May, 2008

May 1 - May 25, 2008
The Stephen Schwartz Project
Metro Stage, 1201 N. Royal St.
A Hot New Musical Revue featuring the songs of award-winning composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz. Celebrate the work of one of Broadway's most acclaimed writers with "Wicked" new musical arrangements from Broadway. Performances Thursday & Friday at 8:00, Saturday at 3:00 and 8:00, Sunday at 3:00 and 7:00. $ Reservations Required.
(703) 548-9044 www.metrostage.org

May 1 - May 11, 2008
Gardening Days at Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
Spectacular gardens are in bloom as Mount Vernon hosts its annual outdoor garden and gift sale including ornamentals, perennials and annuals, garden items, books, and heirloom plants propagated from historic cuttings. Garden and Landscape guided tours are available daily at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. $
(703) 799-5203 www.MountVernon.org

May 1 - May 10, 2008
"Enchanted April"
The Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe St.
A charming tale of two unhappily married women who rent an Italian villa for a month. Performances at 8 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday. $
(703) 683-5778 www.thelittletheatre.com

May 1 - September 8, 2008
The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St.
This photo-documentary exhibition, featuring the work of Nina Tisara, identifies and honors individuals whose vision and dedication have made a tangible difference to the quality of life in Alexandria. Free!
(703) 838-4994 www.alexandriahistory.org

May 1 - December 31, 2008
Drawings by William Lydston, Jr.
Fort Ward Museum, 4301 W. Braddock Road
Original Civil War drawings by soldier, artist and musician William Lydston, Jr. Exhibit coincides with a statewide celebration of Virginia's musical heritage. Fort Ward pairs drawings from Lydston's wartime experiences with musical instruments and related objects from the Museum's collection. Free. Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays, noon to 5 p.m. Free!
(703) 838-4848 www.fortward.org

May 3, 2008
Spring Art Sale
Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave.
Annual Spring sale featuring painting, photography, pottery, jewelry, and much more! From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
(703) 838-4829 www.thedelrayartisans.org

May 3, 2008
Teddy Bear Tea
Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St.
The museum's annual Teddy Bear Tea is an important activity in which the staff educates young people regarding etiquette. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and proper dress is requested. Appropriate for children 5-10 years old. Reservations and advance payment required by one week before event. $15 per person. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. $ Reservations Required
(703) 838-4356 www.alexblackhistory.org

May 3, 2008
Washington Sinfonietta & Friends Benefit Concert
The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St.
The Washington Sinfonietta under the baton of Maestro Joel Lazar presents a special benefit gala concert. Special guest Crystal Barrett on the oboe. 7:30 p.m. Tickets will be sold at the door ($18 for adults; 12 and under admitted free). $
(703) 409-3335 www.washingtonsinfonietta.com

May 3-4, 2008
Kelly's Art Gallery Trunk Show
Kelly's Art & Frame. 510 N. Washington St.
This fine- art gallery located in north Old Town Alexandria is pleased to announce its third anniversary show. Hundreds of new pieces will be added to the immense in-house collection for this weekend. Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Free!
(703) 549-3313 www.kellysartandframe.com

May 7-June 1, 2008
Led by Thread
Target Gallery, 105 N. Union St.
Introducing a fresh approach to fiber arts opening with a reception during Alexandria's Second Thursday Art Night. Led By Thread explores the current trends in contemporary fiber arts highlighting the new, exciting and experimental direction of fiber arts today. Award winning, New York installation fiber artist, Yasmin Spiro, was juror for this exhibition. Opening reception May 8. Free
(703) 838-4565 www.torpedofactory.org

May 8, 2008
Second Thursday Art Night, All About Dogs
Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St.
Browse open studios, interact with the artists, and enjoy refreshments. The event is free and open to the public. Visit Target Gallery from 6-8 p.m. for the reception for the show Led By Thread. Free!
(703) 838-4565 www.torpedofactory.org/thursday.htm

