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The Franconia District Governmental Center in Alexandria is opening to the public with a ribbon-cutting ceremony tomorrow, April 11 at 10 a.m. This includes the opening of the new Kingstowne Regional Library, which will host a variety of events to celebrate the occasion.
A brand new park is opening in Alexandria. The ribbon-cutting ceremony for Mount Vernon Woods Park will take place on Saturday, April 18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The park is complete with a play field, a multisport court, a skate park, a picnic pavilion, and more.
Traffic
This weekend is the Cherry Blossom 5K and 10-Miler. This means there will be some road closures in Arlington County. Here’s information about Saturday’s and Sunday’s road closures. Good luck to those racing.
Eat
McLean’s first Restaurant Week kicks off this Sunday, April 12, and lasts through Sunday, April 19. More than two dozen restaurants will be participating — see which businesses. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Arts
Bloom Hunt is underway in Arlington’s Ballston neighborhood. This digital scavenger hunt will last through Sunday and allows you to unlock digital artwork for a chance to win different prizes. Learn more here. (ARLnow)
Sports
The Fredericksburg Nationals are hosting nine theme nights throughout the season. What themes are on the docket? Spoiler alert: I’m most excited for Barbie Game Day on Saturday, July 25. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Ranked
More on Fredericksburg. Caroline Street in Historic Fredericksburg was named the Best Main Street in the South, according to Garden & Gun. We recommend checking out Smugglers Cafe, a cookie shop with sci-fi elements. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Development
After much back and forth, Gov. Abigail Spanberger vetoed the bill that would have authorized a casino in Tysons. Learn more about the proposal. (NBC Washington)
History
The Vienna Community Center is celebrating its 60th birthday next week with a special open house. The event will take place on Friday, April 17 from 4 to 7 p.m. See what to expect.
Civic
Gov. Abigail Spanberger just signed legislation to increase the minimum wage in Virginia, but the change won’t be immediate. The rate will hold steady at $12.77 for the rest of this year, followed by two scheduled increases: $13.75 in 2027 and $15 in 2028.
Today Is
National Hug Your Dog Day, because you need another excuse to spoil your pup. It’s easy to show them a good time at NOVA’s dog-friendly spots.
Never hit the hiking trail without the essentials. This functional waist pack features a built-in bottle holder, large main compartment, and multiple zipper pockets to keep water, snacks, and safety gear organized and within reach. Bonus: it’s under $25.*
Learn
When money gets tight and prices keep climbing, cutting back can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t have to do everything at once. Start with this list of money-saving strategies and pick one or two to begin. Even small changes can make a meaningful difference.*
Keep your community clean by taking part in this event on Sunday, April 12. The ALX Old Town Trash Clean-Up will meet at Waterfront Park at 11 a.m. There will be a social to follow if you’re interested.
Self-care isn’t all spa days and forest bathing — although we do love a nice hot stone massage. More often than not, it’s the simple things like prioritizing rest, practicing good hygiene, and practicing mindfulness. Elevate your self-care rituals with these five products:
🧤 Treat your skin to a little TLC with this best-selling exfoliating glove that removes dead skin + cleans pores.
🛏️ Look forward to snuggling into bed every night thanks to these luxury bamboo sheets with cooling properties.
🫖 Pair your new sheets with this herbalist-formulated chamomile tea to help wind down before bed.
🚿 Turn your shower into an aromatherapy escape with this top-rated pack of shower steamers.
🧦 When you’re craving comfort + relaxation, don this heated blanket hoodie.
I ordered a flat white and a piece of the morning bread. | Photo by NOVAtoday
On the hunt for a new remote work location? I’d recommend checking out Red Bird Coffee Roasters in Falls Church. There are plenty of seats + outlets, along with great coffee and lots of natural lighting.
If you’re looking for more recommendations, don’t miss our coffee shop guide.
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