Ready, set, shop
Del Ray sweatshirts and coasters, plus what to do in the neighborhood this week: November 10-13, 2025
We’re bringing this week’s newsletter to you together with:
Hi Neighbor,
I hope you had a great weekend bopping around the markets and activities in the beautiful weather.
Del Ray Merch: Ordering is LIVE
After a unanimous vote in favor of both Del Ray sweatshirts and Del Ray coasters, I’ve been designing, sample testing, and finding the best quality. Today… I’m excited to announce the launch of both the cozy, embroidered Del Ray, Alexandria crewneck sweatshirt and Del Ray coasters.
The sweatshirts
A soft, premium crewneck that’s a must-have for your fall and winter wardrobe.
Timeless navy color, featuring high-quality embroidered creamy white ‘Del Ray, Alexandria’ lettering designed to last. This 50/50 cotton-polyester blend sweatshirt has a soft interior and a warm, classic fit that looks as good as it feels.
It’ll be your new go-to. Get your cozy crew.
The coasters
Our neighborhood deserves its own coasters. I told this story already but ICYMI: My dad and I both started collecting coasters a few years ago. We gift them to each other for different places we’ve been or lived. It’s fun to do together. Plus, sometimes Dad gifts can be hard.
Coasters are a useful, fun, meaningful gift for anyone that drinks beverages. Significant other, family, friends, teachers, clients, housewarming, white elephant…these beautiful coasters are the move.
Each set of two pairs effortlessly with your morning coffee, local craft beer, glass of wine, mocktail, iced water, or whatever you’re sipping.
Choose slate, ceramic, or a mix of both.
Black Friday?
I was going to launch these for Black Friday, but if we wait until then, it cuts it too close to get them created and sent out pre-holidays.
So, shopping starts now. You have until Monday, November 17 to order your sweatshirts and coasters. For yourself, for gifting, to anyone you want to show some Del Ray gratitude.
Then, they’ll all be custom made for us (in the U.S.), and I’ll ship everything out to you in early December.
Oh yeah, and free shipping on all orders $75+. In other words, if you get one sweatshirt and one coaster set, I’ll cover the shipping. Because I love you.
TL;DR — Order deadline: Monday, Nov. 17
Sweatshirts and coasters will ship in early December. Give the gift of Del Ray local joy.
Lots of events and activities to enjoy this week. Let’s dive in. Thank you for being here. Have a great week!
– Rachel Turula
Publisher, Things to do: Del Ray, VA
P.S. Scroll down to enter this week’s staycation giveaway from Hotel Heron.
P.P.S. Want to add or feature an event? Submit it here.
Today’s newsletter is sponsored by Del Ray Landscapes — our go-to for all things landscapes
What better time to transform your outdoor space into a beautiful, inviting retreat! Del Ray Landscapes specializes in creating intentionally biodiverse, stunning gardens, patios, and functional outdoor spaces designed for clients, and their local ecosystems, to thrive.
With a focus on sustainability, Brian and his team use native plants, permeable hardscapes, conservation landscaping to harvest rainwater and craft landscapes that are both beautiful and environmentally friendly. Whether you’re looking to entertain, relax, or enhance your curb appeal, now is the time to start your eco-friendly journey. Make the most of the season and let nature take center stage. Schedule your free consultation today.
Monday, November 10
Baby Time, 10:15am–10:45am & 11:15am–11:45am at the James M. Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave.
Wiggle, scoot and sing during finger‑play and songs for babies ages 0–14 months.Partners in Art (FULL), 2pm-4pm at Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mt Vernon Ave.
Share your goals, techniques, and get feedback on your work in this local art-support group. Feel free to bring one or two pieces, in any medium or stage, for advice and inspiration. Note: The afternoon program is full. Contact Michele Reday Cook if you would like to join the evening program.Cigar Night, 3pm–10pm at Hops N Shine, 3410 Mt Vernon Ave.
Bring your own cigars and relax on the patio; $6 drafts and $5 bottled beers set the mood.Spitfire Book Club (4th–5th Grade), 5pm–6pm at James M. Duncan Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave.
The Spitfire Club is a book club celebrating strong, diverse girl-positive stories. Designed for 4th and 5th grade girls to build confidence, literacy, and community.Adults & Dragons, 5:30pm–7:30pm at James M. Duncan Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave.
Join fellow adventurers for a D&D campaign.Five-Course Wine Pairing Dinner, 6pm at Piece Out Del Ray, 2419 Mt Vernon Ave.
Savor a five-course menu perfectly paired with unique Oregon wines in this special dinner event.Joggers & Lagers, 6:30pm–8pm at Port City Brewing Company, 3950 Wheeler Ave.
Join in for a weekly fun run, then stick around for a beer after.Pour House Trivia, 7pm-9pm at Del Ray Pizzeria, 2218 Mount Vernon Ave.
