Give back through thrifting
LIFE + CULTURE
HOLIDAY MARKETS FOR HANDMADE TREASURES FROM REGIONAL CREATORS
CHARLOTTESVILLE LOCAL CONTRIBUTES TO THE COMMUNITY
FOOD + BEVERAGE
WINERY CHEF SHARES
HOLIDAY-WORTHY RECIPE
A Season of Giving
With multiple holidays, December is a month of celebration for many and often a time for enthusiastic exchanges of gifts. However, as the year comes to a close it’s also a natural time for reflection, particularly on our impact on those around us. It is with that spirit that we bring to you this issue that highlights some of the many organizations and individuals who are giving back and brightening the lives of community members.
For our feature, we had the opportunity to learn about the amazing work of Twice is Nice, a thrift shop in the heart of Charlottesville. We also spoke with Realtor Jamie Waller about the community service that she and her family participate in. Finally, we’ve rounded up several holiday markets where you can support local artisans and a charity, as well.
As we take the time to reflect on our first year of publishing Charlottesville City Lifestyle, we want to thank all of you for being a part of our launch and for your continued support of the magazine. We are also immensely grateful for all of our incredible partners whose goods and services also contribute to making this community one that we are all proud to call home.
Warmly,
JAMES LISOWSKI, PUBLISHER
@CITYLIFESTYLECHARLOTTESVILLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
James Lisowski | james.lisowski@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Jennifer Waldera | jennifer.waldera@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Michael Clough, Jen Fariello, Natalie Hokanson, Andrew N. Joppich, Frank Murphy, Madeline Otten, Maryury Padilla, Jamie Waller, Barboursville Vineyards, Charlottesville Parks and Recreation, Heart of Virginia Artisans, IX Arts Foundation, Twice is Nice, UVA Health, The Wool Factory
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
Twice is Nice: Thrift With Purpose
This
Must Visit Holiday Markets for Festive Fun
Find
Stew Worth Savoring
Palladio’s
Local
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The Invasion playing at Southwest Mountain Vineyards' One Year Anniversary Celebration and Porsche Event. 2: Attendees of a gelato class hosted by South & Central Latin Kitchen and C-Ville Bites. 3: C-Ville Bites food tour group. 4: Woolly Bully Beer Festival hosted by Selvedge Brewing at The Wool Factory. 5: Inside the Art Lounge of The Looking Glass immersive art museum. 6: Kate Daniels of Blue Ridge ElderCare speaking at Jamie Waller's Speaker Series. 7: Charlottesville Chamber Music Festival event at Old Cabell Hall.
NATALIE HOKANSON
JAMIE WALLER
FOUNDATION
ANDREW N. JOPPICH
MARYURY PADILLA
MARYURY PADILLA
business monthly
UVA Health Orthopedics Receives Multiple Accolades
Newsweek recently ranked UVA Health Orthopedics number 1 in Virginia and 31 on its list of best hospital orthopedic programs in the United States. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report’s 2024-25 “Best Children’s Hospitals” guide ranks UVA Health Children’s pediatric orthopedics program number 46 in the nation.
“I’m so proud of our entire team for earning this national honor,” said Bobby Chhabra, MD, chair of the UVA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery.
Charlottesville Organizing Celebrates 10 Years in Business
Charlottesville Organizing provides Certified Professional Organizing services to Charlottesville and the surrounding counties. Celebrating ten years in business, Charlottesville Organizing has grown to a team of six organizers who can provide a one-on-one approach for personal support while decluttering or downsizing, or several team members can help with larger organizing or relocation packing/unpacking jobs. Call for a free assessment if you need help bringing order to your home.
Program Expansion at The Center for Wellness and Change
The Center for Wellness and Change, LLC was established in 2012 as an innovative approach to mental health and substance use treatment. Individualized care integrates evidence-based medication and psychotherapies to support your journey toward health, recovery, and personal empowerment. Recent program expansion includes a board-certified, general psychiatrist and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. The ketamine program uniquely emphasizes psychotherapy during each session while also offering additional individual and group integration sessions to further enhance ketamine’s positive psychotherapeutic effects.
