By Eliza Berkon, Winn Duvall, Stefanie Gans, Beth Kellmurray and Lynn Norusis
In the week ahead, Northern Virginia Magazine‘s editors are looking forward to MSNBC host Chris Hayes’ book talk, dinner at Le Refuge and Joan Didion’s new book.
Chris Hayes book talk at Sixth & I
March 21, 7:30 p.m.
Chris Hayes, the host of MSNBC’s weeknight program All in with Chris Hayes, releases his second book, A Colony in a Nation, Tuesday, and it’s a look at the continued prevalence of racial inequality in the U.S.—historically, politically and socially. Hayes’ first book, Twilight of the Elites, was a convincing argument that has held up remarkably well, and his talk at Sixth & I will be an excellent opportunity to hear him expound on his research firsthand. –BK // 600 I St. NW, Washington, DC.
Celebrating spring at Great Falls Park
Today marks the official first day of spring, and the weather is actually following suit with Saturday expected to hit the mid-70s. I’ve lived in Northern Virginia for two years and have seen countless Instagrams of the falls but have yet to experience it in person, so I’ll be kicking off the new season with some time well spent in nature on Saturday. –WD
My husband, whom I love even more than croissants
This week, my darling husband and I celebrate our ninth wedding anniversary, and what better way to luxuriate in our love than to stuff our faces at our favorite French restaurant, Le Refuge? Over some bubbly and salmon en croute, I plan to recite a sonnet or two, or maybe just play a little footsie. –EB // 127 N. Washington St., Alexandria
A look back for the times of today
One of my favorite authors is Joan Didion. And one of my favorite topics to read about is history and how it shapes the world we live in today. These two collide with Didion’s latest release, South and West, as she publishes excerpts of notes taken during the ’70s while on assignment for different publications. The writings can easily swap in for observations of the culture clash and political dynamics of today. –LN
Already thinking about the weekend: Brunch
How to get through Monday? Plan the weekend’s brunch. The new Alta Strada in Mosaic is now offering about a dozen items, many of them egg-free (margherita pizza, shrimp Caesar) for lunch-over-breakfast fans. And Chase the Submarine also recently launched the morning meal with an egg and kimchi rice bowl and a pork belly and egg sandwich. // Alta Strada: 2911 District Ave., Fairfax; Chase the Submarine: 132 Church St. NW, Vienna
Find out more of what’s going on in NoVA this week at our things to do page.