7 Activities to Ring in Spring in Virginia
Spring is the time of plans and projects. ― Leo Tolstoy
The enchanting realm of springtime in Virginia, where nature awakens from its wintry slumber, painting the landscape with vibrant hues and breathing new life into the air… As the days grow longer and the sun's warmth graces us once more, there's an undeniable sense of renewal and possibility that permeates the air. In this blog post, I invite you to join me on a journey through seven of my favorite activities to celebrate the arrival of spring in the Old Dominion. From leisurely strolls amidst blooming fields to quaint picnics in picturesque vineyards, each experience promises to immerse you in the beauty and charm of this magical season. So, let us embark together on this adventure, as we embrace the joys of springtime in Virginia and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Dog Walks Alongside Country Fields
Is there anything more inspiring than a quiet dog walk on a crisp, spring morning surrounded by fields scattered with crocuses and snowdrops, the sound of little newborn lambs in the distance, and a warm mug of tea in hand? Perhaps not! While I have learned to embrace the beauty of each season and my two standard poodles have been a wonderful forcing function for getting outside, there is few times of the year that I enjoy my dog walks more than during the spring months in Virginia. There are so many lovely spots to take your pup outside in Virginia beyond your backyard or neighborhood… I adore the countryside in and around Charlottesville, as well as the many walking paths available in the state’s historic battlefields.
Spring Cleaning
Ah, spring cleaning, a rejuvenating ritual that breathes new life into the home! There's something utterly inspiring about bidding farewell to the remnants of winter and welcoming the freshness of spring with open arms. I relish the opportunity to transform my living space into a sanctuary of renewal. Out go the heavy fabrics and somber hues of winter, replaced by the airy elegance of oat-colored linens that exude warmth and comfort. Spring flowers, in all their vibrant splendor, find their place throughout the house, infusing each corner with the delicate fragrance of renewal. And as I turn over my wardrobe, bidding adieu to winter coats and woolen sweaters (admittedly with just a touch of sadness — oh, how I love my winter coats!), I embrace the lightness of spring fashion, eager to don lighter hues and breezy fabrics that mirror the blossoming beauty of the season. Truly, spring cleaning is not merely a chore but a celebration of transformation, an ode to the invigorating spirit of renewal that permeates every aspect of our lives.
Planning the Garden and Planting Seeds
Speaking of inspiring, spring cleaning doesn’t have to be limited to your home! I find the springtime the perfect time to plan a refresh outside as well. In addition to planting beautiful, seasonal annual flowers in the pots on my deck, I also love to stroll around my local garden shops to develop inspiration and begin planning my garden for the summer. This past year, we invested in four large garden boxes where I can’t wait to get planting! I’m looking forward to having one box each dedicated to herbs and cut flowers, and I fully intend to have a trug-full of zucchini and tomatoes available to me throughout the summer months for pasta dishes, to serve alongside fish and seafood, and to enjoy in salads every day. Between early February and mid-March is the perfect time to start your seeds indoors in Zone 7a (Johnny’s Selected Seeds has a very helpful seed-starting date calculator here).
Outdoor Picnics in Virginia Wine Country
As the weather warms and the promise of drier days beckons, indulging in an outdoor picnic at a local winery emerges as a quintessential springtime delight. Picture it: nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant vineyards, a picturesque tableau unfolds. Here, amidst nature's splendor, one can savor the simple joys of life. A wicker basket brimming with delights awaits – creamy brie cheeses adorned with succulent apricots and melons, a symphony of flavors perfectly complementing the crisp, refreshing notes of a lovely rosé procured from the very winery itself. The panoramic views of new life being breathed into the vineyards evoke a sense of awe and wonder. In this idyllic setting, time seems to stand still, allowing for moments of pure bliss and tranquility amidst the embrace of nature's bounty. A few of my favorite wineries to bring a picnic and spend a lovely afternoon with my husband and dogs are Otium Cellars in Purcellville, Barrel Oak Winery in Delaplane, Cana Vineyards in Middleburg, and The Winery at La Grange in Haymarket.
Seasonal Shop at Messick’s Farm Market
Oh, how I love pottering around Messick’s Farm Market and exploring all of the lovely jams, chutneys, salad dressings, and snacks! While I could spend every week at Messick’s shopping, I find it particularly exciting when I’m inspired by the season ahead. With the weather warming up, it’s the perfect time to start flipping through cookbooks and food blogs to find inspiration for seasonal recipes, and Messick’s is the perfect place to find a lovely apricot jam or strawberry salad dressing to pair with your spring fare.
Cozy Date Nights at Home
As the warmer weather and sunnier afternoons grace us with their presence, there's an undeniable allure to cozy date nights at home in spring. With nature itself providing the perfect backdrop, why venture out to a fancy restaurant when you can craft a more intimate and personalized evening right in the comfort of your own abode? It's an opportunity to infuse a touch of seasonal charm into every detail, from meticulously planning a delectable menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients to adorning the table with elegant linens, gleaming stemware, and a bouquet of tulips or peonies that exude the essence of springtime romance. And as the evening unfolds, what could be more delightful than snuggling up under a couple of comfy blankets on the deck, savoring each other's company amidst the crisp, invigorating air with a glass of champagne in hand? Indeed, in the embrace of spring, every moment becomes an enchanting tableau of warmth, intimacy, and unwavering affection.
Middleburg Spring Races
Mark your calendars for April 20th! The Middleburg Spring Races—an exquisite springtime affair that beckons with its timeless charm and vibrant energy. It's a splendid occasion to don one's finest attire, adorned in the delightful hues and patterns of the season, as one joins fellow revelers amidst the picturesque countryside. Here, amidst the thrill of the races and the lively atmosphere, one can bask in the beauty of nature's awakening, spending cherished moments outdoors, surrounded by the sights and sounds of springtime in all its glory. The Middleburg Spring Races stand as a testament to the enchanting allure of spring, offering a delightful escape into a world of elegance, excitement, and timeless tradition.
