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Prepare for peak bloom in NOVA
Experience this spring beauty without the crowds. | Photo via Flickr
Spring officially begins on March 20, bringing warmer weather, blooming flowers, and a unique spectacle to Northern Virginia — cherry blossoms. These beautiful, sweet-smelling flowers are expected to reach their peak season between Sunday, March 29, and Wednesday, April 1 this year, according to the National Park Service.
We’ve curated different spots where you can see these lovely flowers around Northern Virginia so that you can avoid the crowds in DC.
Self-Guided Bike Tour in Arlington | If you want to hit all of the blooming spots in Arlington, there’s a 17-mile loop that highlights the best of the city’s cherry blossom trees. You’ll have seven scenic spots to check out.
Founder’s Park, Alexandria | The park is yet another spot to see the cherry blossom flowers. Pack a picnic and take in the breathtaking views and fragrant smells.
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens | Just south of Fairfax, the 100-acre Meadowlark Botanical Gardens offers a great display of cherry blossoms during peak bloom season.
Tea with Seagrove Potters - Springtime | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Participating shops along NC Pottery Highway 705, Seagrove, NC | Free | Enjoy a tea-tasting experience at six Seagrove shops during this free flavor-filled event. All pottery will be available for purchase.*
Three times the sweetness. The local bakery Bakeshop is expanding to Vienna with its third location, opening by early April at 421 Maple Ave. E. This new spot will complement its other locations in Arlington and Falls Church. (FFXnow)
Pets
Your pet deserves an expo, too. The Super Pet Expo will take place from Friday, March 13 to Sunday, March 15 at the Manassas Mall. Booths will offer a variety of products and services, including accessories and adoptions. Purchase your tickets. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Opening
A new food vendor is in the works at Water Park in National Landing. Pizzeria Paradiso will be replacing Crush Pizza and Wine this spring. You’ll be able to order nine-inch pizzas or pizza by the slice, along with other dishes like paninis. (ARLnow)
Capital One Center in Tysons is getting a new resident. A new Mediterranean restaurant, La Omri, is expected to open at Capital One Center in late 2026. The restaurant will be located on the first floor at 7775 Capital One Tower Rd. (FFXnow)
Sports
The 2026 Paralympic Winter Games have begun in Milan + Cortina, Italy, and the opening ceremony takes place today at 2 p.m. Watch the broadcast on USA Network or stream it on Peacock, and look for Evan Nichols, a sled hockey player, and Joe Pleban, a para snowboarder, both from NOVA. (NBC, Northern Virginia Magazine)
Seasonal
It’s finally time to spring forward. Daylight saving time will take place this Sunday, March 8. Although you lose an hour of sleep, we get later sunsets, which is a win in my mind. Make getting up a bit easier with a cup of coffee from one of NOVA’s cafes. (ABC)
Plan Ahead
The 2026 World Baseball Classic is underway, with Team USA set to play its first game today, March 6, against Brazil. Want to catch America’s pastime closer to home? See what ballpark promotions the Washington Nationals have lined up this season.
Read
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Pro Tip
If you’re a Costco shopper, you’re probably familiar with the ever-popular $1.50 hot dog. But are you in on these other 10 lesser-known hacks all Costco shoppers should know about? Don’t miss the details on vacation deals, members-only movie tickets, and more.*
The Buy
A really good retinol serum without the premium price tag. For under $25, it’s clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, brighten skin, and boost elasticity.
For all my fellow runners, several races are coming to the area this spring, perfect for those looking for some competition. Need some training buddies? Try out one of the many running clubs around NOVA.
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