Free Old Town Alexandria history-themed events August 7, 2010

Celebrate Alexandria's heritage this Saturday. The historic center of Old Town will be hosting several free events designed to interest kids and families in the area's rich history.

Friendship Firehouse - 107 South Alfred Street, Alexandria, VA

- The Friendship Veterans Fire Engine Association holds its annual Firehouse Festival each year on the first Saturday in August. The popular family event features antique fire apparatus, craft booths, displays by Alexandria merchants, and live music. In addition to the day's outdoor events, festival participants will enjoy visiting the Friendship Firehouse Museum, originally built as a firehouse in 1855. Now a philanthropic organization focusing on fire-fighting history and fire safety, the Friendship Fire Company remains active in community events, including the annual Festival. Food and beverages are available. Children will receive free fire helmets, meet a real Dalmatian, and are treated to a supervised visit inside the City's fire trucks.  Learn about fire safety. Eat cake. Tour the historic fire house and see the equipment that was used 236 years ago. 

- Hours are 9 am to 12 pm. 

A Fine Beginning: Housewarming at Carlyle House - 121 N. Fairfax St. Alexandria, VA

- In addition to being friends with George Washington, John Carlyle was a prominent Alexandria businessman in his day. His house was considered one of the city's finest. Carlyle was also a family man, and in this program children will learn about family life in 18th-century Virginia. The free program will feature historic characters who will talk with kids and their parents about the Carlyle family, including their new baby William.  Children are invited to make their own canvas floor cloths, in good 18th-century fashion. 

- Carlyle House normally charges an admission fee, but this event is free.  

- Hours are  12 pm to 4 pm. 

- Phone: (703) 549-2997 and 

Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 North Royal Street, Alexandria, VA

- Have you passed by Gadsby’s Tavern Museum and never gone in? Take this opportunity and experience life in the 18th century with continuous tours of the historic site by costumed guides and the chance to learn to dance like George and Martha Washington. Light refreshments served. Experience Alexandria’s five-star hotel of the 18th century, made famous by John Gadsby and whose guests included George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. Tours are led by costumed guides. Enjoy period music and light refreshments.

- Gadspy's Tavern is waiving the usual $5.00/$3.00 fees and offering these tours for free.

- Hours are 1 pm to 5 pm

- Phone: 703.746.4242