We’re bringing this week’s newsletter to you together with:
Hi Neighbor,
Welcome to November! With Halloween wrapped up, holiday décor is already popping up around town (and I’m totally here for it).
Del Ray coasters
Del Ray coaster samples arrived over the weekend and I am so excited to share them with you. Our neighborhood deserves its own coasters.
My dad and I both started collecting coasters a few years ago. We gift them to each other for different places we’ve been. It’s fun to do together. Plus, sometimes Dad gifts can be hard. Coasters are such a useful, fun, meaningful gift.
For Dads, and also for anyone that drinks out of a glass. Significant other, teachers, clients, housewarming, white elephant…
We’ve got two options: slate and ceramic. Originally I thought I’d narrow it down to one, but we could possibly do a set of two — one of each. Kind of loving the set especially as a gift idea. But don’t let me sway you. What would you choose?
Your vote counts.
While you’re voting for things…Tuesday is Election Day. This is a powerful opportunity to make your voice heard on national issues that impact us all. Local polls are open all day, so there’s time to cast your ballot.
Afterward, enjoy a stroll around Del Ray — many local shops and cafés typically have Election Day treats and specials to keep the spirit going.
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. Congratulations to Paris V. and Sadie A., the winners of last week’s giveaway from Commonwealth Joe Coffee Roasters! Stay tuned for the next one.
P.P.S. Want to add or feature an event? Submit it here.
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Monday, November 3
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.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.Friends of the Duncan Library Monthly Board Meeting, 6pm-8pm at James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave.
Join the Friends of Duncan Library to learn about upcoming programs, fundraising efforts, and how to get involved. Meetings are open to the public and held in the Beth Patridge Meeting Room.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 4
Bilingual Storytime / Cuentacuentos Bilingüe, 4pm-4:30pm at James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave.
Enjoy stories told in both English and Spanish during this bilingual storytime. Perfect for families interested in language learning and cultural connection.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.Beer Yoga, 7pm‑8pm at Port City Brewing Company, 3950 Wheeler Ave.
A 45‑minute yoga class followed by a pint of beer.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.Historic Committee Monthly Meeting, 7:30pm-9pm via Del Ray Citizen’s Association Zoom.
Contact historic@delraycitizen.net for the link
Neighbors tell each other about fun things.
Del Ray is such a supportive community with so many fun things to do! Loop in your friends and neighbors by clicking the ‘refer a friend’ button below so you can all enjoy these activities together.
Wednesday, November 5
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.Autumn Dollar Wine Tasting, 5pm–8pm at Planet Wine, 2004 Mt Vernon Ave.
Celebrate fall with budget-friendly favorites from both the Old and New Worlds. A value-packed tasting to welcome November.Game Night, 6pm-9pm at The Company of Books, 2200 Mt Vernon Ave.
New players are always welcome. Bring a favorite game or try theirs—from classics like Scrabble and Clue to modern hits like Wingspan.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.Create Your Own Vintage Jewelry Tree, 6:30pm–8:30pm at Stardust Vintage & Gift, 1904 Mt Vernon Ave.
Design a sparkling keepsake jewelry tree using vintage brooches, beads, and gems—perfect for gifting or holiday décor. All materials and tools provided.Monthly Meditation, 7pm-8pm online via Zoom.
Unwind with a free guided meditation session led by Yoga in Daily Life’s David Kosar. Open to all levels and held on the first Wednesday of each month.Parks Committee Meeting, 7:30pm-8:30pm via Del Ray Citizen’s Association Zoom.
Contact parks@delraycitizen.net for details.Open Mic Night, 8:30pm-10pm at No. 9 Lounge, 2000 Mt Vernon Ave.
Join this bi-monthly open mic night featuring local talent at Evening Star Café’s No. 9 Upstairs Lounge.
Thursday, November 6
Thursday Afternoon Book Discussion: The Berry Pickers, 1:30pm-2:30pm at James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library, 2501 Commonwealth Ave.
Join fellow readers for coffee, treats, and a discussion of The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters. Copies of the book are provided by the Friends of Duncan Library.Nerdy Knotters: Fiber Craft Group, 6pm-7:30pm 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.Free Beer Tasting, 6pm-8pm 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.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 The Loft at Lena’s, 401 E Braddock Rd.
Enjoy live music in The Loft 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.Aslin Trivia Night, 7pm at Aslin Beer Co., 847 S. Pickett St.
Grab a beer and team up for this free trivia night hosted by Cap City Trivia—prizes awarded and bragging rights on the line.Micky Dolenz of The Monkees: Songs & Stories, 7:30pm at The Birchmere, 3701 Mt Vernon Ave.
Experience a night of music and memories with Micky Dolenz as he shares stories and songs from his time with The Monkees. A unique evening celebrating pop history.
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
67 🌡️ 46 | ⛅ | 24%
Tuesday
64 🌡️ 41 | ⛅ | 1%
Wednesday
73 🌡️ 49 | ⛅ | 3%
Thursday
62 🌡️ 40 | ☀️ | 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’s doing No-Shave November.
See you around the neighborhood,
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