I don’t usually go for tequila, but this drink was a game-changer. | Photo via NOVAtoday
If you haven’t tried a drink at Láylí Mediterranean in Arlington, you’re missing out. Made with Olmeca Altos tequila, mandarin juice, orange blossom water, lime juice, agave, and coconut milk, the Orange Dreamsicle is a refreshing beverage to try the next time you’re out with friends. I recommend pairing it with the dip trio appetizer, which includes hummus, labneh, and either muhammara or tirokafteri.
Asked
Asked
🍽️ Where are your favorite outdoor dining spots around NOVA?
Summer Wellness Series: Acupressure | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Gateway Park, Arlington | $7 | Acupuncturist Erica Wiles will lead this hands-on class to introduce the power of pressure points.
Wednesday, July 16
Pups in the Pavilion | 5-7:30 p.m. | Reston Town Center, Reston | Free | Bring your pup for a pop-up dog park with local vendors, giveaways, and more.
Thursday, July 17
Plant + Seed Swap | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Reston Regional Library, Reston | Free | Bring spare plants and seeds to share with fellow community members.
Friday, July 18
Encore Stage & Studio presents Footloose The Musical | Friday, July 18-Sunday, July 27 | Times vary | Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, Arlington | $16+ | Kick off your Sunday shoes and enjoy a night of music, dance, and high-energy fun.
Saturday, July 19
Karan Aujla | 8 p.m. | EagleBank Arena, Fairfax | $87+ | Hear this Canadian-based rapper and singer on his “It Was All A Dream” world tour.
A new banh mi shop is set to open at Eden Center in Falls Church on Wednesday, July 16. Banh Mi Oi, a family-owned restaurant located at 6795 Wilson Blvd., will welcome customers starting at 10 a.m. To celebrate its grand opening, the shop will offer free merchandise and food samples. (ARLnow)
Ranked
Let’s talk bikeability. In Virginia, Arlington ranks third with a score of 55 out of 100. Fairfax ranks seventh in the state with a score of 46, while Alexandria ranks 13th with a score of 38. Don’t forget your helmet, NOVA.
Pets
GoodVets has opened its newest location in Crystal City, Arlington, as of Thursday, July 10. Pet owners can now schedule appointments for services such as check-ups, microchipping, and more. The clinic is offering free first appointments for all new clients as part of its grand opening.
Mansion Monday
Previously home to the former owner of the Commanders, Dan Snyder, this river-view estate is not to be missed. Coming in at a whopping $60 million, you get eight bedrooms, nine bathrooms, and 16.5 acres of land. Take a look to see all of the other amenities.
Trending
The New York Post recently shared that New York City didn’t crack the list for top five cities in the US. But you know which city did?Alexandria was ranked fifth, once again proving that this is the place to be.
Travel
Dulles International Airport travelers left their shoes on through the TSA checkpoint for the first time in nearly 20 years this week. The nationwide change aims to streamline TSA ahead of major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Summer Olympics. Which airport will you fly out of next, while keeping your shoes on? (USA Today)
Watch
It seems Virginians love tuning in to “Property Brothers.” That’s the state’s most popular HGTV show, according to a recent study. If you’re ready to turn off the TV and do some house hunting of your own, you might want to explore Old Town, Alexandria.
The Word
“Fridge cigarette.” A snack or drink — most often a Diet Coke — used as an excuse for a short break, akin to a smoke break. If you’re going to join the trend, might as well head to a local farmers market and stock the fridge with some healthy snacks. (Today)
Eat
McDonald’s is spicing up its menu and bringing the summer heat with new Spicy McMuffin breakfast sandwiches — made with all the classic ingredients + spicy pepper sauce. Can’t make it before the 10:30 a.m. cutoff? Try these brunch spots around Northern Virginia instead.
State
Williamsburg was recently included in Condé Nast Traveler’s roundup of the best affordable family vacations in the US. The article highlights all of the historical things you can do in the city. If you’re looking to stay in NOVA on a budget, check out our free activities guide.
A nice cold beer is the perfect way to kick back after the workday. | Photo via Courthaus Social
On the rocks, neat, dirty, frozen, or zero proof — we’re spilling the Long Island iced tea on the best happy hours in NOVA.
Editor’s note: Hours listed are happy hours only.
Keeping spirits up
Crafthouse | Arlington | Monday-Friday, 4-7 p.m. | Enjoy $7 margaritas, old fashioneds, Moscow mules, and Irish mules during happy hour, plus all house spirits for just $5. Pair your drinks with delicious $6 shareables like nachos and tater tots for the perfect midweek treat.
Hungry for meal deals
Bar Chinois | Arlington | Monday-Sunday, 4-7 p.m. | Who doesn’t love a dumpling? You can get four for $4 during happy hour. Pair it with one of the five cocktails on their happy hour menu — the Humble Cobbler made with Del Maguey Vida mezcal, peach, Genépy des Alpes, and lime sounds like the perfect pair.
Late-night gems
Astro Beer Hall | Arlington | Monday-Sunday, 9 p.m. until last call | Enjoy Astro Beer Hall’s Apollo Smashburgers or Asteroid Chicken Sandwich for just $5. Wash it down with a Jala-Pina Mule made with Cirrus Jala-Piña vodka, pineapple juice, ginger beer, lime juice, and agave.
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.
Have you hiked in Shenandoah National Park? I’ve yet to make my way over there, but it’s on my bucket list before it gets too cold. If you want your nature fix, but don’t want to trek as far, check out our local hiking guide.
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