What are your goals for 2026? | Photo by NOVAtoday
Sticking to your New Year’s resolutions can be hard. That’s why we’re here to help. We’ve compiled some resources to help you make the most of this year, whether you’re working on your fitness or getting out in the community more.
Ways to stay fit
There are plenty of running clubs for all abilities around Northern Virginia. Find your best fit.
Thank a Teacher started in 2016 with one goal: to thank as many K-12 public school teachers in Virginia as possible during National Teacher Appreciation Week in May. | Photo provided by Virginia Lottery
It’s time to put pencil to paper for a great cause.
The Virginia Lottery and The Supply Room are launching the 9th annual Thank a Teacher Art Contest for K-12 public school students.
Students are invited to submit original artwork now through February 2, 2026. One student from each grade level — elementary, middle, and high school — will receive a $200 Visa gift card, and their school will earn a $2,000 credit from The Supply Room.
Winning art will be featured on thank-you notes distributed statewide during National Teacher Appreciation Week in May 2026. PTAs and school groups can preorder notes through March 27, 2026.
Since the campaign began, more than 700,000 thank-you notes have been sent, with participating teachers eligible to win $2,500 in supplies and $2,500 in cash.
The Metropolitan Washington Winter Restaurant Week begins Monday, Jan. 19. The festivities will run through Sunday, Jan. 25, and include restaurants around NOVA, DC, and Maryland. I’m eyeing Ellie Bird, which is offering a $65 prix fixe menu.
Holiday
The annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Program will be held on Thursday, Jan. 15 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. outside of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial in Alexandria. Register here.
Opening
A new discount grocery store is expected to open on Thursday, Feb. 12 in Falls Church. This will be the first location of Grocery Outlet Bargain Market in Virginia; however, more than 500 locations are open in the US. (ARLnow)
Gallery
Today, Jan. 13, is the last day to vote for the People’s Choice Award for the First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest. All I have to say is NOVA has some very talented photographers, so make sure to cast your vote by 5 p.m.
Arts
The Diversity Commission of Leesburg is looking for locals to help create a new logo that would reflect both the mission of the group and the diversity of the town. Send your entries to artsubmissions@leesburgva.gov by Saturday, Feb. 28. Learn more about the requirements here.
Coming Soon
A new ice cream shop called YouMin Delights is coming to the Cameron Chase Village Center in Ashburn. Specifics about the product and opening date are not yet known. When we know more, you’ll know more.(The Burn)
Plan Ahead
Get ready for new restaurants to open at Reagan National Airport, including Mi Vida in Concourse B, Colada Shop and Wiseguy Pizza in Concourse C, Busboys and Poets in Concourse D. See what all opened last year. (ARLnow)
Shop
Never sacrifice comfort for style again thanks to this elevated casual cardigan. With a lightweight + layerable design, the versatile piece is perfect for year-round wear. Need something a little cozier? We love this wool blend option with gold button detailing.*
The Buy
The best app to learn a new language — now 65% off. With Babbel, just 10 minutes a day is enough to start speaking a new language and keep a New Year’s resolution that actually sticks. Fit bite-sized lessons, engaging podcasts, and interactive speaking practice into your morning routine, commute, or coffee break.*
My stomach is growling just looking at this bagel again. | Photo by NOVAtoday
I’ve heard through the grapevine that this is the best bagel spot in Arlington, and maybe even all of Northern Virginia. Naturally, I wanted to give it a try.Brooklyn Bagel Bakery in Arlington’s Court House neighborhood is a New York-style bagel shop not to be missed. I got a bacon, egg, and cheese, and added avocado and spinach.
To answer the question on everyone’s mind, I do think this is the best bagel I’ve had in the area thus far. Do you think there’s a better bagel spot? Let us know, and I’ll give it a try. Don’t gatekeep, I’m begging you.
}})
}})
