First-Ever Alexandria Live Music Week Gets Underway

PHOTO: The legendary Birchmere music hall; photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Alexandria

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From Friday to July 19, music fans can take part in the first-ever Alexandria Live Music Week, with 10 days of live music at more than 30 restaurants and venues hosting musical performances. Live Music Week will feature more than 100 acts ranging from jazz to bluegrass, Irish, folk rock, country and more at venues including the legendary Birchmere music hall, waterfront newcomer Blackwall Hitch, Daniel O’Connell’s Restaurant & Pub, Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub, John Strongbow’s Tavern and the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

Live Music Week’s kick-off weekend includes the Alexandria/USA Birthday Celebration on Saturday, July 11, featuring performances by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra and fireworks over the Potomac River, with the second weekend culminating with The Bacon Brothers at the Birchmere on July 16, 17 and 18.

Keep up with the schedule and details on LiveMusicWeek.com, with updates shared on Visit Alexandria’s social media channels with the hashtag #LiveMusicWeek.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Port City Brewing Co. celebrates Live Music Week’s kick-off weekend with live music and food at the brewery on Friday, July 10 and an Old Town Alexandria pub crawl on Saturday, July 11
• Alexandria/USA Birthday Celebration honors Alexandria’s 266th birthday with fireworks and performances by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra on Saturday, July 11
• The Birchmere hosts various rock, blues and country acts including Southside Johnny, Toad the Wet Sprocket, and The Bacon Brothers throughout Live Music Week
• Blackwall Hitch complements its brand-new waterfront dining experience with daily performances by local, regional and national acts including Lovebettie and The Cheaters
• Daniel O’Connell’s features daily Irish music and rock, plus surprise performances. Acts include award-winning singer-songwriter Áine O’Doherty and DC-based rock band Judge Smith
• Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub, John Strongbow’s Tavern and The Light Horse Restaurant present 10 days of live Irish, Celtic and rock music including The Fighting Jamesons
• Bilbo Baggins hosts a jazz-themed wine tasting featuring Rico Amero and a Grateful Dead-themed 35th anniversary party featuring the Scott Fallon Experience
• Nick’s Nightclub features country music performances including national act The Josh Phillips Band
• Torpedo Factory Art Center hosts Nomadic Jazz featuring tenor saxophonist Elijah Jamal Balbed, previously a resident at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and Strathmore

Alexandria Live Music Week is presented by Visit Alexandria to showcase the live music scene that takes place year-round in the city. From top names in music performing at the Birchmere to intimate performances nestled in independent restaurants, Alexandria offers an authentic music experience.