Enjoy a fun night of Pour House Trivia at Del Ray Pizzeria every Monday. Test your knowledge and compete for prizes in this lively weekly event.
Tuesday, November 11
Between Two Kings Release Party with Lindsay Straube, 6pm–8pm at Elaine’s, 208 Queen St.
Celebrate the steamy sequel to Kiss of the Basilisk with a Q&A, signing, and cocktail hour. Expect danger, romance, and basilisks.Live Music, 6pm-9pm at Lena’s Beer Garden, 401 E Braddock Rd.
Enjoy live music on Tuesdays at Lena’s Beer Garden. The first-come, first-served space has fans, umbrellas, and a dog-friendly vibe.Trivia, 7pm-9pm at The Garden Del Ray, 1503 Mt Vernon Ave.
Gather your team and get ready to put your knowledge to the test.ONLINE: Board of Directors Meeting, 7pm-9pm by the Del Ray Artisans (online).
Active Del Ray Artisan members are welcome to attend the online Board meeting via Zoom.SCOTT BRADLEE’S POSTMODERN JUKEBOX – Magic, Moonlight and Mistletoe Tour, 7:30pm at The Birchmere, 3701 Mt Vernon Ave.
The viral vintage-pop troupe returns with jazzy covers and holiday flair. Dress in your retro best and sing along.
Giveaway time
🎁 GIVEAWAY: Fall Staycation Getaway at Hotel Heron 🍂
Crisp autumn air. Cozy cobblestone strolls. The kind of getaway that feels like a movie, without ever leaving Alexandria.
Spend a night soaking up Old Town charm at Hotel Heron — a boutique escape tucked into the heart of the city. Stylish rooms, rooftop cocktails, and glowing hearthside dinners at their signature restaurant, KILN, make this the fall reset you didn’t know you needed.
Now, Things to do Del Ray, VA and Hotel Heron Alexandria are giving away the ultimate fall staycation—so you can experience the magic for yourself.
✨ The staycation includes:
- 1-night stay at Hotel Heron
- $100 credit toward local fare and wood-fired warmth at KILN
Whether you’re craving a little you-time, a romantic weekend, or a close-to-home adventure, this is your chance to make it happen.
To enter, just refer a friend to Things to do Del Ray using the buttons below. (They include your personal referral code)!
Every referral = an entry. We’ll pick the winner at random and announce them next Monday, November 17. Good luck!
Wednesday, November 12
Whimsical Wednesdays, 10:15am–10:45am and 11:15am-11:45am at James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave.
Join Ms. Venetta and Mr. Josstin for a fun-filled story time with engaging tales perfect for toddlers and siblings. Open floor seating.Kids Storytime and Craft, 11:30am-12:30pm at The Company of Books, 2200 Mt Vernon Ave.
Join local author Ganeya Gajaram for storytime. You’ll read a book or two for the first half hour, and then have a related craft afterward.Spitfire Book Club (K–3rd Grade), 5pm–6pm at James M. Duncan Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave.
A book club for younger girls focused on diverse, girl-positive stories that build confidence and connection. No registration required—just drop in and join the fun.Roll For Initiative: D&D, 5pm-7pm at the James M. Duncan Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave.
Join DM Jacob for another exciting session of Duncan and Dragons. Open to both new and veteran players, this bi-weekly Dungeons & Dragons campaign promises adventure, laughter, and camaraderie. All materials provided.Free Wine Tasting, 5pm–8pm at Planet Wine Shop, 2004 Mt Vernon Ave.
Enjoy a 10% discount on tasting wines to take home.Computer Basics and Resume Classes (En español), 6pm–7:30pm at James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave.
Join this free, five-week course (in Spanish) covering computer fundamentals and resume creation—empowering adults with essential digital skills for everyday life and work.Lost Ladies of Literature: By Grand Central Station I Sat Down and Wept, 6pm-8pm at The Company of Books, 2200 Mt Vernon Ave.
Join the Lost Ladies of Literature Book Club to discuss Elizabeth Smart’s poetic novel By Grand Central Station I Sat Down and Wept. Listen to episode #150 of the podcast ahead of time for added insight.D&D Session, 6pm-9pm at The Company of Books, 2200 Mt Vernon Ave.
Join Dungeons & Dragons at The Company of Books every other Wednesday. New players are welcome. Bring a character if you have one ready-made, or play one they’re pre-created.Trivia Night, 6:30pm-8:30pm at Hops N Shine, 3410 Mt Vernon Ave.
Gather your team for an evening of brain-teasing fun! Patio seating available, arrive early to grab your spot.Membership Meeting, 7pm-8:30pm by the Del Ray Citizens Association.
