The holiday season is a time of celebration, joy, and of course, indulgent feasts. If you’re looking to impress your guests with a spread that’s not only delicious but also entirely plant-based, you’re in the right place. This vegan holiday feast offers a menu that will rival any traditional spread, ensuring both vegans and non-vegans alike leave the table thoroughly satisfied.
Appetizer:
Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage Soup
This velvety butternut squash soup is infused with the earthy aroma of fresh sage. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it the perfect starter for your holiday feast. Top it with toasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch.
Ingredients:
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4-5 fresh sage leaves, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for roasting
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for about 30-35 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent. Add the roasted squash and fresh sage, then pour in the vegetable broth.
Simmer for 15-20 minutes, then blend until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and season to taste.
Main Course:
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Wild Rice and Cranberries
These hearty portobello mushrooms are filled with a delectable mixture of wild rice, cranberries, and pecans. They’re bursting with flavor and make a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.
Ingredients:
4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
1 cup wild rice, cooked
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the portobello mushrooms on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 10 minutes.
In a bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, cranberries, pecans, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. Mix well.
Spoon the rice mixture into the roasted mushrooms and return to the oven for another 10-12 minutes.
Sides:
Garlic and Rosemary Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and fragrant, these mashed potatoes are elevated with roasted garlic and fresh rosemary. They’re the perfect accompaniment to any holiday meal.
Ingredients:
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
6 cloves garlic, roasted
1/4 cup vegan butter
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and return them to the pot.
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the pot and add the vegan butter, almond milk, fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Mash until creamy and well combined.
Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Pecans
These caramelized Brussels sprouts are enhanced with a sweet maple glaze and crunchy pecans, creating a side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1/4 cup pecans, chopped
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. In the last 5 minutes, add the chopped pecans.
Dessert:
Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Tart
This decadent chocolate tart is both rich and refreshing with a hint of peppermint. It’s the perfect finale to your vegan holiday feast.
In a bowl, combine the cookie crumbs, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup. Press into a tart pan and refrigerate.
In a saucepan, heat the coconut milk until just simmering. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips and peppermint extract until smooth.
Pour the chocolate mixture into the crust and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
Garnish with crushed candy canes before serving.
With this delightful vegan holiday feast, you’ll not only satisfy taste buds but also introduce a plant-based culinary experience that may just become a new holiday tradition. Happy feasting!
From Grinch to Gratitude
Cultivating a Positive Mindset During the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of preparations, expectations, and sometimes, stress. It’s not uncommon to feel like the Grinch, overwhelmed by the chaos that can accompany this time of year. However, with a shift in perspective, it’s possible to transform that Grinch-like mindset into one of gratitude and positivity. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips and strategies to help you cultivate a positive mindset and truly embrace the joy and spirit of the holidays.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness, the practice of being present in the moment without judgment, is a powerful tool for shifting your mindset. During the holiday season, it’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle, but taking a moment to pause and appreciate the here and now can make a world of difference. Whether it’s savoring the aroma of a freshly baked pie or enjoying a quiet moment by the fireplace, mindfulness can help you find gratitude in the simplest of things.
Reflect on Your Blessings
Gratitude often begins with reflection. Take some time each day to think about the things you’re grateful for. They can be big or small—from the love of family and friends to the warmth of a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Keeping a gratitude journal can be a wonderful way to document these moments and serve as a tangible reminder of the abundance in your life.
Focus on Giving, Not Just Receiving
While receiving gifts can be delightful, giving can be even more rewarding. The act of giving, whether it’s a thoughtful present, a kind gesture, or your time, can fill your heart with a sense of purpose and joy. Consider volunteering at a local charity, organizing a gift drive, or simply being there for someone who could use a listening ear. Acts of kindness have a way of amplifying the spirit of the holidays.
Embrace Imperfection
It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of perfection during the holiday season—the perfectly decorated tree, the flawless meal, the ideal family gathering. However, it’s important to remember that imperfection is a natural part of life. Embrace the quirks, the unexpected moments, and the inevitable mishaps. These imperfections often hold the true beauty and authenticity of the season.
Create Meaningful Traditions
Traditions are the threads that weave the tapestry of our holiday memories. They can be as simple as baking cookies together, singing carols, or sharing stories around a fire. Creating and honoring meaningful traditions with loved ones can foster a sense of belonging and strengthen the bonds that make this time of year so special.
