Sails on the Potomac Tall Ships

Sails on the Potomac Tall Ships in Old Town Alexandria

Old Town Alexandria turns its waterfront into a tall ships festival from June 12 to 14, and historic sailing ships are about as close to a real-life pirate story as kids get. Sails on the Potomac runs at Waterfront Park with the ships docked along Prince Street, plus hands-on activities, art, and the 48th ALX Jazz Fest providing music across all three days. It is free, it is outdoors, and the cobblestone streets of Old Town are right there for a wander afterward.

Saturday is the big day, running noon to 9pm and ending with a free fireworks show at 9pm over the river. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket because there is open lawn for sitting, and you can pack a picnic or buy food on site. With younger kids, the ships and the open space are the main event, and Old Town has ice cream and bookshops within a short walk when little legs need a break.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Saturday for fireworks, weekday hours for calm. Saturday is the full day with fireworks but also the biggest crowds. Friday or Sunday afternoon is quieter if your kids do better with space.
• ✓Ride the free trolley. The King Street Trolley from the Metro to the waterfront is free and doubles as a little treat for kids who like anything on wheels.
• ✓Pack a blanket and a picnic. There is open lawn for sitting. A blanket plus snacks means you can claim a spot and settle in for the music or the fireworks.
• ✓Check ship boarding rules before you line up. Some ships let you climb aboard and some you view from the dock. Ask a volunteer which ones allow kids on deck so you queue for the right ones.
• ✓Build in an Old Town break. Ice cream shops and the waterfront playground are a short walk away when the festival gets to be too much.