Essay Contest

2026 contest winners Garrett Wagman and David De Costa with members of the GWLF board and George Washington at the annual Friendship Firehouse Breakfast. Photo by Jerry File, courtesy The Zebra Press.

The 2027 Essay Contest

George Washington, our nation’s first president, had a profound and enduring relationship with the city of Alexandria, Virginia. Now, middle-school and high school students at any Alexandria public or private school are invited to submit essays on the topic of George Washington. This year’s theme: My Brave Fellows — Honoring Washington’s Army. The theme is inspired by George Washington’s speech to the Continental Army at Trenton, New Jersey, December 31, 1776: “My brave fellows, you have done all I asked you to do, and more than can be reasonably expected; but your country is at stake, your wives, your houses and all that you hold dear.”

One winner each will be selected from a Middle School and a High School in Alexandria. Each winner will receive a $500 prize.

To be eligible for consideration, essays must be submitted to us by January 15, 2027, and adhere to the official guidelines and submission instructions for either Middle School or High School.

Winners will participate prominently in the City of Alexandria’s Washington’s Birthday Parade on Saturday, February 13, 2027, as well as the Friendship Firehouse Annual Breakfast on Monday, February 15, 2027, where they will be recognized.

How to Enter

Please see the detailed instructions for each level:

• Middle School Instructions
• High School Instructions

You also consult our listing of previous winners.