Practice Gratitude in Challenging Times
For some, the holiday season can bring about feelings of loss, loneliness, or other difficult emotions. During these times, finding gratitude may feel like a tall order. However, acknowledging your feelings and seeking support from others can be a powerful first step. Finding small moments of solace and gratitude, even in the midst of challenges, can help you navigate through this season with resilience and grace.
Disconnect to Reconnect
In a world filled with constant distractions, taking time to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the world around you can be a game-changer. Spend quality time with loved ones, engage in activities that bring you joy, and allow yourself to be fully present in the moment. This conscious effort to disconnect can lead to deeper connections and a greater sense of gratitude for the people and experiences in your life.
Transforming a Grinch-like mindset into one of gratitude and positivity during the holidays is not about denying challenges or difficulties. It’s about choosing to focus on the moments of joy, connection, and abundance that surround us. By practicing mindfulness, reflecting on your blessings, giving back, embracing imperfection, creating traditions, navigating challenges with grace, and disconnecting to reconnect, you can cultivate a positive mindset that will not only brighten your holiday season but also leave a lasting impact on your overall well-being. So, this holiday season, let gratitude be your guiding star, illuminating the path to a heart filled with warmth, love, and joy.
The Face of Celebrating Lives: Whitten Funeral Homes
Funeral services have evolved into an art of commemorating and celebrating a life well lived. We firmly believe that creating heartfelt ways to honor your cherished loved one starts with a deep compassion, and is further guided by the recognition that every life is a story to be told and remembered. Our caring professionals are dedicated to extending compassionate support to families during their most challenging moments. Our commitment lies in safeguarding cherished memories with the utmost respect and dignity. Through preplanning, you have the opportunity to ensure that your final tribute is tailored to reflect your unique personality. Whitten – The tradition in Lynchburg and surrounding areas since 1937.
WHITTEN FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATION SERVICE 7404 Timberlake Road Lynchburg, VA 24502 434-239-0331 3966 S. Amherst Highway Madison Heights, VA 24572 434-929-5712 www.whittenfuneralhome.com
How to Assemble a Festive Holiday Cookie Box
The holiday season is a time for spreading joy, love, and delicious treats. One delightful way to share the holiday spirit is by creating a personalized cookie box filled with an assortment of mouth watering treats. Filled with an assortment of seasonal flavors, holiday hues, and traditional family favorites, holiday cookie boxes can bring comfort and joy to lucky recipients.
Step 1: Select Your Cookie Recipes
The foundation of any great cookie box is, of course, the cookies themselves. Choose a variety of recipes to appeal to different tastes and dietary preferences. Classics like sugar cookies, gingerbread men, and shortbread are always a hit. For a modern twist, consider adding unique flavors like cardamom, pistachio, or citrus zest to your recipes. Don’t miss our seven holiday cookie recipes in this issue!
Step 2: Plan Your Presentation
The packaging of your cookie box is just as important as the contents. Opt for a sturdy box or tin that’s large enough to hold an assortment of cookies. Bakery style boxes, gift boxes, and decorative tins are all great options for a cookie box. Windowed bakery boxes are inexpensive per piece, sturdy, and give the recipients a fun peek at what’s inside. Tins and fancy gift boxes cost a little more but often can be reused. All boxes should have lids that fit well for traveling and to keep cookies fresh.
Line the box with parchment paper, festive tissue paper, or raffia for a clean and inviting presentation. Consider adding decorative elements like ribbons, twine, tiny bows, or festive baubles to give your box a personalized touch.
Step 3: Arrange the Cookies
Now comes the fun part—arranging the cookies! Packaging small parcels of cookies inside the box reduces the chance of breakage, and each package acts as a nice divider. Gather an assortment of small packaging, such as decorative paper cups, grease-proof cookie bags, and cellophane bags. Place larger cookies on the bottom and layer smaller ones on top to create an appealing visual hierarchy. Consider using cupcake liners or small paper dividers to keep different cookie varieties separate and prevent any flavors from mingling. Leave a little space between each cookie to allow for easy removal without any damage.
Step 4: Bake, Bake, and Bake Some More
Most cookie recipes (like the ones shared here!) make at least a dozen or more cookies, meaning you’ll have an assortment of cookies to assemble your cookie box with, plus plenty of leftovers to assemble more cookie boxes, freeze leftovers, or leave out for Santa (or just enjoy for yourself!).
