Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC. | Photo via Wikimedia Commons
Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and there are many ways this civil rights activist touched Northern Virginia.
The March on Washington
In 1963, MLK took to the streets of Washington, DC, on Aug. 28 for what is known as the March on Washington. Dig into this magazine article published by the Northern Virginia Sun on Aug. 29, 1963, to learn more.
If you look at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, you can find a marking that shows where MLK stood during his “I Have a Dream” speech, which was given during this event.
After MLK’s assassination
Later on April 5, 1968, the day after MLK’s assassination, a group of about 400 students at Wakefield High School took part in an all-day sit-in. Afterward, the students held discussions and sang songs to honor the civil rights leader.
If you want to spend some time reflecting on Dr. King’s legacy, head over to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial — it’s not far from the National Mall.
Events
Events
Monday, Jan. 19
2026 MLK Day of Service | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. | Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale | Free
Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Today, you can honor the life + legacy of King by attending theDr. Martin Luther King Day March for Unity and Freedom at the Tinner Hill Monument in Falls Church. This event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
Opening
A new pizza and sub shop is coming to Arlington’s Rosslyn neighborhood. Tony Boloney’s, a New Jersey-based restaurant featured on Shark Tank, is opening in Upside on Moore on Tuesday, Jan. 27. I’m soooo intrigued by the new jalapeno popper sub.(ARLnow)
Mansion Monday
A new record-breaking condo recently sold for $21 million in Las Vegas, with skyline views of Sin City from within a prestigious country club. Here in NOVA, the most expensive condo we could find on the market is spectacular, too. (Realtor)
Active
The hype is building for the 2026 Winter Olympics, and plans are already falling into place for the next Summer Games. Ticket registration is open for Los Angeles 2028, with one-third of tickets set to cost under $100. It’s never too early to get in the spirit by trying out these unconventional workouts in NOVA. (Los Angeles Times)
The Word
Bongo. That was the Wordle answer that stumped the most players in 2025. Ready to redeem yourself this year? Fire up a fresh winning streak in NOVAtoday’s Games portal. (TODAY)
Sports
The countdown is on to the greatest tournament in golf. The Masters returns to Augusta National in 80 days, with the world’s best men’s golfers vying for the coveted Green Jacket. Get in the spirit, connect with friends, or practice your short game at Burke Lake Golf Center.
Community
Do you need hiring help? We’ve got your back. Post your open roles on our Job Board + get connected with local candidates in no time. Pssst — did we mention it’s free?
Read
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The Buy
Our favorite two-piece set featuring a knit sweater vest and pants. Pair it with your favorite cardigan for winter wardrobing, then wear it on its own as the weather warms for effortless, year-round style.
Today, Jan. 19, is the day Edgar Allan Poe was born in 1809. If it’s been a while since you read “The Raven,” spend the day in Poe-esque fashion and find a dark, quiet, brooding corner at one of the many public libraries in Northern Virginia.
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