In This Issue: December 2021

Great Nights Out

A buzzy basement speakeasy tucked beneath a popular restaurant. A Wine bar that provides you with cats to pet. "Seinfeld" trivia nights. What are your plans for this evening?

Hot Shops

Whether you're on the hunt for the perfect party dress, a gift for that impossible-to-shop-for person in your life, or fitness gear with which to kick off you New Year's resolutions, you'll find just what you need at these tested-and-approved NoVA stores.

Your Best Winter Ever

Seasonal stress got you down? Bid it bah, humbug. Here are 28 ways to feel instantly jollier–through Christmas and beyond.

Why the Fight of Johnny Depp's Life is Unfolding in Fairfax County

The actor is suing his ex-wife in Virginia over 773 words she penned for "The Washington Post." The trial shines a light on a flaw in our legal system that invites the powerful and wealthy to travel here to silence their critics and limit the First Amendment.

Getting the Most Out Of Campus Parent Programs

Parent programs bridge the gap between you and your student as they start a new life on campus.

Great Winter Escapes

There are plenty of amazing seasonal destinations for romance, relaxation, or recreational winter sports.

Light-Bulb Moments

Enchant Christmas is back at Nationals Park, ready to make Christmas bigger and brighter with the world's largest light maze.

You Better Watch Out...

Ahead of his show at The Birchmere on December 15, we caught up with the self-described Pope of Trash, John Waters.

Crushing It

As a business and leadership development consultant, Kindra Dionne frequented events where the wines served to the networking crowds weren't up to snuff.

On Our Radar

NoVA-related books and shows that caught our eyes and ears.

Eagle Eyed

After two years of planning, Loudoun County's eagles are ready for their close-ups.

Datebook

In the Mix

The rare, the vintage, and the familiar come together at Monkee's of Fairfax.

Destination: Old Town Alexandria

Despite the name, this waterfront neighborhood is absolutely up-to-date.

Code Red

Is there any question as to the season's hottest hue?

The Naked Truth

Nearly eight years after it was first announced, King Spa has opened in South Riding. Was the 62,500-square-foot relaxation mega-business worth the wait?

Get Cracking

Nutcrackers reign on as a regal symbol of holiday cheer.

Decking the Halls

Quick holiday decor tips from NoVA experts.

Bringing It Home

An interior designer got to work on her own new townhouse in Old Town Alexandria.

Listings of the Month

Sharing Xinjiang

The finest item that emerges from the kitchen at Dolan Uyghur Restaurant in Chantilly is the Uyghur polo.

Iraq 'n Roll

"Life is short, eat chocolate." So says a sign in the highly Instagrammable interior of Lily's Chocolate & Coffee in Vienna.

Around We Go

These four bagel bakeries offer a taste of New York to help you start your day.

Better with Aged

A young team brings serious meat cred to Honest Grill in Centreville.

"Santa Claus"

Miek Graham of Tennessee began his stint as Santa 37 years ago, when he slipped into the big red suit to fill in for a St. Nick missing from the Gatlinburg City Parade. Things just snowballed from there.