The Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria once again transformed into one of the region's most vibrant outdoor arts destinations as the 31st Annual Art on the Avenue festival welcomed thousands of visitors to Mount Vernon Avenue. The event, widely recognized as one of Northern Virginia's premier arts festivals, showcased the unique blend of creativity, diversity and community spirit that has made it a beloved local tradition for more than three decades.
Held Oct. 3 between Hume Avenue and Bellefonte Avenue, Art on the Avenue featured more than 300 artists and artisans displaying a variety of handcrafted works. Visitors explored booths filled with paintings,
Bill Burns, Jennifer Bennett and Mark Hopson enjoy judging the pie eating contest.
“This event would not take place without the more than 200 volunteers that turn out every year to make it happen,” said Art on the Avenue founder Pat Miller. “And a huge thank you to all the local businesses that get involved and support us.”
A popular Kids' Art Corner offered interactive creative projects, while traditional festival favorites such as pumpkin painting and scarecrow making provided hands-on experiences that inspired young artists. Educational demonstrations in fiber arts, stained glass, weaving and other crafts allowed attendees to learn about artistic techniques directly from skilled practitioners.
Multiple stages hosted performances ranging from folk and country to jazz, classical, rock and choral ensembles. Organizers also expanded opportunities for performance art, including dance presentations that brought an additional dynamic to the street festival.
Despite periods of rain, attendance was strong as crowds filled the avenue throughout the day, supporting artists, enjoying live performances and celebrating the creative spirit that defines Del Ray.
Considered one of the top arts events in Northern Virginia, the event is entirely volunteer run, with support from the Del Ray Business Association and the local business community.
The popular pie-baking contest was once again held in memory of long-time festival and Del Ray volunteer Pam Fitzgerald, who died in 2019 at the age of 51 following a battle with breast cancer. Proceeds from the contest, judged by Bill Burns, Jennifer Bennett and Mark Hopson, are used to support the Alexandria Domestic Violence Safe House.
New businesses were celebrated and introduced during the event, including Little Birdie, Department of Beer and Wine, Lifestyle & Performance Fitness, Metro Motor, Crooked Run Fermentation and Mobius Records Alexandria.
The festival is one of the signature events sponsored by the Del Ray Business Association in celebration of the community’s diversity through the arts. On Oct. 25, the community will host the Alexandria Halloween parade, named one of the top 10 Halloween parades in the country by USA Today.
“There's nobody we can thank more than Pat Miller,” said DRBA board member Gayle Reuter of the festival’s founder. “Art on the Avenue would not have happened without her vision so to Pat we say thank you.”