Spring in Washington, D.C., means many opportunities to enjoy time outdoors. As the cool winter weather leaves and warmer temperatures come, the community starts to come alive. Grab your calendar and take note of some of the best things to do in Washington, D.C., as you plan the next few months!

Attend the Cherry Blossom Festival

The cherry trees in Washington are some of the most famous trees in the world, and in the spring they burst to life with brilliant pink colors, bringing people from around the country to experience the fragrant and colorful display. The Festival runs throughout the month of April with special events all month long. The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade is scheduled for April 14th this year.

Head to the Farmer’s Market

The Dupont Circle FreshFarm Markets are starting to come to life after the long winter. The farmer’s market is held year round, but the produce starts showing up in April. It is held every Sunday from 8:30 to 1:30. In addition to veggies and fruits, pick up fish, cheese and hand-crafted items. Some of the more unique, but popular items at the market include District-made spirits and beers, pickles, fresh pasta and locally roasted coffees. Plan to stay for lunch and enjoy wood-fired pizza or a variety of soups, sandwiches and ethnically diverse food choices.

Attend the Anacostia River Festival

On April 15 from 1 to 5, head to the 11th Street Bridge Park for the Anacostia River Festival. Technically part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, this serves as the closing of the events and a celebration of the Anacostia River. Enjoy a canoe ride on the river, take part in a bike parade, spend time with your family playing lawn games and see displays from local artists.

Watch the Nationals Play

Spring also marks the start of baseball season, and the Washington Nationals are your local team and the National League East champions for 2016 and 2017. Catch a game sometime in the spring at Nationals Park, and welcome summer with America’s favorite pastime.

As you can see, there’s plenty to do in Washington, D.C. in the spring. Keep your calendar open, because you’re going to want to fill it with many of these activities.

P.S. Don’t forget to stop in to fuel up before or after your adventures! Check out our menu here.

The holiday season is here, and with it comes twinkling lights, trees, and plenty of freshly-baked treats. As you consider all of the bounty of the season, you’ll find that Arlington is filled with fun things to do. Both in the city itself and in the surrounding community, here are the top five Christmas events you’ll want to enjoy.

1. Glory to the Newborn King

Head to New Life Church’s Alexandria campus on Monday, December 4 for a Cindy Dennis Ministries event entitled “Glory to the Newborn King.” This free concert includes a holiday meal, carol singing, program and a ministry with Jan Koskey. You are sure to have your heart touched and your tummy full!

2. ICE! Christmas at the Gaylord National Resort

The ice sculptures at this popular Christmas tradition are something you have to see to believe. While technically not in Arlington, the Gaylord National Resort is close enough to be considered local. See the creations of 40 internationally famous ice sculptors as they turn 1.5 million pounds into a stunning interactive holiday attraction. Order tickets here.

3. ZooLights

The National Zoo is a Capital area treasure, and in the holiday season it comes alive with the annual ZooLights display. Walk among the pandas and tigers as you see brilliant zoo-themed holiday light displays, ice sculpting demonstration, storytellers, and choral groups all season long. This fun family tradition runs from November 24^th to January 1^st, 2018.

4. Light Up the Village

On November 30th, head to the Village at Shirlington for the annual tree-lighting ceremony, Light Up the Village. This popular Arlington tradition starts at 6 with musical performances followed by the lighting at 6:30. After the tree lighting, enjoy horse and carriage rides and photos with Santa along with live holiday music and other strolling entertainment.

5. Smithsonian Holiday Festival

Throughout the holidays the Smithsonian campus will have family-friendly entertainment, including seasonal films, concerts, chocolate demonstrations and more! See the full schedule of the Smithsonian Holiday Festival events to choose your favorite.

With so many fun holiday activities this year, our local community will not disappoint this holiday season!

In Arlington, you can find a different coffee shop or bakery in almost every neighborhood. How can those with discerning tastes know which ones to try? If you are pressed for time and are looking for a sure option, Ballston and Clarendon are the places to go. Here are two local Arlington favorites for coffee and fresh baked goods.

Stay Caffeinated with Republik Coffee Bar

Once Rock ‘n’ Joe, the Republik Coffee Bar is a trendy and unique place to stop for a cup of coffee. They have a pleasing mix of blends and a varied menu of coffee drinks and teas, with flavors like tiramisu and mocha to tempt your taste buds. The menu even includes lemonade, teas and hot chocolate drinks for the non-coffee drinkers. Unlike chain coffee shops, Republik takes pride in its drinks, carefully crafting each one to please the eyes and the taste buds. As if that weren’t enough to get you to stop in, you can trust Republik to provide reliable Wi-Fi.

Seating at Republik is comfortable, and you have both indoor and outdoor options. The decor gives the space character, and if you choose to sip your coffee outdoors, you will have a lovely view of the Ballston neighborhood. The location of the patio provides natural shade from the surrounding buildings, so you can enjoy your drinks or food outdoors even in the summer.

Got a Sweet Craving? Head to Bakeshop

When your sweet tooth is demanding fulfillment, you will want to head to the Bakeshop in Clarendon. This local favorite is a built-from-scratch family-owned bakery where you can get everything from flavored macaroons to ice cream sandwiches. Everything is made from the owner’s personal recipes. The shop also serves up lattes and cappuccinos alongside their sweet treats, and the menu includes vegan options.

Still Hungry?

If you’re still hungry, you know where to go 😊

Come try any of our popular sandwiches or salads either in Ballston or Clarendon.