Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
When it comes to beating the summer heat, few things compare to the creamy, sweet indulgence of a delicious scoop of ice cream.
In Fairfax County, residents and visitors alike are spoiled for choice when it comes to ice cream parlors. From classic flavors to innovative creations, there’s something for everyone. Join us as we explore the top ice cream spots in Fairfax County, where you can cool off and satisfy your sweet tooth.
1. Woody’s Ice Cream (City of Fairfax): Is a beloved local gem known for its exceptional ice cream. Using only the finest ingredients, they craft creamy and delicious flavors that cater to all tastes. From timeless classics to unique specialties (smores is my fav), Woody’s offers an unforgettable ice cream experience.
2. Peterson’s Ice Cream Depot (Clifton): Is housed in a charming train depot building. Their old-fashioned ice cream is made on-site and features delightful flavors like black raspberry, butter pecan, and mint chocolate chip. Enjoy your cone while watching the trains go by.
3. Dolcezza Gelato (Mosaic): Bringing a touch of Italy to Fairfax County, Dolcezza Gelato in Fairfax offers artisanal gelato made from scratch using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. With flavors like honey lavender, Thai coconut milk, and dark chocolate, each scoop is a taste of pure indulgence.
4. Lazy Mike’s Delicatessen (Falls Church): While Lazy Mike’s Delicatessen is primarily known for its savory deli offerings, they also offer a yummy selection of ice cream to satisfy your sweet tooth. They provide a variety of classic flavors and toppings, ensuring that you can enjoy a delicious dessert alongside their savory offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple cone or a decadent sundae, Lazy Mike’s Delicatessen has a sweet surprise waiting for you.
5. Jeni’s Ice Cream (The Boro): Is an acclaimed artisanal brand known for its exceptional flavors and high-quality ingredients. From classic favorites to innovative creations, every scoop is a delicious adventure. With a commitment to sustainability and a vibrant atmosphere, Jeni’s offers a memorable ice cream experience that leaves you wanting more.
Fairfax County is a haven for ice cream lovers and these 5 spots deliver the sweetest scoops in town. From traditional delights to innovative masterpieces, get ready for an unforgettable ice cream journey. So grab a spoon, your friends and family and dive into a world of frozen delights.
Your taste buds will thank you!
Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Welcome to The View Alexandria by Goodwin LivingTM, where people age 62 and over enjoy senior living at its best.
Conveniently located in the West End of Alexandria, The View Alexandria is the newest community to join the Goodwin Living family. Nonprofit and faith-based, Goodwin Living has been uplifting the lives of older adults since 1967.
Location Is Everything
Nestled in the hills overlooking Washington, D.C., on a beautiful seven-acre campus, The View Alexandria has breathtaking views of the city from its top floors and offers special excursions to the city’s many attractions. This mission-driven community offers a value-priced rental contract for independent living, assisted living and future long-term care, if needed — all conveniently located on one campus.
Campus Highlights
The campus of The View Alexandria has abundant amenities and community spaces to enjoy. Residents can stroll along walking paths through the gardens, enjoy restaurant-style dining, pick out a favorite book in the library, work out in the fitness room, express themselves in the creative arts center or simply relax in the privacy of their own comfortable home. From well-appointed studios to spacious two-bedroom apartments, there are options to fit every lifestyle and budget.
Best of all are the welcoming neighbors who quickly become friends. As one resident said, “What I like about The View Alexandria is that it is large enough to have so many activities, yet small enough that you really get to know people.”
Right now, you can take advantage of limited-time move-in specials. Learn more at 703.454.8946 or TheViewAlexandria.org.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
People who love their work are more likely to be happy, healthy, and optimistic. That’s good news for Helen Fall of Annandale, whose passion for music and teaching has translated into a fulfilling career.
If you’ve attended local symphony performances, you’ve likely heard Helen. She’s played viola in the Fairfax Symphony for 30 years, the Alexandria Symphony for nearly 32 years, and the Arlington Symphony (where she served as principal viola for 20 years). “The two symphonies (Fairfax and Alexandria) occasionally have conflicting dates for performances, so I have to choose between them,” Helen says. She has also performed in numerous chamber ensembles, including Argonne String Quartet and Fairfax Chamber Ensemble, and has been engaged as a soloist. But her passion is teaching young violin and viola students.
“I know so many people who are excited about retirement, but I don’t see myself stopping,” Helen says. “I’m so excited by what I do.” In fact, she and her husband Bob are preparing for a move next spring to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better that is opening in 2024 in Tysons. After the move, Helen will continue to work: “We’re moving into a large two-bedroom apartment, and one bedroom will be my music studio so I can continue teaching,” she says.
