-1704.

Stories to Grow On. 11 a.m. at Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Children age 2 and up can enjoy stories and more. Free. 703-746-1703.

Baby Rhyme Time. 11:30 a.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Children up to 11 months can enjoy rhymes and more. Free. Registration required, 703-746-1702 ext. 5.

Paws to Read. 5:30 p.m. at Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Children in grades 1-6 can read to friendly dogs. Registration required, 703-746-1705.

Game Night. 7 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Children ages 8-12 can play with their friends. Free. 703-746-1702.

Through Feb. 12

Introduction to Cartoon Drawing. 6-7:30 p.m. at Art at the Center, 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane. Children ages 8-12 will receive an introduction to materials, figure drawing, character creation and storyboarding. $180/student. Register at www.artatthecenter.org or 703-201-1250.

Feb. 12 through March 24

Art Exhibit. Multiple Exposures Gallery in the Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., will showcase work by three new artists: Tim Hyde, Soomin Ham and Fred Zafran. Each artist will showcase the world around us. Free. Visit www.torpedofactory.org for more.

Wednesday/Feb. 13

Mother Goose Time. 10:15 a.m. at Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Children ages 12-24 months can enjoy games, rhymes and more. Free. 703-746-1703.

Time For 2s. 10:30 a.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Children age 24-36 months can enjoy stories and more. Free. Registration required, 703-746-1702 ext. 5.

Stories to Grow On. 11 a.m. at Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Children age 2 and up can enjoy stories and more. Free. 703-746-1703.

Spanish Story Time. 1 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. All abilities and all levels can join in for stories. Free. 703-746-1702.

Celebrate the Presidents. 4 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Children ages 6-12 can hear stories about the presidents and more. Free. 703-746-1702.

Lego Family Night. 7 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Families can enjoy building together and more. Free. 703-746-1702.

Pajama Party.7 p.m. at Duncan Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Children ages 3-7 can come dressed in their favorite outfit/pajamas and listen to stories. Free. 703-746-1705.

Music Performance. See Fusebox at Evening Star Cafe, 2000 Mount Vernon Ave., from 8-10 p.m. Free. Visit eveningstarcafe.net or 703-549-5051.

Feb. 13 through March 17

“Hearth and Home.” Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery in the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St., presents a juried show where items reflect on the meaning of home, or items used in the home. Free. Visit www.Potomacfiberartsgallery.com or 703-548-0935.

Thursday/Feb. 14

Reception and Juror Talk. 6-8 p.m. hear Rachel Timmins give a talk relating to “Fabricated: An Exhibition of Wearable Art” at Target Galley in the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Visit www.torpedofactory.org/target for more on the exhibit.

Burlesque Revue. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the performance starting at 7:30 p.m. at Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. The Pontani Sisters will perform their Burlesque-A-Pades with music by Brian Newman. $29.50/person. Visit www.birchmere.com or 800-745-3000 for tickets.

Thursday Art Night: Made with Love. 6-9 p.m. at Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St. Browse open studios, interact with artists and more. Free. Visit www.torpedofactory.org or 703-838-4565.

Valentine’s Day Tea Party. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at The Christmas Attic, 125 S. Union St. Enjoy a selection of gourmet teas and take your cup home. Free. Visit www.christmasattic.com for more.

Mother Goose Time. 10 a.m. at Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Children ages 12-24 months can enjoy stories, activities and more. Limited to 25 children. Free. 703-746-1705.

Story Time. 10:30 a.m. or 3 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Children ages 3-5 can enjoy stories, activities and more. Free. Registration required, 703-746-1702 ext. 5.

Story Time. 11 a.m. at Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave. Children ages 3-5 can enjoy stories and more. Free. 703-746-1705.

Classic Film Series. 6:30 p.m. at Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road. Watch “Pride and Prejudice” and celebrate Valentine’s Day. Free. 703-746-1704.

Story Time. 4 p.m. at Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Children ages 3 and up can enjoy stories and more. Free. 703-746-1703.

Paws to Read. 5:30 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Children in grades 1-6 can read to friendly dogs. Registration required, 703-746-1702 x5.

Pajama Party.7 p.m. at Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road. Children ages 3-6 can come dressed in their favorite outfit/pajamas and listen to stories. Free. 703-746-1704.

Library Speed Dating. 7 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Book lovers can find a literary better half at this event. Prizes will be awarded and refreshments will be served. 703-746-1751 to reserve a spot.

