High tides 9:23 a.m. and 10:06 p.m. | Low tide 5:01 p.m.
🎥 Lights, camera, action
Tom Cruise crossed this bridge as Ethan Hunt in “Mission: Impossible III.” | Photo via Wikimedia Commons
Why film in Hollywood when Northern Virginia is camera-ready? Pop some popcorn and grab a blanket — we’re going to catch NOVA in the credits of these movies + TV shows.
Movies
“Mission: Impossible III” (2006) | This Tom Cruise franchise is no stranger to Northern Virginia, but the third film has a memorable scene filmed in the Arlington neighborhood of Rosslyn as Cruise’s character crosses the 14th Street Bridge. Stream it on Paramount Plus.
“Jackie” (2016) | Natalie Portman portrayed former First Lady Jackie Kennedy in this biography that includes scenes at the George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria. Stream it on Max.
Television
In “The Walking Dead” Alexandria is a sign of safety.
“The Walking Dead” (2010-present) | This zombie franchise references the “Alexandria Safe Zone” throughout its run, a fictionalized depiction of Alexandria. “The Walking Dead: World Beyond” has many filming locations in Virginia, though most are not in NOVA. Stream on Netflix.
“Scandal” (2012-2018) | This political drama has many scenes in DC, but it sometimes crosses the bridge into Arlington, like it did for this season 3 episode. Stream it on Hulu or Tubi.
World Pride Jazz Concert Series | Wednesday, May 28-Thursday, May 29 | 7-8 p.m. | Lamond-Riggs Neighborhood Library, Washington, DC | Free | Join DC’s Different Drummers Jazz Band in celebrating World Pride 2025.
Friday, May 30
Encore Stage & Studio presents “The Wizard of Oz” Musical | Friday, May 30-Sunday, June 8 | Times vary | Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, Arlington | $12+ | Lions, tigers, and bears, oh my — Follow Dorothy’s journey through Oz in this jam-packed musical performance.
Saturday, May 31
Swing Into Summer 2025 | 4 p.m. | Capital One Park, Tysons | $56 | Join pro athletes and local stars for a fun-filled home run derby and softball game, blending family entertainment with community spirit and charitable support.
Saturday, June 7
Taste of Springfield Festival | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | Springfield Town Center, Springfield | Free | This community celebration is a family-friendly event with good food, exhibitors, performances, and live music.
Thursday, June 19
Indigo Girls with the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra | Thursday, June 19-Friday, June 20 | 8 p.m. | Capital One Hall, Tysons | $83+ | See the Indigo Girls and songs like “Closer to Fine” and “Dear Mr. President” accompanied by the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra.
Tap. Ride. Go. Starting today, NOVA residents can use their credit card (read: no more SmarTrip Card) to tap into all 98 Metrorail system stations. Metro parking facilities and buses will see the change next. (Washingtonian)
Development
A new 5,300-sqft addition could be coming to Wolf Trap National Park. If approved, the new building located southwest of the park’s existing structures would accommodate more pre-show dining, add 16 new bathrooms, and increase options for private event rentals. (FFXnow)
Eat
Mélange Burger and Doro Soul Food are back and better than ever at Mélange Foods, Inc., a 2108 8th St., NW eatery adding Ethiopian-Mexican fusion restaurant Moya this summer. Stop by for comfort food, cocktails, and hand-spun milkshakes. (Washingtonian)
Plan Ahead
Waterfront Park will host ALX Jazz Fest on Saturday, June 14. The free event kicks off at 3 p.m. with acts performing hourly until 9:15 p.m. Pro tip: Bring a blanket or lawn chair — food + bev will be available for purchase. (ALXnow)
Pets
Remember to leash up Fido, dog owners. The City of Alexandria reminds residents that three ordinances are in place and carry hefty fines if ignored. Save yourself $50-$100 by brushing up, then find a dog-friendly hiking trail. (Alexandria Living)
Ranked
No. 61. That’s what Staunton, VA ranked in Advance America’s recent survey of US cities with the best value compared to the cost of living. This has us wondering — where do you get the most bang for your buck in NOVA? Let us know.
The Wrap
The Wrap
Don’t worry, dog owners — you can let your furry friend run wild at local dog parks like Arlington’s Glencarlyn Dog Park, where your pup can splash around to cool off this summer, or Alexandria’s Simpson Stadium Park, which is fully lit, fenced, and includes a doggy water fountain.
Answered
Answered
We asked you if ketchup belongs on a hot dog, and the results were like the bun — split down the middle.
51.9% go ketchup-free 48.1% can’t go without it
Maybe we should have asked about a less polarizing condiment... oh well, Heinzsight’s 20/20.