Before you bake your cookies, have a game plan going into it. Do you have all day to devote to baking? Or, should you break your bakes across a few days? Study each recipe carefully and determine which baking tasks can overlap. Or, even better, call in reinforcements! Friends or family members may want to get in on the baking fun if they can go home with some cookies of their own.
Step 5: Make a test box
Before assembling multiple cookie boxes, line a single box with decorative tissue paper and experiment with quantities and placement of cookie varieties. Once you find a look you love, assemble the rest.
Elevate your cookie box with some decorative accents. Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar on top of certain cookies for a snowy effect, or drizzle a thin glaze over others for a touch of elegance. Consider adding a few edible embellishments like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or edible glitter to enhance the visual appeal.
Step 6: Include a Personalized Note
A heartfelt message adds a special touch to your cookie box. Include a handwritten note or a printed card with warm holiday wishes. You might also consider sharing the names of the cookies or a short description of each flavor to make the experience even more enjoyable for your recipients.
Step 7: Seal and Store
Once your cookie box is beautifully arranged and personalized, carefully seal it to ensure freshness. Use clear cellophane wrap or a lid that fits securely to protect the cookies from moisture and air. If possible, deliver the box in person to spread some holiday cheer.
Creating a holiday cookie box is a delightful way to share the joy of the season with your loved ones. By carefully selecting recipes, using quality ingredients, and presenting your cookies with care, you can craft a gift that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Remember, it’s the thought and effort you put into your cookie box that will truly make it a cherished holiday treat.
2023 Lynchburg Living Giving Back Awards
Lynchburg is filled to the brim with generous, mission-driven, philanthropic people, and the hundreds of nonprofit organizations in our area are a result of that. Across the Lynchburg region, organizations are holding the hands of those in our community who are vulnerable, hurting, or in need of extra support.
We are so honored to tell the story of just a few of them.
The Giving Back Awards are an opportunity for the community to give back to the nonprofits by nominating them a designation. This award signifies the impact the organization has made in the community and validates even further the incredible work that the organization has done throughout the year.
Flip through these pages, read the profiles of the award recipients, and consider supporting them in their number one needs and upcoming goals.
7 Kinds of Cookies
When Just Enough Is Just Right
Photos by Ashlee Glenn
In a world where excess is often celebrated, the concept of balance tends to get lost in the shuffle. The holiday season, in particular, exemplifies this, as the peaceful atmosphere we aspire to often gets overshadowed by stress and unfruitful indulgence.
My upbringing in Sweden introduced me to a unique term that many other languages lack: “Lagom”. Lagom captures the essence of something being just right—not too much and not too little. It’s about discovering contentment and equilibrium in life.
Another Swedish tradition that aligns with this philosophy is the notion of having seven kinds of cookies. This practice, dating back to the late 1800s, dictates that when we have guests over, we should bake exactly seven varieties of cookies. Some even suggest that if a hostess bakes fewer than seven types, they might be seen as stingy, but at the same time, making more than seven can be seen as ostentatious.
To maintain a balanced and “lagom” holiday season, I encourage you to don your apron and embark on the delightful journey of baking these seven unique cookie varieties for your guests or next cookie swap.
My favorite sugar cookie recipe isn’t just delicious, it’s also incredibly convenient since it doesn’t demand softened butter, allowing you to whip up the dough right away. Rolling it out is a breeze, thanks to the dough being sandwiched between parchment sheets and chilled. It’s the ideal choice for a holiday cookie swap!
INGREDIENTS
COOKIES 1 large egg 1 tsp vanilla extract 3/4 tsp salt 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 tsp baking soda 1/4 tsp baking powder 1 cup sugar 2 sticks butter, unsalted
ICING 2 2/3 cups powdered sugar 2 large egg whites 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1/4 tsp salt
INSTRUCTIONS
COOKIES Whisk together egg, vanilla, and salt in a bowl and set aside. In a second bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Process the sugar in a food processor until finely ground, about 30 seconds (6 pulses). Add butter and process for another 30 seconds, or until no large pieces of butter are visible. Add egg mixture and process for 10 seconds, until smooth. Finally, add the flour mixture and process until the dough comes together, about 30 seconds.
Turn out the crumbly dough onto your counter or a baking board and knead for a few seconds until it comes together. Split dough in half. Put the first half in between two sheets of parchment and roll out until 1/8 of an inch thick, or roughly 7×9 inches. Repeat with second half. Place both dough halves with parchment on a baking sheet in your fridge for 90 minutes or longer to firm up.
