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Fall is a breathtaking time of year—the leaves grow ripe with color, the air becomes crisp, and the world seems poised for a long winter rest. You can enjoy the season in many ways, but spending time in Chesapeake, VA at this time of year is an experience unlike any other. The entire region feels like it was made just for this time of year. We at Priority Toyota want you to make the most out of the autumn beauty, so we've compiled a list of activities occurring in Chesapeake. Begin Your Fall with the Sounds of Music In early September, enjoy a special event at the Bagley Stage. The Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department hosts the Virginia Symphony Orchestra at an event called Symphony Under the Stars. Come and listen to expert musicians creating powerful music while you relax in the cool grass. There will also be food trucks with a variety of menu offerings, wine tasting, and a raffle if you'd like to try your luck for added enjoyment. The symphony begins at 7 p.m. on Sept. 4, but you can arrive at 6 p.m. if you'd like to start picnicking early. more Do You Love Food? Buy your tickets now for the Great American Food Fest. The Sheriff's Office of Chesapeake is holding this food extravaganza on Oct. 5. Starting at 3 p.m. and continuing until 7:15 p.m., eat all the food you like and enjoy a variety of beverages (alcohol included), all while being entertained by the local police force. Check out the Sheriff Department's website for more information on ticket purchasing. Your Dog Can Enjoy the Season, Too The Chesapeake Humane Society teams up with the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department for an event appealing to canines and humans alike. On Oct. 15, bring your pup(s) to the 5K Doggy Dash at 5 p.m. As the name suggests, you'll be running, jogging, or walking a 5K with your beloved companion. It's a great chance for everyone to get some exercise and enjoy the fall evening. After you finish your run, be ready for some entertainment accompanied by food vendors and some local craft beer. Follow the Humane Society's website to learn more about this event benefitting animals in need. Bring the Folks Out for the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival Ever been curious about how the people of Chesapeake lived a century ago? Here's your chance to experience history on a first-hand basis. Ferrum College is throwing a Blue Ridge Folklife Festival on Oct. 22. Come enjoy the sights and sounds of folk culture. The festival will have four different music and storytelling stages, more than 50 craft events, a huge variety of folk food, and an atmosphere of fun, education, and friendship. Fuse Some Knowledge into Your Thanksgiving The Williamsburg Harvest Celebration is held from Nov. 5 through Nov. 12. Nearly half a century of culinary history is presented to attendees. Sample food from the past while learning about how the earliest Virginians cultivated their harvest. Image Via Pixabay

As the leaves change colors and the temperature drops, the signs of autumn approaching are undeniable. Each fall, it's important to stop by Priority Chesapeake for seasonal maintenance to help preserve the life of your Toyota. Here are just six of the reasons that fall car maintenance needs to be a regular part of your routine for your favorite Toyota. Stay Safe With Working Brakes Don't end up driving in snow or ice without working brakes. Not only does this make driving more difficult and unsafe, it makes an automotive accident much more likely, as you'll be unable to stop in time to avoid the car in front of you. Have your brakes tested and replaced, if necessary, so that you'll be able to drive safely in the fall before snow becomes an issue. more Avoid Unexpected Flat Tires You don't want to end up waiting for roadside assistance in the snow. One of the easiest ways to avoid this is to have your tires inspected before the changes in air temperature deflate them. This way you can avoid unexpected car troubles, when possible, stemming from improper tire pressure. If you need new tires, you can have them replaced the same day and leave with confidence that your tires will hold up. Make Sure Your Heater Works The time to check whether or not your Toyota's heater works properly is well before the winter weather. Your service specialist will check all of the different components that make your heater work and fix anything that doesn't look right. When it's time for snow, you'll be able to stay warm when you drive. Keep the Battery Working in Winter Because of the cold weather conditions, old batteries tend to die in the winter. Even if you think your Toyota's battery is relatively new, go ahead and have it checked during routine fall maintenance. You'll avoid discovering later that your battery wasn't able to survive the winter. Replace Wiper Blades, Fluids, and Filters Old wiper blades may not be strong enough to break through ice crystals and snow on your windshield. Not having enough antifreeze makes your car engine vulnerable. Dirty filters put more pressure on your engine to perform. When you bring your Toyota in for fall