This photo was taken in 2012 when the Fairfax Board of Supervisors recognized the nonprofit for its 25th anniversary. The organization is now 38 years old. | Photo via Flickr
Today is Giving Tuesday, and if you’re looking for a meaningful way to support your community, may we suggest Fairfax Pets On Wheels? Since 1987, this nonprofit has been bringing joy to residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities across Fairfax County by connecting them with friendly local pets, including dogs, cats, and bunnies.
Interested in becoming a volunteer? You’ll need to complete an application, have your pet pass a behavior assessment, and meet a few other requirements before you can be approved.
The next new volunteer orientation will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 7 from 7:30–9 p.m. Be sure to register soon if you’d like to share the love and volunteer alongside your furry friend.
Cisco co-founder Sandy Lerner has listed her Upperville, Virginia farm for $19.8 million. When she purchased the rundown property in 1996, it cost $7 million. Take a look inside to see how it has been transformed.
Plan Ahead
Looking to embrace the holiday spirit this season? Manassas is offering free carriage rides, and tickets are available now. Join the fun on Sundays, Dec. 7, 14, or 21.
Opening
Silver Diner is coming to Gainesville, taking over the former Out of the Blue Crabs and Seafood space at 5005 Wellington Rd. This will be the chain’s 25th location and its second in Prince William County. The restaurant is expected to open in 2026 — stay tuned for an official opening date. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Today Is
Giving Tuesday. Many people in the United States are giving back this year through Angel Trees, a fundraising initiative by The Salvation Army and Walmart. Each year, this program provides new clothing and toys to approximately one million children. Find participating locations here.
Biz
The Dog Store in Alexandria’s Del Ray neighborhood has now opened a second location in the Belle View Shopping Center. Locals may recognize the space as the former Pampered Pet Boutique & Barkery. (FFXnow)
Closed
Union Kitchen at 4104 Wilson Blvd. in Arlington’s Ballston neighborhood is officially closed after five years. This was the only Arlington location of the DC-based business. What do you want to see in its place? Let us know. (ARLnow)
Sports
Want to attend a Caps game this season? Here are the upcoming home games that you can get tickets for during the month of December.
Looking for the perfect gift?The Virginia Lottery’s new holiday Scratchers are great for all the adults on your list: friends, family, or coworkers. You can never go wrong with gifting the Virginia Lottery.*
The Buy
The perfect two-piece sweater set for winter. It features a long sleeve crew neck top paired with a split hem midi skirt. We love that it’s cute, comfy, and warm, and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Bonus: It’s available in some great seasonal colorways like almond white + red white.
This photo does not do the food justice. | Photo by NOVAtoday
This past weekend, I finally tried Bar Chinois, and it was incredible. This Michelin Guide-recognized Chinese restaurant — which has a new location in National Landing — serves incredibly flavorful dishes. I ordered the red chili wontons, garlic chive gao, crab rangoon, pork belly bao, and the 1970s garlic noodles — each one delicious in its own way. For drinks, I had the Chinois Mule, which is the perfect balance of refreshing and sweet.