Preheat your oven to 300 degrees. Line two cookie sheets with parchment. Retrieve one dough sheet and gently peel off top paper and flip, then peel off the second layer the same way. You should now have an exposed sheet of solid dough that is not stuck to the bottom parchment.
Cut out cookies using your favorite cookie cutters and transfer to the parchment covered baking sheet. Bake until cookies are just starting to brown, or about 12-15 minutes. Allow to cool for 5 minutes and transfer to wire rack.
ICING
Using a stand mixer, whip all ingredients on high until glossy, soft peaks form, or 3-4 minutes. Spread icing onto completely cooled cookies. Let dry completely before serving or storing, or about 45 minutes. Enjoy!
MEXICAN WEDDING COOKIES
Makes about 40 cookies
Mexican wedding cookies are delightful, nutty, and practically melt in your mouth. This particular version achieves its great texture by blending half of the nuts into a rich paste and coarsely chopping the remainder.
INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 325 degrees and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a food processor, process the sugar for a few seconds to make the texture a bit finer, about 5-7 seconds. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
Now, process half of the nuts in a food processor to a fine, almost buttery paste. Should take about 15 seconds. Transfer to a large mixing bowl. Process the rest of the nuts until coarsely chopped, about 5-7 seconds. Transfer to the mixing bowl. Stir in flour and salt and mix until just combined.
In a stand mixer with paddle attachment, beat butter and sugar on medium for about 3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and nut mixture and mix on low for about 30 seconds.
Using 1 tbsp of dough, roll into a ball and place on baking sheet about an inch apart. Repeat until all dough is used. Bake in middle of the oven until tops are pale golden and bottoms are just barely beginning to brown, about 15-17 minutes (depends on oven, so keep an eye on them). Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes and transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Sift the powdered sugar into a shallow bowl. Roll a few cookies at a time to coat. Roll again right before serving to get a nice, even coat.
MINI CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES
Makes about 60 cookies
The beloved chocolate chip cookie is a timeless favorite, and this recipe yields a generous batch of adorable mini cookies! I opt for semisweet mini morsels to perfectly complement their petite size, and I employ a 1 tbsp scooper to ensure uniformity in each bite.
INGREDIENTS 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 2 sticks butter, softened 3/4 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (either light or dark is fine) 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 large eggs 1 1/2 cups semisweet mini chocolate chips
INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In a small bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. In a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat butter, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract on medium until fluffy. Continue mixing and add one egg at a time. Next, add flour mixture and mix until just combined, then add the mini morsels.
Scoop dough balls, about 1 tbsp each, onto a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for about 8 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is still soft/not set. Cool for 5 minutes on baking sheet and then transfer to wire rack to cool completely. Keeps perfectly in the freezer and can be eaten frozen without jeopardizing your teeth since the cookies are so small and thin!
CHOCOLATE OAT BALLS
Makes about 20 balls
These no-bake chocolate balls are a beloved treat among Swedish kids! They’re not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly addictive. The recipe does call for one ingredient that might be a bit elusive in the United States: Pearl Sugar. This sugar variety has a texture akin to coarse pretzel salt. While your local grocery store may not stock it, you can easily find it on Amazon. If you’re looking for a readily available and healthier alternative, finely shredded unsweetened coconut works beautifully in this recipe. Alternatively, you can add a touch of color and fun by using colorful sprinkles!
INSTRUCTIONS In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix all ingredients on medium until combined. Cool mixture in the refrigerator for 45 minutes. Shape into balls of about 1-2 tbsp each, and roll in pearl sugar and serve!
SNOWFLAKE ROSETTES
Makes about 40 cookies
These lacy and delightful deep-fried treats are a Swedish Christmas classic known as “Struvor.” Despite their intricate appearance, making them is a breeze with the right equipment. You’ll need the rosette iron mold by NordicWare, which you can find at well-stocked kitchen supply stores or online.
INGREDIENTS 2 eggs 4 tsp sugar 1 cup whole milk 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 tsp salt Vegetable oil for frying 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
INSTRUCTIONS In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and salt. Add the milk and slowly mix in the flour until smooth. Transfer batter to a shallow bowl.
Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil to 325 in a thick-bottomed skillet or saucepan. Immerse rosette iron (without batter) into the oil until it’s thoroughly heated. Dip hot iron into the bowl with batter, avoiding covering the top of the iron. Immerse batter-dipped iron into the oil and fry until golden brown.
