The City of Alexandria celebrated its 266th birthday July 11 as more than 15,000 people enjoyed food, music and fireworks at Oronoco Bay Park.

“It was a great night tonight,” said Jack Browand, division chief of special events and waterfront operations for the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities. “We probably had close to 20,000 people turn out along the waterfront if you include people watching the fireworks from Founders Park, Canal Place and the City Dock. It really was a great evening.”

The evening began with a performance by Tower House, a Motown and classic rock band, followed by the distribution of birthday cake by Mayor Bill Euille and members of City Council.

The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra then took to the stage for its annual pops concert, sponsored by Global Printing and Wells Fargo Bank. Under the direction of Maestro Kim Allen Kluge, the ASO concert was a tribute to super heroes and featured songs from E.T., Harry Potter and Superman.

The highlight of the evening was the grand finale fireworks display, featuring the ASO performing Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” with cannon support by the Marine Corps Basic Training School in Quantico.

“The Alexandria Symphony has been a part of this city for more than 70 years,” Allen said. “We like to think of our performance tonight as our gift to the city. Happy Birthday Alexandria!”