The 54th annual Alexandria Scottish Walk was held Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The parade took place in Old Town, spanning many downtown streets. Even in the cold weather, the city showed up to walk and support the parade. Festive music, outfits, candy and decorations lined the streets for Saturday’s celebration of Scottish culture and the holidays.

“It was amazing,” said Isadora, an Alexandria community member of 22 years. “Every year it exceeds our expectations.”

The parade included bagpipes and bands, local Scottish clans, Alexandria organizations, public officials and many other groups. Smiles and cheers lined the sidewalks as the parade passed by. More than 114 community organizations walked in the parade and thousands of Alexandria citizens came out for the festive event.

“[The parade] was super fun,” said Charlotte Rutter, Alexandra teen and parade participant. Rutter walked with the Alexandra Scottish Clan of the Golden Retrievers. “It’s such a great community event, people come from all over the area to watch, it’s really special to have this kind of event that brings people together!”

Why does Alexandria have a Scottish Walk?

The Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade started 54 years ago as a community event to highlight Scottish heritage. The Campagna Center, St. Andrew’s Society of Washington, D.C., Old Presbyterian Meeting House and the City of Alexandria all banded together to put on the event. The parade has been happening annually ever since.

Alexandria has deep-reaching Scottish roots. In 1749, Alexandria was founded by a Scottish merchant, and  then was named after a Scotsman, John Alexander, who owned the land that became the city. Every year the city celebrates its heritage with the Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade sponsored by Wegmans. 

“As someone with Scottish heritage, it’s so exciting seeing people in our community share their cultural spirit,” said ACHS Sophomore, Hailey Kerr.

Kerr was walking in the parade with the Kiwanis Club for ACHS’s Key Club. “I love getting to see everyone’s outfits and tartans and pride.” she continued,  “I also got to ride on top of a car, which was so cool!” 

Whether they were in the parade or watching from the sidewalks, this event proved to be an enjoyable cultural experience for all Alexandrians!.

“It is always a nice tradition,” said Joe Connolly, an Alexandrian watching the parade. “It’s nice to bring the community together, everyone has fun and it’s a nice way to start the holidays!