Community Corner

2013 Holiday Guide to Everything: Festivals, Santa Visits, Black Friday, Ice Rinks, Turkey Trots, Giving Back and More

2013 Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah events in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC.

Here's your very first holiday present: A loooong list of things to do this season from Turkey Trots, to festivals, to Santa visits, volunteer opportunities and more.

Want your event included? List it in the comments below.

Turkey Trots


Turkey Trot 10K (Kids Mile): Nov. 23, 8:30 a.m. Lejeune Hall, Marine Corps Base Quantico, 3250 Catlin Ave., Quantico. 10K is sold out, but there are still spaces for the kids fun run. Take photos with live turkeys. There will also be a finish line petting zoo with bunnies, chickens, ducks, goats, a mini horse, mini cow and more. More info.

Freeze Your Gizzard: Nov. 23, 9 a.m. Ida Lee Park. 60 Ida Lee Dr. NW, Leesburg. 5K run and 1 mile fun run in its 11th year. 5K registration: $25 ($30 race day). Fun run registration: $10 ($15 race day). More info.

Find out what's happening in Falls Churchwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Herndon Turkey Trot 5k: Nov. 23, 4 p.m. Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. All ages. Prizes given for first and second place in several age groups. Overall male and female winners win a Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings. $15 pre-registration. More info.

Cranberry Crawl: Nov. 23, 8:30 a.m. East Potomac Park Golf Course, 972 Ohio Drive SW, Washington DC.  5K/10K Run and Race Walk. (703) 481-3530. Sponsored by Potomac Valley Track Club.

Find out what's happening in Falls Churchwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Crop Hunger Walk: Nov. 24, 2 p.m., The Living Savior Lutheran Church , 5500 Ox Road  in Fairfax Station is hosting their 21st Annual CROP Hunger Walk. Hunger walks are held nationwide.

Stuff the Sleigh: Nov. 24, 9 a.m., at the entrance to 7925 Jones Branch Drive in Tysons Corner. The 5k and 1 mile walk benefits human-trafficking charity Abolish Child Trafficking Now (ACT-NOW), which works to eliminate child trafficking in the D.C. area and worldwide. All entrants are asked to bring an unwrapped holiday gift to the "sleigh" to benefit those families. At the event, the Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce will also celebrate the near completion of Metro’s Silver Line, which is set to open early next year. More info and registration.

Virginia Run Turkey Trot: Nov. 28, 8 a.m. Virginia Run Community Center, 15355 Wetherburn Court, Centreville. 5K run and 2K walk in it’s 25th year. All proceeds go to Life With Cancer. 5K registration: $30 thru Nov. 27. 2K registration: $20 thru Nov. 28, $10 for ages 12 and under and 65 and over. More info.

Arlington Turkey Trot (Sold Out): Nov. 28, 8 a.m., corner of North Pershing Drive and North Highland Street. Christ Church of Arlington is hosting its 8th annual Turkey Trot, a 5-kilometer fun run/walk through Lyon Park and Ashton Heights. More info here.

YMCA Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk: Nov. 28, 9:05 a.m., Fredericksburg Expo Center: 2371 Carl D Silver Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA 22401. Awards. Registration and more info.


38th Annual Alexandria Turkey Trot: Nov. 28, 9 a.m., George Washington Middle School, 1005 Mt Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Online registrants have the option of making a donation to race benefactor ALIVE!, a nonprofit organization consisting of volunteers from more than 40 religious congregations and community groups working to help in-need Alexandrians. This year’s race will once again have special fields for runners with strollers and runners with leashed dogs. The 5-mile race is presented by the Del Ray Business Association and DC Road Runners. To register for the 2013 Alexandria Turkey Trot, visit the event website.

Thanksgiving Day Trot for Hunger: Nov. 28, 8:30 a.m. Beginning at Freedom Plaza, between 13th Street, NW and 12th Street, NW, Washington, DC. Sponsored by SOME (So Others Might Eat), this popular 5K fun run and family walk benefits programs for the homeless, and helps provide more than 800 meals to the hungry every day of the year. More info.

Ashburn Farm on Thanksgiving Day: 8:15 a.m., 43454 Crossroads Drive, Ashburn. Join Crossroads UMC and the Ashburn community for the 20th Annual Ashburn Farm 10k/5k/2k on Thanksgiving Day Race. In this annual fundraising event, hundreds of people have gathered for a time of fun, fellowship, and a good cause. All proceeds from this race support needy and vulnerable children in Uganda, Africa. Crossroads UMC’s mission in Uganda fully funds 72 elementary children and 75 secondary children with needed school tuition, uniforms and play clothes, all school supplies and transportation plus medical care. More info.

