Alexandria Old Town Art Festival Adds Spring Dates In 2021

ALEXANDRIA, VA — A popular fine arts festival once known as the King Street Art Festival changed its name to Alexandria Old Town Art Festival in 2020, and there's another change in store this year. After the festival had success despite the pandemic in September 2020, a springtime festival will be held on May 15 and 16, 2021.

The festival features thousands of art pieces across various mediums, including sculptures, paintings, jewelry, pottery, textiles and more. The event used to be held along King Street, but it is now held at John Carlyle Square, 300 John Carlyle Street, Alexandria. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days, and it is free and open to the public, but visitors are asked to reserve a time slot.

"We are so excited to add a spring show to the Old Town Art Festival tradition,” said event producer Howard Alan in a statement. "The residents and artists last fall helped us set the standard for safely bringing outdoor art events back to the public. The outpouring of support from both patrons and artists led to the addition of this new show, and we couldn’t be happier returning to beautiful John Carlyle Square."

Similar to the 2020 festival, COVID-19 precautions will be implemented. Entrances and exits will be monitored to allow for one-way traffic, and social distancing is required between artists and visitors. All attendees over age 2 are asked to wear a mask upon entering the festival. Visitors are encouraged to avoid casual touching and use handwashing and sanitizing stations. Those positive for COVID-19, awaiting test results or with symptoms are asked to stay home.

For more information, visit www.artfestival.com/festivals/alexandria-king-street-art-festival.