This story appears in our weekly Things to Do newsletter, sent to subscribers every Monday. Get it in your inbox by signing up here.
By Alice Levitt, James Finley, Kelly Kendall, and Michele Kettner
Reach for the Stars
“While living in the country can have its downsides, the best part has to be the stunning night sky. Every night I get a front row seat to some of the most beautiful views without leaving my yard. This week I’m going to take advantage of that vantage point when the Perseid meteor shower comes to town. If you’re looking to get a a peak at the annual shower, but don’t have a great view from home, check out these parks and observatories for the perfect setting for stargazing.” –Michele Kettner, associate digital & research editor
Eating Cheap
“OMG, it’s restaurant week! Metropolitan Washington Summer Restaurant Week, to be exact. I have reservations at a couple of the places on this list of my favorite menus at Northern Virginia restaurants. I’ll be doing my usual prix-fixe eating, but for substantially less money than usual.” –Alice Levitt, food editor/critic
Grazin’ in the Grass is a Gas
“This whole pop-up ‘posh picnics‘ trend is right up my alley–I love planning parties, especially al fresco ones, and would love to sit back and see what creative ideas someone else comes up with (that I can steal for later)! Plus, sampling the food and cocktails is something I could happily manage.” –Kelly Kendall, editor
Fun Finds
“The Del Ray Vintage and Flea Market will be taking part in Alexandria’s sidewalk sale this week. As the top flea market in Del Ray, it’s already a great stop for interesting finds, but combined with Alexandria’s supersized sidewalk sale, there should be some fun surprises in store for anyone who visits.” –James Finley, senior editor