Join the Parade! Virginia SAR Invited to March in the 2026 George Washington Birthday Parade
Saturday, February 14, 2026 – Old Town Alexandria, Virginia
Calendar Event Link: Virginia SAR Calendar – George Washington Birthday Parade
Register for Tomb Event ⭐ Register for Parade
The George Washington Birthday Parade has always been a highlight of the civic calendar in Old Town Alexandria since 1801—but this year, it carries extraordinary significance. For 2026, the parade organizers have selected the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) as Grand Marshals, honoring both organizations for their leadership in preserving the legacy of our nation’s founding.
This means that National SAR President General Michael J. Elston and NSDAR President General Ginnie Sebastian Storage will lead the procession, representing their national organizations in a moment of shared heritage and unity. And for SAR, the moment is even more special: President General Elston will be doing so in his own hometown.
To help elevate this milestone occasion, the Virginia SAR George Washington Chapter has proudly committed $5,000 as a Gold Sponsor—supporting a beloved community tradition while ensuring SAR’s mission and visibility shine brightly during this historic anniversary year.
Why This Parade Matters More Than Ever
The 2026 parade theme— “George Washington: Virginia’s Son ~ America’s Founding Father”— honors Washington’s central role in the founding of our nation during the 250th Anniversary of the United States.
This is the year for SAR to step forward with pride, purpose, and presence. With the parade taking place in the heart of the Washington DC–Maryland–Virginia region, the visibility and reach are unmatched. It is one of the earliest major America 250 events of 2026, and an ideal opportunity to introduce SAR to thousands of spectators.
We want to show the community—and the nation—that SAR is active, engaged, and committed to honoring the legacy of the American Revolution.
And that means we need you!!
- Register (by 11 Feb) for the Tomb of the Unknown wreath laying: https://www.virginiasar.org/unknownsoldier2026
- Register (by 11 Feb) for the Parade: https://www.virginiasar.org/washingtonbirthday2026
A Special Call to the SAR Color Guard
We are especially encouraging SAR Color Guard members to join us for this historic occasion.
The National Color Guard Commander will be leading the way, and we want a strong, impressive showing from across the country. This is a rare opportunity to march behind the Commander, support President General Elston, and represent SAR on one of the most visible patriotic stages of the America 250 year.
If you’ve ever considered participating in a national-level Color Guard event, this is the moment.
Before the Parade: Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution
Calendar Event Link: Commemoration at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider of the American Revolution
All participants are invited to begin the day at the solemn and moving ceremony at the Old Presbyterian Meeting House (OPMH) graveyard, honoring the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution.
Location: Old Presbyterian Meeting House 323 S. Fairfax Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Event Timeline – Saturday, February 14, 2026
- 11:15 AM – Arrive at OPMH
- 12:00 PM – Ceremony begins
- 12:30–12:45 PM – Ceremony concludes
- 12:30–12:45 PM – Walk three blocks to the SAR Parade Assembly Area (exact location TBD)
- 1:00 PM – All parade participants must be in place
- 2:00 PM – Parade step‑off
- 3:00 PM – Approximate completion for units near the front
Leading our unit once again will be the U.S. Army 3rd Infantry Regiment Old Guard Fife & Drum Corps, setting the tone with the unmistakable sound of 18th‑century martial music.