maintenance, you know your fluids have been topped off, your wiper blades checked, and your filter replaced, according to manufacturer guidelines. Extend the Life of Your Toyota You love your Toyota and want to drive it as long as possible. By scheduling routine maintenance, mechanics notice small issues before they become larger and more costly car problems. Routine maintenance is an important aspect of car ownership that helps you keep driving your car for longer. Make fall car maintenance part of your regular routine to protect your family and your car. By going to the dealership directly, you know that you're getting the expertise and specialized care straight from the manufacturer. You won't have to worry about something being missed or completed incorrectly. Image Via Pixabay

2016 Toyota RAV4 Cars.com Car Seat Installation Honor Roll Child safety is a major concern for parents every time the put their children into their vehicle. One of the most important elements in the protection of of your children in a vehicle in the proper installation of a child protective safety seat. Toyota designers and engineers have been working to make child safety seat mounts easy to access and use. Parents who drive a 2016 Toyota RAV4 can have peace of mind knowing that Cars.com has named the 2016 Toyota RAV4 to their Car Seat Honor Roll. more 2016 Toyota RAV4 and Cars.com Criteria for Car Seat Honor Roll The 2016 Toyota RAV4, compact SUV was one of only six vehicles named to the Cars.com Car Seat Honor Roll, out of 84 model-year 2016 and 2017 vehicles tested. The RAV4 earned a perfect score in each category of the test, which was performed by certified child passenger safety technicians using an infant seat, convertible seat and booster seat. Cars.com says that “when it comes to car seats, the RAV4 is at the top of the class,” praising a large backseat to accommodate rear-facing baby seats. Toyota and being recognized for their efforts in child safety Beyond Car Seat Safety in the 2016 Toyota RAV4“We’ve put a lot of effort into making installation of child safety seats easier, and we’re glad to see that it’s working. I have two young boys myself, and child passenger safety is of the utmost importance to me, both as a mother and an engineering professional that has an active role in LATCH development on Toyota vehicles.” - Jennifer Pelky, senior safety engineer at Toyota’s North American R&D Headquarters. In addition to the safety focused car seat installation in the 2016 Toyota RAV4, the compact SUV offers an array of advanced safety features. The available Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) is an active safety package that combines an in-vehicle camera and front-grille-mounted, millimeter-wave radar for enhanced performance and more functionality. The package includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection function, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Auto High Beams. The 2016 RAV4 also come standard with eight airbags, including driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System, driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags, front- and second-row Roll-sensing Side Curtain Airbags and a driver knee airbag and front passenger seat-cushion airbag. Click to see our current 2016 Toyota RAV4 inventory and make sure you follow the Priority Toyota Chesapeake blog. Image Via Pixabay

Finding activities for you and your family that are both fun and educational is a tall order, especially these days. However, if you live in or near Chesapeake, VA then you have easy access to some of the best attractions that the state has to offer. Chesapeake offers families many opportunities to learn in an exciting, engaging way that is hard to find anywhere else. Keep reading to learn about educational activities that create family memories to last a lifetime. Bird Watching One of the most memorable educational experiences you can give your children is seeing wild animals up close and personal, and the great thing about living in Chesapeake is the access to some of the best bird watching in the entire country. Take a stroll through one of the many parks in the area and you'll see a variety of feathered friends! Bring along one of the many available bird guides and turn this outdoor activity into a memorable experience. more Parks and Trails Although modern life has its distinct advantages, the biggest drawback is our increasing disconnectedness from the wondrous world around us.  