Washington, DC

In case you did not notice next Monday is President’s Day, thus this upcoming weekend is President’s Day weekend. Here are some ideas of President related things to do this weekend, including the celebrations in Alexandria that celebrate George Washington’s birthday.

American President’s at the National Portrait Gallery: This exhibit at the National Portrait Gallery is the only complete national collection of Presidential portraits besides the one in the White House, which is certainly much harder to see. The National Portrait Gallery, however, is easy to visit and while you are seeing this exhibit you can also pop into the special exhibit called the Presidency and the Cold War, which starts right at the end of the American Presidents exhibit. This special exhibit closes on February 24th.

George Washington’s Birthday in Alexandria: There are several different events around Alexandria, George Washington’s hometown, over the weekend to celebrate his birthday. It is a tradition they have been doing for over two centuries in this town. One of the main events is the Parade, which will be at 1pm on Monday, February 18. Go here to see the parade route. Another thing that is good to take advantage of is that many of the attractions in Old Town Alexandria that usually cost admission are free on February 18. I personally recommend checking out the Carlyle House, which has a special version of their tour reenacting a night when George Washington came to dinner here.

Memorials on the National Mall: The weather does not look like it is going to be the most welcoming to stroll on the National Mall this President’s Day weekend, but maybe it will turn out better than predicted or it does not bother you. There is the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and the Jefferson Memorial to enjoy. You could even cross over to Theodore Roosevelt Island.