The magic of the holiday season comes alive in Europe’s iconic Christmas markets. From medieval settings to modern winter wonderlands, these festive markets are brimming with seasonal treats, handmade crafts, and unique cultural experiences. Here’s your guide to the best Christmas markets across Europe for 2024.

Located in the heart of Del Ray at 2016 Mount Vernon Avenue, Mulberry Lane Play Café is redefining family spaces by blending imaginative play for kids with opportunities for parents to relax, connect, or work—all under one roof. Described as “Balanced Family Fun, Your New BFF,” this innovative café is quickly becoming a favorite for local families.

Thanksgiving arrives next week, officially kicking off the holiday season. We all hold dear our traditions and ways of sharing our gratitude. It may be a turkey trot in the morning, Friendsgiving, dinner out at a local restaurant, hosting family from out-of-town or traveling to visit loved ones. We asked our contributors to share their Thanksgiving traditions and a few also shared their favorite dish.

Thanksgiving is all about family, gratitude, and, of course, food! But who says the menu has to be traditional? If you're ready to break away from turkey and stuffing, here’s a list of unique, mouth-watering dishes that will make this Thanksgiving unforgettable.

"I wanted a name that captured the charm of a romance bookstore. There are so many cute bookstore names out there—Meet Cute could have been an option, but it was taken in San Diego. I wanted something that invites the idea of friendship, like going to a book club with your friends. When you think of love and friendship, that's the vibe I wanted to create for this space."

From grand estates to chic penthouses, here's a glimpse into the stunning homes that A-list celebrities have bought and sold through Sotheby's International Realty, each property showcasing unique style, elegance, and one-of-a-kind amenities.

A beautifully staged home helps buyers envision themselves living in the space, creating an emotional connection that can lead to more competitive offers. Addressing repairs and ensuring the home is spotless reassures buyers that the property is well-maintained, reducing concerns about future issues. These efforts not only enhance the home's appeal but also increase its perceived value, helping it stand out in a crowded market.

Year after year, students auditioned for the team with little to no dance experience, feeling discouraged after the first day and not returning. Those who did come back, despite their uncertainty, often grew to become some of the strongest dancers on the team. Gennifer knew that these students needed a supportive environment and access to arts education, which led her to create ArtSpireVa. 

From spooky bike rides to vibrant fall festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate fal. Whether you’re looking to support a good cause, snag some great deals, or simply spend a fun day with family and friends, these upcoming events have something for everyone.

Welcome to this rare, semi-detached townhome that defines luxury and convenience in historic Alexandria. Spanning four sun-filled levels, this spacious property is among the largest townhomes in the area, featuring the ultimate in modern living with elevator access to every floor.

The Alexandria Fall Fest is BACK! Join us on Sunday, November 3, 2024, from 11am to 4pm at the scenic River Farm for a day of unforgettable fun. Hosted by The Patterson Group and Alexandria Living Magazine, this year’s event is packed with activities for all ages, making it the perfect fall day for the entire family.

What better way to embrace the new season than with a cozy fall movie night? I’ve seen a fun trend on TikTok where guests host movie marathons, each choosing a film and bringing a drink that complements the movie's ambiance. For instance, pairing a classic James Bond movie with a Vodka Martini, “shaken, not stirred.” See my take:

As soon as autumn arrives, I always find myself rewatching Gilmore Girls, daydreaming about tasting Sookie's culinary creations at The Dragonfly Inn, or sharing a coffee with Rory and Lorelai at Luke's Diner. Since waking up in Stars Hollow isn’t possible, I thought—why not bring a bit of *Gilmore Girls* magic to Old Town instead?

The temps are cooling and those beautiful autumn days are coming. While fall is full of festivals, apple picking and harvests, we do love to squeeze in a day trip to a winery or two…or more. We asked our contributors to share their faves within driving distance of Alexandria.

Even though Autumn doesn’t officially begin until September 22, the start of the month always brings a festive fall mood, making us eager to dive into seasonal activities like apple picking, vineyard visits, watching cozy fall movies, and cooking comforting meals.

September 5 is National Cheese Pizza Day, but let’s be honest, we don’t need an excuse to indulge — we do it regularly! Pizza's rich history stretches back to the ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks, who enjoyed early versions of flatbreads, much like today’s focaccia. However, the pizza we know and love today was born in Naples, Italy.

Indulge your soul in high-quality finishes and a rare detached garage with an in-law suite above (ADU!) The trim, millwork, casings, and craftsmanship is unlike anything you've seen in Alexandria.

Summer break’s last big weekend is almost here. We want you to savor this gorgeous last weekend of summer break in the best way possible. Here’s a curated a list of perfect ways to celebrate in the DMV and a few nearby getaways.

Virginia is home to some of the most incredible hotels and resorts, blending Southern charm with modern luxury. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly retreat, or a luxurious escape, these hotels and resorts provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable stay. See the guide our team curated.

With the 2024 Olympics lighting up Paris, you’ve probably been like us – glued to our screens in awe of the incredible athleticism taking place. If you have ever dreamed of a Gold medal (or Silver or Bronze because all are truly amazing), we have found the perfect spots around the DMV to learn, practice and train to become a future Olympian!