However, spending time in the beautiful natural parks and trails in Chesapeake gives your children an unforgettable experience and shows them just how much nature really has to offer. Being outdoors is a learning experience in and of itself, and the value of your time spent together is immeasurable! Make a game of your outdoor experiences by having your kids name various plants and animals they see along the way. Immerse Your Children in Art There is a proven link between creativity and learning, which means that art is a great way to have fun while educating your little ones. In the Chesapeake area, you and your family can expand your horizons and learn about interesting and unique art forms by visiting the Chrysler Art Museum, The American Theatre, and the Harrison Opera House. Whether you're taking in music, sculpture, or a live performance, after a trip to any of these institutions, your children will be bursting with questions and eager to learn more about what they've just seen. Experience History for Yourself Virginia is possibly the most history-rich state in the entire country, providing you and your children with a valuable learning opportunity. The best way to learn about history is to experience it, and you can do exactly that by spending a day at the Battleship Wisconsin, the Chesapeake Veterans' Memorial, or the Jamestown Settlement. A day at any of these locations gives your children an experience that can't be found in a classroom. When you're planning a day out for you and your family, find something to do that is both fun and educational. Fortunately, Chesapeake, VA activities are endless, providing you and your family with opportunities to expand your knowledge while also enjoying the time together. Spending a day at any of these locations gifts your family with an experience you'll treasure for years to come. Image Via Pixabay

With the cooler weather approaching, you know you'll rely on your car's heater to stay comfortable driving throughout the cold months. Schedule a service appointment to prepare your vehicle's heater for the winter to adequately protect your car before the first frost. Here are five reasons you should get your vehicle's heating system serviced as part of your late fall routine. Ensure Your System Works Efficiently Cooling and heating systems work together to manage the temperature in your car. When your cooling system fails to work, you may experience failure in your heating system. If you already know that your vehicle's HVAC system needs repair, make it a priority to get it fixed. However, it can be difficult to know if there's a leak or some other clog within the system. Service professionals can identify any inefficiencies that may impact performance. more Preserve the Life of Your Car Well-maintained cars last longer and perform better than poorly maintained ones. Preparing your vehicle's heating system for winter should be a part of your yearly maintenance routine. After all, snow and ice can easily damage engine components and exterior paint. Without proper maintenance, your vehicle won't last as long as it should. Prevent Small Issues From Becoming Large Ones Typically, you won't know if there's a small, easily correctable issue with your heating system. As long as your car heater works, there isn't a reason to suspect that something's wrong. When you regularly prepare your vehicle's heating system for the winter, the service professional will inspect the system to make sure everything's working properly. They may be able to prevent a large issue from arising, such as the heating system breaking, simply by catching it early. Replenish Antifreeze In the winter, you need antifreeze to keep your car running, especially with harsh winter conditions such as snow. If you leave your car outside overnight during a snowstorm, like most car owners do, your car relies on the antifreeze more than usual. During your service appointment, the service professional will check your antifreeze level and replenish it to manufacturer standards. This way you will not be left without antifreeze when you need it most. Save Money Over the Long Term When you take care of your vehicle, it lasts longer. Regular maintenance is more cost-effective than replacing a transmission or other large repair. This is why it makes sense to invest money in preventive maintenance over costly and unexpected repairs. Protecting your car with regular maintenance is well worth the consideration. Schedule oil change appointments periodically and replace your air filters. Have your vehicle inspected by an automotive professional before and after the winter just to be sure. If you live in a state that experiences snowfall, make sure to schedule a service appointment at your automotive dealership to prepare your vehicle's heater for the cold weather. You'll save money and extend the life of your car. You don't want to be left driving your car this winter without heat. Image via Flickr by Janitors

You and your significant other have worked hard lately—it's time to treat yourselves to a little fun and romance. Or maybe you've been waiting to ask out that special someone. Now is the perfect time because you have some great options. Whether you're aiming to celebrate a long-term relationship or you're trying to spark a new romance, Priority Toyota has developed a list of exciting date night ideas for the Chesapeake area. The Tried and True: Cinema Café at Greenbrier Mall Most people have been to the movies on a date, but fewer can claim to have enjoyed a full-course meal served by a professional wait staff while enjoying their cinematic experience. At the Cinema Café in Greenbrier Mall, you and your date select from a full menu, including alcoholic beverages. Tell your date to bring an appetite and you can both sit back, relax, and chow down while a new release flashes before your eyes. more A Walk through