In This Issue: December 2023

Drink Local!

Northern Virgiia is ripe with wineries, cideries, breweries, and distilleries. Here's a look at some of our favorite tasting rooms and taprooms -- and what to pick up when you visit.

More Than Free Stuff

Buy Nothing and other gift economy groups are centered around giving and getting furniture, clothes, and more. But for some Northern Virginia residents, they're about deeper relationships.

Division Driven

Young, elite athletes in NoVA train intensely to make top tier college teams.

AI Innovator

Missy Cummings, one of the Navy's first female fighter pilots, brings her maverick attitude and expertise to George Mason University's autonomy and robotics center.

The Extra Mile

Extracurricular activities can be an important factor in college admissions. What do colleges want to see? We asked NoVA experts.

5 Ski Destinations Close to Home

Take advantage of everything winter has to offer at these resorts, all within driving distance of Northern Virginia.

Aerial Achievements

Drones are being used to assist police across NoVA.

On Our Radar

Panda Parting

The photogenic bears left thier Washington home in November, boarding a long flight to start a new life in China.

Oddball Thinking

Fairfax County author Steve Gladis looks at the world differently. In his new book, he offers suggestions for how to lead others, even if you don't follow what's considered the norm.

Guest Star

Meet Aladdin the camel, Mount Vernon's strangest --- and most adorable --- holiday tradition.

Washington's Roots

See where the president spent his earliest years when you visit Ferry Farm.

Mall Madness

Slam that laptop shut and shop in-person this holiday season.

Flying High

The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center celebrates its 20th anniversary this month.

Datebook

Deck the Mantel

Nothing says happy holidays better than a festive fireplace.

Past Meets Present

This remodel incorporates heirlooms and brings an outdoor feel inside.

In the Spirit

This decked out Loudoun County home heralds the season.

Macaron Mania

One Reston woman's obsession led her to a new career baking delectable treats.

Savor the Season

These tasty treats will make perfect holiday presents for anyone on your list.

Aegean Eats

Smyrna Restaurant in Hayfield serves unpretentious delights from seaside Anatolia.

Darcy Kuemper

The Saskatchewan native, 33, is playing in his second season between the pipes for the Washington Capitals. We talked with him about the team's new coach, why he came to Washington, and what it's like to face an Alex Ovechkin slapshot.