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“A party with a bike race.” This is how Rob Mandle, the Deputy Executive Director for the National Landing BID, describes the Garage Racing National Championship.
The one-of-a-kind event takes place this Saturday, Feb. 21, at 201 12th St. S. in Arlington. To be exact, it’s on the 4th floor of the parking garage. And yes, you read that right.
The event began in 2012 and was known as the Crystal City Diamond Derby. Local bike enthusiasts created the race as an outlet during the cold months. The inspiration? A race someone saw in Berlin, Germany.
“One of our team members stumbled across a garage race in Berlin on a blog and thought it was really cool, and brought it to the team, and we were all like, we have to try and do this,” Mandle said.
Today, the event includes 10 different races. Peek at the full schedule here. I’m most intrigued by the Anything Goes Finale — the goofy race of the event.
Practice splitting the G at O’Connell’s this weekend. | Photo by NOVAtoday
Community
The beloved Irish pub, Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant and Bar, turns 20 this weekend. There will be an anniversary party Saturday, Feb. 28, beginning at noon. Listen to live music, take part in raffles and contests, and indulge in happy hour from 3 to 5 p.m. with a $6 pint of Guinness. (ALXnow)
Civic
It’s budget season in the City of Alexandria. Tuesday, Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. at the Del Pepper Community Resource Center will be the presentation for the City’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget. See how your voice can be heard.
Eat
The Del Ray Chili Cook Off returns Saturday, Feb. 28 at 5 p.m. in the gym at Commonwealth Academy. The event is chock-full of chili samples, beer from Port Brewing Company, live music, and a 50/50 raffle. Proceeds benefit La Tiendita. Think your chili can win?Register here. (ALXnow)
Development
A water main relocation project is underway this week in Del Ray, between the 3700-block of Commonwealth Avenue and Ashby Street. The goal is to make space for new, larger stormwater pipes. The project is expected to last through July. (ALXnow)
Plan Ahead
America’s 250th birthday is getting closer and closer, and NOVA is preparing with a variety of activities. Falls Church is expected to host the Mobile Museum Experience on Memorial Day. There will then be a Civic Jam on Friday, July 3 at Cherry Hill Park. Learn more about the celebrations in Falls Church.(ARLnow)
State
Virginia lawmakers have advanced two bills supporting a retail marijuana market in Virginia. Similar proposals have been vetoed in years past, but Governor Abigail Spanberger has vowed to sign off on the legislation. If she does, legalized marijuana sales could potentially begin as early as November. (Virginia Mercury)
Coming Soon
The local burger chain Good Stuff Eatery is looking to open a spot in Fairfax County. The company is eyeing 6418 Springfield Plaza for its next location. Stay tuned for updates on its opening — I can’t wait to get my hands on one of their hand-spun shakes. (FFXnow)
Real Estate
Will Fairfax County soon be home to more housing developments? A new housing assessment in the county shows that between 41,000 and 95,000 new homes will be needed by 2035. This number includes homes for rent and purchase. Dive into the details.
Tech
Eyeing a job in tech? The Arlington space tech company Umbra is planning to open new offices in Reston, bringing more than 300 jobs. Additionally, defense contractor Grvty is expanding to Tysons, creating about 200 more jobs. Learn more here. (FFXnow)
Wellness
You don’t need to hit a breaking point to start therapy. If you’re replaying conversations or overthinking decisions, Octave Therapy can match you with a vetted, fully licensed therapist. Octave is in-network with many major plans + the average session cost is $28 out of pocket. Find your in-network therapist today.*
This is for my cat lovers.MeowTown Cat Lounge officially opened in McLean at the end of January and allows you to spend time with adoptable cats. The spot also works to give neurodivergent individuals a place to work and be embraced.
Happy birthday to you. Pamela G. wanted to give a special birthday shout-out to Carla H., who is celebrating their 92nd birthday today. We hope you have a great day, and maybe you can celebrate at one of these NOVA restaurants.
If you want to give a birthday shout-out to someone, send us an email with their name and the date.
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