Photography by UVA Health
Photography by Frank Murphy
Photography by Madeline Otten
Photo Credit: Lavender Dreams VA
Goods for sale at Twice is Nice. Photo Credit: Twice is Nice.
THIS COMMUNITY-DRIVEN THRIFT SHOP SUPPORTS SENIORS AND PROMOTES SUSTAINABILITY IN CHARLOTTESVILLE.
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA
Nestled in the heart of Charlottesville, Twice is Nice is more than just a thrift shop -- it’s a cornerstone of community support in Charlottesville. Since opening in the early 1980s, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization has been making an impressive impact by promoting sustainability and offering clothes, home goods, jewelry, and other items at reasonable prices while using the proceeds to provide essential services to seniors.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TWICE IS NICE
Clothes on racks at Twice is Nice. Photo Credit: Twice is Nice.
“Our goal is to provide a local, affordable place for people to shop while keeping things out of the landfill,” says Lori Woolworth, the Operations Manager at Twice is Nice.
SUSTAINABILITY AND SUPPORT
Twice is Nice embodies the concept of repurpose, reuse, and give back. The shop accepts gently used items and refurbishes them with care. Proceeds fund programs that help seniors, providing support for food insecurity and aging-in-place services, and bringing life-enriching activities like music to assisted living facilities.
“We’ve given over $2 million since we started, and last year alone we contributed $270,000,” Woolworth says. These funds support myriad organizations including Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity, and Well Aware, a group that provides health checks and transportation for seniors in rural areas.
Twice is Nice works closely with The Charlottesville Area Community Foundation (CACF) to responsibly distribute funds where they’re most needed. “We received 38 applications this year, all serving seniors in Charlottesville and surrounding counties,” Woolworth says.
Donations being unloaded from Twice is Nice's van. Photo Credit: Twice is Nice.
“IT’S A HAPPY PLACE... IT HAS A REALLY CHEERFUL VIBE.”
AN EXCEPTIONAL SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Twice is Nice stands out among other thrift shops, not just for its mission, but for the quality of the shopping experience. “We cull, clean, launder, mend, and steam,” Woolworth says. “A lot of attention goes into merchandising and having a friendly staff -- it's just a fun place to be.”
This attention to detail has paid off, with Twice is Nice seeing 87% growth since 2021 and hitting $1.3 million in sales in 2023. Shoppers enjoy well-organized, color-coded displays and friendly customer service, making it a destination for both treasure hunters and regulars.
The shop also makes donating easy, whether you’re dropping items off or scheduling a pickup. “For large pickups, we’ll send our volunteer team to pick things up, particularly for seniors who are downsizing,” says Woolworth.
POWERED BY VOLUNTEERS
The heart of Twice is Nice is its dedicated volunteers. With 123 volunteers contributing to everything from running the registers to picking up and cleaning donations, tagging items, and more, their work is what makes the shop thrive. “About 67% of our operation is run by volunteers,” Woolworth shares.
Volunteer opportunities are flexible, with options ranging from a couple of hours a month to several hours per week. Woolworth says that the shop tries to match volunteers with tasks they enjoy, whether that’s working on the floor, helping with pickups, doing processing or database entry, or writing thank you notes.
LOOKING AHEAD
As the shop continues to grow, Twice is Nice is preparing for its next chapter. “We’re setting aside funds to move -- we’ll be losing the leases on our current locations,” Woolworth says. The organization plans to consolidate its two spots into one and has a capital campaign to do it on the horizon.
Twice is Nice is a vital and thriving part of the Charlottesville community that contributes to the well-being of seniors in Charlottesville as well as Albemarle, Greene, Fluvanna, Nelson, and Louisa counties. By shopping, donating, or volunteering, you can be part of their mission to support seniors and promote sustainability.