the Park Is Always Memorable Great Bridge Locks Park is actually an island, so you have plenty of alone time together. Walk about the island and relish the fresh, cool air flowing off the water. This is part of the National Parks Service's network of "Chesapeake Bay Getaways". You and your date can also learn how the park is of historical significance to the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Best of all, you can go for free! Who Doesn't Love a Good Boat Ride? If you want to sweep your date off his or her feet, then put those feet firmly on a boat deck. There are several professional agencies that would be happy to help you plan an unforgettable boating adventure. Charter vessels take you out to Chesapeake Bay and into the Atlantic Ocean where you and your partner enjoy the swell of the water and the lap of the waves. If you're looking for something more adventurous, arrange for a fishing excursion, all equipment included. Toss out a line, pour a drink, and wait for those fish to bite as you snuggle into a seat with your date. Show Your Cultured Side at the Theater The New Theater of Chesapeake hosts a variety of shows performed by a top-class professional theater troupe. If your date is a fan of musicals, you're in luck. The Theater mostly puts on music-based productions. If musicals aren't your preference, catch a comedy or drama. New Theater aims to spread the love of performance, so they keep their prices low and affordable, making your date night less strenuous on the pocketbook. Go Far Out If you and your date are inclined towards brainier activities, try spending an afternoon at the Chesapeake Planetarium. They take you on a journey through the mysteries and beauty of space. Get behind one of the high-powered telescopes and watch the stars come alive. This is a great option no matter what the weather outside is doing. It's always a beautiful night inside the planetarium. Image Via Pixabay

Many of our customers have seen the ping pong table that we have in our showroom. It is open to our customers and staff to strike up a game when the competitive mood hits, but some do not know the history of Priority Toyota Chesapeake 's love for ping pong. It started years ago when we sponsored a great cause called PingPongForPoverty, now PingPongforCHARITY. We agreed to have an exhibition event in the showroom featuring a few professional table tennis players. After the event, we loved having the table in the store so much that it has become a permanent staple in the dealership. Any day of the week or time of day you might spot customers battling it out while they purchase a vehicle or wait for their vehicle in our service department, or see various team members on their lunch break rallying for bragging rights. We even have a local group that comes in at least once a week to play in the dealership. Ping Pong or Table Tennis keeps the fun going in our showroom and has added a wonderful dynamic to the culture of our store. That brings us to our exciting announcement for this post, we are thrilled to once again partner with PingPong.Gives and what is now PingPongforCharity for the 2016 PingPongforCharity Amateur Tournament taking place Saturday, September 10, 2016. It promises to be a weekend full of fun and competition for all levels. As a special announcement, Priority Toyota Chesapeake, will have special in-store exhibition event on Friday, September 9th at 11:30AM. You do not want to miss this special engagement as Duke/NBA standout Christian Laettner will be in attendance and playing a few rounds of Ping Pong with us. Also, professional table tennis star, former Greek National Champ, Ioanna Papadimitriou, and US Olympic Festival Gold Medalist Kim Gilbert will be on hand too, showing their skills and playing YOU! We'll have the table setup in the showroom and there will be plenty of room to check the Pros out and possibly get in the game! Don't miss out on this absolutely free opportunity to see the Pros in action, right here at Priority Toyota Chesapeake. Then the weekend kicks off, Friday, September 9th, with the 8th Annual Celebrity SLAMFest Kick Off Party at the Virginia Beach Field House ( click for directions) from 7PM - 11PM. There will be food, drinks, dancing and Music provided DJ, on-air personality Barry McKay! There will be a "Beat the Pros Challenge" and the Roller Derby Girls will be back in action too. Not to mention Live Auction, silent auction, 30 KETTLER table tennis tables and 2 Newgy Robots for sale. It promises to be a great night and the perfect way to kick off a weekend of Ping Pong fun. You can purchase tickets for the SLAMFest Kickoff Party here. Saturday, September 10th is the BIG DAY of the PingPongforCHARITY Amateur Tournament. It will run all day long from 8AM - 4:30PM. This tournament is designed for recreational, casual, amateur players of all age groups. There will be singles, doubles, boys/girls and men/women. It truly is a fantastic day and a great way to train your brain! Schedule of events during the tournament: 8AM Check-In 8:30AM Tournament Begins 1:30 PM > Singles Awards Ceremony 4:30PM > Doubles Awards Ceremony Play multiple games & multiple players Professional/Olympic level demonstrations Click here to register to play! Proceeds from this event benefit the PingPongfor CHARITY partners and the mission to integrate Table Tennis into our community to help aid those with brain diseases. We look forward to seeing you during what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of fun. Image Via Pixabay

