National

If someone told you the secret to feeling calmer, sleeping better, and lowering stress was something you learned before you could talk, you might roll your eyes. Surely it can’t be that easy. But surprise—it is. The secret is humming.

Nothing says December in Northern Virginia like cruising Meadow Farms’ dazzling light show in Vienna, sipping hot cider at the Reston Town Center tree lighting, or spotting the 20-foot inflatable Santa waving from a Fairfax Station rooftop. From Leesburg’s holiday parade to Old Town Alexandria’s Scottish Christmas Walk, our corner of Virginia goes all in on sparkle, songs, and togetherness every December 25.

Rugby fans across the DMV have something huge to cheer about: Old Glory DC is officially bringing all 2026 home games to George Mason University in Fairfax—and the move promises to energize not just the team, but the entire region. “This is a milestone in our community. The first pro sports team in Fairfax since 1976. When the NASL’s Washington Diplomat played at Woodson High School,” city resident, Chap Petersen continued, “as a long-time rugby player, I am very excited to see OG drop anchor here.”

All through November, the Vienna Police Department is trading their clean-shaven look for facial hair — and it’s all for a powerful cause. For the fifth year, male officers are participating in the Zero Prostate Cancer Grow-and-Give campaign, commonly tied to “No-Shave November,” to raise critical funds and awareness for prostate cancer research. This year’s participation is especially meaningful for the department. Chief Jim Morris noted that Public Information Officer Juan Vazquez lost his father to prostate cancer. “It means a lot to him that we participate every year,” Morris said. While the team always appreciates a win in the fundraising competition, the real goal is much more personal: “raise awareness and keep everyone healthy.”