Virginia is For Lovers® was created 50 years ago in 1969 and since its inception, it has become one of the most beloved and well-known tourism and travel slogans in the world. While it has meant a lot of different things to a lot of different people over the years, one thing hasn’t changed – the LOVE.
To celebrate this milestone anniversary, participating cities and counties across Virginia are joining in the fun in their own special ways. There will be special “lovers lagers” at breweries and lovers blends at wineries, 1969 inspired meals and prices at restaurants, special 50 Years of Love events, contests, giveaways, and much more. Listed below are highlights of how some of Virginia’s different destinations are celebrating 50 Years of Love this summer.
Richmond, Virginia
Celebrate 50 Years of Love in Richmond by raising a glass to the capital city’s best beverages with RVA’s Frothy Fifty Days of Love. Enjoy commemorative craft beers produced by local breweries, a unique 50 Years of Love mead made with rose petals, a 50-mile bike ride on the Virginia Capital Trail, and many other special events and activities.
Loudoun County, Virginia
During its “Summer of Love” Tour, Northern Virginia’s Loudoun County will be home to more than a dozen events, including movie nights, farm experiences, plus concerts and festivals, all inspired by the year 1969. There will even be a vintage Volkswagen van, repurposed as a mobile visitor center, perfect as a backdrop for memorable summer selfies.
Alexandria, Virginia
Located just minutes from Washington, D.C., Alexandria will celebrate 50 Years of Love with a variety of waterfront festivals, picnics along the Potomac, and bike rides down historic streets. Spend an afternoon at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, or take a water taxi between Old Town Alexandria and Washington, D.C. Stroll and shop at independent boutiques along King Street, dine on waterfront patios and enjoy special events throughout the summer.
Arlington, Virginia
Arlington is for fitness lovers and visitors can celebrate 50 Years of Love by working up a sweat with one of many special fitness-themed itineraries. Attend unique, neighborhood workout classes like Outdoor Zumba in the heart of Crystal City, Yoga & Beer at New District Brewing or Sound Off in the Sky, a silent-disco total-body workout with 360-degree views at The View of DC. Bike along the Potomac River on the Mount Vernon Trail or tackle the Arlington Loop, a 16.2-mile route including scenic views of the Washington, D.C. skyline and Reagan National Airport.
Fairfax County, Virginia
Fairfax County joins in the 50 Years of Love celebration by welcoming its first-ever permanent “LOVEwork” sign in a way that honors the spirit of travel. Throughout the summer of 2019, the “LOVEwork” will travel around Fairfax County to various attractions, representing the eclectic visitor experiences located within the destination, before ultimately finding a permanent home at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia.
Staunton, Virginia
The Shenandoah Valley city of Staunton will celebrate 50 Years of Love with an artist commissioned mural that portrays the beauty, history, music, food, wine and craft-beer found in Staunton. Several local and regional arts organizations and schools will also design and produce smaller murals throughout the downtown area.
Floyd, Virginia
Located along Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, The Crooked Road, Floyd will celebrate 50 Years of Love with 50 days of special events, promotions and products. The celebration kicks off on July 27 at FloydFest and closes on September 14 at the County Fair. Visitors can stay in a 50 Years of Love themed suite or take a “Love Float” down the Little River and then sip a specialty Moonshine cocktail. Discover Apple Ridge Farms’ Adventure Day before getting groovy at the Summer of Love Party at Dogtown Roadhouse on August 10.
Bristol, Virginia
Bristol will celebrate 50 Years of Love with a metric century gravel bike ride the last Saturday of October. Visitors are encouraged to wear their favorite 1960s outfit to ride from Bristol to Mendota on the new Mendota Trail, then on to Abingdon to take in the Creeper Trail before returning to Bristol. End at Mountain Sports Limited with a festival and celebration of outdoor recreation and craft beer.
For a complete list of all events and activities taking place throughout Virginia in celebration of 50 Years of Love, visit www.virginia.org/50yearsoflove.
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