Plus, where to see sunflowers this summer.
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What’s a NOVA-style hot dog?

A griddle full of half-smoke sausages at Ben's Chili Bowl.
Do these half-smokes have you drooling? We’ve got a new twist on DC’s fave dog. | Photo by T.Tseng via Wikimedia Commons
We’ve got an important question about hot dogs for you. No, not whether they are sandwiches, tacos, or neither, but rather — why doesn’t NOVA have its own signature frankfurter? Sure, DC is home to the half-smoke, loaded with onions and chili sauce, but we’re looking for something that Northern Virginia can call our own.

So without further ado — we know you’ve got barbecues to get to — NOVAtoday presents our NOVA-style hot dog, AKA the “Sweet and Salty SuperNOVA.”

Ingredients:
  • Baguette, preferably sourced from your favorite local Vietnamese spot, like Banh Mi DC in Falls Church
  • A half-smoke sausage
  • Virginia ham
  • Apple butter from the Shenandoah Valley
  • Virginia-grown peanuts
Why we chose these ingredients

Asked

The serious question is, does ketchup belong on a hot dog?

  • Obviously
  • Um, heck no
Tell us what you think

Events

Wednesday, May 28

Rock the Dock at The Wharf featuring Jimi Smooth + HitTime | 7-9 p.m. | 970 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC | Free | Grab a beer from the bar and enjoy this high-energy Motown + soul group.

Friday, May 30

The Avett Brothers | Friday, May 30-Saturday, May 31 | 8 p.m. | Filene Center, Vienna | $49+ | The famed folk rock band from North Carolina returns for two nights as part of their tour throughout the US.

Saturday, May 31

Fil-Am Spring Fest 2025 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax | Free | A lively outdoor festival celebrating Filipino American culture with performances, food, vendors, and exhibits, bringing the community together.

Sunday, June 1

Taste of Del Ray VIP Reception | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, Alexandria | $82 | VIP guests will enjoy exclusive benefits, including a curated wine tasting experience and early access to the food festival.

Sunday, June 22

Firefly Festival | 7-9 p.m. | Fort CF Smith Park, Arlington | Free | Admire the twinkling natural light of fireflies as they light up the park sky — bring a blanket or picnic for the family.
What else is going on?
Click here to have your event featured.

News Notes

Today is

Memorial Day. Honor those who have served our country at this year’s Falls Church Memorial Day Parade and Festival. The day begins with the Beyer Memorial Day 3K Fun Run at 9 a.m. — a free and family-friendly event for all participants. The run will be followed by a Memorial Day Parade starting at 2 p.m.

Open

A new Asian food hall called the Pop-Up District has opened in the Eden Center in Falls Church. The current lineup includes Vietnamese, Korean, and Thai food vendors, along with a coffee shop and bakery. (Washingtonian)

Coming Soon

The German discount grocery chain Lidl is coming to Idylwood Plaza in Falls Church. There are more than 12,000 of these grocery stores around the world, with about 180 in the US. (Patch)

Development

Tyson and Annandale are about to get a bit safer. The National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board approved a myriad of grants, including a couple to improve bike and pedestrian safety in Fairfax County. Learn more about what these improvements will look like. (FFXnow)

Travel

Starting in mid-July, Burnside Farms in Nokesville bursts into bloom with its annual Summer of Sunflowers. This display lasts only through mid-August, so don’t miss your chance to stroll through acres of beauty while it lasts.

Mansion Monday

Travel back in time with us as we step into this Alexandria home built in 1803. Before its construction, it is said that the land was home to George Washington’s hunting lodge. Who doesn’t like an elegant home with a rich history?

Games

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The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Let the games begin

The Wrap

Any bikers in our midst? Don’t forget that the Armed Forces Biking Classic rolls into Arlington + DC this weekend. Whether you’re racing or spectating, get ready for an exciting event — and keep an eye out for road closures in the area.
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