Via Zoom. Link provided in the Membership Newsletter.Linocut Block Printing Workshop, 7pm-9pm at Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mt Vernon Ave.
Learn how to carve and print your own linocut stamps to make personalized greeting cards. All supplies are included—register by November 8 to reserve your spot.SCOTT BRADLEE’S POSTMODERN JUKEBOX – Magic, Moonlight and Mistletoe Tour, 7:30pm at The Birchmere, 3701 Mt Vernon Ave.
The viral vintage-pop troupe returns with jazzy covers and holiday flair. Dress in your retro best and sing along.
Thursday, November 13
Free Beer Tasting, 5pm-7pm at Market 2 Market, 116 E Del Ray Ave.
Enjoy free beer tastings and browse craft beers and homemade sandwiches for a relaxed, delicious Thursday night.Nerdy Knotters: Fiber Craft Group, 6pm-7pm at the James M. Duncan Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave.
Weekly gathering for both beginners and advanced fiber artists. Whether you need help with a project or just want to knit with others, join in.Duncan Literary Society: Not Your Average Book Club, 6pm–8pm at The Company of Books, 2200 Mt Vernon Ave.
Join fellow book lovers to share what you’re currently reading and leave with a longer to-be-read list. Bring something to write with—recommendations fly fast.Honeymoon Phase Release Party with Amy Daws, 6pm–8pm at The Light Horse, 715 King St.
Celebrate book three in the Mountain Men Matchmaker series with a cozy Q&A and signing. Romance lovers, this one’s for you.Live Music, 6pm-8pm at Rosemont Cellar, 2 E Walnut St.
A wonderful way to spend an evening. Join Rosemont Cellar every Thursday night for live music.Live Music, 6pm-9pm at Havana 151 at Lena’s, 401 E Braddock Rd.
Enjoy live music in Havana 151 every Thursday. Reservations are recommended.Thursday Trivia Night, 6:30pm–8:30pm at Hops N Shine, 3410 Mt. Vernon Ave.
Join the neighborhood trivia night hosted by Pour House Trivia. Free to play—compete for gift cards, merch, and bragging rights.Holiday Table Setting Workshop, 6:30pm–8:30pm at Stardust Vintage & Gift, 1904 Mt Vernon Ave.
Learn to create stunning holiday tables and buffets with floral designer and event planner Amy Eggers. Includes hands-on tips, local floral sourcing, and take-home guides for effortless hosting.Naughty Drag Bingo, 7pm–8:30pm at Del Ray Pizzeria, 2214 Mt. Vernon Ave.
Hosted by MaKayla Starr and Shelita Ramen, this rowdy 18+ night features sass, prizes, and unfiltered drag hilarity.Figure Drawing – Gesture and Short Poses Session, 7pm-9pm at Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mt Vernon Ave.
Drop in to practice drawing from a live nude model with a mix of quick gesture and short poses. Open to all skill levels—bring your own supplies and optional easel.An Evening with COLIN HAY, 7:30pm at The Birchmere, 3701 Mt Vernon Ave.
The Men at Work frontman brings his acoustic storytelling and Aussie wit to the stage. Expect classics, deep cuts, and laughs along the way.
Some extra magic
Need new Christmas lights? Stock up now while they’re on sale. I’m excited just thinking about seeing all the lights.
Baking: Fall and the holidays are when my Kitchenaid mixer gets the most use. If you’ve been considering one, I recommend this one. I have it in red, which happens to be a lower-priced color right now. Homemade goodies, yes please.
Excited for: S’mores! Extra grateful for the Solo Stove so I can toast marshmallows and stay warm & cozy.
As the weather cools, I go into craft mode. I just ordered this handy hot glue gun for a wine cork project. More to come…
My husband has been in his meat-smoker-era. He uses these food-safe gloves to shred and serve pork butt and brisket with ease.
Currently wearing: My go-to, soft stretchy knit plaid button-down shirt—it is fall, after all. The shirt comes in lots of colors and is super comfy.
Sipping: A creamy oatmilk latte. I’m not exaggerating when I say getting a fancy espresso machine has changed my life.
Need a hostess gift? Bake (or buy) a pie and bring it in this lovely ceramic pie plate. Chic, festive, and quite useful.
Plans this winter? How about a romantic cabin getaway just a drive away here.
Things that are free
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Weather
Monday
50 🌡️ 30 | ⛅ | 3%
Tuesday
47 🌡️ 36 | ⛅ | 0%
Wednesday
61 🌡️ 42 | ⛅ | 0%
Thursday
61 🌡️ 37 | ⛅ | 1%
Temperatures sourced from weather.com, updated the night before publication.
THANK YOU!
Thank you for being part of the Things to do Del Ray community! Share this with a neighbor who may like a cozy sweatshirt.
See you around the neighborhood,
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