Valentine’s Day Concert. 7 p.m. at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Married singers Christal and Peter Prout will present a concert for lovers. $10/person. Visit www.nvfaa.org for tickets.

Friday/Feb. 15

Teen Production. 7:30 p.m. at Heritage Presbyterian Church, 8503 Fort Hunt Road. See “The Pink Panther Strikes Again.” $10 available only at the door.

Saturday/Feb. 16

George Washington’s Birthday Celebration. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Mount Vernon Estate. Enjoy a taste of his favorite meal while supplies last, mingle with costumed characters and more. $17/adult; $8/children age 6-11; children under 5 are free. Visit www.mountvernon.org for more.

Birthnight Banquet and Ball. 5:30 p.m. at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. Includes an 18th-century banquet, English country dancing, dessert collation and more. Period costume optional, after-five attire encouraged. $100/advance reservation; $125 to sit in the main dining room with the Washingtons or $200 to dine at the same table with the Washingtons. 703-746-4242.

Music Performance. 8 p.m. at The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St. The United States Air Force Band will play music for the viola. Free. Visit www.usafband.af.mil or 202-767-5658.

Music Performance. 7:30 p.m. at Convergence, 1801 N. Quaker Lane. The Patagonia Winds will perform music by Piazzolla, D’Rivera and more. $10/adult; $5/student, senior, military. Reception to follow.

Teen Production. 7:30 p.m. at Heritage Presbyterian Church, 8503 Fort Hunt Road. See “The Pink Panther Strikes Again.” $10 available only at the door.

Saturday Stories. 11 a.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. All ages can enjoy stories and songs. Free. 703-746-1702.

Feb. 16-18

George Washington’s Birthday Parade and Weekend Festivities. Largest parade in the country celebrating the 281st anniversary of the birth of the nation’s first president takes place on Washington’s Birthday holiday, Monday, Feb. 18, 1-3 p.m. in Old Town Alexandria. Part of a weekend of events that includes the Birthnight Banquet & Ball and a Madeira wine tasting at Gadsby’s Tavern, a 10-K race, a 1-mile race just before the parade, plus free open houses at historic attractions on parade day. VisitAlexandriaVA.com, WashingtonBirthday.net, 703-746-3301 for information on the events.

Sunday/Feb. 17

George Washington’s Birthday Celebration. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Mount Vernon Estate. Enjoy a taste of his favorite meal while supplies last, mingle with costumed characters and more. $17/adult; $8/children age 6-11; children under 5 are free. Visit www.mountvernon.org for more.

Madeira Tasting. 3 p.m. at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. Taste a variety of George Washington’s favorite drink from Rare Wine, Inc. $45/person includes food paired with it. Reservations required. 703-746-4242.

Film Day. 2 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Watch “The Pursuit of Happyness” in honor of African-American History Month. Free. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or 703-746-1702.

Opening Reception. 2-5 p.m. at Multiple Exposures Gallery in the Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St., will showcase work by three new artists: Tim Hyde, Soomin Ham and Fred Zafran. Each artist will showcase the world around us. Free. Visit www.torpedofactory.org for more.

Barbershop Harmony Concert. 3 p.m. at Mount Vernon Unitarian Church, 1909 Windmill Lane. Hear the Harmony Heritage Singers do favorite songs including “Barbara Ann,” “Battle Hymn of the Republic” and more. Free, offering taken for United Community Ministries. 703-765-4779.

Teen Production. 3 p.m. at Heritage Presbyterian Church, 8503 Fort Hunt Road. See “The Pink Panther Strikes Again.” $10 available only at the door.

Revolutionary Battle Re-Enactment. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Fort Ward Museum a Historic Park, 4301 W. Braddock Road. See military drills, cannon firings, music and more. Part of George Washington’s birthday celebration weekend. Free. Visit http://www.washingtonbirthday.net/ or 703-829-6640.

Music Performance. 7 p.m. at Church of the Resurrection, 2280 N. Beauregard St. Hear acoustic blues singer/historian Scott Ainslie with special guest Rick Franklin. $18/general; $15/advance at www.focusmusic.org or 703-501-6061.

VETStravaganza Concert. 3 p.m. at George Washington University’s Lisner Auditorium, 730 21st St., N.W., Washington, D.C. Hear the West Point Cadet Glee Club, country singer Mark Wills and more. Tickets are free but required. Visit www.lisner.org, 202-994-6851 or 202-994-9599 for tickets.