May 8, 2008
Laura Baron
The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St.
Laura's songs soar with rhythm, beauty, and intelligence. The lyrics stand as poems alone and her voice seduces. ...discover a voice you need to hear - Terry Kester, WPFW. 7:00 p.m.$
(703) 548-0035 www.nvfaa.org

May 10-11, 2008
Mount Vernon's Spring Garden Party
Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
Mount Vernon welcomes warmer weather with a festive Spring Garden Party! In honor of Mother's Day, Mrs. Washington presents a special program, "The Mother of Her Country Speaks to Motherhood" at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Visiting mothers have an opportunity to take a photograph with Mrs. Washington and receive a free seed packet (while supplies last). $ Reservations Required
(703) 780-2000 www.MountVernon.org

May 10-11, 2008
28th Annual Old Town Arts & Crafts Festival
Market Square, 301 King St.
This popular annual event offers juried hand-made crafts with each artist present. Open 1-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free!
(703) 834-2176 www.alexandriavolunteers.com

May 11, 2008
Mother's Day Tours
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St.
Gadsby's Tavern Museum is pleased to offer free tours on Mother's Day for all visiting mothers! Treat Mom to a tour of the historic tavern and City Hotel made famous by John Gadsby. Notable visitors (other than your beloved Mother) include George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. Tour times are from 1- 5 p.m. Reservations Required
(703) 838-4242 www.gadsbystavern.org

May 11, 2008
Free Mother's Day Tours
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 South Fairfax St.
Treat the woman who took care of you to a tour of the Apothecary, which took care of Alexandrians with its medicinal herbs and botanicals! The Apothecary, which first opened in 1792, is pleased to offer free tours on Mother's Day for all visiting mothers! Tour times are 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Cost $4 for all other adults and $2 for children (ages 11-17).
(703) 838-3852 www.apothecarymuseum.org

May 11, 2008
Mother's Day Tours
Lee-Fendall House Museum, 614 Oronoco St.
In honor of Mother's Day, the Lee-Fendall House Museum and Garden offers free tours to mothers and grandmothers accompanied by their children. The Lee-Fendall House will be open for tours from 1 to 4 p.m., with the last tour at 3 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for students (11-17). Children under 11 are admitted at no charge. $
(703) 548-1789 www.leefendallhouse.org

May 11, 2008
Free Mother's Day Tours
Gunston Hall, 10709 Gunston Rd., Mason Neck, VA
Bring your mother and grandmother to an elegant tea and 18th-century fashion show. See for yourself what you might wear as a stylish gentry, or servant, woman at Gunston Hall. Tours from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Tea at 2:00 p.m. $30/person. Reservations Required
(703) 550-9220 www.gunstonhall.org

May 16-18, 2008
Spring Wine Festival & Sunset Tour
Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
Join Mount Vernon in its spring celebration of the history of the Virginia wine industry. Guests sample wines from 16 award-winning wineries, learn about the successes and failures of our Founding Father's wine endeavors, enjoy live jazz music, and meet "George Washington." Tickets $30 through ticketmaster.com or Mount Vernon's Main Gate beginning April 18. $ Reservations Required
(703) 799-5203 www.MountVernon.org

May 16-18, 2008
The Food & Wine Festival
National Harbor, National Harbor, MD
This elegant, world-class, inaugural event will celebrate distinctive cuisine and fine wine. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the latest culinary and varietal trends including the expanding industry of artisanal culinary products and boutique wines. $
443/716-2800 www.foodandwinenh.com

May 17, 2008
Family Day
Lee-Fendall House Museum, 614 Oronoco St.
Join us for a day of Victorian-themed arts and crafts, including silhouette-making. Take a children's "Squirrel Lee" tour of the Lee-Fendall House and then stay to learn about period dress. Betty Bruce Shepard will be on hand to sign copies of her new book, "Virginia: An Alphabetical Journey Through History." 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission: Adults free when accompanied by children; children (ages 5-17) $2 and children under 5 are free. $
(703) 548-1789 www.leefendallhouse.org

May 17, 2008
Del Ray House & Garden Tour
Del Ray Neighborhood
This year's tour will feature eleven of Del Ray's historic homes and their gardens, as well as the Del Ray Artisan's Center, all originally part of the Town of Potomac, a historic district listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Tickets at Del Ray Farmer’s Market, A Show of Hands, and online. 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. $
www.delraycitizen.org

