Welcome to 2026!! As I was thinking about this issue of the magazine it got me started on thinking about the month’s name…January. I remember from my high school Latin class, January originated from the Latin word, Janus, the Roman god of doorways, which signifies new beginnings and rising/setting suns. What an appropriate name for this month.
We are now starting a new year…January 2026. January is usually cold, wet and at times windy. People tend to stay home and huddle around family and friends. Venturing out in the dark and cold seems challenging but that is not the case.
This January let’s go through doorways to experience new beginnings with businesses such as Shutters on King, Ebisu Sushi and Thai, Casa De Avila Tacos, or Deli Italiano, and long-established restaurant businesses like Lightfoot, Tuscarora Mill or Loudoun Kitchen and Bar, or Melt. They are all waiting to share an experience with you. There are a lot of fun, historic and exciting things going on in Leesburg during January.
Did you know that Leesburg has a “Tree Walk of Historic Leesburg? This is a self-directed tour of important and significant Leesburg trees. Pick up the tour guide to all the tree locations at the Leesburg Town Hall. As you walk to each of the trees you get a glimpse of the beautiful old houses of Leesburg.
In January you can join “Nancy Morgan, Director Emeritus, Georgetown Lombardi Arts and Humanities Program, for this opportunity, presented by Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy, to enjoy the combined health benefits of time spent in nature and writing thoughts and feelings. Writing is often considered a solo, reflective practice, but writing in the company of others can be a supportive, community building activity that encourages regular practice,” according to the LWC webpage.
There are no less than four breweries in downtown Leesburg, all within walking distance of each other. Loudoun Brewing Co, Black Hoof and cozy nook Crooked Run make crisp lagers and malty IPAs, and we love the summery front yard at Dynasty Brewing Company. Stop by after your Leesburg Tree Walk.
Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Leesburg, Catty Corner Café is a cozy and welcoming cat lounge where cat lovers of all ages can relax, connect, and meet the adoptable kitties. The cat cafe is unique, and happily welcomes children. Cats are social, gentle, and wonderful with families. Every visit helps make a difference – the purrs are worth the visit. Maybe take a cute kitty to a new forever home.
The George C. Marshall International Center operates Dodona Manor as a historic museum at 312 East Market Street in Leesburg. The house is home to the Marshall Center, as it was home to George and Katherine Marshall from 1941 to 1959. The staff conduct tours and events at Dodona Manor, that provide a full picture of General Marshall’s life. They also host educational programs that reflect Marshall’s principled approach to leadership.
One of the most important events of January is the Martin Luther King, Jr. March to celebrate his life and his accomplishments. There is a program at the Loudoun County Courthouse that starts the march. It begins at 10:00am with everyone assembling at the courthouse steps and marching to the Douglass Community Center on Market Street. At the community center there will be a program of speeches, dancing and singing. Food trucks will be available for lunch and of course the immersive playground will be open for the children.
These are just a few of the events that can educate you, entertain you or make you fall in love…. with a cat. The Tally Ho Theater has a full schedule of music to enjoy, and the downtown is always ready to welcome you to enjoy the retail shops, breweries, and restaurants.