Monday/Feb. 18

Free admission. In honor of George Washington’s birthday, enjoy free admission to Mount Vernon Estate. There will be a wreath-laying ceremony, music and military performances. The estate is open from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit www.mountvernon.org for more.

Parade Day Open House. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. Enjoy the tour for free. Donations welcome.

Tuesday/Feb. 19

Music. Buddy Miller and Jim Lauderdale perform at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $35. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

Film Screening. 7 p.m. at Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St. Watch “Chisholm 72: Unbought & Unbossed,” based on Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, the first African-American woman elected to Congress and her 1972 presidential bid. Visit www.alexandriava.gov/humanrights for more.

Wednesday/Feb. 20

Author Series. 7-8:30 p.m. at Charles Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Tom Young will discuss his latest military thriller “The Renegades.” Free. www.alexandria.lib.va.us or 703-746-1702.

Antiques Club. 9:30-11 a.m. at Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Road. The Alexandria/Mount Vernon Antiques Club will feature Gale Curcio who will be highlighting vintage tablecloths. Free.

Thursday/Feb. 21

Art Focus Group. 7:30-9 p.m. Collage - build on children's natural instinct for collecting by creating something new out of scraps and bits and pieces. We will also explore extending collage into paper architecture. 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 Lane. Call 703-201-1250.

Creative Writing Session. 1 p.m. at Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Road. Get the creative juices flowing with the help of Camilla Clocker and Julie Ellis. Free, open to the public. 703-765-4573.

Performance. 7:30 p.m. at Burgundy Farm Country Day School, 3700 Burgundy Road. Hear the 6th graders perform “Burgundy on Broadway: Dreams and Magic,” a musical revue that includes music from “Harry Potter” to “Oklahoma!” There will be a puppet show, spoken narration, clarinet performance and more. $5/door; $1/child.

Friday/Feb. 22

Bill Kirchen & Too Much Fun And Wayne 'The Train' Hancock. 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.

Music Performance. 8 p.m. at The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St. The United States Air Force Band will play music for the clarinet. Free. Visit www.usafband.af.mil or 202-767-5658.

Performance. 7:30 p.m. at Burgundy Farm Country Day School, 3700 Burgundy Road. Hear the 6th graders perform “Burgundy on Broadway: Dreams and Magic,” a musical revue that includes music from “Harry Potter” to “Oklahoma!” There will be a puppet show, spoken narration, clarinet performance and more. $5/door; $1/child.

Feb. 22 through March 9

Theater Production. Port City Playhouse's third production of the 2012-13 season “The Drawer Boy” by Michael Healey, directed by Jennifer Lyman opens on Friday, Feb. 22. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays, Feb. 22-23; March 1-2 and 8-9; and Tuesday, March 5 at 8 p.m.; and Saturday, March 2 and 9 at 2 p.m. Port City Playhouse performs at 1819 N. Quaker Lane.

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.

Closing Reception. 3-5 p.m. See work by local artists Pamela Underhill and Rusty Lynn at The Gallery at Convergence, 1801 N. Quaker Lane. Free. Visit www.Convergenceccf.net.

Free Wedding Open House. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Kimpton’s Monaco Alexandria. Couples can browse the ballroom, courtyard, guest rooms and suites. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served. There will be wedding vendors present, raffles and more. Visit www.monaco-alexandria.com or RSVP to Allison Manning at Allison.Manning@kimptonhotels.com.

Sunday/Feb. 24

Annual Jury Information Session. 2-3 p.m. in Studio 31 at the Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St. Visual artists who are interested in joining the Torpedo Factory Artists’ Association can get more information. Free. Visit www.torpedofactory.org.

Film Day. 2 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Watch “The Color Purple” in honor of African-American History Month. Free. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or 703-746-1702.

Through Feb. 24

Exhibit. "Dot and Dash" art exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery from Feb. 1-24. Getting back to the basics: dot and dash. Artists deconstruct their individualized art-making processes to interpret the theme in their unique styles, showcasing two- and three-dimensional work that is painterly, graphic, realistic, and abstract. Del Ray Artisans gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave. www.TheDelRayArtisans.org.