Moving to The Mather “was an easy decision,” according to Helen. “We thought it looked perfect — we’re moving in younger than we had planned, but we can’t pass this up — the opportunity to live in a new building, in a community like this. We’d talked about moving to D.C. to be close to everything.” She hopes to get together with other musicians living at The Mather. “Some of us have been in contact already, and are talking about playing together.”
In the meantime, Helen has a full schedule. Her summers are busy, as she works with high school students to get them ready for regional auditions at the beginning of the school year.
As of spring 2023, she has 14 students, though she tries to cap the number at 12. “I’m really proud of my students — they’re amazing kids. I get to see each of them every week for years; it’s almost like being a parent. One student who just graduated high school has been with me for nine years!”
Helen also does a lot of freelance coaching in high schools. All area schools have to perform in district assessments each year — their orchestra, band, and choir — where they are rated. “I’m hired by individual teachers to coach their sectionals,” she explains. “I do quite a bit of this type of coaching. Like a lot of musicians, I juggle a little of this and a little of that — there’s a wonderful energy to it.”
Her passion for teaching, coaching, and playing music prove that in building her life’s work, Helen is hitting all the right notes.
The Mather in Tysons, VA, for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be. It opens in 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Red alert! Reston Station is filling a Blank Space in your summer plans!
Grab your Cardigan and Run to Reston Metro Plaza on Monday, July 3 for a FREE, LIVE, tribute concert to Taylor Swift from 7-9 p.m.
Missed the Eras Tour? Bring your friends, trade the friendship bracelets, and enjoy the next best thing! Playing songs from every Taylor Swift album, this is a show that will make Sparks Fly and have you feelin’ like you’re 22 all over again.
Come early or Stay, Stay, Stay late for dinner and drinks at one of the incredible restaurants on the Plaza including, Matchbox, Founding Farmers, Davio’s, Big Buns and Sweet Leaf. Also, enjoy three hours of free parking in the ParkX garage with validation.
However you Dress, come in Style… Bejeweled and Gorgeous! This is sure to be a night you’ll remember All Too Well.
To learn more about this and other events at Reston Station, visit, restonstation.com/events.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA, D.C. and MD with McEnearney Associates in Vienna. You can follow Laura on Instagram at @LauraSchwartzRealtor or her Facebook page. Laura can be reached at 703-283-6120 or [email protected].
Summer in Vienna means lots of opportunities for community gatherings and entertainment. Remember lots of this is weather dependent and anything on the Town Green means you should bring your own blanket or lawn chair.
Summer Movie Series: 8:30 p.m. movies on the Town Green with free water and popcorn while supplies last!
- July 13: Finding Nemo
- August 3: Sing 2
- August 10: Luca
Chillin’ on Church: Food trucks, local beer and wine, music, and family friendly activities from 6:30-9:30 p.m.
- July 21, August 18, and September 15
Independence Day Fireworks on July 2nd: (see my previous post for tips on this!)
Kids on the Green: Tuesday morning program lasting 30-45 minutes for kids on the Town Green. The schedule is online but entertainment ranges from a magic show to music and storytelling.
Stories and Sprinklers: Wednesdays on the Town Green at 1 p.m., which includes book reading and sprinklers on the patio behind the Freeman Store. Starts this Wednesday, June 28 and goes until July 26.
Summer on the Green Concert: Free summer concerts Fridays at 6:30 p.m. on the Town Green. Check the website for the band of the week.
Don’t forget about Summer Dollar Days at Cocoa Vienna! Each day they have a $1 treat special:
- Monday: Chocolate Dipped Pretzel
- Tuesday: Chocolate Dipped Strawberry
- Wednesday: Deal of the Day
- Thursday: Chocolate Dipped Banana
- Friday: Chocolate Dipped Oreo
Nottoway Nights: Free Thursday evening concerts at 7:30 p.m. at Nottoway Park. Check the website for bands of the week.
Starr Hill Movie Nights at the Perch: Sundays at 6 p.m. outdoor family-friendly movies, also free!
- July 2: The Sandlot
- July 9: The Goonies
- July 16: Cool Runnings
- July 23: Back to the Future
- July 30: Shrek
Starr Hill also has free live music every day in June at various times. Check their Facebook page for specific dates and times.
Mosaic District: Films in the Park is a free summer movie series on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. through August 17:
- June 29: In and Out
- July 6: Top Gun: Maverick
- July 13: Fast X
- July 20: Puss In Boots
- July 27: Ticket in Paradise
- August 3: Super Mario Bros. Movie
- August 10: Moana
- August 17: E.T.
Cartoons and Coffee: Saturday morning cartoons are back! Saturdays at Strawberry Park in Mosaic from 9-11 a.m.
Mosaic also offers a free concert series on Saturdays at 6 p.m. through August 19. Check their website for band and weather updates.