Although Virginia has your typical tourist destinations like beaches, historical sites, and national landmarks, sometimes these aren't enough to quell your curiosity for the weird or obscure. Luckily, Virginia also has an ample amount of unusual and bizarre places that will have you taken aback. The next time you have an insatiable urge for the wacky, make sure to check out some of these unusual destinations. 1. Dinosaur Land If you've ever caught yourself staying up until the odd hours of the morning to watch a rerun of "Jurassic Park," you can't afford to miss Dinosaur Land in White Post. For more than 50 years, this establishment has entertained adventurers, travelers, and locals with 50 amazingly accurate models of these famed, albeit doomed, prehistoric creatures. From carnivores such as the tyrannosaurus rex and velociraptor to gentle herbivores such as the stegosaurus and triceratops, you're destined to find your favorite dinosaur here. Open seven days a week, admission is only $5 for kids and $6 for adults. Don't forget to hop into their gift shop to pick up a unique gift for that special someone. more 2. The Giant Roller Skate Whether you love the nostalgia of a roller skating rink or you still put on your four-wheeled shoes, you'll love the Giant Roller Skate in Bealeton. This 10-foot skate made of wood and plaster has been an attention-grabber off Highway 17 for decades. Today, it marks the entrance to the Rollerworks Family Skating Center, but it also provides a photo opportunity you won't get anywhere else. 3. Foamhenge We always seem to be trying to recreate Stonehenge in one form or another. There's the famed Carhenge in Nebraska, but in Virginia, there's Foamhenge. Located in Natural Bridge, Virginia, this homage to the famous British archaeological find is composed entirely of Styrofoam and painted gray to resemble the famous site. Local artist Mark Kline built this amazing attraction entirely to scale. While it doesn't hold the same mystique as the original, it's definitely a sight to behold. 4. Mini-Graceland For the ultimate fan of the King of Rock and Roll, a visit to Graceland is the pilgrimage of a lifetime. However, if you don't have time to journey to Memphis, you can see a smaller version in Roanoke. Mini-Graceland is the work of Elvis Presley fan Don Epperly and is, as the name would imply, a small-scale version of Presley's home. However, if you take pictures of the homage, it looks as if you're at the real thing. That is, unless a two-story dog walks by the minute mansion. Either way, it presents a great photo-op and a chance to see just how fanatical Elvis fans can be. While these attractions might not be the Old Dominion's biggest draws, they certainly have a bizarre aura that's too good to pass up. If you're traveling through Virginia, give in to curiosity, and give these spots a look for yourself.   Image via Flickr by vige

As the world's largest automaker, you'd think Toyota could ride its sales and reputation into the 2017 model year without changing much, if anything. However, that mentality would go against everything that's made Toyota one of the best and most popular cars on the road for the past 20 years. Every few years, Toyota brings conceptual ideas to the showroom floor or improve upon an already successful product. 2017 is no different. If you're planning to buy a new car this year, don't miss out on these awesome Toyota models. 1. The 86 You've probably heard someone use the phrase "86" to describe doing away with or being out of something. The Toyota 86, however, has a lot to offer. Perhaps it's an homage from Toyota to the discontinued Scion brand the produced the 86 in the form of the Scion FR-S, but that's entirely speculation. Regardless of its name origins, the 86 is one of the most eagerly anticipated models of 2017. The reason for such excitement is that Toyota hasn't had a true sports car since the demise of the now legendary Supra. While it might take some time to bring the 86 up to the Supra's level, it still has some nice power thanks to a 200-horsepower, 2.0-liter straight four under the hood. This enables it to burst off the line in a 6.4-second zero-to-60 clip with a top speed of 136 miles per hour. Throw in an updated dashboard, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, and Granluxe Interior accents, and the 86 is definitely a head-turner. more 2. Tacoma TRD Pro If you've ever looked for a truck that goes off-road as well as some of the SUVs on the market, you might have come up empty. However, Toyota looks to turn the tables by offering the Tacoma TRD Pro. This customized truck takes everything you love about the road-worthy Tacoma and mixes it with FOX 2.5 Internal Bypass Shocks, a front skid plate, and alloy wheels with Kevlar-reinforced Goodyear All-Terrain Tires. In addition, the TRD Pro adds attractive fog lights, LED headlights, and an intimidating grille. Inside, you'll find the Tacoma is every bit as luxurious as its siblings. Features include heated black leather front seats, an active safety alert system, and a 4.2-inch color driver's display. 