Turkey Chase, Bethesda-Chevy Chase YMCA: Nov. 28, 8:30 a.m., 9401 Old Georgetown Rd. Bethesda, Maryland (301) 440-1854. 10K Race and 2 mile Fun Run. Supports the YMCA's Youth and Family Services, YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase and the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club Foundation. More info.

Gingerbread Mile: Nov. 29, 8 a.m., Reston Town Center. Open to tots through high school age. Tot trot is two blocks; 4-5 year olds do a half mile. Everyone else does a mile, beginning and ending on Market Street near the fountain. Registration is $5; any additional donations will benefit Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, DC. Online registration closes Nov. 26 at 8 p.m.

Drumstix Dash 8K: Nov. 30, 9 a.m. Burke Lake Park, 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station. Benefiting Housing and Community Services of Northern Virginia. Also has a Family Fun Run. 8K registration: $30 ($35 race day). Fun run registration: $15.  More info.

Snowman Stampede: Dec 7, 5:30 p.m., 7700 Bull Run Drive,  Centreville. The stampede featuring the Light up the Night 5k and Reindeer Mile Run allows you to take a look at a holiday light display while you jog. The race is at Bull Run Regional Park. Registration and more info

Hanukkah Events


Hands on Hanukkah. Nov. 24, 11 a.m. at the Tysons Corner Barnes & Noble store on 7851 Tyson's Corner Center. The Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia is hosting a ‘Hands on Hanukkah’ event with story time, live entertainment, and face painting.


Chanukah on Ice: Pentagon Row and Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington are hosting Chanukah on Ice from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26. Admission is $10 in advance or $12 at the door. The event features the lighting of a giant menorah at 7 p.m., a raffle for a 7-inch tablet and hot latkes, kosher hot dogs and other refreshments. More info here.

Rededication of Our Holocaust Torah - Ceremony & Reception: Congregation Adat Reyim will rededicate their 200-year-old Holocaust Torah on Sunday, Dec. 8 at 11 a.m. at 6500 Westbury Oaks Court, Springfield. Holocaust survivors and speakers from the Holocaust Museum will be among those who will present.

Thanksgivukkah at the Mansion: Thurs, Nov. 28 at noon at the Mansion on O Street, 2020 O St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20036. Explore the mansion and enjoy a sit-down gourmet feast with an “unexpected twist.” Cost is $70 per person. Online reservations are required. Make reservations here. Take a look at the menu here.

Hanukkah On the Square: Sunday, Dec. 1 at 5:30 p.m., Herndon Town Square in front of Town Hall at 730 Elden St., Herndon. Bring family and friends for an evening of Hanukkah fun, featuring a giant Menorah lighting, crafts, refreshments and more. Free. Visit Chabadrh.org for more information.


Parades, Festivals,Christmas Tree Lightings


Bull Run Festival of Lights: Through Jan. 5, just off of Interstate 66 on Route 29 (Lee Highway) in Centreville. The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority says they expect to see more than 30,000 cars drive through the holiday light display before it ends Jan. 5. Find out more here.

Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights: Through Jan. 5. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna 22182. Visit Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights to experience over 500,000 LED lights and displays that bring Meadowlark Botanical Gardens to life! Click here for the details.

Holiday Open House With Great Shoals Winery: Through Dec. 15, hours vary; 14526 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, MD. Taste warm spiced apple wine and enjoy fresh baked holiday cookies. Wear your ugly holiday sweater and receive a free tasting flight. Pictures throughout the day and the most hideous sweater gets a special gift. More info.

Reston Holiday Parade: Nov. 29, 8 a.m. till 10 p.m., Reston Town Center. Not just a parade but an annual day-long (and into the night) event with photos with Santa, tree lighting and sing along, carriage rides, Gingerbread Village, Rock-n-Skate and more. More info.

Alexandria Tree Lighting Ceremony: Friday, Nov. 29, 6 p.m., Old Town Alexandria’s Market Square (301 King Street). Celebrate the city’s annual tree lighting ceremony. Admission is free and the event will be held rain or shine. Mayor Bill Euille and Mr. and Mrs. Claus will light the city’s tree and there will be a community singalong with the Alexandria Harmonizers and the Alexandria Choral Society.


