Dozens of volunteers in Alexandria will be recognized next month for their contributions to the community last year.

Eighty-five honorees have been announced in Volunteer Alexandria’s annual awards program, Volunteers are the Heart of Alexandria, happening Thursday, March 12. The nonprofit, a top coordinator of volunteer services in the city, recorded more than 112,000 service hours in 2025 from over 4,260 volunteers — an estimated value exceeding $3.8 million.


Meet Spike, a happy dog at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria who is full of energy.

The three-year-old furry friend weighs 49 pounds and is known by his distinctive tri-colored coat “and a personality that can’t be beat,” an AWLA volunteer told ALXnow.


A festive afternoon of Irish dancing, pipe bands and emerald-green outfits and decorations is returning soon to Old Town.

The Ballyshaners‘ 43rd annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade is expected to draw thousands of spectators to celebrate alongside a lineup of performers and community organizers. Local dignitaries plan to kick off festivities at noon Saturday, March 7, with the parade stepping off at 12:30 p.m.


Crooked Beat Records is reopening at its location on Mount Vernon Avenue with limited hours through the end of April, the store announced yesterday (Monday) on social media.

The store at 2417 Mount Vernon Avenue closed after flooding on Jan. 11, and has since been selling merchandise at pop-ups. The store plans to reopen Thursday, Feb. 26, and will remain open on Thursdays from 3-6:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 1:30-6:30 p.m. and Sundays from 1-5:30 p.m.


After being open for less than a year, a Japanese restaurant in an Arlandria shopping center has merged with a fusion restaurant two doors down.

Signs on the window of the Sake Express Japanese Hibachi (3827 Mount Vernon Avenue) direct customers to get their favorite dishes at the Vietnamese-Japanese fusion restaurant 2D Noodles, which serves pho, sushi, and now, hibachi dishes.


Eight Alexandria artists have advanced as finalists in the 37th annual Wammie Music Awards, as competition narrows down in the regional program.

Several musicians made the cut from Alexandria’s initial 14 nominees, receiving 12 finalist nominations for their work across multiple genres, including hip-hop, pop, funk and more. Winners will be announced during this year’s live awards show on Saturday, March 28, at D.C.’s Capital Turnaround.


Meet Drako, a one-year-old pup at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria who is ready to explore the world with a new family.

Drako “would be a lovely companion on weekend road-trips and sniffy neighborhood walks,” an AWLA volunteer wrote. He’s also confident and easygoing around other dogs, and “never passed on making a new friend,” according to his pet profile.


A new wellness studio is expected to open this spring in Alexandria’s Braddock neighborhood.

The property at 800 N. Henry Street has undergone significant renovations to accommodate a new, 2,400-square-foot “KALM Studio.” The studio will feature three private saunas and a communal sauna, with plans to also host yoga and Pilates classes for up to 12 clients.


After nearly seven years in business, Whiskey & Oyster is set to close at the end of the month.

“Mango” Mike Anderson of the Homegrown Restaurant Group told ALXnow he did not renew his lease at 301 John Carlyle Street. The restaurant’s last day is Saturday, Feb. 28.


Flavor, fundraising and friendly competition are coming to Del Ray with the return of the Del Ray Chili Cook Off this month.

The annual culinary competition by the Del Ray Citizens Association is open to individual and team entries from Del Ray residents. It will kick off at 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28 in the gymnasium at Commonwealth Academy.


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