Let rosettes cool on a wire rack, then sprinkle with granulated or powdered sugar.
STAINED GLASS COOKIES
Makes about 30
Stained glass cookies are a great combination of taste and aesthetics! These buttery, crisp cookies are shaped into festive designs, featuring a center cut-out filled with crushed Jolly Rancher hard candies. As they melt, these candies create a stunning stained-glass “window” effect. It’s best to have both mini and regular-sized cookie cutters for this recipe.
INGREDIENTS 20 Jolly Ranchers,unwrapped and sorted by color 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened 1 cup sugar 1/2 tsp salt 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla extract 3 cups all-purpose flour
INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Unwrap candies and sort by color into zip lock bags. Crush bagged candies into pieces about the size of pretzel salt with a mallet or rolling pin. Set aside.
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together butter, sugar, and salt on medium speed until well combined. Add eggs, one at a time and then vanilla. Turn mixer to low and add the flour. Mix until just combined.
Transfer dough to a plastic bag and chill in refrigerator for about 1 hour. Once chilled, cut dough into thirds and roll out on a floured board to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out your favorite shapes with regular cookie cutters. Using mini cookie cutters, create a cut-out in the center of each cookie. Transfer cut cookies onto a silicone mat lined baking sheet. Silicone mats work best but premium parchment paper also works. However, cookies tend to stick to some cheaper, store brand parchment paper varieties.
Fill cut center about 3/4 of the way with crushed candy. Chill prepared cookies in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking. Then, bake on middle rack until candy center has melted and is bubbling, about 12-14 minutes. Let cool on baking sheet and peel off carefully with thin spatula. These cookies are best the first couple of days and don’t freeze well (the “window” gets sticky). Makes great tree ornaments!
CHOCOLATE DIPPED MACAROONS
Makes about 30 cookies
These coconut macaroons are unlike your grandma’s! Their incredible coconut flavor is achieved by using a mix of sweet and unsweetened shredded coconut, along with canned cream of coconut (you can find it in the cocktail section of your local market, often used in piña coladas). It’s a triple coconut delight!
INSTRUCTIONS Heat oven to 375 degrees. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray. In a small bowl, whisk together cream of coconut, corn syrup, egg whites, vanilla, and salt. Set aside.
Combine the two kinds of shredded coconut in a large bowl and add liquid ingredients and mix. Chill in fridge for 15 minutes.
Drop mounds of batter, about 1 1/2 tbsp each, onto the prepared baking sheet, one inch apart. Shape into fairly dense cones with your fingers (this is a bit messy). Bake until golden brown, about 15 minutes. Cool on baking sheet for a couple of minutes until set. Cool completely on wire rack.
In a small bowl, start melting (tempering) the chocolate in the microwave oven for 30 seconds on 50-percent power. Take out, stir, and repeat until mostly melted. Stir one more time until smooth.
Dip coconut mounds in chocolate and place on parchment lined baking sheet. Once a baking sheet is full, put it the fridge to allow chocolate to fully set, about 15 minutes.
Celebrating Culture & Coffee
Lynchburg’s First Latin Café
Recently opened El Mariachi Café and the adjacent El Mariachi Restaurant provide downtown Lynchburg residents with a taste of Latin American culture through stellar beverage offerings as well as authentic Latin cuisine.
For cousins and El Mariachi owners Daniel Sanchez and L.J. Pumagualle, the restaurant business has been a longtime family affair. The duo’s family opened its first El Mariachi restaurant in 2008 in Amherst County before starting a second 10 years later in Lovingston, Virginia. In August, Sanchez and Pumagualle decided to open a branch of their own, but this time with the addition of a café.
El Mariachi Café, the first Latin American café in Lynchburg as well as the first café for the El Mariachi brand, offers a robust selection of caffeinated beverages and desserts to customers.
“We live in a diverse world, so it’s nice to have something for each area,” said Pumagualle, who is Ecuadorian. “Lynchburg didn’t have a Latin café, so we are pushing Honduran coffee, Guatemalan coffee, we want to start pushing Ecuadorian coffee, and Mexican bread and food. The Latin style is very important to me because you can do so much with it.”