The Boro also has a stage for live outdoor concerts presented with Arts on the Horizon.
- June 29: 10:30 a.m.
- June 30: 10:30 a.m.
- July 1: 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
As well as Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. through August 24.
The Boro also has Sandlot Cars and Coffee which is a car show at 11 a.m. on July 9 and August 13.
If you’re into baseball — make sure you come support the 12’s All Star Teams as they begin their District 4 games. Last year the American team won the Tournament of State Champions and we’re hoping they go far this year too.
Here’s the schedule for the American League team:
- July 1 at Great Falls (Nike Field) 10 a.m.
- July 3 at McLean 7 p.m.
- July 5 at Vienna Little League 7 p.m.
- July 6 at Vienna Little League 7 p.m.
Here’s the schedule for the National League team:
- July 1 at Vienna Little League 10 a.m.
- July 2 at Reston at 2 p.m.
- July 5 at Vienna Little League at 7 p.m.
- July 6 at Reston at 7 p.m.
You can follow along on Instagram at @Vienna_American_BigRedMachine.
Last thing I’ll mention… did you know the Boro has a Pickleball League AND a Cornhole League? Pickleball is full, but keep that on your radar for future opportunities. You can still register for Cornhole!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
Fairfax County has so much to offer the outdoor lover.
In this video you will see first-hand that the running trails are definitely at the top of the list!
Each trail has its uniqueness from easy accessibility to the benefit of getting long training runs for those marathoners (or ironmen).
Join us as we talk all things running — even a few tips.
Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
1st Stage is thrilled to announce the extension of their electrifying production, The Last Match, due to overwhelming demand from audiences. Theater lovers now have even more opportunities to experience this enthralling drama through Sunday, July 2.
Written by the heralded playwright Anna Ziegler, The Last Match delves into the gripping world of professional tennis, where two tennis legends clash in an epic battle of skill, ego, and personal sacrifice. Ziegler’s razor-sharp dialogue and insightful exploration of human nature have struck a chord with theatergoers, resulting in sold-out performances and rave reviews.
Directed by 1st Stage Artistic Director Alex Levy, the production shines with its dynamic staging and exceptional performances. The skilled ensemble cast brings the complexities of their characters to life, immersing the audience in the intense emotional journey of these tennis icons. From exhilarating victories to crushing defeats, the stage pulsates with raw energy, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats until the final point.
1st Stage, known for its commitment to artistic excellence, has created a truly immersive experience. The impeccable design by renowned artists Jessica Alexandra Cancino (set), Alberto Segarra (lights), Kenny Neal (sound), Danielle Preston (costumes) and Cindy Jacobs (props) transports theatergoers onto center court, where every serve and volley feels palpable.
Tickets for the extended performances of The Last Match are selling rapidly, so don’t miss your chance to witness this gripping tale of ambition and rivalry before the production closes on July 2.
Get your tickets now at 1stStage.org!
Photos by Teresa Castracane Photography
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA, D.C. and MD with McEnearney Associates in Vienna. You can follow Laura on Instagram at @LauraSchwartzRealtor or her Facebook page. Laura can be reached at 703-283-6120 or [email protected].
I’m not a golfer myself, unless it involves Angry Birds at Top Golf.
That said, my kids seem to enjoy the idea of learning how to play golf so I’m going to put together a list of places that are great for kids learning how to play and open to the public without requiring memberships.
Par 3
- Oak Marr Golf Center — A 9 hole course with online availability to reserve a tee time. They also have a great covered driving range if you’re just looking to hit a bucket.
- Virginia Golf Center — A 9 hole course on a first come, first serve basis. Located in Clifton. Adults are $20, kids under 16 are $15 and they give discounts for military, law enforcement officers and teachers.
- Burke Lake Golf Center — An 18 hole course that’s still par 3. Like Oak Marr and other Fairfax County golf courses, you can reserve a tee time online.
- Sterling Golf Club — An 18 hole course that’s still par 3. You can reserve a tee time online too.
If you’re looking to start with mini golf, here’s a reminder of options for local Mini Golf courses:
- Oak Marr (Oakton) — Open noon to 8 p.m.
- The Magic Putting Place (Manassas) — Which is right next to Nathan’s Dairy Bar for fabulous ice cream. Check their Facebook page for daily updates for weather changes.
- Upton Hill Mini Golf (Arlington) — Which also has batting cages and is near Westover, which has Toby’s Ice Cream and many other lunch options.
- Jefferson Falls (Falls Church) — Located near Mosaic. Check the website for openings as they do close sometimes for private events.
Also, places like Reston National Golf Center have camps this summer and throughout the year for kids to learn how to play.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
More than a game, mah-jongg offers opportunities to socialize with other players and is an effective workout for your brain.
