We’ll be sending you our newsletter for the next five days, but if you’re not feeling it after that, we’ll call it quits — no action required. If you like what you see, click any link in this email, and each morning, we’ll keep sending the most relevant news, events, and updates from around Northern Virginia. Our newsletters are completely free to receive and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Celebrate one year of NOVAtoday
Dive into the stats of NOVAtoday’s first year.
Happy birthday to NOVAtoday. It’s officially been one year of daily newsletters, and we’re here to break down your favorites and mine. Make sure to let us know what content has been your favorite so we can keep improving our newsletter.
I want to say thank you to everyone who has been following along with us — whether it’s been since April 7, 2025 or if this is your first newsletter — I’m so grateful that you’re here.
This NOVA bookstore is one of the many in the bookstore crawl. | Photo by NOVAtoday
Read
Many bookstores in Northern Virginia will be taking part in this Bookstore Crawl Passport Program. You can get your passport at any participating store, and you have until Sunday, May 31 to check out as many as you can. You’ll even have a chance to win prizes.
Real Estate
43. That’s how many acres Cana Vineyards & Winery in Middleburg spans, and it’s now on sale for $9 million. Take a look at the property. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Shop
Revamp your closet by stopping at the N’Used Spring Sidewalk Sale on Thursday, April 9, through Sunday, April 12. Be sure to bring your own bag, and keep in mind that dressing rooms will be closed, so plan accordingly.
Try This
Cherry blossom season is coming to an end, but there are still some more celebrations to check out. Don’t miss the Art of Pink event on Friday, April 10, or this Cherry Blossom Celebration at The Crossing Clarendon on Saturday, April 11. What perfect ways to cap off the season.
Community
Enjoy a meal with fellow community members at The Longest Table Vienna. This free event will take place on Saturday, May 9 from 12 to 2 p.m. Note:Registration closes Monday, April 20. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Opening
National Landing is welcoming a bunch of new businesses. See what’s coming to the area. Make sure you’re subscribed to NOVAtoday, as we’ll be sure to update you when these spots open. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Festival
Ahoy Mateys. You can now get tickets for tours of four different ships at the Sails on the Potomac event. This festival will take place from Friday, June 12 through Sunday, June 14, and is part of the America250 celebrations. Get your tickets here. (ALXnow)
Mailbag
We recently asked where readers would want to see a little library around Northern Virginia. Reader Daria D. says that the Carlyle section of Alexandria is a Free Little Library desert. If you’re interested in starting one, check out the official webpage.
Did You Know?
Virginia State Park visitors can reserve and borrow all-terrain wheelchairs for free at six different locations. Mason Neck State Park is the nearest participating park to NOVA, ~35 minutes from downtown Arlington. See all six participating parks and find reservation details.
Arts
Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton is getting a glass-blowing studio called the Hot Shop. This space will be open to the public, offering community members the chance to create their own glass art pieces. In addition to hands-on experiences, visitors can enroll in classes and observe live demonstrations. It’s expected to open late 2026 or early 2027. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Outdoors
While warmer weather brings flowers, it also brings other living things… like ticks. Alexandria has launched its tick bite prevention program, with a variety of spring talks for residents to check out. Make sure to get a free tick remover tool from the Alexandria Health Department or at one of the many educational events.
Post of the Day
Grab your paddles, we’re hitting the water. | Post via @fairfaxparks
Looking to try kayaking? Sign up for kayaking programs at Lake Accotink Park, like nature kayaking or kayaking basics. It’s the perfect way to get some fresh air while learning about the natural world around you.
A casual maxi skirt with a flattering high-rise design, ultra-soft material, and pockets. Slip it on for an afternoon running errands, dress it up for dinner with friends, and everything in between.