May 18, 2008
Tea with Martha Washington
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St.
How did the first First Lady entertain her guests? You can experience history with Martha Washington as she discusses 18th century tea customs as well as clothing and dancing of the period. Tea party includes the museum's special blend of tea, pound cake, dried fruit, and assortment of cookies. Party attire requested. 3 p.m. $20; reservations required. $ Reservations Required
(703) 838-4242 www.gadsbystavern.org

May 18, 2008
Knife Skills Class with Joe Raffa
La Cuisine, 323 Cameron St.
Joe Raffa is now the Executive Chef at Oyamel in Washington DC. You will learn knife skills and knife care and work with a selection of first-rate knives. Class size will be limited to six. 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Cost is $75, and registrants receive coupons and discounts. $ Reservations Required
(703) 836-4435 lacuisineus.com/events.php

May 19, 2008
Mount Vernon's Spring Naturalization Ceremony
Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
Mount Vernon is the site of a special Immigration and Naturalization Service Ceremony, during which 100 individuals will officially receive American citizenship. The program also includes a special musical performance by the United States Marine Band. Ceremony begins at 11:00 a.m.$
(703) 799-5203 www.MountVernon.org 

May 20, 2008
When a Painting is Knot
Potomac Craftsmen Gallery, 105 N. Union St.
The Gallery announces the opening of the juried show "When a Painting is Knot" on May 20th 2008. This will be a showing of fiber interpretations of Gustav Klimt's The Kiss, a classic from the art nouveau era. Jewelry, sculpture, clothing, wall pieces are some of the items that will be exhibited. The show closes June 29th.
(703) 548-0935 www.potomaccraftsmengallery.com

May 23 - June 1, 2008
Thesis Exhibition
The Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Ave.
This is an exhibit of the thesis work for Masters student's in Interdisciplinary Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University. Opening reception from 7:00 - 10:00 p.m. Gallery hours Mon-Tues., 7:00 - 9:00; Thurs-Fri., 12:00 - 8:00; Sat., 10:00 - 4:00; Sun., 12:00 - 4:00. Free!
(703) 838-4827 www.thedelrayartisans.org

May 26, 2008
31st Annual Memorial Day Jazz Festival
Fort Ward Park, 4301 W. Braddock Rd.
Featuring big band, swing, contemporary jazz music - a different band each hour. Amphitheater Seating; picnic may be brought to the park; food and beverages will also be available for sale. No pets, please. Performances from 1 - 7 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be relocated to Lee Center, Richard Kauffman Auditorium. Free!
(703) 883-4686 www.alexandriava.gov/recreation

May 28, 2008
The Cold War: A Son's Perspective
The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St.
Francis Gary Powers, Jr. will discuss the U-2 incident of May 1, 1960, when his father was shot down over the Soviet Union. Presented by the Alexandria Historical Society at 7:30 p.m. Free!
(703) 683-2636 www.alexandriahistorical.org

May 31, 2008
Civil War Camp Day
Fort Ward Museum, 4301 West Braddock Road
Union and Confederate military and civilian re-enactors portray daily life and living history impressions, infantry drills and demonstrations. Great family fun! 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Suggested donation: $2 adults/$1 kids. $
(703) 838-4848 www.fortward.org

May 31, 2008
Family Dig Day
George Washington Masonic Memorial,101 Callahan Dr.
Help City archaeologists and trained volunteers screen excavated soil for artifacts from a real "dig" located on the grounds of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. Wear comfortable clothes, protect yourself from the sun, and bring a water bottle. All necessary equipment will be supplied. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a participating adult. 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. $5 per person. Reservations required. $ Reservations Required
(703) 838-4399 www.alexandriaarchaeology.org

