Finding things to do on weeknights or weekends is never a problem during the holiday season in Northern Virginia. These five events are some of the best in our area.
November 8 - 10
Northern Virginia Christmas Market
Dulles Expo Center
Chantilly, VA
The award-winning Northern Virginia Christmas Market is the perfect place to start your holiday shopping. This year’s market features more than 250 artisans from more than 20 states. You’ll find Christmas collectibles, pottery, fine arts, jewelry, wood, photography, vintage recreations and gourmet food for sale. The market will be held on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $8 if you’re 12 or older and free for younger children.
Mid-November – early January
Winter Walk of Lights
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
Vienna, VA
Every winter, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is transformed into the Winter Walk of Lights. The half-mile trail of holiday lights features the Holiday Nature Walk, Fountain of Lights and Lakeside Lights. After you take in the lights, roast a few marshmallows and enjoy a steaming mug of cocoa by the fire. The Winter Walk of Lights opens at 5:30 p.m. nightly and requires timed tickets. Tickets are available for $8.
December 20 - 21
Christmas Illuminations at Mt. Vernon
Mt. Vernon, VA
You may have seen holiday lights synced to music before but what about to fireworks? The fireworks show begins at 8 p.m. at Mt. Vernon, but there’s plenty to do before the show begins. Artisans will demonstrate how 18th century residents made chocolate and Martha Washington herself will make an appearance. Also on the Illuminations schedule are reenactments from the First Virginia Regiment, performance by local choirs, a bonfire and a visit with Aladdin the camel. The admission fee is $36 for adults with the mansion tour and $30 without the tour, and $26 for children with the mansion tour or $20 without the tour.
December 27
Chanukah Brisket & Latke Dinner
Temple Rodef Shalom
Falls Church, VA
If you enjoy all the Chanukah treats but would rather let someone else do the cooking, you’ll want to add Temple Rodef Shalom’s Chanukah Brisket and Latke Dinner to your holiday calendar. The menu features brisket and latkes, plus other entrees, sides and desserts. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. Temple members pay $27 for adults, $16 for youth (ages 6 -10) and $8 for ages 5 and younger. Non-members pay $30 for adults, $18 for youth and $10 for ages 5 and younger.
December 31
Great Gatsby’s New Year’s Eve Party
Fairfax American Legion Post 177
Fairfax, VA
Do you wish you could have experienced life in the roaring 20s? Time travel may not be possible, but when you spend the evening at Great Gatsby’s New Year Eve Party, you’ll swear you’ve been transported to the 1920s. Admission includes champagne, hors d’oeuvres, Great Gatsby-themed games, a photo booth and fireworks. The entrance fee is $75 per person or $140 for couples. Tickets must be purchased by December 14.
Does your home feels a little cramped when you entertain guests during the holidays. Our design/build team can help you extend and remodel your kitchen and family room, create a home theater or game room, or expand the size of your home with an addition. Contact us if you live in Northern Virginia and are ready to upgrade your home.