Jingle Bell Carriage Rides: through Jan. 3, 706 Caroline St., Fredericksburg. Jingle Bell Rides are available every evening except Monday, through Jan. 3. Reservations for the carriage rides are recommended. $100 - $120, depending on carriage purchased for the evening.

Jingle Bell Cocktail Preview Party for the Merry Market: Friday, Nov. 22, 7 - 11 p.m. at The Olde Silk Mill,  1707 Princess Anne St., Fredericksburg.  Admission is $35 in advance, $45 at the door.  

Harmony Church Holiday Bazaar: Nov. 23, 8 a.m. Harmony Church, on the corner of East Colonial Hwy and Harmony Church Road in Hamilton, hosts its annual Holiday Bazaar, silent auction and bake sale this Saturday. You'll find exquisite woodworking, handmade quilts and gifts, jams and jellies, fun crafts at the Harmony Kid's Station and so much more. Find the perfect goodies for your Thanksgiving table and Christmas giving! Free-will lunch served. 

Manassas Park Cougar Holiday Shop and Vendor Fair: Nov. 23, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Cougar Elementary School 9330 Brandon St., Manassas Park.

Merry Market 2013: Saturday, Nov. 23, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 24, 12 - 4 p.m. at The Olde Silk Mill,  1707 Princess Anne St., Fredericksburg.  An annual boutique shopping experience for the holidays.  Admission is $4, children age 11 and under are free.  More information.


Village at Leesburg Tree Lighting Ceremony: Nov. 29, 3 p.m. Kick off the holiday season at the annual lighting of the Village at Leesburg Tree! The festivities include horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday-dressed carolers, a stilt walker toy soldier, strolling entertainers, holiday music and more! Santa arrives by horse-drawn carriage to visit with the children at 3 p.m. and the event culminates with Santa lighting the Tree at 5 p.m. Visit villageatleesburg.com or call 571.291.2288 for more information. 

Winter Christmas Festival: On Nov. 29, 30th, Dec. 1st, 7th, 9th, 14th, and 15th  from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m at Ticonderoga Farms. The festival at at 26469 Ticonderoga Road in Chantilly includes hayrides and firepits. More information.

Children's Tree Lighting: Saturday, Nov. 30, 4 - 6 p.m. in Hurkamp Park, William St & Prince Edward St., Fredericksburg.  Visit with Santa and enjoy holiday music, hot chocolate, cookie decoration and holiday crafts. Free. 

Clarendon United Methodist Church's 42nd Annual 'Messiah' Sing-a-Long: Sunday, Dec. 1. Sunday, Dec. 1, 7 p.m., 606 N Irving Street, Arlington, 22201. J. Reilly Lewis leads soloists, a full orchestra and the audience in this interactive performance of Handel's masterpiece. This holiday tradition, near the Clarendon Metro, is expected to be standing room only. It's free, though a $20 donation is suggested. More information here.

McLean WinterFest Parade: Sunday, Dec. 1, 2:45 p.m., Langley Shopping Center on Chain Bridge Road between Old Dominion Drive and Dolley Madison Boulevard. The McLean WinterFest Parade gathers at 2:45 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 1, and steps off at 3:30 p.m. sharp. The route follows Old Chain Bridge Road from Fleetwood Road to Elm Street. WinterFest 2013 will also have a number of food trucks in the Langley Shopping Center parking lot. More info here.

Vienna’s Annual Holiday Stroll: Monday, Dec. 2, 6-9 p.m. Santa Claus will arrive at the Freeman Store at 6:15 p.m. and help Mayor Jane Seeman light the holiday tree. Afterwards, Santa will visit with children on the front porch of the Freeman Store. Click here for more info.

Light Up the Village at Shirlington: Dec. 3, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Shirlington. Families are invited to take photos with Shirlington’s Santa Claus and participate in activities for children. Horse-drawn carriage rides through the village will also be available.

Del Ray Tree Lighting and Luminarias: Friday, Dec. 6, 6 p.m. Alexandria’s Del Ray community will come together at the corner of Mount Vernon and E. Oxford Avenues to sing carols light the neighborhood tree. Santa is expected to drop by and will likely be available for photos. Mount Vernon Avenue will be lit with hundreds of luminarias in memory of Nancy Dunning.  

