While it may not be snowing in Alexandria (yet), there are igloos in the courtyard at The Alexandrian Hotel again.
The igloos are one of a few unique winter drinks and dining experiences available this year in Alexandria. Here are a few spots to hit this winter before the opportunities melt away.
Igloos at The Alexandrian
The pop-up igloos at The Alexandrian are back by popular demand and have become an annual "This year we're bringing you an experience like none other with themed interiors that will leave your followers wishing they were there!" according to the hotel. "When making your reservation choose between one of our four themed igloos: Gingerbread, Ski Haus, Under the Northern Lights, or Elf Village!"
The igloos are heated and first appeared at The Alexandrian in 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the popularity endures even as concerns about COVID are lower. Weekend dinner reservations are $100 and have a $200 food-and-beverage minimum; weekday dinners and weekend brunch are less expensive. Reserve an igloo here. The hotel is in the 400 block of King Street in Old Town Alexandria.
Hotel Heron's Francis Hall - A Christmas Story
Hotel Heron’s has transformed its Francis Hall into a cozy, warm Christmas bar for the month of December. The cocktail bar is open from 5 - 11 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, and this month features seasonally-influenced cocktails.
"Join us for a magical holiday experience inspired by the classic tale, A Christmas Story! Immerse yourself in the nostalgia of the season as we transform our space into a cozy winter retreat filled with festive decor, themed drinks, and holiday cheer," according to the hotel, which opened earlier this year at 699 Prince St. The pop-up decor will remain up through Dec. 26.
Joy on the Avenue
The seasonally-rotating pop-up bar in Del Ray has flipped for Christmas. Joy on the Avenue, at 2312 Mt. Vernon Ave. The HomeGrown Restaurant Group effort has brought several seasonal pop-up bars in the past few years, including the Halloween Nightmare on the Avenue and other seasonal favorites.
The holiday-themed pop-up bar will be open through Jan. 5 with seasonally-themed drinks and bites, including Buddy the Elf Sliders and Whoville's Cranberry and Brie Bites.