“It’s a happy place -- people come in every day. It’s not only an affordable and fun place to shop but it has a really cheerful vibe about it and we’re proud of that.”
Emily Crowfoot, Darci Lieb, and Mary Jane Divine at Twice is Nice. Photo Credit: Twice is Nice.
Staff in front of new van.
Photo Credit: Twice is Nice.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
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Find gifts made by local artisans for family, friends, staff members, or service workers.
Must Visit Holiday Markets for Festive Fun
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Charlottesville Holiday Market
Charlottesville is known for having myriad opportunities to purchase goods from local makers, including its various farmers markets. On Saturdays from November 30 through December 21, those looking for ways to support locals by purchasing holiday or year-end gifts can head to Water Street to find over 100 local vendors. From jewelry and textiles to home decor and woodcrafts, there's no shortage of opportunities to pick up the perfect present. Visitors can also warm up from the inside with hot chocolate and hot food or take home baked goods, confections, produce, and meats.
Saturdays, November 30 - December 21, 9 am-1 pm, 100 E. Water Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Holiday Market at King Family Vineyards
Stop by King Family Vineyards on December 8th for the winery’s day-long event featuring local artisans and a visit with Santa for the little ones. In addition to shopping and taking advantage of photo opportunities with St. Nick, visitors can fill up on food from multiple food trucks or sip on the vineyards’ award-winning wine while soaking in the holiday spirit and taking in the gorgeous mountain views.
Sunday, December 8, 10 am - 4 pm, 6550 Roseland Farm, Crozet, VA 22932
Hazy Mountain Vendor Fair
Find your way to Hazy Mountain Vineyards and Brewery on December 15 for stunning vistas and the opportunity to spend several hours sipping and shopping. Expect to find handcrafted goods, giftable gourmet foods, and holiday decor. The event, co-organized by Heart of Virginia Artisans, will benefit Toys for Tots. The winery and brewery's tasting room also offers an array of food options that range from small plates and shareables like a charcuterie and cheese board, Bavarian pretzel, and meatballs in red sauce to sandwiches, salads, pizzas, flatbread, and ice cream sandwiches.
Sunday, December 15, 11 am - 3 pm, 240 Hazy Mountain Ln, Afton, VA 22920
Holiday goods at the market. Photo Credit: Heart of Virginia Artisans.
Display at Charlottesville Holiday Market. Photo Credit: Charlottesville Parks and Recreation.
Savory Seafood Stew
Palladio’s Executive Chef Michael Clough shares his nostalgic seafood stew.
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL CLOUGH AND BARBOURSVILLE VINEYARDS
During the holiday season, there are some traditional foods that are always a staple at holiday gatherings. But every now and then, it's exciting to add a fresh twist to the spread with a new dish. For inspiration, we reached out to Executive Chef Michael Clough of Palladio Restaurant at Barboursville Vineyards.
Growing up in New England, Chef Clough grew up eating an abundance of fresh seafood. Now, when asked about his favorite dish to make around the holidays, he naturally points to his Seafood Prosecco Cream Stew.
“This dish reminds me of the joy of spending time with family around the holidays and having a warm bowl of stew while reminiscing about all the things that have happened over the past year,” Clough says. “I created this dish to bring a little bit of my memories, and feelings of home, to the dining experience at Palladio Restaurant.”