National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: Friday, Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. on The Ellipse, the grassy area south of the White House. Nationally known entertainers and a military band will perform and President Obama will give talk of peace in the U.S. and the world. The ticket lottery for the tree lighting is now closed, but musical performances by volunteer choirs, bands and dancers will be given nightly from Wednesday, Dec. 11 to Sunday, Dec. 22. Tuesday-Friday performances will be from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday performances will run from 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Santa's Workshop will be open Monday-Thursday 4-6:30 p.m. and 7-9:30 p.m.; Friday-Sunday 12:30-4:30 p.m. and 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Dec. 24: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Winternational: Friday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. at the Ronald Reagan and International Trade Center Plaza, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20004. Experience holiday traditions from a global perspective during the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy a cultural performance stage, cookie decorating station, cultural exhibits and hot cocoa and apple cider. This is a free event.

Manasssas Christmas Tree Lighting: Dec. 6, Manassas Museum Lawn, 9101 Prince William Street, 6:30 p.m. Sidewalk carolers, horse drawn carriage rides, ice skating and more.

Leesburg Christmas Tree Lighting: Dec. 6, 6 p.m., Town Green, 25 W Market Street. Come see local elementary and high schools perform, hear words from the mayor, council and guest speaker, and join in a sing-long. Local businesses will be open late.

Annandale Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony and Reception: Dec. 6, 5 p.m., Toll House Park in Annandale (located at the intersection between Annandale Road and Little River Turnpike). The Annandale Chamber of Commerce will host their annual tree lighting ceremony. There will be performances by the Poe Carolers from Poe Middle School. A reception will follow at Burke & Herbert Bank located at 4235 Annandale Road.

Horse parade: Dec. 7, starts at 2 p.m. in the town of Clifton’s Main St. Visit Clifton for a horse parade, Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and candlelight homes tour. See a schedule of events on the town’s website.

Lunch With Santa: Saturday, Dec. 7, Three seatings at 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m., Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Old Lee Hwy., Fairfax City. For ages 12 and under. $6 per child, tickets often sell out in advance. Click here for more info including where to buy tickets.

The 67th Greater Manassas Christmas Parade: Saturday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m. 9451 West St. in  Old Town Manassas. This year’s parade theme is, “Miracle on Center Street.”  Get more info here.  

Winter Open House and Santa’s Workshop: Saturday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m. to 4:45, p.m., Herndon Fortnightly Library, 768 Center Street, Herndon. Live entertainment including handbell music performed by Joyful Ringers, stories, visits with Santa, crafts sponsored by the Council for the Arts of Herndon, and refreshments courtesy of the Fortnightly Club and Friends of the Herndon Library. All ages. Free. More info

2013 Festival of Lights and Carols: Saturday, Dec. 7, 5 p.m. - 6 p.m., 10209 Main St., Fairfax City. Come enjoy live holiday music, hot cider, s'mores by the Yule log, caroling and the lighting of the Christmas tree in the ‘winter wonderland’ on the grounds of the Kitty Pozer Garden beginning at noon on Saturday, Dec. 7. Activities continue throughout the day with the tree lighting ceremony being held from 5-6 p.m. Free. All ages. See more information here.


McLean High School Holiday Bazaar: Saturday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The McLean High School Athletic Boosters will host 30-plus vendors at the school at 1633 Davidson Road. More info here.

Light Parade: Saturday, Dec. 14, 5:45 to 7 p.m., Manassas Drive in Manassas Park. The parade begins at General Ridge’s Golf Course and proceeds west to its ending at the Manassas Park Police Department. More information on the parade is here.  

Herndon Holiday Model Train Show: Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. 15, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Herndon Municipal Center, 777 Lynn St., Herndon. W&OD caboose and Herndon Depot Museum also open for tours.  Call 703-437-5556 for more information.

Storybook Holiday Brunch: Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to noon, Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. Holiday fun includes a visit with Santa, crafts, brunch, and a reading of a holiday story by a special guest. $14 for one child plus an adult. Register by Dec. 13

Taste of Braddock Annual Holiday Open House: Dec. 4, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Braddock Hall, which is located in the Kings Park Library, 9002 Burke Lake Road. Hosted by Braddock District Supervisor John Cook, the annual holiday open house will have food and beverages provided by local restaurants.

Mason District Holiday Town Gathering: Wed, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. at the Mason Government Center, located at 6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale. Hosted by Mason District Supervisor Penny Gross, there will be musical performance by The Tallwood Trio, tasty refreshments, and possible chances to win a door prize at this annual holiday event.


Lovettsville  Christkindlmarkt: Dec. 6, 7; 10 a.m., at the Lovettsville Game Protective Association, 16 South Berlin Turnpike, in Lovettsville. The Loudoun Valley German Society is sponsoring the sixth annual traditional European Christmas market. The hours of the market are Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hillside Holiday Hoopla: Dec. 7, 8 a.m. - noon, at Hillside Elementary (43000 Ellzey Drive). Features several festive, family fun activities. If you or someone you know would be interested in participating as a vendor, visit the website.


