Alexandria's Scottish Walk

Alexandria's holiday festivities include the annual Scottish Walk - a parade that Mary and I have been going to now for 10 years.

The city's part of this is quite a tradition, and we have our own observances, too. Here are some Scottish Guards - they stop every few blocks and fire their muskets.

Drum and Pipe bands from all over the Mid-Atlantic region come in to march, and many family organization with Scottish connections are there. Also, a few dog rescue groups get together - scotties, westies, deer hound, and collies were among the groups this year, but no border collies...we've never seen more than one or two, and they've usually been "accessories" for the others.

We also get the politicians. Below, I've got a shot of Brian Moran, candidate for governor here, and Alexandria's mayor, Bill Euille, who always marches in a kilt! I understand we missed Mark Warner this year; he was always here when he was governor. John Warner didn't march but in the past he was always there in appropriate garb. I didn't hear whether Tim Kaine was in the parade this year.

Some marching bands below.

Last one, for the last couple of years, our friends Kathy and Brendan have been joining us. And we adjoin to the Pita House afterwards to warm up with some great Lebanese food.