With fresh clams and oysters, a splash of dry white wine, tender red potatoes, bold pancetta, and vibrant leeks, this Seafood Prosecco Cream Stew is chock-full of flavor. The balanced notes of Barboursville Prosecco add a touch of elegance, and garnishing with fresh chives makes it all the more inviting. Serve it solo, as a starter, or alongside your other classic holiday dishes.
ingredients
• 1 Cup Pancetta (Bacon can be substituted)
• 1/3 Cup Yellow Onions
• 1 Tsp Garlic
• 1/3 Cup Leeks
• 1 Cup Barboursville Vineyards Prosecco
• 3 Cups Clam Juice
• 2 Cups Heavy Cream
• 2 ½ Cups Red Bliss Potatoes
• 15 Littleneck Clams
• 15 Pre-shucked Oysters
• 1 Tsp Salt
• ½ Tsp Black Pepper
• 1 Tbsp Minced Shallots
• 1 Tsp Minced Garlic
• 1 Tsp Chives, Chiffonade
• ½ Cup Dry White Wine
directions
1. Cut the pancetta and yellow onion into ½ inch squares. Keep both ingredients separate.
2. Julienne the leeks and set them to the side.
3. Cut the potatoes into quarters and set them to the side.
4. Add the pancetta and render down the fat in a large pot over medium heat, stirring often.
5. Once crispy, remove the pancetta from the pot but leave the rendered fat.
6. Next, add the onion and leeks and cook until the onion is translucent.
7. Add the garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.
8. Deglaze with prosecco wine and reduce by ¾.
9. Next, whisk in 2 cups of clam juice and 2 cups of cream.
10. Add the potatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer.
11. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
12. Add oysters and cook for 6 minutes.
for the clams
1. In a separate pot on medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of minced shallots and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
2. Stir for 2 minutes.
3. Add in clams, ½ cup white wine, and 1 cup of clam juice and cover.
4. Cook for 12 minutes or until the clams have opened.
5. Remove the clams from the pan and add them to the stew.
6. Garnish with chives and serve warm.
CONTINUED >
SEAFOOD PROSECCO CREAM STEW
Clough suggests serving the stew with homemade oyster crackers, your favorite crackers, or a grilled baguette. However, he points out that without the bread or crackers, it’s a gluten-free dish, making it ideal for gatherings with family or friends who may be following a gluten-free diet.
If you make this dish a part of your holiday season, tag @citylifestylecharlottesville on your posts on Instagram.
Palladio Restaurant is Barboursville Vineyards’ elegant fine dining destination. Since 2012, Chef Michael Clough, who hails from New England and is a graduate of the New England Culinary Institute, has brought his vast experience and education, love of local ingredients, and refined techniques to one of Virginia's most renowned vineyards.
"THIS DISH REMINDS ME OF THE JOY OF SPENDING TIME WITH FAMILY AROUND
Seafood Prosecco Cream Stew.
Photo Credit: Michael Clough.
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to Community Contributing
Local Realtor serves Charlottesville and beyond both on and off the job.
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMIE WALLER AND JEN FARIELLO
Jamie Waller. Photo Credit: Jen Fariello.
Realtor Jamie Waller uses her knowledge and skills to help people in Charlottesville and beyond with either the sale of their current home or by leading the search for their next dream home. But when she’s not enthusiastically assisting buyers and sellers, she spends her time giving back to the community in a plethora of other ways.
HOW DO YOU INDIVIDUALLY GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY?
I’m passionate about partnering with a diverse group of community organizations that make a real difference. Supporting Oakland School through their “Oaktoberfest” is always a highlight of the fall, raising crucial funds and awareness for this special school.
Through a client, I was introduced to Child Health Partnership, which provides vital at-home support to babies, young children, and their families, promoting health, stability, and well-being in our community. For 8 years, our family has been involved with McIntire Little League, where my son plays, and it’s been a joy to manage their social media and support the league’s growth.
Additionally, I’ve proudly sponsored Meals on Wheels’ “Music for Meals” event for several years, helping to raise funds for their mission. This year, I was also thrilled to support the Charlottesville Free Clinic’s incredible fundraiser, which featured an unforgettable procession through the downtown mall and a phenomenal concert.
DO YOU VOLUNTEER AS A FAMILY?