Mr. Grinch Carriage Rides: Each Sunday in December, Fredericksburg. Take the kids on a short ride with Mr. Grinch approximately 15 minutes. Photo opportunity for the kids and kids get a Christmas Goody Bag. Travel down Caroline Street to see the decorated store windows and back. Rides run every Sunday in December (weather permitting). More info.


A Monroe Christmas Holiday Open House: Saturday, Dec. 7, 4 - 6 p.m., James Monroe Museum, 908 Charles St. Fredericksburg.  The museum opens its doors free of charge for cookies, punch and hot cider before the annual Fredericksburg Christmas parade. Free. 

Holiday Train Show: Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Dec. 8 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum. The museum at 11200 Fairfax Station Road is hosting their 24th Annual Holiday Model Train Show with model trains on display and running.


Fredericksburg Jaycees Annual Christmas Parade: Saturday, Dec. 7, 5:30 p.m., Downtown Fredericksburg.  This year's theme is Christmas Paws.  The route begins on Caroline Street, travels to Amelia and then along Princess Anne, ending at the reviewing stand near Wolfe Street.  It is expected to last two hours  Free. More info.


Rappahannock Choral Society Christmas Concert: Saturday, Dec. 7, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8, at 3 p.m., Chancellor High School Auditorum, 6300 Harrison Rd. Spotsylvania.  Free. 


27th Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Exhibit at Ferry Farm: Sunday, Dec. 8 - Monday, Dec. 30 at George Washington's Boyhood Home at Ferry Farm, 268 Kings Hwy., Fredericksburg.  The 2013 theme is "Moments in U.S. History."  The exhibit opens with judging at noon on Dec. 8.  It then is open daily 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., except for Dec. 24, 25 and 31.  Admission to Ferry Farm plus the exhibit is $8 adults;, $4 students. Admission to the exhibit only is $4 adults, $2 students.  Children under six are free. 


Rappahannock Model Railroad Club Christmas Show:  Saturday, Dec. 14, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 15, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge #4123, 21 Cool Springs Rd., Fredericksburg. Adults $7, children 4 - 12 $1, under 4 free. 


Historic Fredericksburg Foundation 43rd Annual Candlelight Tour: Saturday, Dec. 14, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 15, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.,  The Historic Fredericksburg Foundation, 1200 Caroline St. Fredericksburg.  The tour features five historic homes.  Tickets range from $10 - $20.  Tickets for the evening tour with cocktail party are $60 each or $100 for two. 


Breakfast with Santa at Eileen's Bakery and Cafe: Sunday, Dec. 15, seatings at 8:45 a.m. and 10 a.m. at Eileen's Bakery and Cafe, 1115 Caroline St., Fredericksburg.  $10.99 - $14.99 Reservations required. 


Laud to the Nativity: Images of Christ’s Birth through the Ages:  Sunday, Dec. 15, 2 p.m. at Gari Melchers Home and Studio at Belmont, 224 Washington St., Falmouth.  Joanna Catron, curator of Gari Melchers Home and Studio at Belmont will lead the presentation.  Free.

Rappahannock POPS Orchestra Holiday Concert: Saturday, Dec. 20. 7:30 p.m. at Grace Church of Fredericksburg Center for the Arts, 1141 Heatherstone Dr., Fredericksburg. $20 adults, $15 seniors (65 and over), $15 students (with valid ID), children under 18 are free. 

How to Give Back 


Sponsor a family: Register to sponsor a family from Fairfax-based charity Our Daily Bread’s holiday assistance list. There are 3,000 families in Fairfax County in need of help. Provide holiday meals and gifts for children. Register to sponsor families or donate at: www.ODBFairfax.org/Holiday or contact hpassist@ODBFairfax.org or 703-273-8829.


Winter WonderlandForward Future Youth Services is hosting Winter Wonderland on Dec. 7. Children of families in need will have a chance to come and pick out 2 gifts for their parents for the holidays. This is a very large event and we are looking for volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering please contact us at info@forwardfuture.org or call us at (571) 266-8299. 500 E. Frederick, Sterling VA 20164

Thanksgiving Baskets giveaway: Forward Future Youth Services will be handing out food baskets to families in need on Nov. 22. If you would like to volunteer please contact us at info@forwardfuture.org or call us at 571-266-8299. 500 E. Frederick, Sterling VA 20164


Holiday Gift Distribution: Forward Future Youth Services will be distributing gifts to families in need on Dec. 19. We are looking for volunteers to help out at the event. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us at info@forwardfuture.org or call us at (571) 266-8299. Thursday, Dec. 19, 6 p.m.; 500 E. Frederick, Sterling.

