Showing posts with label Alexandria. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alexandria. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

What to Do This Memorial Day Weekend in Northern Virginia

Just as we've been anticipating here in Northern Virginia, the unofficial start of summer will arrive this weekend! Memorial Day typically kicks off the season with a long weekend of barbecues, beach visits, pool time and afternoons spent in the sun. 

If you'll be in Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Falls Church, Fairfax, McLean, Mount Vernon or the surrounding communities this weekend, here are a few events that you will want to add to your calendar:

Memorial Day Observance Arlington National Cemetery. May 30, 2016; 10:30 AM. Arlington, VA. Around 5,000 visitors are expected to attend each of the two ceremonies planned for Memorial Day in the amphitheater beginning at 10:30 AM. After, a wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Tomb of the Unknowns at 11 AM, followed by an observance program in the amphitheater.

Star-Spangled Sing-Along. May 28, 2016; 2 PM. Reston, VA. Everyone is encouraged to attend this free patriotic sing-along with the Reston Chorale. This event will be held at the Reston Town Center Pavilion and include kids activities and refreshments.

ViVa Vienna! Memorial Day Festival. May 28-30, 2016; 10 AM to 10 PM Saturday and Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM, Monday. Vienna, VA. This local NoVA event is free to attend and 100% of the proceeds go to support charitable and community organizations. Attendees can expect rides, over 300 vendors, food, crafts and more! 

39th Annual Memorial Day Jazz Festival. May 30, 2016; 1 PM to 5 PM. Alexandria, VA. Free to attend, this popular festival celebrates the holiday with jazz by the river. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. This year's festival will hold performances on the hour beginning at 1 PM, with the last beginning at 5 PM.

Memorial Day Festival and Parade. May 30, 2016; 9 AM. Falls Church, VA. With more than 10,000 visitors expected to gather on the City Hall grounds, the Memorial Day Festival in Falls Church includes a Fun Run (9 AM), veterans' ceremony (11 AM), kids activities, food, vendors, parade (2 PM) and more!

As always, do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions about the Northern Virginia real estate market— I'm here to help! I wish you a happy and safe Memorial Day weekend! 

I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 
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Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Art and Cultural Events Abound in Northern Virginia This Spring

With the warm weather making its way back to Northern Virginia, it's time to get out and explore the scenery, the shops and restaurants, and of course, the events! 

For the remainder of April, there are dozens of arts and cultural events to attend in NoVA, from art shows to plays to exhibits at local museums. Below are just a few that you can mark on your calendar this month and truly enjoy the culture that the NoVA communities have to offer:

The Rat Pack
April 19-23, 2016
Signature Theatre; Arlington

This group, popular since the 1960's, is making a five-day appearance at the Signature Theatre to perform a collection of both oldies and monologues.

The Flying Dutchman
April 23-24, 2016
George Mason University Center for the Arts; Fairfax

The Virginia Opera will be holding a production of Richard Wagner's 1840 opera about a group of shipwrecked sailors, directed by Francesca Zambello of the Washington National Opera. 

To Kill A Mockingbird
April 23-May 14, 2016
The Little Theatre of Alexandria; Alexandria

NoVA residents and visitors alike can revisit this classic tale, as performed by the Little Theatre of Alexandria.

HeART of Reston
Through April 25, 2016
Jo Ann Rose Gallery at Reston Community Center; Reston

This art-centered event will celebrate the League of Reston Artists with over 60 pieces from over 35 regional artists. Held in honor of Robert E. Simon, who established the Reston community in the early '60s, the event will also feature one of the League of Reston Artists' founding members. 

Partnerships
Through May 15, 2016
VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital; Alexandria

Artists from Del Ray provide a unique look at the affection that brings humans and animals together in this exhibit. If you're a pet lover, you will appreciate this artistic take.

I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 

Tuesday, February 16, 2016

5 Ways to Enjoy Spring in Northern Virginia

We are just a few weeks away from the official start of spring here in Northern Virginia! And while the upcoming season does signal the return of many homebuyers and sellers to the real estate market, it's also an excellent time to discover everything the surrounding communities have to offer!

If you are moving to Northern Virginia this spring or are a current resident with a list of places yet to explore, you will want to add the following to your spring to-do list:

Tour NoVA By Boat
Alexandria Virginia offers numerous ways to take in the local sites on the water. Float by George Washington's Mount Vernon on a cruise, take a water taxi to the National Harbor or National Mall, or take a Canine Cruise so your four-legged friend can enjoy the Potomac too!

