City of Alexandria, Virginia
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MEMORANDUM
DATE: FEBRUARY 5, 2026
TO: THE HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL
THROUGH: JAMES F. PARAJON, CITY MANAGER
FROM: GRETCHEN BULOVA, DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF HISTORIC ALEXANDRIA
DOCKET TITLE:
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Consideration of a Grant Application to the National Endowment for the Humanities for the Celebrate America Grant Program.
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ISSUE: The Office of Historic Alexandria (OHA) seeks City Council approval to apply for a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) to support Alexandria’s signature Semiquincentennial (250th anniversary) public programs and events in 2026.
RECOMMENDATION: That City Council:
(1) Approve submission of the grant application; and
(2) Authorize the City Manager to execute all the necessary documents that may be required.
BACKGROUND: In recognition of the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026, the National Endowment for the Humanities has launched “Celebrate America!”, a national initiative to support public humanities projects commemorating the nation’s Semiquincentennial. Through this program, NEH will award 250 challenge grants of up to $25,000 each for projects that explore the founding of the United States, pivotal historical figures, and milestones that reflect the nation’s enduring democratic ideals.
Alexandria played a significant role in the events leading to American independence. Today, this history is interpreted through Alexandria’s museums, historic sites, public art, tours, educational programs, and wayfinding initiatives. As part of Alexandria250 efforts, signature events include Sails on the Potomac (tall ship event), the George Washington Birthday Parade, and the Alexandria Forum.
DISCUSSION: Sails on the Potomac is a free, three-day festival along the Alexandria waterfront, June 12-14, that will feature four historic tall ships, music, and history. The George Washington Birthday Parade, the nation’s oldest parade honoring George Washington, commemorates his legacy in his adopted hometown and fosters civic pride and community connection. The Alexandria Forum is an annual scholarly conference that advances public understanding of Alexandria’s history, and its 2026 theme, “Nothing But Independence:” Alexandria and the Revolutionary War, will align with the Semiquincentennial and the National Endowment for the Humanities’ Celebrate America! initiative.
If awarded, NEH grant funds would be allocated to support program costs across the City’s signature Semiquincentennial events, including $15,000 for Sails on the Potomac, $5,000 for the George Washington Birthday Parade, and $5,000 for the Alexandria Forum. Grant funding would enhance the quality, reach, and accessibility of these events during this nationally significant commemoration.
FISCAL IMPACT: If fully awarded, the grant would provide up to $25,000. NEH does not require a match for this program. These Semiquincentennial events are planned for 2026 regardless of grant funding; however, grant support would reduce reliance on existing OHA resources and enhance program delivery. There is no anticipated negative fiscal impact to the City.
ATTACHMENTS:
None
STAFF:
Emily A. Baker, Deputy City Manager
Liz Williams, Deputy Director, OHA