Rappahannock United Way: (RUW) has released its 2013 Holiday Volunteer Opportunities Guide. "Local nonprofit agencies have provided us with their wish lists for donation items and information regarding volunteer projects throughout the season," RUW said. View the list online or download the attached .pdf version.


Operation Christmas Child’s National Collection Week: Wed, Nov. 20, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Thur, Nov. 21, 10 -12 p.m., Fri, Nov. 22, 5  - 8 p.m. Sat, Nov. 23: 12-3 p.m. Sun, Nov. 24: 3- 6 p.m. Mon, Nov. 25: 10 -12 p.m. Manassas Saint Thomas United Methodist Church 8899 Sudley Rd. Manassas, VA 20110 More information at samaritanspurse.org

The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots Drive: An annual event to collect new, unwrapped toys for children in need each year. There are dozens of locations in the Northern Virginia area. View a full list of drop-off locations online.


Toy Drop: Long & Foster Real Estate, Alexandria-Kingstowne office, 5911 Kingstowne Village Parkway, Suite 100, Alexandria. Toys may be dropped Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All donations must be made before Dec. 15.


First Fridays! Toys for Tots Dance: The Old Firehouse Teen Center in McLean is hosting a Toys for Tots Dance on Friday, Dec. 6. Cost is $5 for members or $10 for non-members — or bring a new, unwrapped toy for free admission. The Friday-night dances are open to seventh-, eighth- and ninth-graders. Aside from dancing, you can make a snow globe or hang out in the game room where there's video games, table tennis, pool and air hockey. More info here.

Black Friday Events


Black Friday Holiday Celebration at the Workhouse: Nov. 29, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Workhouse Arts Center, 9601 Ox Road, Lorton. Shop from approximately 100 artists in 65 studios and nine galleries at the Workhouse. More info.


Thanksgiving is the New Black Friday: See here for Thanksgiving hours for Macy’s, K-Mart, J.C. Penney, and more.

Ice Rinks


Harris Pavilion: Daily Nov. 15 thru Jan. 5. Times vary. 9201 Center St., Manassas. In Old Town Manassas, all sessions are open skate, no time limit. $8 adults, $7 for ages 10 and under. $3 skate rental. Season passes available. More info.


Prince William Ice Center: Two-hour open skate every day. Times vary. 5180 Dale Blvd, Woodbridge. $7 admission, $3 skate rental. More info.


Ice Skating Pavilion, Reston Town Center: Until March. Times vary. 1818 Discovery Street, Reston.  $10 adults, $8 under 12 and older than 55. Skate rental $5. Seasonal passes available. 703.709.6300. 2013-2014 Season - open daily from early November until March the Pavilion floor is transformed into a gleaming ice skating rink. Ice skates and other supplies are available inside the Skate Shop directly beside the Pavilion (behind Clyde's).  More info.


Pentagon Row Ice-Skating: Open now. Stop by Dec. 7 from 5-8 p.m. for a grand re-opening celebration. Details here.


Washington Harbour Ice Rink: Open now until March from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., Monday-Thursday, 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. Adults $10, Children $8, Skate rental $5. Open holidays.


Where to Get Your Picture with Santa


Santa at Potomac Mills: Every day through Dec. 24, during regular mall hours. Potomac Mills, 2700 Potomac Mills Circle, Woodbridge. Get your photo taken with Santa and give him your holiday wish list. Photo package pricing varies. More info.


Santa Arrives by Boat in Occoquan: Dec. 7, noon. Santa will arrive at the dock at Mamie Davis Park and then make his way to Town Hall, where he’ll be available for pictures. Free. More info.


Get Your Picture Taken with Santa at Tysons: Santa will be available for photos and visits at his winter wonderland house, located between Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's wings on level one - through Dec. 24. Click here for Santa’s hours.


Visit Santa at Dulles Town Center: Santa is in the house! Click here for hours.


See Santa at Pentagon City: Santa even has special hours for photos with pets! He takes breaks to feed the reindeer at 1 and 5 p.m. More info here.


Santa at Fair Oaks Mall: Be sure to check out the Ice Palace while you’re waiting! More info.


