Hey, y’all. It’s Amie.

There’s just something absolutely magical about a December snow. This morning, Colton and I looked out of our upstairs window and watched the tiny flakes fall. It was too sparse for anything to accumulate where we live, but seeing the wintry mix filled us with the Christmas spirit. 

And, admittedly, the sight definitely influenced today’s lead story! I’m snow glad you’re here. 

The Floyd Country Store serves a variety of classic ice cream and soda treats. (The Soda Fountain/Floyd Country Store)

By Dogwood Staff

Here’s what you need to know: If you’ve got a case of cabin fever, we’ve got just the antidote for you. While temperatures plunge throughout Virginia, that doesn’t mean the fun grinds to a halt.

Our top picks:

• Massanutten Resort is a 6,000-acre mountain resort located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. In addition to slopes for skiing and tubing, the resort also has an ice skating rink. The property has 80 skiable acres, with 23 runs that are serviced by seven lifts.

• Located in Norfolk, Thrift Store USA is more like a thrift mall! This thrift has such a large location and selection that it serves everyone in the area. They sell everything from men’s, women’s, children’s, and baby clothes to glassware and household appliances.

• The Soda Fountain, located next to the Floyd Country Store, serves a variety of classic ice cream and soda treats, from specialty floats to milkshakes and sundaes. The ingredients are sourced locally, and the nostalgic setting is designed to celebrate the American soda fountain tradition, complete with an L-shaped counter reminiscent of 1950s drugstores.

Want more fun ideas? Find your winter wonderland wishlist at the link below.

Arlington residents await results for the “Name That Plow!” competition. (WoodysPhotos/Shutterstock)

By Sam Cohen

While the nomination process ended on Nov. 30, now the real fun begins—waiting for the big reveal. 

Last year, over 1,200 responses were submitted to Arlington County’s beloved “Name that Plow!” competition before a few dozen monikers were officially selected, including “Taylor Drift,” “Mr. Plow,” “Saline Dion,” and “Plowy McPlowface.”

The Department of Environmental Services (DES) will review the submissions and select around 60 snowplow names this year. Residents will be able to see and keep track of the newly named machinery throughout the winter on the snow and ice map found here.

More than 1.5 million lights illuminate Norfolk Botanical Garden during the Garden of Lights event. (Norfolk Botanical Garden)

By Aila Boyd

Have you explored the  Garden of Lights? More than 1.5 million lights come together to make the Norfolk Botanical Garden sparkle during this special holiday event. A variety of festive food vendors will be on-site.

Member tickets are $15 for children ages 2-12 and $24 for adults on value nights (premium night tickets and non-member tickets cost extra). The final day of the event is Jan. 4.

You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:

Dogwood / COURIER Newsroom
611 Pennsylvania Ave. SE
Washington, DC 20003-4303

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or  from this list.