Thursday/Feb. 28

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. 7:30 p.m. $45. Visit www.nittygritty.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Author Series. 7-8:30 p.m. at Charles Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. In honor of Black History Month, Bob O’Connor will speak about his book “The U.S. Colored Troops at Andersonville Prison.” Free. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or call 703-746-1702.

Networking Fun. 6-9 p.m. at the Carlyle Club, 411 John Carlyle St. Hosted by New Hope Housing’s Young Professionals Board and IMPACT Marketing & Events. Features cocktails, music and more. $20 online or $25 at the door. E-mail Michelle Jannazo at mjannazo@newhopehousing.org or 703-799-2292 ext. 11.

Information Talk. 6-7:30 p.m. at Sherwood Hall Library. Students and parents can gain insight into the importance of promoting financial literacy at an early age. Daryl Mackey, author of “Teamesteem is the Key to a Teen’s Financial Dreams” will lead the forum. Copies of his book will be given out to the first 25 teens to arrive. 703-980-3510 for questions.

Gala Benefit. 7-10 p.m. at Virtue Feed and Grain, 106 S. Union St. The fourth annual CAC Gala benefits the Center for Alexandria’s Children. Features a silent auction, mini raffle, buffet and more. Tickets start at $150 and available at http://2013cacgala.eventbrite.com or by contacting the Center at 703-746-6008. For more information about the Center, go to www.centerforalexandriaschildren.org.

Through Feb. 28

Highlights at Mount Vernon Estate. In observance of Black History Month, Mount Vernon highlights the lives and contributions of the slaves who built and operated the plantation home of George and Martha Washington. Throughout the month, a daily Slave Life at Mount Vernon tour explores the lives and contributions of the slaves who lived at Mount Vernon. Black History Month activities are included in regular Estate admission: adults, $17; children ages 6-11, $8; and children under 5 are admitted free.

“Dance Your Heart Out” Campaign. Metropolitan Fine Arts Center of Alexandria and Fairfax Station is offering unlimited adult dance and mind/body classes throughout February for a special price of $110. And MFAC will donate 10 percent of all “Dance Your Heart Out class fees to the American Heart Association. Schedules can be viewed at www.metrofinearts.com. 703-339-0444.

Art Exhibit. See “Shades of Gray” at Printmakers Inc., in the Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St. Free. Visit www.torpedofactory.org.

Feb. 28 through April 7

Art Exhibit. See “Process: Photography” at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Features established and emerging talent displaying a wide variety of picture taking devices ranging from large print to electron microscopy. Over 15 types of equipment are represented. Free. Visit www.nvfaa.org for more.

Friday-Sunday/Mar. 1-3

The Bacon Brothers. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $39.50. Visit http://baconbros.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

March 1 through March 6

Artwork Due. Target Gallery’s March Fundraiser exhibition will accept artwork at the gallery at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Visit www.torpedofactory.org or 703-838-4565.

March 1 through March 31

Needlework Exhibit. Exhibit is at Historic Woodlawn Museum, 9000 Richmond Highway. There is a fee. Visit http://woodlawn1805.org.

Saturday/March 2

Celebrate Alexandria: 25 Years with Music and the Maestro. 6 p.m. at Westin Hotel, 400 Courthouse Square. Kim Allen Kluge, musical director of the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra will be honored. There will be a reception, silent and live auction, dinner, dancing and more. Individual tickets are $200. For reservations and information, contact Margherita Woods at 703-960-7994, marg.woods@cox.net, or Jane Ring at 703-548-745, jring10@comcast.net.

Sunday/March 3

Choral Evensong. 5 p.m. at Christ Church Episcopal, 118 N. Washington St. Listen to a service of evening prayer with choral music. All are welcome. Visit www.historicchristchurch.org or 703-549-1450.

Film Day. 2 p.m. at Beatley Library, 5005 Duke St. Watch “Remember the Titans,” about T.C. Williams High School and its newly desegregated football team, in honor of African-American History Month. Free. Visit www.alexandria.lib.va.us or 703-746-1702.

Opening Reception. 4-6 p.m. at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Meet some of the creators of the “Process: Photography.” Features established and emerging talent displaying a wide variety of picture taking devices ranging from large print to electron microscopy. Over 15 types of equipment are represented. Free. Visit www.nvfaa.org for more.

Through March 3

Art Exhibit. See “Fabricated: An Exhibition of Wearable Art” at Target Galley in the Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Visit www.torpedofactory.org/target for more on the exhibit.