I’m grateful that my children attend a school that emphasizes the importance of giving back, requiring participation in four forms of service: community, church, school, and home. Two of their favorite places to volunteer are the food pantry and baking for the soup kitchen, where they truly enjoy supporting those in need and learning the value of compassion and service.
CONTINUED >
Jamie Waller's son playing little league baseball. Photo Credit: Jamie Waller.
Jamie Waller's son posing in front of a Jamie Waller sponsorship banner. Photo Credit: Jamie Waller.
"I’M FORTUNATE TO BE CONNECTED WITH SO MANY WONDERFUL PEOPLE THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY. THESE RELATIONSHIPS HAVE INTRODUCED ME TO COUNTLESS OPPORTUNITIES TO GIVE BACK AND MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT."
DO YOU HAVE ANY FUTURE PLANS FOR OTHER COMMUNITY SERVICE ACTIVITIES OR FINANCIAL DONATIONS?
My family and I hope to continue to support various organizations locally and beyond.
WHY IS COMMUNITY SERVICE IMPORTANT TO YOU?
I’m fortunate to be connected with so many wonderful people throughout the community. These relationships have introduced me to countless opportunities to give back and make a positive impact. My goal is to continue expanding those efforts, both personally and as a family, to support our area in even more meaningful ways.
Band playing at event sponsored by Jamie Waller. Photo Credit: Jamie Waller
that’s a WRAP
DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During
The Season
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Wellwrapped holiday packages create immediate enthusiasm and somehow seem to make gifts more meaningful. Whether going for shiny, vintage, colorful, rustic, playful or eco-friendly impressions, the following are some Do-It-Yourself gift-wrapping ideas to make the wrapping process even more satisfying. Simply applying jute twine to gifts provides a ‘less is more’ vibe.
ADD NATURAL TOUCHES TO CRAFT PAPER:
For gifts with a rustic, organic feel, use seasonal accents, such as sprigs, pine cones and cinnamon sticks, tied up with twine, encircling recycled paper for the wrapping.
FIRST INITIAL DECORATION:
In lieu of a gift tag, attach an oversized paper mâché letter of the recipient’s first initial to the top of the box. The letter then can serve as customized décor, too.
POLKA DOTS:
Wrap gifts in plain craft paper and then cut out big, multicolored polka dots to glue down. It’s hard not to smile at big, bright dots.
CARDBOARD BOX SNOWPERSON:
Wrap three or four boxes in white paper, with different gifts inside, and then stack them. Tape the boxes together,
the SEASON
tapering to the top. Glue buttons on the bottom ones, create a snowperson’s face on the top one, with carrot nose cut out of orange paper. Attach a real hat, if desired. Tie wider, festive bow around the snowperson’s ‘neck.’ Add a real corncob pipe for a bonus finishing touch, if preferred.
MINI TREE GIFT WRAPPING:
Pine needles and small tips of real tree branches make quick and easy mini Christmas trees that can be glued onto Christmas gifts. They will smell nice, too.
BOOK PAGE WRAPPING PAPER:
Repurpose old book pages by cutting out
shapes of dreidels, snowflakes, ornaments, candles or reindeer to paste on gifts.
DIY STAMP WRAPPING PAPER:
Wrap gifts in solid colors of paper. Secure ink stamps and an ink pad in a themed color(s), and stamp the paper as much or as little as desired.
UNBOXED:
Apply other types of containers, rather than boxes or bags, for gift wrapping; examples: canisters, pillow cases, baskets, fabric scraps, maps, glass containers, towels, blankets, scarves, Bento bags (also called triangle bags or origami bags).
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. While a simple cup of hot cocoa can warm the soul, why not take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board? Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy. Let’s explore the wonders of old-fashioned hot cocoa and all the accompaniments you can use to create your very own hot cocoa charcuterie board.
