Meatball-Inspired Tournament Hosted By Alexandria Restaurant

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Meatball Madness returns to Alexandria's Del Ray neighborhood as Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap plans its second annual meatball tournament.

The event on Saturday, March 11 is held in recognition of National Meatball Day, as well as the kickoff to the March Madness college basketball tournament. Participants of all ages are invited to participate in the Meatball Madness tournament from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Lenny Harris Memorial Fields at Braddock Park, 1005 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA.

Teams of four will be challenged to balance Lena's Giant Meatball on a spoon in a relay race and complete it in record time. There are 16 teams competing in this event, and one will be the winner of the 2023 Meatball Madness trophy and free pizza for a year. Prizes will be awarded for Best Costumes, Best Team Spirit and Best Team Name.

A post-race afterparty will follow at Lena’s Beer Garden with beer specials and live music. A Mini Meatball Madness relay will also be held for kids 12 and under.

All proceeds from the event benefit Dunbar Alexandria- Olympic Boys & Girls Club, a youth service organization that helps children gain confidence and skills to become successful members of society.

Tickets for teams to join the Meatball Madness are $40 for the children's event and $80 for the main event. All attendees will receive a complimentary T-shirt and a free coupon for a Lena's Giant Meatball to enjoy at the after party.