3 best things to do with kids in the D.C. area this weekend

The 41st annual parade sponsored by the Ballyshaners — that’s “Old Towners” in Gaelic — brings marching pipe and drum bands, troupes from Irish dance schools, costumed military reenactors, Irish dogs, and Irish civic organizations to the streets of Old Town Alexandria, in addition to the usual mix of classic cars, Scout groups, bands and floats representing local businesses. This year’s parade begins at King Street and St. Asaph Street, wrapping up at the corner of Fairfax and Cameron streets. Afterward, the Irish pubs and bars of Old Town are overflowing with music and fun. Daniel O’Connell’s, owned by parade emcee John Brennan, has live music from Brendan’s Voyage throughout the afternoon and performances by the Boyle School Irish Dancers in the afternoon and evening. Murphy’s of Alexandria opens at 9 a.m. for its party, with live music stretching from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m., plus Irish dancers in the afternoon. Port City Brewing is taking over King & Rye’s patio at the Alexandrian hotel for live Irish music, plus food and drinks, Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. Some post-parade events around town may have a cover charge. Parade begins at 12:15 p.m. Saturday. Free.