Go on a Bike Ride
Northern Virginia is home to many bike trails, including the Mount Vernon Trail, the Custis Trail, and the Washington and Old Dominion Trail to name a few.

Go Shopping
You will find some of the best shopping destinations in NoVA! For instance, Alexandria's King Street has everything from antiques to decor to unique men's, women's and kids apparel. Arlington is also home to hundreds of speciality stores!

Visit a Memorial or Monument
When the weather turns warmer, the timing is right to visit the local monuments you may have yet to see. The Arlington National Cemetery, Marine Corps War Memoral (Iwo Jima) and Pentagon Memorial are all in the area!

See the Cherry Blossoms
One of the Washington, DC area's favorite ways to celebrate spring is with the National Cherry Blossom Festival! Between March 20 and April 17, you can head into DC to marvel at this springtime wonder or stay in Northern Virginia and see the blossoms at locations like the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens.

Have questions about the real estate market, buying or selling a home in Northern Virginia? Give me a call today!

I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Alexandria, Burke, Mount Vernon Fall Festivals Come to Northern Virginia

It's that time of year again! Labor Day is officially behind us and the fall season is soon to arrive. If you're a resident of Northern Virginia, you know that our area boasts some of the most beautiful scenery as the seasons change, but that's not all! NoVa is home to a host of fall festivals that are planned to kick off over the next month.

Get ready to enjoy the cooler weather and the best of Northern Virginia communities like Burke, Reston, Alexandria and Mount Vernon by visiting the follow events:

ChalkFest
September 11-12, 2015
Reston Town Center
Reston, VA

Reston begins its ChalkFest with professional artists, sponsors and businesses on Friday, September 11, before opening the event to the public on Saturday, September 12. ChalkFest is held between Library and Presidents Streets and celebrates street art made with of course, chalk. There will be prizes awarded in various categories as well as the chance to watch some true artists in their element.

Burke Centre Festival
September 12-13, 2015
Saturday: 9:30 AM-5:30 PM, Wine Garden 5-10 PM; Sunday: 10:30 AM-5:30 PM
Burke Centre Conservancy Grounds
Burke, VA

Admission is free to the 38th Annual Burke Centre Festival! Highlights include amusement rides, live musical entertainment, food vendors, nature show, arts and crafts and more.

Colonial Market and Fair
September 19-20, 2015
9 AM-5 PM
George Washington's Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, VA

This annual event features dozens of America's best craftspeople, as well as 18th Century music, military drills, General Washington himself, speciality food and numerous craft demonstrations!  

Alexandria King Street Art Festival
September 19-20, 2015
Saturday: 10 AM-7 PM; Sunday: 10 AM-5 PM
King Street
Alexandria, VA

Just minutes from Washington, DC, Old Town Alexandria is home to a thriving arts scene. This local festival transforms the city's historic main street into a one-of-a-kind outdoor gallery. Booths will line King Street, with over six blocks of artwork from more than 200 artists both local and international. 

If you've been contemplating a move to Northern Virginia, do not hesitate to give me a call! I will put my decades of local real estate experience to work for you and help you settle into our community just in time to enjoy all that the beautiful fall season has to offer.

I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 


Tuesday, August 18, 2015

The Perks of Buying a Home in Northern Virginia

Renting may seem appealing, but there are many more perks of buying a home in Northern Virginia! From building wealth to creating the ideal space through renovations, the possibilities are endless and the benefits great. 


So before you start your search for a new apartment this year, consider homeownership! Not only is it one of the best investments you can make in your future, but homeownership offers Northern Virginia residents the following:

Proximity to great schools
Education is an important factor for NoVa homebuyers and buying a home allows you to invest in the future of your family. Purchase a home in the school district you desire now while rates are low— home values and prices are appreciating rapidly and chances are, homes in a desirable school district will go quickly!

More space
One of the most popular reasons NoVa homebuyers are moving this year is space! Have you outgrown your home? Are you planning ahead for your growing family? Do you simply need more storage space? Homeownership allows you to move up and now is the best time to do so!

