The perfect ‘tinis for a winter evening. | Photo by NOVAtoday
A new year means new trends. Here are my personal predictions for what will be in and out around NOVA in 2026.
In: Espresso martinis at Lyon Hall in Arlington. ‘Cause duhhh. Out: Not picking up after your dog (I’ve been seeing a lottttt of dog poop around NOVA). Try these dog-friendly spots — just make sure to pick up after your pooch. In: Taking the Potomac Water Taxi... we want transit with a view. Out: Construction at the Rosslyn Metro Station, which is expected to finish up this May. In: Eating locally grown ingredients. Be sure to check out local farmers markets or visit local farms, such as Area 2 Farms. Out: Not being subscribed to NOVAtoday, but you already knew that.
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What are your ins + outs for 2026?
Share your predictions on what will be in and out in Northern Virginia in 2026. Your response may be featured in a future newsletter.
Have books you want to get rid of? Fairfax County recently launched its book reuse and recycling program, which allows locals to drop off unwanted books at the green donation bin located at the I-66 Transfer Station. (FFXnow)
Opening
This one is for all of my “KPop Demon Hunters” fans. A new K-pop themed Korean restaurant has opened in Ballston. K-Food Casual is located at 875 N. Randolph St. and has replaced Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken & Wings. (ARLnow)
Arts
Let’s rock and roll. Tickets are now on sale for “School of Rock” at The Little Theatre in Alexandria, which runs from Feb. 7-28. You can get tickets for $36, and they are available on the theatre’s website. (ALXnow)
History
It’s officially the 250th year of the United States, and there are plenty of events happening in Alexandria this winter to commemorate the occasion. Check out this roundup to learn how you can celebrate. I’m interested in the Tavern Games Night: Bicentennial Mania. (ALXnow)
Closed
The Matchbox location at Reston Station has closed its doors. It’s not yet known what will be taking over the space — stay tuned. (The Burn)
Feel Good
This is the sweetest thing I’ve seen today. Del Ray native Rowan Gilbart celebrated his fourth birthday with a DASH charter bus ride and a tour of the bus system’s facilities. Many of his friends also joined in on the fun. Do you guys do 24th birthdays? (ALXnow)
Did You Know?
In 2025, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) launched the community-building VA Outdoor Women program, helped revive a declining smallmouth bass population, and identified 1,500+ species in need of conservation efforts. See what other outdoors initiatives defined the year in the VA DWR annual report.
Film
A Northern Virginia short film, “Albatross,” will be shown at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. Directed by Amandine Thomas, the film follows Maria, a caregiver to her husband, who then gets invited to a party.
Health
Did you find yourself straining to hear during holiday gatherings? Make 2026 a year of better hearing with Horizon IX. This revolutionary hearing aid delivers natural sound so real, experts are calling it a miracle. Dual processors separate speech from noise for effortless clarity so you won’t miss a single word. Start your 45-day no-risk trial.*
Biz
Kickstart the new year by expanding your business’s reach. Our business promo portal puts your message in front of our thousands of highly engaged local subscribers in as little as two days. Plus, first-time customers save 15% with code NEW15 at checkout. Get started.
Wellness
Interested in a THC or CBD journey in 2026? Women-owned and operated brand TribeTokes is offering 15% off with code DRYJAN15, plus a free CBD/CBG tincture when you spend $40. Try pineapple THC gummies or mini THCA prerolls for some California sober fun during dry January.†*
Get your camera and take a Claritin — here comes the Philadelphia Flower Show. Why are we covering an event in Philly, you may ask? Fairfax Parks is offering limited tickets that include a coach bus ride from Green Spring Gardens Park in Alexandria to the flower show, along with admission to the event. Secure your tickets for either March 2 or March 4.
Are you resolving to drink more water this year? Set yourself up for success with a sleek, insulated water bottle that keeps liquids chilled for up to 24 hours. Bonus: It’s dishwasher safe.
Fireworks capped the last day of this light show in DC. | Photo by NOVAtoday
A couple of nights ago, I caught the final evening of projections on the Washington Monument, held in celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary. Stay tuned for more ways to celebrate around NOVA and DC. Meanwhile, see what else is going on in NOVA this month.
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