“I’ve been playing mah-jongg for about 35 years, and teaching it for about 25,” says Janie Goldberg. “I love the social aspect — it’s just so much fun, and it never gets boring.” Janie and her husband Steve have lived in Telluride, Colorado, for more than 30 years and are deeply involved in the community. In addition to running the Telluride Mountain Mah-Jongg Group, Janie has led the board of the National Historic Landmark known as the Historic Lone Tree Cemetery District since 2014, and was also instrumental in getting the local humane society built. “My husband and I say that since we retired, we work full-time for free,” she jokes.
Despite their deep Colorado roots, Janie and Steve are looking forward to moving to The Mather, a Life Plan Community that is opening in 2024 in Tysons. “We have lots of friends in the D.C. area, and heard about The Mather from one of them,” says Janie. “It made sense to move closer to our family in New York. We wanted a Life Plan Community — it takes the burden away from our family — and Mather has a great reputation. It’s a great location, close to everything, with the Metro nearby, plus we’re hikers, and it’s near some good trails. And we enjoy other stimulating people who have led interesting lives.”
As for mah-jongg, she says, “It’s going to be perfect at The Mather. It really fits the bill of Aging Well.” She’s already offered a class to her future neighbors.
Research shows that people who regularly play mah-jongg can reap a handful of valuable health benefits.
Cognitive workout: Although there are many varieties of mah-jongg played around the world, “American” or “Western “mah-jongg is the version played in all 50 states. Mah-jongg requires concentration, pattern recognition, and strategizing — all of which can strengthen short-term memory and focus. Research shows that it also builds skills in decision-making, and can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. One study showed that mah-jongg players enjoyed the cognitive benefits long after playing!
Social bonds: “The difference between mah-jongg and games like bridge is that mah-jongg is really social — it’s fun, you can laugh if you want to, and you can have the beverage of your choice,” says Janie. These opportunities for social interaction and connection — whether you’re playing with friends or new acquaintances — are great for your overall well-being. The game has been shown to reduce depression.
Stress relief: Any game or pastime you enjoy has a physical effect on the body, reducing stress and inducing relaxation; this has a positive effect on your physical and mental well-being.
Eye-hand coordination: Mah-jongg offers practice in fine motor skills, requiring speed and accuracy in matching tiles.
The good news is that there are ample opportunities to try your hand at mah-jongg. “It’s pretty much taken the country by storm,” says Janie. “You can go anywhere in the US and find a game.”
The Mather in Tysons, VA, for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be. It opens in 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA, D.C. and MD with McEnearney Associates in Vienna. You can follow Laura on Instagram at @LauraSchwartzRealtor or her Facebook page. Laura can be reached at 703-283-6120 or [email protected].
With America’s birthday approaching, it’s really important to remind you that not all of the fireworks actually happen on July 4th, so before you post in one of the Facebook groups asking about the noises, make sure you take note of the days and times so you can plan ahead to attend if that’s your thing!
One other mom tip — the fireworks are really loud. If you have a noise-sensitive kid, either bring headphones, or use one of my other tips to watch but not hear the noise.
The Town of Vienna Fireworks are traditionally held at Yeonas Park (the Vienna Little League Fields). This year, they’ll take place on July 2 at 9:30 p.m. (approx. when it gets dark).
However, there’s a lot of things leading up to the actual fireworks that you can attend: live music, kids entertainment, games, food trucks, etc. starting at 4 p.m. This event is BYOC (bring your own chairs, blankets, etc.). Chairs are not permitted on the actual field, but there is a paved path and sidewalks where you can put the chairs for folks who can’t easily get up and down from the ground. There’s also bleachers but they get filled up. Streets around Yeonas will get closed from 7-11 p.m.
- You can park at Cedar Lane School, Cedar Lane Shopping Center, Thoreau Middle School, Southside Park, etc. and walk to the field if you want to be in the action.
- Please remember if you’re actually AT Yeonas, it WILL be really loud.
- You can also see the fireworks (on a clear night) from the top of the Vienna Metro parking garage and avoid the loudness of the fireworks (plus it’s easy to get out if your kid get bored or agitated)
- You should also be able to see the fireworks from neighboring streets if you can get close to Yeonas.
- Pack snacks. Although the concession stand and food trucks will be available, I suspect the lines will be long.
- No alcohol is allowed.
- Do not bring pets.
Westwood Country Club also does Fourth of July Fireworks traditionally on the 4th at dark. You can also watch those fireworks from the Giant Shopping Center or the streets across from the Club. So far I haven’t seen anything advertising the fireworks this year (and it was canceled last year) but when I called today, I was told they would be on the 4th. You can check their social media for updates!
There are more options around NoVA like July 1st at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston, Langley High School in McLean, etc. Lots of opportunities around town if you’re a fireworks enthusiast!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