THE DELIGHTS OF OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Old-fashioned hot cocoa transports us to simpler times and brings with it a sense of nostalgia. The slow, traditional process of making hot chocolate from scratch – with real chocolate, milk and a touch of sweetness – provides a distinctly memorable experience for the holidays.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA
CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure, and serve as a sweet centerpiece to your holiday gatherings.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
VARIATIONS TO SAVOR
Indulge in some exciting recipes that are sure to elevate your hot chocolate into fun and festive beverages during the holidays and throughout the colder months.
MINTY FRESH WONDER
Embrace the festive season with a mint-infused hot cocoa. Fancify your beverage with a peppermint stick or make your
own crushed candy cane dust for a touch of holiday cheer. This minty delight is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect indulgence for cozy winter evenings.
SPICY AZTEC ELIXIR
Channel your inner adventurer with an Aztec-inspired hot cocoa. Infuse your drink with a touch of chili powder and a dash of cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive presentation. This fiery blend will ignite your senses and warm you from the inside out.
GROWN-UP GRASSHOPPER
Transform your drink into a rich adult-only grasshopper hot cocoa by adding 2 oz. of crème de menthe or a shot of peppermint schnapps. Adorn with a crushed candy cane rim for a playful offering.
DECADENT SALTED CARAMEL INDULGENCE
Elevate your hot cocoa experience with a drizzle of homemade salted caramel. The combination of slightly bitter cocoa and sweet, buttery caramel is a match made in heaven. Sprinkle an extra pinch of sea salt for that irresistible contrast.
events
UPCOMING LOCAL
DECEMBER 7TH
Crozet Beer Fest
Claudius Crozet Park, 1075 Claudius Crozet Pk, Crozet, VA 22932 | 12:00 PM
Sip seasonal brews, barrel-aged beers, and cider from noon to 5 pm at the 6th annual Crozet Beer Fest. Tickets include unlimited samples and there will also be live music and food. Organizers encourage attendees to don ugly sweaters or retro après ski wear. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit CrozetBeerFest.com.
DECEMBER 8TH
The Oratorio Society Presents: Christmas at the Paramount
The Paramount Theater, 215 E Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902 | 2:30 PM and 7:30 PM
Enjoy a choral and instrumental performance of traditional holiday music and new takes on classics The Oratorio Society let my Musical Director Michael Slon. The Central Virginia-based performance group will offer two performances. For more information, visit TheParamount.net .
DECEMBER 13TH - 23RD AND 26TH - 30TH
Holiday Evening Tours of Monticello
Monticello, 1050 Monticello Loop, Charlottesville, VA 22902 | Various Times
This 1.5 hour-long tour offers visitors a glimpse into how Monticello might have looked during the holidays in Jefferson’s time. Guests will be able to explore the Dome Room as well as other public and private rooms on the tour. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Monticello.org.
DECEMBER 15TH
Santa Brunch
The Clifton, 1296 Clifton Inn Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22911 | 11:30 PM
Families can stop into The Clifton from 11:30 am - 2 pm for a festive brunch to celebrate the holiday season. Expect seasonal brunch dishes and cocktails, and take advantage of photo opps with Santa. The-Clifton.com.
DECEMBER 19TH
Holiday Themed Cocktails at The Clifton
The Clifton, 1296 Clifton Inn Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22911 | 5:30 AM
On Thursday, December 19, make your happy hour holiday-themed. Stop into The Clifton to sip on seasonally-inspired cocktails in their stylish bar area or settle in for a meal to pair with them in any of their cozy dining areas. The-Clifton.com
DECEMBER 31ST
Veritas New Year's Eve Masked Ball
Veritas Vineyard and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln, Afton, VA 22920 | 7:00 PM
Join Veritas Vineyard and Winery for an exquisite end-of-year celebration that includes a five-course meal served with wine pairings, music, and dancing. Black-tie attire is required and masquerade masks are encouraged. A breakfast buffet rounds out the evening after the midnight toast. For more information and tickets, visit VeritasWines.com
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