
By Lynn Norusis and Aaron Royce
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated since it appeared in print to reflect more sales happening this summer.
Stroll the quaint downtown streets and pick up deals on local artisan wares.
Workhouse Art Center Second Saturday Art Walk
Nearly 85 resident and associate artists show off their wares in their studios, and patrons also can be entertained by performances ranging from dance, cabaret, comedy, jazz and theater. // Second Saturday each month, 6-9 p.m.
Alexandria’s Sidewalk Sale
Deals of up to 80 percent off are to be had at Alexandria’s Annual Sidewalk Sale. More than 50 boutiques along King Street and in Del Ray will set out their wares during this two-day event. Get your walking shoes ready. // Aug. 12-13
Middleburg Sidewalk Sale
Balloons outside any of the stores along this small town indicate there is a deal to be had during the 11th annual Sidewalk Sale. And after a bit of retail therapy, take in the sounds of The Bluemont Summer Concert featuring the Martinsburg Jazz Orchestra playing on South Madison Street on Saturday, Aug. 5, at 7 p.m. // Aug. 4-6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Bishop Boutique
This Alexandria boutique has already begun its annual summer sale, which starts discounting items at 30 percent off. The discount will be increased as the season continues: 40 percent off began on June 29, 50 percent off begins July 13, and 60 percent off begins Aug. 3.
Bluemercury
Starting June 22 (while supplies last), all clients who spend at least $150 at any of this beauty store’s locations will receive a Summer Essentials Travel Bag. The bag includes a variety of specially curated products like face masks, shampoos and oil treatments.
Botanologica
This garden and home store based in Falls Church will offer a variety of sales for most of the season. From July 6-9, apothecary products (herbal-based products handcrafted locally in small amounts) will be on sale. From July 13-16, plants will be on sale. Indoor and outdoor containers will be on sale from July 20-23. Discounts will close out after a final sale July 27-30, which features gardening supplies like gloves, seeds, growhouses and various gardening tools.
Crystal Boutique
This Arlington boutique will sell summer pieces for up to 80 percent off.
Red Barn Mercantile
This charming Alexandria home goods store will have an upholstery sale for the entire month of August, featuring 10 percent off already discounted Cisco Brothers special order upholstery furniture. It will also take part in Tax-Free Weekend in the Old Town Boutique District, where (from Aug. 4-6) participating stores will pay for all of their customers’ sales tax. Along with other Alexandria stores, Red Barn will be part of the annual Alexandria Sidewalk Sale from Aug. 12-13.
The Shoe Hive
This beloved Alexandria shop will have its summer sale of 30 percent off, which will increase to 50 percent off on July 14 and 60 percent off on July 28 until Aug. 9. There will also be a 50 percent off sale on select jewelry, accessories and handbags from Aug. 9-13, which is also part of Alexandria’s annual summer Sidewalk Sale.