June, 2008

June 1 - December 31, 2008
Drawings by William Lydston, Jr.
Fort Ward Museum, 4301 W. Braddock Road
Original Civil War drawings by soldier, artist and musician William Lydston, Jr. Exhibit coincides with a statewide celebration of Virginia's musical heritage. Fort Ward pairs drawings from Lydston's wartime experiences with musical instruments and related objects from the Museum's collection. Free. Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays, noon to 5 p.m. Free!
(703) 838-4848 www.fortward.org

June 1 - May 11, 2008
Gardening Days at Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
Spectacular gardens are in bloom as Mount Vernon hosts its annual outdoor garden and gift sale including ornamentals, perennials and annuals, garden items, books, and heirloom plants propagated from historic cuttings. Garden and Landscape guided tours are available daily at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Guests are invited to enter Washington's historic "orangerie," or greenhouse, the only occasion this space is open to the public. $
(703) 799-5203 www.MountVernon.org

June 2, 2008
Mount Vernon Celebrates Martha Washington's Birthday
Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
Mount Vernon celebrates Martha Washington's 277th Birthday! All guests named Martha or were born on June 2nd get in free with a valid id. Free!
(703) 799-5203 www.MountVernon.org

June 6 - August 29, 2008
Summer Lantern Tours
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St.
On Friday evenings from June through August, tour by candlelight with a costumed guide the historic tavern (c.1785) and City Hotel built in 1792 and see how guests experienced the site before the advent of electricity. Tour times are 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. $5 per person, ages 5 and up. Museum may be closed on some occasions, so please call ahead to verify tour dates at 703.838.4242. $
(703) 838-4242 www.gadsbystavern.org

June 7, 2008
Alexandria Heritage Trail Bike Ride
George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive
On National Trails Day, discover Alexandria's diverse cultural history on a 3-hour bicycle ride with Alexandria Archaeology! Pack a lunch. Includes some hills and street cycling. Helmets required. Sponsored by Alexandria Archaeology. Free! 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free! Reservations Required
(703) 838-4399 www.alexandriaarchaeology.org

June 7, 2008
Bluegrass and BBQ
Lee-Fendall House Museum, 614 Oronoco St.
Bring your picnic blanket and enjoy three Bluegrass bands and some of the best BBQ in Northern Virginia. The event will run from noon to 5 pm. $ Reservations Required
(703) 548-1789 www.leefendallhouse.org

June 7, 2008
Armenian Festival
Market Square, 301 King St.
Alexandria's 16th Annual Armenian Festival from noon to 6 p.m. with Armenian foods, arts and crafts, live entertainment and dignitaries. Proceeds benefit the children of Gyumri, Armenia. Free!
(703) 683-0208

June 7 - 28, 2008
"The Underpants"
The Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe St.
Theodore Maske has an unusual problem: his wife's underpants won't stay up! When they accidentally fall down in front of the Kaiser, Theo swears to keep his bride at home until the incident is forgotten. Performances at 8 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday. $
(703) 683-5778 www.thelittletheatre.com

June 8, 2008
Songs of Freedom
Gunston Hall, 10709 Gunston Rd., Mason Neck, VA
Performances of spiritual music will tell the story of African American's fight to freedom. During mansion tours, learn about Mason family slaves who ran away. Performances at 2:30 p.m. $
(703) 550-9220 www.gunstonhall.org

June 8, 2008
Alexandria Symphony Orchestra Children's Festival
Schlesinger Concert Hall, 3001 N. Beauregard St.
Ahoy, mateys! Set your course for the ASO's Children's Festival featuring musical selections from "The Pirates of Caribbean," dance and art activities, and even a costume contest! Tickets only $5! $
(703) 548-0885 www.alexsym.org

June 12, 2008
Second Thursday Art Night, Dancing in the Streets
Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St.
Browse open studios, interact with the artists, and enjoy refreshments. The event is free and open to the public. Visit Target Gallery from 6-8pm for the reception for the "Torpedo Factory Artist of the Year" show. 6-9 p.m. Free!
(703) 838-4565 www.torpedofactory.org/thursday.htm