March 7

Art Focus Group. 7:30-9 p.m. Weaving and textile arts — we will look at ways to bring textile arts into the classroom or home studio with a specific focus on recycled fibers. 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 Lane. Call 703-201-1250.

Friday/March 8

Performance. Megan Mullally and Stephanie Hunt perform “Nancy & Beth” at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $29.50. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

Mardi Growl Gala. 7-10 p.m. at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, 600 Dulany St. Enjoy music by a N’awlins jazz band, silent auction, raffle, beverages and more. $85/single; $150/pair of tickets. All proceeds benefit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. Visit www.alexandriaAnimals.org/MardiGrowl for more.

March 9 through March 17

Art Exhibit. March Fundraiser exhibit at Target Gallery, Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Free. Visit www.torpedofactory.org or 703-838-4565.

Tuesday/March 12

Music. George Thorogood & the Destroyers perform in the Flex Stage at The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., at 7:30 p.m. $45. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

March 15-16

The Average White Band. 7:30 p.m. $35. Visit www.averagewhiteband.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Sunday/March 17

Watch Awards 2013. 7 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $15. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500. Visit www.washingtontheater.org for nominees.

Through March 17

Theater Performance. “Ladies Swing the Blues,” a world premiere by Thomas W. Jones II and William Knowles at Metrostage, 1201 N. Royal St. Explore the jazz folklore, mythologies and backstage stories of the ’40s and ’50s with four legendary jazz divas as they gather to commemorate the passing of jazz legend Charlie Parker. Performances are 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 $50 (students $25). For tickets call 800-494-8497 or visit www.metrostage.org, Groups/Info 703-548-9044. Fully accessible, free parking.

Thursday/March 21

An Evening with Rickie Lee Jones. 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500 for tickets.

Art Focus Group. 7:30-9 p.m. Puppets in the classroom — creating characters to tell stories. 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.

Saturday/March 23

An Evening with Tom Rush. $39.50. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Sunday/March 24

Music. Madeleine Peyroux performs at 7:30 in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $55. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

Ladies 18th-Century Tea. 3 p.m. or 3:15 p.m. at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. Sip the museum’s special blend and eat period-inspired delicacies. $35/person. Reservations required. 703-746-4242.

Saturday/March 30

Cleve Francis. 7:30 p.m. $32.50. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Wednesday/April 3

Music. Carolina Chocolate Drops performs at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $25. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

Thursday/April 4

Comedy Performance. Jon Lovitz, Tim Meadows and Chris Kattan will perform at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $69.50. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

April 5-6

Rachelle Ferrell. $59.50. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Sunday/April 7

Artists’ Show & Tell. 2 p.m. at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Meet some of the creators of the “Process: Photography.” Many of the artists will bring the equipment they used and talk about the processes they used to create their art. Free. Visit www.nvfaa.org for more.

Apr. 11

Art Focus Group. 7:30-9 p.m. Building Observation skills through drawing — explore connections between drawing and building and ways to encourage observation skills through drawing. 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

Thursday-Sunday/Apr. 11-14

Kathleen Madigan “Gone Madigan.” $59.50. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Monday/April 15

Performance. Brian Culbertson performs at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $55. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

Monday/April 22

Music. Leo Kottke performs at 7:30 in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $35. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

Thursday/Apr. 25

Art Focus Group. 7:30-9 p.m. Making Mosaics - The Math and Art of Mosaic Making. 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/Apr. 26

Junior Brown. $25. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Sunday/Apr. 28

Boney James. $55. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Through April 30

New Items on View. See the suite George Washington likely wore during his inauguration at Federal Hall at Mount Vernon Estate until April 30. Also on view until March 31 is the first draft of his first inaugural address. Visit www.mountvernon.org for more.

Wednesday/May 1

Jazz. Fourplay will perform at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $55. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

Thursday/May 2

Acoustic Performance. Hayes Carll performs at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500 for tickets.

Friday/May 3

Music. John Hodgman performs at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $25. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

Saturday/May 4

Music. Howie Day performs at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $25. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

Sunday/May 5

Steve Tyrell. 7:30 p.m. $45. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.

Saturday/May 11

Music. Gary Taylor performs at 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $35. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500.

Sunday/May 12

Mother’s Day with Mother’s Finest. 7:30 p.m. in the Music Hall at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or 703-549-7500 for tickets.