Consider donating last season’s clothes to a local women’s shelter like Women Giving Back based in Sterling, which provides clothing for women and children at no cost — see all accepted items.
Both the Crystal City and Reagan National Airport Stations will be closed for various weekends over the coming months. Make sure to plan ahead and check out the closure dates. Shuttle buses will be available at closed stations. (ARLnow)
Civic
Yesterday, there was a special election for two open seats in Virginia’s General Assembly — Districts 11 and 23, located in Fairfax County and in parts of Prince William and Stafford counties, respectively. Find the live results here.
Sports
Flag football is officially an option for girls in the Prince William County school district. The school board unanimously approved to make this a permanent fall sport after a successful trial this past season. Jealous like me? Try these local leagues. (InsideNOVA)
Arts
Want to see your poetry in a DASH bus? You have until Friday, Jan. 16 at 5 p.m. to submit your work to the 12th annual DASH poetry contest.The selected poems will be displayed throughout April, which is National Poetry Month.
Coming Soon
Sweet Leaf Cafe is opening a new location in Falls Church, and it’s the first drive-thru location. It will be located at 603 W. Broad St., and is anticipating a summer opening. (ARLnow)
Opening
Have you tried this trendy sweet treat? You’ll soon be able to get your hands on chimney cakes at Crispý Cones, which is coming to Bram Quarter in Ashburn. These sweet dough cones are filled with other goodies like ice cream and fruit. (The Burn)
Eat
I asked for your favorite bagel spots, and reader Lee D. came through. They said their favorite bagel spots in NOVA are Virginia Bagel in Chantilly or Main Street Bagel Deli in Fairfax. Which one do you want me to try first? Vote here.
Mailbag
Regarding our coverage of the Washington Capitals’ practices, reader Robert B. notes that players often lack numbered jerseys, although helmet numbers help. They added that you’ll need your license plate number to pay for parking and that the food for sale at the rink is “very good.”
Health
Children’s National Hospital is celebrating 155 years. Mark the occasion by making plans to attend the 2026 Children’s Ball, a black tie gala “to raise critical funds that support our patients and families” on April 25. Or take advantage of one of the institution’s many free educational events. (FFXnow)
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Home
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Read
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The Buy
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What are your ins and outs in Northern Virginia in 2026?
Here are some of NOVAtoday readers’ responses on what’s in and out for 2026:
Christine M. said homemade bread is in and commercial bread is out. Step up your sourdough game with our guide.
MJ said new restaurants and entertainment are in. We could not agree more. Stay up to date with our roundup of new restaurants in NOVA.
Erin G. said their ins include themed pop-ups, cozy decor and seating, and unique experiences. Maybe start with these eccentric bars? As for outs, they said any hidden fees, and would prefer for business to just raise their prices.
This thrift store sells everything, including books, home goods, and children’s clothing. | Photo by NOVAtoday
I’ve got another local spot for you to not only donate, but shop. The other day, I stopped in Look Again, which is located in Old Town Alexandria. This spot works with the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington, with all sales going towards this organization’s vision programs. Don’t miss the upstairs — that’s where most of the clothing is located. My friend found the cutest vest.
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