February is Black History Month - a moment of recognition for the central role African Americans have had in shaping U.S. history. It is also a great time for me to highlight my own experiences as a Black woman living in the U.S. I moved to Leesburg, Virginia a few short months after my 25th birthday and it has been a journey. From diverse dining options to well-known historic settings, here are the top five experiences I have had living in Loudoun.
Art & History
When arriving in Leesburg, you are greeted with eye-catching murals on the side of brick walls and historic buildings - a showcase of local Loudoun artists. This was one of the first experiences I had moving to Loudoun, and later I was able to explore art more intimately through Loudoun Art Tours. Aside from the infamous 'LOVE’ sculpture, the murals of accomplished Black business owners from Loudoun’s past are a must-see. Just outside downtown Leesburg, the team at Oatlands Historic House & Gardens has done a tremendous job showcasing the enslaved community that worked on the property through its Reclaim Your Story program. The idea is to ensure nobody is ever forgotten and people can come today and search for their ancestors or read about the people who worked and lived on the land. On March 8, Oatlands is uncovering the journey of enslaved families at Oak Hill; a proprety once inhabited by President Monoroe.
Wine & Beer Education
I was not a wine enthusiast prior to living in Loudoun, but that quickly shifted once I discovered I was in driving distance of more than 50 wineries. The first time I stepped into a tasting room was at a Loudoun winery, the aromas from a varietal of grapes undergoing fermentation - the wine aging process - is an experience that will always be embeded. Since then, I’ve learned a lot such as the difference between a Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon - spoiler: the distinction is the type of grape. Recently, a variety has been taking root in Loudoun and it is the national grape of another dynamic wine region, Uruguay. The Tannat grape has brought hemispheres together between Loudoun, Uruguay and Canelones; a great representation of Loudoun's willingness to embrace culture. You can learn more about the Tannat here. In 2021, the first Black-owned wine company in Loudoun, Fifty Leven, launched and the CEO Kindra has shared her passion to create a wine that would please all palates and what better place to do that than in DC’s Wine Country®.
While I had a lot to learn about wine, I do know a bit about beer. With more than 30 breweries, I enjoy tasting everything from refreshing citrus-based Indian Pale Ales to dark, earthy Stouts – a personal favorite during the cold months. On a regular night out, I stick to the classic Lager on tap, it is light with just the right amount of malt flavor to tingle your tastebuds.
Diverse Food Selection
I can confidently say I am a food connoisseur. I love experiencing different food from all over; Thai, Indian, Korean-thankfully Loudoun has an enticing selection of restaurants that specialize in culturally rich foods as well as farm-to-table dining. A good dining portfolio ideally has a range of restaurant experiences to fit any mood; looking for a brunch spot with the girls? Local chain, Milk & Honey is my go to for a debrief session and some traditional Southern comfort food - the Fried Catfish and Grits entree is bursting with flavor. On a 'Taco Tuesday,' I'm likely headed to downtown Leesburg to La Taqueria for some authentic mexican street tacos and magaritas. In light of Black History Month, I'll reveal a hidden gem - C & E Southern Bites Restaurant in Sterling - soulfood that will make you want to hug your mom. I suggest trying the Sausage and Chicken Gumbo. Another option for fine dining is at Salamander Middleburg, which is owned by BET Co-founder Sheila Johnson. Check the resort's event calendar for all the culinary happenings!
Experiencing Big Events
One of my favorite annual events in Loudoun is the Middleburg Film Festival, it is such a good gathering of creatives and talent from all over the world. As a film lover, I am always trying to predict the next big star or the next big blockbuster film. The festival has featured a handful of award-winning and popular films including “La La Land” starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling. My first time attending I watched Priscilla, which went on to receive recognition from the Golden Globes and the Critics Choice awards. That same year Rustin, a biographical drama highlighting the civil rights movement, was also shown. The star of the movie took home a NAACP award for Oustanding Actor in a Motion Picture category. Salamander Middleburg owner Sheila Johnson and chef Kwame Onwuachi also collaborate on an annual event coined “The Family Reunion” - a four-day occurrence to celebrate Black and brown contributions to the food and hospitality industry by bringing in talent from all over the world, some of whom have made appearances on popular cooking shows such as Top Chef.
Proximity to D.C.
With Loudoun being a rural paradise, it’s difficult to grasp that the city of D.C. is just 25 miles away. Being so close to the city, I like to spend time in D.C. too - a great complement to the tranquil suburbs of Loudoun. The Metro Silver Line expansion has made the commute easy and affordable. Ashburn Station is just minutes away from my home and goes right into the city. It also serves as a modish town center precinct where people traveling on the metro can stop to enjoy a variety of dining and shopping choices.
This is just a small taste of what I love about Loudoun, there is much more to be explored. Check our website to see everything you can do in this destination and visit our event calendar for the latest happenings!
