holiday magic in old town
There is something magical about spending the holidays in Old Town Alexandria. Although I will be spending this Christmas in Cape Cod – where I expect it to be much like the white Christmases I remember growing up in upstate New York – I will be missing the Alexandria traditions that I cherish.
I get such a cozy, warm feeling when entering Old Town around the holidays, where the streets glow with mini white lights and storefronts are adorned with fragrant and festive decor. The entire town becomes a beautiful backdrop for the holidays, just like something you would imagine in an old Christmas movie.
There are so many festive happenings that take place around the holidays in Old Town, but my all-time favorite is the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend’s Holiday Designer Tour of Homes put on each year by The Campagna Center. Not only do I happen to be Scottish (my maiden name is Malcolm), but I’ve been a member of The Campagna Center for more than 20 years…and have a soft spot for beautifully designed homes!
I just love this event, as it provides a jump-start for getting me into the Christmas spirit. You are able to explore Alexandria’s unique history and stroll through some of Old Town’s most splendid homes decked out for the holidays by notable interior designers and local florists. So many of my friends have made a tradition, starting the weekend off with a thermos full of hot chocolate while watching the parade and then touring the beautiful selection of local homes. It truly makes for a magical day!
Speaking of parades, the 45th annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade takes place on Saturday, December 5, at 11am, when dozens of Scottish clans dressed in colorful tartans will parade through the streets of Old Town. In addition to Tour of Homes on Saturday, other weekend events include a Taste of Scotland on Friday, Heather and Greens Sale on Saturday and Sunday, Holiday Marketplace on Saturday, and Deck the Halls with Santa on Sunday. It’s sure to be a weekend the whole family will enjoy, whether you’re of Scottish heritage or not.
In fact, Alexandria itself actually has a long line of Scottish heritage. In 1749, our city was officially established by three Scottish merchants and was named after its original founder, John Alexander, also of Scottish decent. Today, the city continues celebrating its heritage with a weekend of festivities.
No doubt, it will be a chilly weekend, so be sure to bundle up with plenty of cashmere layers including sweaters, scarves and hats from Coco Blanca. I’ll be thinking of you while in front of a roaring fire with my own hot chocolate up on the Cape.
- About the boutique
Using the soothing color palette of a coconut by the sea—whites, neutrals and splashes of turquoise—Coco Blanca has created a trademark look. Her lifestyle boutique offers expert solutions for home design and women’s fashion—blending a clean, fresh, sophisticated, feel-good style.
210 South Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.535.8002
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[…] Holiday Magic in Old Town There is something magical about spending the holidays in Old Town Alexandria. Although I will be spending this Christmas in Cape Cod – where I expect it to be much like the white Christmases I remember growing up in upstate New York – I will be missing the Alexandria traditions that I cherish. (Alexandria Stylebook) […]