June 12, 2008
Madeline MacNeil
The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St.
It's been said that Madeline MacNeil's audiences hold their collective breath as the last notes of her songs drift into the tableau of stages large and small. This is part of Madeline's treasure as a performer: she sings and tells the stories with her beautiful voice and exceptional dulcimer skills. 7:00 p.m. $
(703) 548-0035 www.nvfaa.org

June 14, 2008
Family Dig Day
George Washington Masonic Memorial,101 Callahan Dr.
Help City archaeologists and trained volunteers screen excavated soil for artifacts from a real "dig" located on the grounds of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. Wear comfortable clothes, protect yourself from the sun, and bring a water bottle. All necessary equipment will be supplied. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a participating adult. 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. $5 per person. Reservations required. $ Reservations Required
(703) 838-4399 www.alexandriaarchaeology.org

June 14-15k, 2008
27th Alexandria Red Cross Waterfront Festival
Oronoco Bay Park, Oronoco & N. Union Sts.
27th Alexandria Red Cross Waterfront Festival fundraiser offers historic ship tours, arts & crafts, rides, music, kid's crafts and games, food, and exhibits. $15 for Adults - one child free, $5 for each additional child. Take Metro to King or Braddock stations and ride the FREE shuttle. $
(703) 299-2524 www.waterfrontfestival.org

June 15, 2008
Father's Day Tours
Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St.
Celebrate with your favorite father at the place where the Father of our Country ate, drank, and influenced history. Gadsby's Tavern Museum is pleased to offer free tours on Father's Day for all visiting fathers! Tour times are 1 - 5 p.m. Free!
(703) 838-4242 www.gadsbystavern.org

June 15, 2008
Free Father's Day Tours_ _
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, 105-107 S. Fairfax St.
Treat your father to a special tour of the Apothecary, which first opened in 1792! See the outstanding collection of herbs and botanicals, shop furnishings, apothecary bottles and equipment, many still in their original location. The Apothecary is pleased to offer free tours on Father's Day for all visiting fathers! Tour times are 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Cost $4 for all other adults and $2 for children (ages 11-17). $
(703) 838-3852 www.apothecarymuseum.org

June 15, 2008
Father's Day Open House
Friendship Firehouse Museum, 107 S. Alfred St.
Friendship Firehouse is offering special tours for fathers on Father's Day. On this important day, Friendship Firehouse will make every father an honorary chief of the Friendship Fire Company Bucket Brigade. Every dad, with his children, will receive a certificate, get to ring the fire bell, and have his picture taken with the Friendship fire engine. 1-4 p.m. Free!
(703) 838-3891 www.friendshipfirehouse.org

June 15, 2008
Father's Day Tours
Lee-Fendall House Museum, 614 Oronoco St.
In honor of Father's Day, the Lee-Fendall House Museum and Garden offer frees tours to fathers and grandfathers accompanied by their children. The Lee-Fendall House will be open for tours from 1 to 4 p.m., with the last tour at 3 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for students (11-17). Children under 11 are admitted at no charge. $
(703) 548-1789 www.leefendallhouse.org

June 19, 2008
Juneteenth Lesole Dance Program
Alexandria Black History Museum, Lee Center, 1108 Jefferson St.
The Alexandria Black History Museum continues the Juneteenth celebration by offering this exciting and inspiring dance performance by the Lesole Dance Project. Please call for event time and ticket price or check the website. $
(703) 838-4356 www.alexblackhistory.org

June 21, 2008
Soldier-Led Walking Tours at Fort Ward
Fort Ward Museum, 4301 West Braddock Rd.
Union and Confederate military and civilian re-enactors portray daily life and living history impressions, infantry drills and demonstrations. Great family fun! 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Suggested donation: $2 adults/$1 kids. $
(703) 838-4848 www.fortward.org

June 26, 2008
"On the Road to Freedom" Book Discussion
Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St.
Award-winning journalist Charles E. Cobb Jr., looks at the civil rights movement with his new book by going to the places - including Alexandria - where pioneers of the movement marched, sat-in at lunch counters, risked arrest and even their lives. Cobb is a former organizer for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee and member of the National Association of Black Journalists.  6-8 p.m.
(703) 838-4356 www.alexblackhistory.org