Word on the Street

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2006
Word on the Street
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By Abigail Jurk

With the holidays quickly approaching, who has time to figure out what to do for fun at this time of year? If you’re in need of some ideas, here are a few places in the Port City you can head to for a good time.

WHAT’S THE DEAL: If you spent all your money on holiday gifts this season but still want to enjoy a nice dinner out on the town, try Savio’s Italian Restaurant at 516 S. Van Dorn St.

A neighborhood favorite for more than 25 years, Savio’s specializes in fresh Italian cuisine and ingredients. You can’t go wrong with the dinner special featured Monday through Thursday: a bottle of red, white or white zinfandel wine and two entrees from a select menu for $34.95.

This menu includes 10 different options: handmade pizzas and pastas, fresh fish and more. As you dine, enjoy the cozy feel of the dining room created by the pictures of Italian landscapes that hang on the walls and two fireplaces.

Although it’s not included in the special, splurge for a homemade dessert at the end of your meal — the chocolate mousse is worth it.

WHAT’S NEW AND HAPPENING: Alexandria’s Holiday Market, a new outdoor bazaar located at 300 John Carlyle St., is a perfect place to spend time with family or friends and get into the holiday spirit. Modeled after European-style markets, the market promises an entertaining experience for all ages.

If you’re there to shop, you won’t be disappointed; there are loads of great gift ideas available from local stores and vendors.

If you just are in the mood to explore, you still will have a wonderful time. In addition to the crafts, clothes, jewelry and other novelties available, there also are European-influenced food and drinks for sale, including hot chocolate for the kids and wine and hard cider for the adults.

Most evenings also include live musical performances, so while you’re there, stop and take in a show.

If you’re bringing the kids with you, visit the Children’s Corner, where kids can paint a Christmas ornament or visit Santa. The Holiday Market will be open from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., Fridays through Sundays in December, and every day the week of Christmas through December 24.

Alexandria’s Holiday Market also has partnered with Volunteer Alexandria for a toy drive and Hunger Free Alexandria for a canned food drive to help some of the city’s less fortunate residents. The holiday market will hopefully become an annual event. Make sure you check it out this year and you can say you were there when it all began.

To request a place, event or special be featured in Word on the Street, contact Abigail Jurk at ajurk@alextimes.com.

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