While the restaurant provides patrons with a wide selection of lunch and dinner items, as well as a fully stocked bar, the café provides a more laid-back atmosphere for customers as well as includes breakfast options that aren’t available at the restaurant. It also offers specialty drinks that combine coffee with staple Latin favorites such as “horchatte” (horchata and latte combination) and a churro affogato.
Photos by Ashlee Glen
Through these offerings, the business looks to share its passion for Latin culture with residents of Central Virginia as well as anyone else passing through the area.
“I’m Mexican and I’ve kind of been disconnected from my heritage for a lot of different reasons, but this has been a way for me to connect back with my heritage through something I love, which is coffee,” manager Jeremy Angione said. “Not only are you getting the influence through the food and the aesthetics, but you’re also getting it through the people.”
As the café begins to grow and find its niche in the downtown scene, it will continue to evolve as it seeks to best serve its customers. Yet, its focus on authentic Latin cuisine will not change.
“We’re a people with a rich heritage that we like to pull from, with fresh ingredients,” Angione said. “We want to be seen as something more than just a theme or a character in a restaurant. We want to be seen as a people with a rich and diverse culture that we want to share with the people of Lynchburg and Virginia overall.”
El Mariachi Café and El Mariachi Restaurant are located at 1001 Jefferson St., Lynchburg, VA, and customers can also visit the business’ website at www.elmariachimexfood.com.
Photos by Ashlee Glen
Enchanting Escapes
The Most Festive Holiday Hotels of the Season
As the holiday season beckons with the promise of warmth, joy, and a touch of magic, what better way to embrace it than through travel? As winter casts its snowy spell, families and friends embark on journeys that lead to reunions or new adventures.
For many, traveling during the holidays is a cherished tradition, a time-honored ritual that brings loved ones together. Airports hum with a festive energy, adorned with twinkling lights and the sound of cheerful carols. Trains and buses echo with the anticipation of shared stories and laughter. The journey itself becomes a part of the holiday experience, weaving a tapestry of memories.
Exploring new destinations during this time can be transformative. Streets adorned with holiday decorations offer a unique perspective, as traditions shine through in vibrant displays of lights, nativity scenes, and bustling downtowns.
Whether you’re looking for a wintery escape this season or a festive place to stay while visiting family or friends, Virginia has a host of holiday hotels to choose from.
Photo Courtesy: The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center
The Hotel Roanoke
Famous for its annual Fashions for Evergreens event, which runs from Thanksgiving morning until New Year’s Day, The Hotel Roanoke comes alive with holiday cheer. Each year, dozens of organizations and businesses compete for the coveted People’s Choice award by trimming trees in an assortment of themes. In years past, guests have enjoyed whimsical Alice in Wonderland trees, trees with historic flourishes, and trees that act as living memories of those who have come before us. The designs get more delightful and immersive with every passing year, and this season promises to be one of their best yet.
The Hotel Roanoke is also offering professional holiday portraits this year in front of their lobby tree, as well as an interactive Elf on the Shelf activity for the hotel’s youngest guests. S’mores are also roasted on the patio every Friday and Saturday in December to help guests feel even more cozy.
The Omni Homestead is a stunning destination no matter the season, but particularly in the winter months, when the Allegheny Mountains are blanketed in white. Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, mini snowmobiles, and ice skating all await guests who book a holiday stay at the Omni Homestead. Touted as the birthplace of southern skiing, the Omni Homestead has nine trails at varying skill levels for skiers and snowboarders. Not to mention, a section of their two-acre waterpark, Allegheny Springs, fed by natural springs in the area, is converted to an ice skating rink in the winter.
Winter sports aside, The Omni Homestead offers a full seasonal lineup of activities for guests, from bedtime stories with Santa’s elves and an interactive winter fairy garden for children to a Homestead holiday express hayride and seasonal craft beer tastings for the adults.
Holidays at Primland Resort are as cozy as they come. Tucked just off the Appalachian Trail, this luxurious back-to-nature escape is the perfect destination for a winter retreat. On its 12,000-acre mountain estate are romantic log cabins and treehouses perched above the Dan River Gorge, giving guests a glimpse of holiday in the backcountry while still enjoying the amenities of the number one rated resort in the Southeast (Condé Nast).
Primland decorates each guest’s room with their own Christmas tree and offers cookie decorating and wreath making in the afternoons. This year, Primland Resort is launching its Winter Solstice Experience, a unique nightly stargazing opportunity in their observatory. Other holiday activities include Christmas Eve cocktails and a prix fixe meal, an ornament-making workshop, classic holiday movies in their theater, and storytime with Santa.
The Jefferson Hotel has a reputation for its glitz and glam during the holiday season. This year, the hotel will be adorned with hundreds of live poinsettias, thousands of twinkle lights, and yards of garland with unique displays trailing up the grand staircase and along the circle drive. More than 20 decorated trees will grace the hotel corridors, but one is guaranteed to outshine them all: a 30-foot Christmas tree in the rotunda that will be embellished with hundreds of oversized ornaments.
Their annual gingerbread display will also be up throughout the season. Each year’s theme is different (this year’s theme won’t be announced until November 27!) but past themes have included Santa’s sleigh; Santa’s workshop; and a Christmas village complete with a gingerbread tree, packages, and quaint gingerbread cottages. Holiday brunches and seasonally themed meals will also be served throughout Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. For a family-friendly meal, don’t miss their coveted holiday afternoon teas served Monday through Saturday through January 6.
If you’ve never been to Leesburg during the holidays, consider this your invitation. The cozy historic town comes alive during the winter months with parades, tree lightings, and twinkle-lit corner restaurants to tuck into. Adding to that charm is Lansdowne Resort & Spa, where traditional celebrations abound.
Their inaugural tree lighting ceremony marks the start to the holiday season each year, and it only snowballs from there. Guests can enjoy a traditional breakfast with Santa complete with cookie decorating, ornament building, and an opportunity to meet the Big Man himself, or soak in the sounds of the season with live caroling while sipping on delicious hot cocoa.
Each year The Cavalier Hotel kicks off the holiday season with their Grand Illumination event, a time where the Historic Cavalier, Marriott, and Embassy Suites are flooded with lights and festive cheer. Santa joins in on the fun before his busy season starts, and the hotel grounds are awash with carolers and dancers from The Nutcracker. This beloved tradition is one you won’t want to miss if you’re looking for a beach getaway this season. Photos with Santa, hot cocoa, and holiday-themed drinks in their stunning Raleigh Room await you.
The Cavalier Hotel also hosts an annual Christmas dinner on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Their delectable three-course meal will be one you and your family talk about for years to come—and will perhaps start a tradition of your own. And, while you’re there, be sure to take a stroll to the neighborhood adjacent to the Cavalier on 43rd and 44th Streets where residents go all out on their holiday décor, attracting a steady stream of annual visitors by car and on foot.
Image by Jerry McCoy for The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
The Williamsburg Inn
The holidays aren’t the holidays in Coastal Virginia without a stroll down Colonial Williamsburg’s famed Duke of Gloucester Street to admire the artistry of the 18th-century inspired, handmade wreaths and garlands bedecking its charming Colonial-era homes and shops. But that stroll also isn’t complete without a turn down Colonial Street, where you’ll be dazzled by the façade of the legendary Williamsburg Inn, its warm white holiday lights magically mirrored in the reflecting pool that welcomes visitors to its classical portico.
The Williamsburg Inn, once graced by Queen Elizabeth II herself, is a popular stop for visitors during Colonial Williamsburg’s annual Grand Illumination celebrations, happening Dec. 2, 9 and 16 in 2023, which include fireworks displays from the Capitol and the Governor’s Palace. Make it an event and book a “Holiday Getaway Package” that includes a three-night minimum stay, breakfast for two, tickets to Colonial Williamsburg for the duration of your stay, a boxed holiday ornament and a retail shopping pass.
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, the holidays serve as a pause button, allowing us to reflect, reconnect, and create new traditions. Whether it’s a grand adventure or a quiet retreat, traveling for the holidays has the power to kindle the spirit, filling hearts with gratitude and the knowledge that, no matter where we roam, we carry the warmth of home within us.
Oh, Christmas Tree!
Meet the Farmers Growing Christmas Trees
Everyone has their own traditions when it comes to the Christmas season. But there is perhaps no tradition more classic than going to a local farm to get your very own tree chopped to prop up in the living room, for all to see, and smell. While many may opt for a fake, pre-decorated tree from a hardware store, you just can’t capture the same old-fashioned charm that a Christmas tree farm can give.
Fortunately, if you decide to keep the tradition alive and choose your own farm-grown tree, Central Virginia is home to several plots of land dedicated to the Christmas custom.
Bedford Evergreen Christmas Tree Farm
1893 Robertson ROAd, Bedford, VA 24523
For Dan Young, growing and cutting Christmas trees is not only a tradition, it’s a legacy.