Breakfast with Santa:  Dec. 7th, 8th, 14th, and 15th 10:30 a.m. at Ticonderoga Farms. Have breakfast with Santa and have your picture taken. Reservations must be submitted before December 2nd. Find out more information and register online.


Breakfast with Santa in Ashburn: At Brambleton Golf Course Come and enjoy FUN REINDEER games, with Jolly Old Saint Nick!  Your friends at Brambleton invite you to breakfast with Santa. Delicious food, pictures and craft time with Santa. Fun for the whole family, come and discover your Regional Park. Must Pre-Register, please call (703) 327-3403 x102. $7 per child. Saturday, Dec. 14, 9:30 a.m., 42180 Ryan Rd. in Ashburn.

Santa at Potomac Overlook: See Santa when he visits Potomac Overlook Regional Park, 2845 N. Marcey Road in Arlington, at 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15. Take photos and enjoy refreshments. A $5 donation per visitor is requested. More info here.


Virginia German Shepherd Rescue & Petco Pictures with Santa: Residents are invited to bring their dogs to have their photo taken with Santa. The pictures will be taken by a professional photographer. For $9, you get a photo, commemorative frame and a link to a digital copy of the photo. All proceeds from the event will go to sponsor Virginia German Shepherd Rescue  Sunday, Dec. 8 at 12 p.m. Petco, located at 7434 Little River Tpk. Annandale.


Breakfast with Santa at Eileen's Bakery and Cafe: Sunday, Dec. 8, and Sunday, Dec. 15, seatings at 8:45 a.m. and 10 a.m. at Eileen's Bakery and Cafe, 1115 Caroline St., Fredericksburg.  $10.99 - $14.99 Reservations required. 


Story Time & Breakfast with Santa: Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 - 11:15 a.m. at the Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St., Fredericksburg. Enjoy the holiday season with a story, craft making, buffet and Santa. $6 per child.



Holiday Concerts


Winter Wonderland Train Show: Dec. 11-13 5 to 8 p.m.; Dec. 14, 10-5: Dec. 15, 10-4 p.m. Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory, 9419 Battle St., Manassas, VA 20110. National Capital Trackers exhibit their festive, magical and truly awe inspiring Christmas landscape at the Winter Wonderland Train Show.  More information here.  


Holiday Pops: Songs of the Season 8 p.m.  on Friday, Dec. 13 and Sat. Dec. 14.  Friday’s performance is at the  Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas and Saturday’s performance is at George Mason University's Center for the Arts in Fairfax. This jubilant concert features the American Festival Pops Orchestra performing under the baton of Maestro Anthony Maiello, with a program of such favorites as “Christmas Festival” by Leroy Anderson, “Carol of the Bells,” Irving Berlin’s “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm,” “Blue Christmas” and an entertaining twist on the holiday classic, “The Nutcracker Suite,” with selections performed in both traditional (Tchaikovsky) and jazz stylings (Duke Ellington)


Christmas in Ireland: An Nollaig in Éirinn, 8 p.m. Friday Dec. 6. at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas.


NoVA Lights Chorale Presents 'Winter Variations': NoVA Lights Chorale will present "Winter Variations" at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at Arlington Presbyterian Church, 3507 Columbia Pike. The concert features jazz, swing, global, classical and contemporary songs. The nonprofit is based in Arlington and draws performers from across the Washington metropolitan area. Free parking. Metrobus 16 and ART 16 serve the location. More information here.


Jingle Jam: Dec. 14, 2:30 p.m., 8 p.m. Tally-Ho Theatre, 19 West Market Street. A rock n’ roll holiday concert, offering traditional tunes — with an edge. $20. Proceeds benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. $5 Jr. Jam at 11 a.m.More info.


Holiday Sing-a-Long: Dec. 7 at 4 p.m. FREE Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Wolf Trap’s 2013 Holiday Sing-A-Long. This annual musical celebration hosts a performance by the United States Marine Band and a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs with choir and vocal groups from the metropolitan Washington area. More info.


Vienna Boy’s Choir: Christmas in Vienna: Dec. 13 at 8 p.m. at the George Mason University Concert Hall. The Vienna Boys Choir performs a program of classical and popular music that includes traditional Christmas carols, Gregorian chants, songs from around the world, and popular holiday favorites. More info.


Nutcracker Children’s Performance: Thursay, Nov. 21 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. One-hour performances of the classic holiday ballet, performed for preschools, Head Start classes and kindergartens. Classical Ballet Theatre Performance Studio, 320 Victory Drive, Herndon. Free. Reserve space here.


