The Del Ray Business Association board presents the 2026 Heart of Del Ray to Del Ray Hardware. DRBA photoBy Maureen Schweers
Alexandria, VA – The Del Ray Business Association presented the 2026 Heart of Del Ray Award to Del Ray Hardware on Valentine’s Day weekend. The annual award, given to the business or organization that represents the heart and soul of Del Ray, is determined by a public vote of neighbors and customers.
“Jay and Edea Portlance took over the hardware store two years ago. As you know, it’s been a staple in our town and we were very worried about losing it – we could never have imagined that they would come in, take it over, and make it so much better,” said Del Ray Business Association President Lauren Fisher.
After taking over Del Ray Hardware in 2024, the Portlances quickly put their stamp on the neighborhood institution. The recent addition of Del Ray Farmhouse & Market transformed the block, making the intersection of Mt. Vernon and Howell Avenue a one-stop shop for everything from hardware needs, garden supplies, gifts, local produce, and more.
“What Jay has done with this business is remarkable – it is such a resource for us in the neighborhood. He and his team put so much thought into carrying exactly what we need. Anything they don’t have, they can order. This year has been about shopping as locally as possible for me and Del Ray Hardware makes it not only possible but also I feel wonderfully connected while I do it,” wrote one customer. “Del Ray Hardware embodies everything that makes this neighborhood special: warmth, reliability, and genuine community care. This isn’t just a hardware store; it’s a neighborhood hub where advice is free, help is personal, and relationships matter,” wrote another.
Past winners of the award include A Show of Hands, Jen Walker of Corcoran McEnearney, Bobi Bomar Homes of Alexandria, The Neighborhood Pharmacy of Del Ray, Greener Cleaner, Del Ray Pizzeria, Mind the Mat Pilates & Yoga, Caboose Cafe, Del Ray Cafe, HomeGrown Restaurant Group, Taqueria Poblano, Ms. Preeti’s 7-11, Dolce & Bean, Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap, the Del Ray Farmers’ Market, The Friends of Duncan Library, The Dog Store/Your Dog’s Best Friends, and Gustave Boulangerie.
The Del Ray Business Association represents the independently owned restaurants, retailers, and businesses in the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria. For more information, visit www.visitdelray.com.
Del Ray Docket
March 6-28
Assembly: Together We Grow Art Exhibit
Del Ray Artisans, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue
The Assembly: Together We Grow art exhibit at Del Ray Artisans delves into the fundamental human act of gathering and how it helps us grow, care for one another, and cultivate belonging.
March 7, 14, 21, 28
Del Ray Farmers’ Market
The Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, located at the intersection of Oxford and Mount Vernon Avenue
8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
This year-round market – named one of the best in the state – features fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheeses, breads, fresh pasta, baked goods, cut flowers, and more.
March 7
The Women’s Crawl
Along Mount Vernon Avenue
2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Join Shrinks on Tap & Del Ray Psych & Wellness for The Women’s Crawl, featuring drink and food specials and experiences designed to celebrate womanhood, connection, and personal transformation at several restaurants along Mount Vernon Avenue. A portion of ticket sales will be donated to the Alexandria Domestic Violence Safe House. Visit shrinksontap.com for more information and tickets.
March 14
Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market
Mount Vernon & East Bellefonte Avenue
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Find your treasure! Visit over 50 vendors at The Wellness Junction lot at 1900 Mt. Vernon Ave., the Salvation Army Corps lot across the street, and Hi/Fi Tex-Mex BBQ at 2000 Mt. Vernon Avenue. For more information, visit delrayvintageflea.com.
March 14
Gustave Art & Craft Market
Gustave Jardin, 2213 Mount Vernon Avenue
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Discover local artists and creatives and savor Gustave’s Parisian specialties in this outdoor market, sponsored by Alexandria Celebrates Women and Coldwell Banker Realtor Maureen Clyne.
SAVE THE DATE!
April 12
Del Ray Dog Fest
George Washington Middle School, 1005 Mount Vernon Avenue
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The 4th Annual Del Ray Dog Fest is an outdoor festival celebrating dogs, their owners, and the Del Ray community! This event will include dog-centered activities, dog menu items, live music, vendors, food, and more. For tickets, visit visitdelray.com.
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