More control
Renting does not allow you the freedom to always decorate how you like or in most cases, change your living spaces in any way. Homeownership allows you to paint and renovate as you see fit. On another note, renters do not always have permission to own pets! By purchasing a home, you can finally adopt that puppy you've always wanted!

Personal wealth
Purchasing real estate is one of the best investments you can make! And whether you own or rent, you're paying a mortgage— by renting, you are paying down your landlord's principal. Take advantage of low mortgage rates now and start building equity in your very own home in Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, DC, Falls Church or Springfield

With my expertise in the local real estate market, I can assist you in finding your dream home at the best price! Do not hesitate to contact me today with any questions about the homebuying process. I'm here to help!


I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 


Tuesday, July 21, 2015

5 Museums Where You Can Beat the Heat in Northern Virginia

It seems those hot, dog days of summer have set in here in Northern Virginia! The rising temperatures no doubt have NoVa residents turning up the AC and searching for ways to cool off away from the glaring sun. And I've got just the thing!

One of the reasons that makes Northern Virginia such a great place to call home is the abundance of museums and culture available to residents. Below are five local museums where you can enjoy a summer afternoon, cooling off and soaking in the information available at the exhibits.

Carlyle House
Alexandria, VA

Carlyle House was built in 1753 by Scottish businessman John Carlyle and quickly became a popular destination for politics. Visitors today can take tours and enjoy the numerous events and exhibits in place to detail this NoVa hotspot.

Gunston Hall
Lorton, VA

George Mason, known as the Father of the Bill of Rights, lived in this colonial mansion that is now open to experience! Guided tours are available to educate visitors on the mansion's decor, grounds, outbuildings and more. 

National Air and Space Museum
Chantilly, VA

View thousands of artifacts from planes, jets and spacecraft in this newer museum located in Chantilly. The museum is affiliated with the Smithsonian and also boasts an IMAX theater, food court and Wall of Honor that notes experts in air and space.

Manassas Battlefield Park
Manassas, VA

This park located right off I-66 is one of Northern Virginia's most historic sites. It is the home of an early Civil War Battle and full of exhibits, statues, weapons and videos to learn more about this key part of our nation's history.

The Lyceum
Alexandria, VA

Also known as Alexandria's History Museum, the Lyceum gives visitors a chance to uncover the community's rich history. The museum is located right in Old Town and is filled to the brim with exhibits and galleries on different eras in history. Here you can also find over 5,000 relics to deepen your experience!

If you're new to Northern Virginia or simply deciding which community would be the best place to buy a home, give me a call! With my years of experience in the NoVa real estate market, I can guide you through the homebuying process and the area!

I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 


Tuesday, April 7, 2015

Take a Staycation— Spring Break Activities Right Here in Northern Virginia

"Spring break" oftentimes means packing the car and heading off on a long distance road trip, but that doesn't have to be the case if you live in Northern Virginia! Our area is full of local fun and activities that don't require hours of travel time.

Fairfax and Arlington County each offer great spring break getaways, no matter if you live in NoVa, are simply visiting or looking to call this your permanent home. Here are a few ideas to explore this spring:

Be Historical
Northern Virginia is an area rich in history, so why not brush up on your knowledge this spring? Take a trip to Alexandria and Springfield— Tour Woodlawn Estate, which was designed by the architect of the first U.S. Capitol. It was also the home of Eleanor Custis and Lawrence Lewis, Martha Washington's granddaughter and George Washington's nephew. 

George Washington's Mount Vernon is another place of historical beauty. Situated on the banks of the Potomac, it was the plantation home of our nation's first president. 

Be Green
Hit the hiking and biking trails NoVa has to offer this month or spend some time in one of the beautiful local parks. Mason District Park in Annandale offers a large natural area, playground, tennis courts and playing fields. While in Annandale, you can also visit Hidden Oaks Nature Preserve set within the 52 acre Annandale Community Park.

In nearby Burke, Centreville and Clifton, you'll find many beautiful outdoor attractions like Burke Lake, Hemlock Overlook Regional Park, Cox Farms and Bull Run Regional Park.

Be Spoiled
Northern Virginia is also home to some of the best shopping in the area. If retail therapy is on your spring break to-do list, head to Tysons Galleria or Tysons Corner Center in McLean or the shops at Fairfax Square in Vienna.

As a resident of Northern Virginia, I know how nice it is to call this area home. Contact me today for more information on purchasing a home in one of these great communities!


I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna.