The start of a new school year may mean summer vacation is winding down, but there’s still plenty of time for one more family adventure. Fair season is here across the DMV. From Ferris wheels and midway games to funnel cakes, livestock shows, live entertainment, tractor pulls, and good old-fashioned fair food, county and state […]
County Fair Season Is Here: Family Fun Across the DMV Read More »
The 2026 Higher Education Employee Well-Being Symposium, held at Virginia Tech’s Academic Building One in Alexandria, Virginia, brought together higher education professionals committed to improving employee well-being through collaboration, innovation, and shared learning. While the educational sessions were at the heart of the symposium, one lesson stood out to us: the attendee experience extends far beyond the conference
For years, the conversation around smart cities has focused on technology. Connected traffic signals. Intelligent transportation systems. Public Wi-Fi. Environmental sensors. Artificial intelligence. Data analytics. These innovations are helping cities operate more efficiently, reduce congestion, improve sustainability, and deliver better public services. They are making cities smarter from an operational perspective. But what if we’ve
We’ve Been Thinking About Smart Cities All Wrong Read More »
If there’s one event that captures the energy, music, and spirit of Jamaica, it’s Reggae Sumfest. As someone who has attended Sumfest several times over the years, it’s one of the events I look forward to the most. Every visit offers something different—from unforgettable performances and incredible food to reconnecting with friends and experiencing the unmatched
Reggae Sumfest 2026: Experience Jamaica Beyond the Resort Read More »
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, conversations around culture, history, and identity are taking place across the country. Food has always been one of the most powerful ways people connect to place, community, and storytelling — and today, how we discover where to eat is changing just as quickly as the cities themselves.
Cities change fast. Openings, closings, menu flips, pop-ups, and neighborhood shifts happen every week. Most recommendation lists can’t keep up. They go stale almost as soon as they’re published.
The 6-Month Spotlight Model: A New Standard for Modern City Discovery Read More »
Veterans Week in the DMV brings flavor and purpose together. Explore the veteran-owned and veteran-supporting spots shaping the region’s food scene and discover where service meets community.
Special Veteran-Owned Restaurants Worth Visiting in the DMV Read More »
Halloween is almost here, and the Bhlen team is rounding up the most hauntingly fun parties happening across the DMV. Whether you’re in D.C., Virginia, or Maryland, these spots on our What’s New Near You digital guide are bringing big energy, creative costumes, and plenty of themed cocktails to keep the night alive. So grab your crew,
Find Spooky Halloween Parties on Bhlen’s What’s New Near You Guide Read More »
The 15th Annual Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival will be held from October 17 to November 2, will attract food lovers from around the world for a celebration that transforms the islands into a culinary paradise. This year’s festival spans multiple islands and venues, featuring world-renowned chefs, mixologists, and culinary innovators who will share their
Let’s Discover the Magic of the Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival Read More »
If you’re looking for the best things to do on South Padre Island, Texas, you’re in for an unforgettable coastal adventure. This vibrant barrier island along the Texas Gulf Coast is known for its sandy beaches, delicious seafood, and endless activities that make it a favorite destination for travelers year-round. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend
Discover Why South Padre Island, TX Is Your Ultimate Tourist Destination Read More »