3. Highlander While the 2017 Highlander isn't new to the Toyota lineup and it's not entering a new generation, it does offer a bevy of new amenities that make it stand out in comparison to 2016's edition. It starts with an updated 3.5-liter V-6 engine that replaces the stock 2.7-liter four-cylinder found on entry-level models. This engine comes with Start and Stop technology and an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. Other new gadgets in the Highlander include five USB ports, LED lighting, three new exterior paint colors, painted headlight housings, and 19-inch alloy wheels. With all these features, the 2017 Highlander is more attractive than ever. Whether you're looking for a sports car, an off-road beast, or a great all-around vehicle, the 2017 Toyota lineup seems designed with you in mind.   Image via Flickr by Yuya Tamai

30 years ago, locally-made craft beer was a niche market, and sometimes even a hobby for beer drinkers who wanted something different from the mass-produced domestic and imported beers. Fast-forward to today, when you can't walk 10 blocks in any modern city without finding a microbrewery that produces delicious seasonal and signature beers. However, that's not a bad thing for the average beer drinker, especially if you live in Norfolk. With several breweries throughout the town, you'll have your fill of interesting and thirst-quenching libations. Here are just a few of the best. 1. The Bold Mariner Located in an unassuming spot just northwest of downtown Norfolk, the Bold Mariner is a locally-owned company that takes microbrewing to another level. Open Wednesday through Sunday, the company offers six distinct flavors that are sure to please your palate, no matter what your beer of choice. If you're looking for something a bit lighter, go with their Red Maiden Irish Red, or if you want something a bit more hoppy, opt for the Dog Zebra IPA or the Liberty Risk IPA. No matter what you choose, you'll get a refreshing beer that will leave you coming back for more. They don't serve food here, so make sure you chow down before you head over to their location at 2409 Bowdens Ferry Road. more 2. Smartmouth Brewing Company If you're as much into sampling beer as you are into the production process, make sure to check out the Smartmouth Brewing Company at 1309 Raleigh Avenue. Here they offer free tours of their facility as well as tasting rooms to sample the latest batches. What sets Smartmouth apart is that their owner, Porter Hardy, isn't a brewer by trade. In fact, he was in corporate law before the calling to brew took over his life. Since then, the brewery's production has taken off, and today they brew over 250 barrels per month. With 48 beers produced in that life span and 10 cycled through the tap-room, Smartmouth Brewing Company is a dream for the beer lover. If a pint isn't enough to quell your thirst, you can get a growler or keg to take home. There's no food, but ordering in is approved. 3. O'Connor Brewing Company With a name like O'Connor, you know the beers here have to be good, or at least an homage to the drink of Ireland. The best bet here is to visit the tap room, which offers draft beers, live music, and food trucks right outside. They even sponsor a free local music festival to set the mood for the evening. O'Connor's offers six beers that are available year-round, as well as five series of beers that come out throughout the year. All in all, you have 29 beers to sample from January to December. You can find this Norfolk institution at 211 West 24th Street. With these three breweries leading the charge, Norfolk is no slouch when it comes to the craft brewing game. So hit up one of these microbreweries when you get the chance. Just remember to bring a designated driver with you.   Image Via Pixabay

New Orleans has its etoufee, New York has its pizza, and Memphis has its barbecue, yet many culinary delights await you throughout Virginia. Perhaps these dishes don't carry the same reputation, but they're still a delicious meal and a masterpiece in their own right. The next time you're searching for something to satisfy that hunger deep within, make sure to eat some of these delectable local cuisines. 