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Event Spotlight
Celebrate Lunar New Year locally. | Photo via Pexels
It’s time to celebrate the Year of the Horse. Lunar New Year begins Tuesday, Feb. 17, and there are many events taking place around Northern Virginia. We recommend checking out the 17th Annual Chinese New Year Festival in Falls Church on Saturday, Feb. 14 from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Take part in language activities, food booths, crafts, and other festivities. Secure your tickets.
Bring a smile to someone special at these Met Park pop-ups
Presented by Amazon
Visitors can enjoy art, greenery, and community events at Metropolitan Park, the vibrant heart of Crystal City. | Photo provided by Amazon
Met Park is buzzing this February, and it’s the perfect place to send a little joy.
Swing by the Met Park mailbox to collect postcards from local retailers and mail a heartfelt note to someone special.
Then, make your visit even more memorable with these pop-ups:
Poem Pop-Up | Wednesday, Feb. 11 | 12-2 p.m. | Start Valentine’s Week on a poetic note! Poets from Haikuists will craft complimentary, personalized haikus for attendees — perfect to keep or share.
Flower Bar Pop-Up | Thursday, Feb. 12 | 12-2 p.m | Brighten your afternoon with a complimentary rose from Calluna Flower Truck, and pick up a bouquet to treat yourself or someone special.
Cardmaking Pop-Up | Friday, Feb. 13 | 12-2 p.m | Craft custom cards to show love and appreciation, or simply enjoy a creative afternoon.
Bards Alley Bookshop will be moving locations in the next year, but don’t worry, the new spot is only two minutes away from its current location. The Vienna bookstore will be moving from 110 Church St. NW to 103 Church St. NE. The change comes because owner Jennifer Morrow is looking for a permanent spot. (FFXnow)
Open
Do you remember this NOVA restaurant? Sundara Indian Restaurant & Cafe, formerly in Arlington, has relocated to Alexandria and is now open at the Braddock Metro Center, serving its beloved dishes along with potential new menu options. (ALXnow)
Drink
Looking for a local whiskey? Motherwell Distilling Co. launched in Alexandria back in December and will soon be sold at ABC stores around town. You can currently find it at Pork Barrel BBQ and Captain Gregory’s. They hope to expand to more restaurants. (ALXnow)
Community
Recommended changes to bike lanes, main intersections, and more are up for discussion at the Traffic and Parking Board’s public hearing on Monday, Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. Learn about the specifics of the changes. (ALXnow)
Coming Soon
Fairfax Corner is expecting some new tenants. Cafesano Italian & Mediterranean Bistro and Chateau de Chantilly are expanding — all expected to open this year. See what else is coming to the area. (FFXnow)
Outdoors
The Prince William County Polar Plunge will look a little different this year. Instead of plunging into the Potomac River, you’ll be taking a dip in two above-ground pools set up at Leesylvania State Park. Take the plunge on Saturday, Feb. 14 — register here. (InsideNOVA)
Question
Want to name the new elephant calf at the National Zoo? If you donate $5 or more, you can vote for your favorite name. You have until noon tomorrow, Feb. 13 to make your pick.
Sports
Now this is endurance. Arlington resident Michael Wardian broke the world record for the fastest time running a 50K on all seven continents, finishing in 26 hours, 40 minutes, and 16 seconds. He shattered the previous record of 31 hours, 25 minutes, and 37 seconds, which had been set the year before by Christian Brown Johnson. (ARLnow)
We recently reported on the upcoming closures of the metro on the Blue and Yellow lines. Here’s an in-depth post breaking down what you need to know. The information about the shuttle service is extremely helpful.
In the name of self-care, treat yourself to a little early Valentine’s Day gift. We think you’ll love these five picks, ordered by price.
💸 Under $15: This viral collagen face mask hydrates, evens skin tone, and improves elasticity.
💸 Under $30: A top-rated plush robe that makes every day feel like a spa day.
💸 Under $50: Moroccanoil’s hydrating hair mask leaves hair feeling noticeably softer + hydrated.
💸 Under $75: This pair of freshwater pearl earrings are perfect for every occasion.
💸 Under $150: A cozy cardigan by Barefoot Dreams that’s crafted from the brand’s famously soft yarn.
We recently covered the development that’s in discussion for the Key Bridge Marriott Site in Rosslyn. Learn more about what that development will look like here. I’m most excited about the potential addition of some biking and walking paths.
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