❄️ DC-area schools close due to snow

What's CITY Talking About?

DC Cop Convicted of Helping White Supremacist

Shane Lamond, former head of the intelligence unit for MPD, was convicted of collaborating with the head of the Proud Boys before Jan. 6. The case cracked open allegations of white supremacists in the D.C. police department. Recent reports also allege mismanagement of intelligence leading up to the insurrection. [City Cast DC 🎧]

First Snowstorm of the Season

D.C. got its first real snowstorm of the year last night and is expected to continue through today. All D.C. public schools have been closed, along with schools in Montgomery, Prince George, and Fairfax Counties. With all that extra time, you should probably make your way to Malcolm X Park for the biggest snowball fight of all time. [Fox5]

• Related: City Cast DC host Bridget Todd has some advice for Washingtonians and transplants experiencing their first D.C. snowfall. [City Cast DC 🎧]

Trayon White Apologies at Swearing-In Ceremony

Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White was sworn in for his third term last week, despite being under indictment for bribery. Moments after, he issued a general apology to the city but did not specify why. [Washington Post 🔒]

• Related: Last month, a D.C. Council sub-committee recommended expelling White for violating council ethics. White will have the chance to defend himself at a final hearing on Jan. 28. [City Cast DC 🎧]

New Southeast Hospital Opening in Spring

D.C.’s first new hospital in decades is coming to Congress Heights this spring. Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health will bringg much-needed specialty care and trauma resources to residents east of the Anacostia River. [Washington Post 🔒]

How To Do Dry (Or Damp) January In DC

D.C.’s social scene revolves around happy hour, but you know what’s even happier? Not waking up with a raging hangover. While you used to have to scour the city for a decent N/A bevvy, they are now the new norm. So, whether you're going all in for dry January, dabbling in damp January, or just want to try something new, here’s where to get started.

Nonalcoholic Bars

If you don’t even want to be anywhere near alcohol, these spots are 100% booze-free.

Plant Magic Bottle Shop (Union Market)

This pop-up is dedicated to nonalcoholic cocktails and wellness drinks. Using ingredients like matcha, ashwagandha, and CBD, these mocktails are designed to make you feel good — without the hangover. You can also buy bottles and attend tastings here.

Binge Bar (H Street)

D.C.’s first-ever permanent nonalcoholic bar, Binge Bar offers booze-free twists on classic drinks like negronis, margaritas, and French 75s. The kitchen also makes small Filipino-inspired bites.

Mindful Drinking Fest (Union Market)

Not exactly a bar, but on Jan. 10 - 12, this festival will have the latest and greatest N/A alcohol options to try, along with yoga, mocktail-making classes, dancing, and treats from local vendors.

Stocking Your Booze-Free Home Bar

It’s no longer Athletic Brewing or nothing. Local brands are stepping up their nonalcoholic game.

Port City Hopwell:

This local brewery now makes a nonalcoholic, hop-infused sparkling water, which is bright and fizzy, and floral.

Mocktail Club Canned Cocktails:

You can buy these canned mocktails online or in a variety of local shops and bars. They have five different flavors, but my favorite is the Bombay Fire with pomegranate, tea, agave, and chili.

Pratt Standard Cocktail Syrups:

This D.C. brand makes high-qualitye mixers and syrups that can be used to easily whip up the perfect mocktail. Think Earl Grey vanilla or rosemary grapefruit. Just add your favorite soda.

Best Nonalcoholic Cocktails

Almost all D.C. bars have some kind of N/A option, but not all are created equal, here are some personal favorites.

Moon Rabbit (Penn Quarter)

Thỏ Ngọc — $12

Michelin’s 2024 cocktail award winner Thi Nguyen is turning her creativity to N/A offerings this month. The Thỏ Ngọc is made with soursop, osmanthus, lemon, and vegan foam. Another menu favorite is the milk tea with oolong, oat milk, pandan syrup, and grass jelly.

Service Bar (U Street Corridor)

Yuzu Matcha Slurpie — $12

This blended cocktail has yuzu, lime, coconut milk, and matcha in one of Service Bar’s classic Tiki cups.

What To Do