“I grew up in Prince Edward County, on a Christmas tree farm, near Farmville,” Young said. “So, I kinda grew up doing it.”
Dan bought a farm of his own in Bedford County about 16 years ago and started to grow trees of his own. Due to his long history in the field, Dan says he knows exactly how a tree should be cut and shaped, and that the quality shape of his trees is a trademark of his farm.
“We got it down to a pretty good art form,” he said.
Bedford Evergreen also offers hayrides and will offer to cut and load your tree for you.
“For me, I grew up always getting a tree,” Young remembered. “The feelings that engenders are fairly powerful. Because it just becomes part of a tradition. In a way, by continuing to do this, I’m continuing a tradition that I grew up with.”
According to Young, shoppers should be sure to get their trees as early as possible. He says there is a shortage in Virginia, due, in part, to older growers retiring without new growers to take their places.
Season: Begins Black Friday and will open the following two weekends.
Dancing Hill Christmas Tree Farm
1401 Dancing Hill Road, Bedford, VA 24523
With a claim to having the longest run Christmas Tree farm in the area, Richard Miles started Dancing Hill Christmas Tree Farm in 1980, as a way to pay for his children’s college education.
Although the farm does not produce as many trees as it used to, Dancing Hill specializes in larger trees, mostly for commercial use, such as for businesses or church events.
“We’ve scaled way back from what we started,” Miles said. “We used to be open for a month. We’re only open one weekend now and we sell everything we’ve got in one weekend.”
Miles says that running the farm for so long has produced some rewarding results.
“We’ve been at it for so long, we’re selling to people who came up as kids who are now adults with their own kids,” he said.
Dancing Hills was the best option for Miles and his family after his retirement from the Department of Forestry. He figured his expertise was expansive enough to provide a great service to others.
Miles says that shoppers should get their tree early, and to call before coming to ensure they haven’t already sold out.
Season: Begins Black Friday and continues while supplies last
Green Needles Christmas Tree Farm
1175 Yew Tree Lane, Coleman Falls, VA 24536
Jon Perdew is the third owner of Green Needles Christmas Tree Farm and has operated it for 18 years.
According to Perdew, the scenic mountain locale, the fresh hot chocolate, and the old-fashioned fun of tire swings make Green Needles a unique, and warm experience for tree shoppers.
Perdew admits there wasn’t a special reason he got into the Christmas tree business, he only wanted the land and had the prior experience of running apple and peach orchards.
Green Needles also makes and sells wreaths and even has food trucks for its guests. Much like his peers, Perdew advises that shoppers snag their trees as early as possible.
Season: Begins the Saturday before Thanksgiving and continues while supplies last.
Joyful Tree Farm
16145 Forest Road, Forest, VA 24551
Although the Joyful Tree Farm began operation in 2019, the business has already found success. Mary Gribbin, a professor of the PA Medicine program at the University of Lynchburg, and mother of seven, owns and operates the business with her husband Bill.
According to Mary, Joyful Tree started as just a fundraiser for the PA program, where the students would provide and package trees for customers while enjoying coffee and ice cream from Rookie’s.
“We were looking to uphold that tradition of people getting together and being able to enjoy Christmas during Covid, and it kinda just blossomed from there,” she said.
Joyful Tree only works with Fraser fir trees, which Mary says do well in the local climate. While they do provide trees up to 10 feet, Mary says Joyful Tree also sells smaller, three- to four-foot trees. Mary even teaches a wreath-making class.
Unsurprisingly, Mary suggests buying early.
“So far, every year we’ve sold out,” she said. “I already have orders for more than 200 trees.”
Season: Begins Black Friday and continues while supplies last.
These farmers are doing their part to make Christmas and the rest of the holiday season an unforgettable experience for families in Central Virginia. Be sure to grab some hot chocolate and support your local farmers this Christmas season.
2023 Senior Planning Guide
It’s never too early to plan for the future.
This comprehensive resource is a great way to get started.
Glowing in the Golden Years
Some might argue that your golden years are the most enriching chapters of your life. The kids are out of the house, you have the joy of simply spoiling your grandchildren, and you have a renewed sense of freedom to enjoy. This Senior Planning Guide is all about thriving in this stage. From aging gracefully and staying active to finding the right community, you’ll find advice, tips, and information within these pages, You’ll also hear from experts in senior care along the way.
