Showing posts with label fairfax county. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fairfax county. Show all posts

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, 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, June 23, 2015

Celebrate the 4th of July with Fireworks in Northern Virginia

Can you believe it's that time of year again? Time for fireworks, for parade-watching, for celebrating Independence Day in Northern Virginia and DC! Summer is typically a busy time in our area and if you're planning your 4th of July itinerary, it seems you'll have much to choose from!

Below are just a few events (with fireworks!) you can attend in NoVa to celebrate America this 4th of July weekend:

Herndon
Bready Park, Herndon Community Center
Herndon, VA

This festive event will include face-painting, balloon sculptures, bingo and crafts starting at 6:30 PM, music at 7 PM and fireworks following at 9:30 PM. 

McLean
Langley High School
McLean, VA

Doors open at 8 PM with fireworks beginning at 9:15 PM. This 4th of July event will offer FREE admission and parking, with shuttles running from St. John's Lutheran Church and the McLean Community Center.

Mount Vernon
George Washington's Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon, VA

This day-long festival runs from 8 AM to 5 PM, saluting our nation's first president with its made-for-daytime fireworks show! Smoke fireworks in patriotic colors will be displayed over the Potomac River and guests will be treated to free birthday cake! There will even be a visit from the "First Couple" themselves!

Fairfax
Fairfax High School
Fairfax, VA

Celebrate Independence Day with this Fairfax event beginning at 7 PM. There will be entertainment from the City of Fairfax Band and other groups, in addition to the fireworks show set to music.

Falls Church
City Hall and George Mason High School
Falls Church, VA

The City of Falls Church puts on a great fireworks show and celebration, with this year's beginning at 7 PM. Free to the public, first enjoy music and then fireworks at 9:30 PM.

Alexandria
Oronoco Bay Park
Alexandria, VA

Celebrate both Alexandria's birthday and the USA's on July 11, 2015 from 7 PM to 10 PM. There will be a performance by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra at 9 with fireworks following at 9:30 PM.


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. 

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

How to Celebrate the Cherry Blossom Festival in Northern Virginia

If you live in DC or in surrounding Northern Virginia, you know March kicks off the popular Cherry Blossom Festival and we're now just weeks away! 

Every year, the Cherry Blossom Festival marks the beginning of spring in DC and represents the gift of the cherry blossom trees given by Japan to the United States. The Festival coordinates different events celebrating arts and culture throughout DC and even extending to NoVa, from March 20 through April 12— most of which are free and open to the public. 

And you don't even need to head into DC to experience the beautiful cherry blossoms! Below are several ways you can participate in this iconic festival right here in Northern Virginia:

Fairfax Visitor Center
1961 Chain Bridge Road
McLean, VA
Open M-F 10 AM - 6 PM; Sunday 11 AM - 6 PM

Fairfax County celebrates the Cherry Blossom Festival at its Visitor Center located in Tysons Corner Center. Visitors can stop by for free cherry blossom-related gifts, craft demonstrations and other activities.

Old Town Alexandria Cherry Blossom Food Tour
March 22 - April 12, 2015
For reservations, call 202-683-8847

Set out on this guided, narrated tour of Old Town Alexandria and learn about its significance throughout history. Along the way, participants will sample local chef creations with cherry blossom-inspired food and drinks. Food tours can include Japanese-themed dishes, cherry-centered plates, desserts with a cherry twist, even homemade "cherry cello" from a popular Italian restaurant. 

Potomac Riverboat Company Cherry Blossom Water Taxi
Beginning March 21, 2015 (Monday through Sunday)
Departs from Alexandria, VA
Times: 11:10 AM, 1:35 and 4:30 PM

Hop on a water taxi from Alexandria to the National Mall in Washington, DC to view the cherry blossoms in all their glory, amongst the national monuments. Skip the traffic and climb aboard this 30-minute cruise which then docks just steps from the Tidal Basin. Once in DC, take a free Cherry Blossom Walking Tour or stick around into the evening and take a free tour of the cherry blossoms by lantern. 

Northern Virginia has so much to offer throughout the year and with proximity to our nation's capitol, it's an excellent place to call home. Contact me today for more tips on purchasing a home in Alexandria, Arlington, McLean, Fairfax and beyond!

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 17, 2015

Thinking Spring with Events in Northern Virginia and DC

We're just about one month away from the beginning of spring, although the weather is yet to show any signs! However, the events calendar in Northern Virginia and DC are bursting with opportunities to think spring, get out and enjoy everything the area has to offer

From spring festivals to home shows to popular events celebrating the cherry blossoms in Washington, DC, this spring is set to be an exciting time in Northern Virginia! Here are some of the many ways you can start thinking spring this month and next:

Capital Home and Garden Show

When: February 27-March 1, 2015; 
Friday and Saturday 9 AM to 9 PM; Sunday 9 AM to 6 PM

Where: Dulles Expo Center
4368 Chantilly Shopping Center
Chantilly VA

With over hundreds of exhibits and vendors, homeowners can gather inspiration for their homes in McLean, Alexandria, Arlington, Chantilly, Reston and the surrounding areas. The Capital Home and Garden Show is a one-stop shop for the latest in remodeling, decorating, home services and products.

National Cherry Blossom Festival

When: March 20-April 12, 2015

Where: Washington, DC

This popular festival in our nation's capital celebrates the gift of 3,000 cherry trees given to Washington by the city of Tokyo. You can find them surrounding the Jefferson Memorial on the Tidal Basin, with their pale pink and white flowers. 

Lasting for three weeks, the Cherry Blossom Festival is city-wide and includes more than 200 cultural performances and other events. The events span sports, art exhibits, dining and more— something for everyone!

Chantilly Craftsmen's Spring Classic Art and Craft Festival

When: March 20-22, 2015; 
Friday and Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM; Sunday 11 AM to 5 PM

Where: Dulles Expo Center

Chantilly's favorite arts and crafts show! Find one-of-a-kind treasures for your home or yourself from hundreds of artists and craftsmen from all over the country. 


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.