Let the Trumpets Sound: Dec. 6 at 8 p.m. at the Vienna Presbyterian Church, 124 Park St. N.E., Vienna. The Fairfax Choral Society with the Washington Symphonic Brass is celebrating “Christmas with FCS: Trumpets Sound! Voices Ring.”Buy tickets online.


Towne Square Singers Holiday Concert: “Lights, Camera, Christmas,” featuring music of the holidays from TV and movies. Saturday, Dec. 7, 7:30-9 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8, 2-3:30 p.m. ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center St., Herndon. $12. Visitwww.herndon-va.gov for more information.


Frosty Follies: From Nov. 29 through Dec. 22.  Lorton’s Metropolitan School of the Arts will perform their free Frosty Follies shows at various dates and locations throughout the region. View more information.


In Santa, We Believe: Saturdays starting Nov. 30 through Dec. 28 at 1 p.m. at the Workhouse Arts Center on 9601 Ox Road in Lorton. Watch the classic “In Santa, We Believe” story live onstage. The show is for children and their families. View more information and make reservations.


Messiah Sing!: Sing along to Handel's "Messiah," featuring the well-known "Hallelujah" chorus. The chamber orchestra, choir and soloists are accompanied by the Saint Luke pipe organ. The event is 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Saint Luke Catholic Church, 7001 Georgetown Pike, McLean. More information here.


Loudoun Chorale Presents "Hodie" and "The Joys of Christmas"The Loudoun Chorale, under the direction of William Propst and accompanied by Beverly Clark and chamber ensemble, will perform “Hodie” by Z. Randall Stroope. For more information, call 571-207-5354, email info@loudounchorale.org, or visitwww.loudounchorale.org. Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m. at  St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 711 W. Main St., Purcellville. Dec. 8, 4 p.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 605 W. Market St., Leesburg.


Oh, Holy Night: Dec. 20th, 7:30 p.m. at the Workhouse Arts Center on 9601 Ox Road in Lorton. Celebrate the Christmas season with Christmas carols in this 90-minute performance. Get tickets online.  

Jingle in the Jungle - A Children's Christmas Adventure StoryRose the skunk is not very happy. She wants to play and have friends, just like everyone else. But the kids make fun of her and tease her because she is different. She wants to change that with her Christmas wish. This is a wonderful play about acceptance and self-esteem, all wrapped up in the Christmas spirit. Dates: Dec. 15, 5:30 p.m.; Dec. 20, 2013, 6:30 p.m.; Dec. 21, 2013, 5:30 p.m.; Dec. 22, 2013, 5:30 p.m. Oatlands, 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg.


Classical Ballet Theatre Presents The Nutcracker: Experience the magic of Classical Ballet Theatre’s Nutcracker!  This holiday classic includes stunning costumes, beautiful choreography, and Tchaikovsky’s magnificent music.   Saturday, Nov. 30 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 1 at 2 p.m. Ernst Community Cultural Center Theatre at Northern Virginia Community College, located at 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale. Tickets are $18-$25.


Kelly Willis and Bruce Robison Holiday Shindig: Friday, Nov.29 and Saturday, Nov.30 at 8 p.m. at Gypsy Sally’s, 3401 K St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20007. Join the singer-songwriter couple from Texas for a family-friendly Christmas show. This will be the couple’s first of the season and the only scheduled outside of Texas. Attendees under 21 must have a legal guardian with them. Tickets sold for $30 here:  


Trans-Siberian Orchestra: Wednesday, Dec.4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20004. The rock band will be performing its last tour of the holiday rock opera, “The Lost Christmas Eve.” Tickets from $45 to $86.


UMW Philharmonic Holiday POPS!: Friday, Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m. at George Washington Hall, Dodd Auditorium. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at philharmonic.umw.edu.


Rappahannock Choral Society Christmas Concert: Saturday, Dec. 7, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8, at 3 p.m., Chancellor High School Auditorium, 6300 Harrison Rd. Spotsylvania.  Free. 


Fredericksburg Community Band Christmas Concert:Wednesday, Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. in Spotsylvania Towne Centre, 137 Spotsylvania Mall Dr., Fredericksburg.  Free.


Rappahannock POPS Orchestra Holiday Concert: Saturday, Dec. 20. 7:30 p.m. at Grace Church of Fredericksburg Center for the Arts, 1141 Heatherstone Dr., Fredericksburg. $20 adults, $15 seniors (65 and over), $15 students (with valid ID), children under 18 are free. 


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