Whether you’re a small team looking to think outside the box or a large group seeking a festive venue, or something in between, Alexandria, VA, has options for a memorable seasonal celebration for your team. Use our guide to plan the perfect holiday fete.
Small Gatherings (10-25 people)
Pictured: Elaine’s; Image Credit: Cynthia Higgins
Customizable Gatherings: Have your team roll up their sleeves with a creative activity at AR Workshop, where you can choose from various holiday-themed projects to create. Bonus: The projects make great gifts! Does your team need some relaxation? Customize the perfect calming treatment for an end-of-year treat at one of Alexandria’s boutique spas.
Untraditional Activities: Get inspired when you gather your team at A Creative Retreat at The Art League. Collaborate with each other under the direction of a local artist or instructor. Or, take a guided Fork & Fizz Tour through some of Alexandria’s cultural landmarks while sampling delicious food and libations; bonus points if your team dresses festively to match the holiday décor of Old Town.
Classic Soirees: Enjoy lunch or dinner at newly opened Elaine’s, serving modern Mediterranean cuisine found in Alexandria, Egypt. Are you a team of bookworms? Incorporate Elaine’s monthly author readings into your event. Or, try team-building with toppings galore at Lena’s Pizza Making Class.
Medium-Sized Gatherings (25-60 people)
Pictured: Tall ship Providence and the Senator John Warner Maritime Heritage Center
Customizable Gatherings: Take your team back in time with an interactive tour at tall ship Providence and the Senator John Warner Maritime Heritage Center, one of Alexandria’s newest attractions on the water. Then, create a customized reception experience, complete with special guest Captain John Paul Jones.
Untraditional Activities: Can’t find a good time outside the 9-5? Mix it up with a midday Coffee Walking Tour with Alexandria Food Tours. Your team will each receive a bonus “coffee reading” experience at Turkish Coffee Lady. Or, take tea time at Lady Camellia, filled with freshly baked English scones, finger sandwiches and delicious cuppas.
Classic Soirees: Plan a casual gathering of games, live music and an “open house” schedule when you host your holiday event The Light Horse Restaurant on King Street.
Large Gatherings (60-300 people)
Pictured: The Birchmere (left) and The Alexandrian (right)
Customizable Gatherings: Cocktail hour on the water? D.C. monuments cruise? No matter what you choose, you’ll soak up beautiful views on the Potomac when you charter a reception with City Cruises. Or, host your holiday soiree at one of Alexandria’s most iconic unique venues, Torpedo Factory, and make it interactive when you select one or more local artists stations for a hands-on activity.
Untraditional Activities: Invite staff to bring their families when you book a holiday breakfast with Santa at one of Alexandria’s hotels, then send your team off to enjoy the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade sponsored by Wegmans on December 2. Or, take to the streets yourselves when you delve deeper into the city on a one-and-a-half-hour midday walking tour with Alexandria Colonial Tours, followed by lunch at one of Old Town’s top restaurants. Book at class at Shop Made in VA led by local makers in themes such as floral arranging or “sip and paint” nights. You can also enjoy this experience virtually.
Classic Soirees: Rent out The Birchmere for a holiday party for up to 500 guests in this historic and unique world-famous concert venue. Or, gather a smaller team to attend one of their many concerts for a more intimate holiday experience. Meanwhile, stay a little longer with a holiday soiree at the newly renovated The Hilton Alexandria Mark Center with space to accommodate up to 1,000, The Alexandrian Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection, accommodating up to 200, or the newly opened ballroom at Hotel AKA Alexandria.
Insider Tip: For added value to your bottom line, connect with Visit Alexandria’s Holiday and Social Events Specialist to learn about additional options along with special promotions from venues and hotels.
