Jacob DeSimone
Staff Writers
For the last three months, the weather in Alexandria has been ever-changing. From sunny and temperate Sundays to frigid and sloshy Mondays, you might have surmised that the weekly weather predictions have not been trustworthy. Coupled with last week’s daylight savings transition, a new light has been shed on the age-old saying of “nature has a mind of its own.” However, with the vernal equinox just around the corner, Alexandria could finally have a chance at putting the dreadful wintery season behind it. This prolonged chilly climate has taken a mental toll on many, preventing them from socializing and experiencing the outdoors. In this article, you will find three enjoyable ways to spend your time after the spring solstice to take your mind off the past and look forward to the upcoming season.
One of the best ways to decompress is to simply take a walk. The scenery, temperature, and ambiance of Alexandria’s neighborhoods are some of the best in the area during springtime. Whether it be with a partner, pet, or even by yourself, light exercise around the city is entertained by many. Runners take advantage of the weather and can be seen jogging from dawn till dusk.
Another way to enjoy the temperament is to visit three of the most unique enclaves in the region. As the capital of the country, Washington D.C. is only 30 minutes away from Alexandria. With a bustling commercial district, scenic monuments, and a place on numerous bucket lists, a D.C. getaway is a great way to spend a day with family or friends. Check out Theogony staffer Eliza Gwin’s “Spring Fun in Washington D.C.” article to get the most bang for your buck when traveling to D.C. For a more localized excursion, take a look at Del Ray and Old Town. Del Ray has repeatedly proven to be a great place to pass time. With the majority of stores and restaurants facing Mt. Vernon Avenue, you can freely walk up one street while taking in some long-overdue vitamin D. A special tradition of the Del Ray neighborhood is the “First Thursday” event. As the name implies, on the first Thursday of every month, the community hosts a plethora of outdoor activities and festivals to connect with each other as well as support a non-profit. Just east of Del Ray is Alexandria’s historic district, Old Town. With an extensive history, much of the town’s homes and stores have something related to the colonial era. Old Town is a famous location with great food and museums. At the newly renovated waterfront, you can enjoy the views as well as learn more about the town’s past.
Finally, another way to benefit from springtime in Alexandria is to simply take up a new hobby or sport. While it might not be specific to the region, it’s always a good idea to learn new skills or train in new sports. Some sports in particular that are in season are soccer, baseball, lacrosse, and tennis. For less physically-oriented pastimes, think about gardening and cooking, since spring is a season where many good plants are harvested and foods are produced.
