Welcome, 2024! With holiday celebrations and much-needed time for rest and relaxation, it’s January, and we are back to work and ready to tackle another year ahead. While you adjust back into the routine, there’s a lot to look forward to in 2024.

Alexandria’s annual restaurant week returns January 19-28th! More than 70 of Alexandria’s locally-owned and locally-loved restaurants offer a choice of dinner for two menu items at a fixed cost. Restaurant week spans 10 days and two weekends, giving local diners an in-person and/or to-go option with the week’s fixed price, ranging from $30-50 per person. 

Whether you’re a long-time patron or plan to visit one of these locally-owned restaurants for the first time, Alexandria Restaurant Week is the perfect time to explore Alexandria dining. Restaurant Week happens twice a year, ten days in the winter/spring and ten days in the summer/fall. Enjoy ten days of delicious dining, ten days of no dirty dishes to wash, and ten days of supporting Alexandria’s community of locally-owned restaurants! View participating restaurants.

We’re also looking forward to new shops, stores, and restaurants that are planned to open this winter/spring. One of the most anticipated is Tatte Bakery, opening January 24 at the corner of King & N. Saint Asaph Streets. The elegant and sophisticated pastry market offers a range of all-day breakfast items, tartines, bowls, sandwiches, and salads, as well as coffees and teas. It may be dangerous for my wallet to have one so close to the office!

Feeling like the holidays let you spend a little too much time sitting inside on the couch or staring at screens? Don't fret! There are still outdoor activities you can do in the winter. Head over to Cameron Run Regional Park for ice skating, a perfect winter activity. Enjoy outdoor daytime ice skating just minutes from Old Town. When you’re ready for a break from the ice, take advantage of their make your own s’mores over the firepit! From January 6 - February 25, the rink will be open on weekends and holidays from 10am - 4pm.

Later in the spring, get ready for another outdoor activity designed exclusively for adults. Atlas Brew Works, a Washington DC-based brewery, is making its way to the Carlyle Crossing neighborhood of Alexandria. With two locations in D.C., this solar-powered brewery is gearing up to open its Alexandria spot later this spring. The upcoming space promises a 1500 sq. ft. outdoor patio, a tap room featuring 16 draft selections, and pizzas from the local favorite, Andy’s Pizza. There has not been an official opening date set yet, but we are hoping it will be ready in time for spring weather to return!

As we embrace the opportunities that 2024 brings, let's savor the moments of community, exploration, and the simple joys of life. Whether indulging in the delicious flavors of Restaurant Week, discovering new gems in the local business scene, or enjoying outdoor activities, this year promises exciting adventures. Cheers to a new year!

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