The Irish Walk To Close After 50 Years In Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The financial impacts of the coronavirus pandemic will prompt the closure of The Irish Walk, a longtime Old Town Alexandria business at 415 King Street. The 50-year-old business will close on July 31.

Owner Patty Theobald made the announcement Monday on Facebook. She said the financial impacts of the 2019 government shutdown, summer shutdown of Alexandria Metro stations, and the pandemic took a toll on businesses like her own.

"The Irish Walk is one business, in a long list of businesses that is finding it impossible to bounce back after this third financial hit," Theobald wrote.

The Old Town storefront offers products from Ireland, including souvenirs and holiday items. The business had changed hands over the years, from the founding owners Butlers to the Troys, who founded the Alexandria St. Patrick's Day Parade. Pat Troy died in 2018. In 2008, Theobald became the latest owner.

Theobald thanked customers for their support and memories.

"We have fitted some of you with your first Irish dance shoes, ordered your wedding bands, watched your children grow, celebrated your anniversaries and helped you find the perfect gifts. We have appreciated hearing about your trips to Ireland and your family's Irish histories and celebrating the big day with you...St. Patrick's Day. It has been a joy."

For more information and online orders, visit www.irishwalk.com.