Alexandria, VA – As the winter holidays arrive in Alexandria, let’s embrace a green celebration season! Here’s how:
Eco-Friendly Feasts
Start by sourcing seasonal, local produce at Alexandria farmers markets—think brussels sprouts, root vegetables, and winter greens from nearby farms. This reduces transport emissions of fruit and vegetable carbon output. Fresher flavors yield nutrient-rich dishes like roasted parsnips or kale salads, supporting local economies and biodiversity.
Ditch disposables for zero-waste feasts. Opt for cloth napkins, reusable plates, and beeswax wraps. Compost scraps into stock—bones and peels become hearty broth. Send leftovers home in guests’ jars; freeze extras for post-holiday soups.
Upcycled Decor
Elevate decor with DIY ornament swaps from recycled materials. Transform toilet paper rolls into angels, old CDs into shimmering stars, or egg cartons into poinsettias—fun, free crafts that repurpose household waste. Check out the Alexandria nonprofit, UpcycleRC, for crafty and economical supplies of all kinds.
Host a swap party: Trade handmade baubles from wine corks, puzzle pieces, or fabric scraps for a tree bursting with stories, not landfills. For special finds, visit secondhand stores like Evolution Home, the Twig Thrift Shop, and many others.
Thoughtful Gifts
To support Alexandria’s business community, consider gifts from our city’s thriving vintage clothing stores, Encore and Mint Condition; sustainable stores such as Ten Thousand Villages or Patagonia; or gift cards from businesses supporting sustainability like Port City Brewery, The Dog Park, Hanks Oysters, Ms. Moxie’s Moon Shop, and many more.
Check out the Eco City Business Program for a complete member listing of companies embracing sustainability practices: https://www.alexandriava.gov/EcoCityBusiness