1. Brunswick Stew Although the deep south is the hotbed of comfort food, Virginia still reaches back to its southern roots with Brunswick Stew. With its origins in the southern half of the state, this hearty concoction of vegetables and beef is sure to hit the spot on a fall afternoon or a cold winter's evening. It's most readily available at local festivals and county fairs, yet many restaurants in the region all claim to own the best recipe. The official taste test is entirely up to you. more 2. Barbecue at the Honey Pig Located in four locations throughout Virginia, the Honey Pig is an eclectic mix of flavors from across the world, centered primarily on a fusion of southern and Korean barbecue. However, what makes this culinary journey unique is that the grilling is done right at your table. Whether you love fresh pork belly, traditional Asian dumplings, spicy beef, or even octopus, you'll have a cook table-side to prepare your entire meal. Plus, they offer a massive list of local craft beers to wash down your meaty dinner. Just be mindful that you may need a few hours to digest. Failure to heed this warning may result in sluggish behavior or a food coma. 3. Sushi Lasagna Obviously, the basis for this dish wasn't drawn up in Virginia, but it's till the only place in the country you can get it. Sushi Lasagna is the product of Miyagi Sushi in McLean. It's not just a mix of layered sushi, however. It's actually sushi and all the familiar ingredients of lasagna mixed together. While Italian-Asian fare isn't widely known in the U.S., or throughout the world for that matter, it's a refreshing take on two classic dishes. Plus, locals seem to love the mish-mash of flavors. 4. Chesapeake Cownose Ray If you're looking for something that's 100 percent Virginian, look no further than the Chesapeake Cownose Ray. This brown, kite-shaped ray looks like the more famous manta ray, yet it's much more tasty. Each summer, this sea creature swims into Chesapeake bay to mate, giving fishermen ample time to round-up some specimens for human consumption. Virginia's government officials originally started to push for cownose ray consumption due to their status as an "invasive species," and within a few years, they became popular among travelers and locals alike. Word has it that it tastes more like veal or flank steak than seafood, and people continue to purchase it by the boatload. With so many appetizing dishes in Virginia, it seems like it would take a lifetime to eat them all. Don't worry, though. Once you hit these spots, chances are you'll thirst for even more creative Virginia dishes. Image Via Pixabay

In case you were debating whether the RAV4 was a crossover or an SUV, it's actually both. Billed as Toyota's only compact sports utility vehicle, the RAV4 is unlike any other vehicle from the Japanese auto giant - or any other company, for that matter. Whether you're looking for a car that complements your hectic workaday schedule, or just a more playful vehicle that's versatile, attractive, and easy on the billfold, the RAV4 is sure to please. Here are just a few more reasons your next car should be the 2016 Toyota RAV4. 1. Fuel Efficient Either Way You Go If you didn't already know, 2016 was the first year that the RAV4 became available in both gasoline-powered and hybrid editions. While the hybrid will take you a bit further on a tank of gas, the gasoline version's respectable fuel economy won't make or break your decision, unless you really had your heart set on a hybrid. With the standard version of the RAV4, you'll get a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that boasts 176-horsepower and up to 172 pound-feet of torque, while also providing 31 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway and 24 mpg in the city. If you want to step into the 21st century with a hybrid, the RAV4's version has the same 2.5-liter inline-four, but couples it with two electric motors. When working in unison, this powertrain provides 194-horsepower and 152 pound-feet of torque, and gives you 34 mpg in the city and 31 on the highway. more 2. A Spacious Interior Although the RAV4 may appear pint-sized from the outside, its sizable cabin provides seating for up to five people, while also offering up to 73.4 cubic feet of cargo space. To make this area easily accessible, the RAV has 60/40 split folding second-row seats, a height-adjustable power liftgate, and cargo netting to keep all your items in order throughout the drive. 3. Luxurious and Useful Features The RAV4 offers some serious interior opulence, especially in comparison to other vehicles in its price range. For comfort, this crossover comes with available features such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather seating, heated front seats, and a driver's memory system so you can always find your perfect setting, even if someone else has driven your car. There's also a power moonroof that's perfect for stargazing, a universal garage door opener, and Toyota's Smart Key System, which allows you to unlock your car doors without fumbling in your pocket or your purse for keys. 4. Brilliant Technological Amenities If you love all the latest tech gadgets, the RAV4 won't disappoint. Perhaps the most interesting attribute is the Toyota Ensuite system, which allows you to hook your mobile device into the head unit of the RAV4 for music, navigation, and other apps, which are visible on the RAV4's standard 6.1-inch display screen. The audiophile will enjoy the six-speaker audio system with Bluetooth capabilities and SiriusXM radio. No matter what tech features you're into, the RAV4 has you covered. With all these features, it's no surprise that the RAV4 is garnering praise from the automotive community. So, whether you're looking for a hybrid, tons of room, interior opulence, or the latest technology, the RAV4 has everything you need. Image via Flickr by RL GNZLZ