Updated November 17, 2022. There are two ways to guarantee Christmas cheer: one is singing loud for all to hear; the other is Christmas tree lights. And with so much going on in the world, we definitely need all of the holiday joy we can get. If you’re looking to brighten up your mood this season, plan a trip to these tree lighting ceremonies.
Nightly Holiday Tree Light Show
November 17 to December 31
Head over the bridge and into Maryland, technically, for the National Harbor’s nightly light show. Every night through the holiday season, the 60-foot tree will amaze with its must-see light show, which includes 2 million bulbs. National Harbor: 165 Waterfront St., National Harbor
City of Alexandria Tree Lighting Ceremony
November 19, 6-7 p.m.
Alexandria’s Christmas tree is set to light up the Market Square lighting. The 40-foot tree will be twinkling with almost 40,000 lights, while the Town Crier and Santa Claus are set to make a special appearance during the ceremony. 300 King St., Alexandria
Tree Lighting at Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center
November 25, 6-8 p.m.
Enter NoVA’s very own winter wonderland with a trip down to Woodbridge. In addition to the annual tree lighting ceremony, families can enjoy carriage rides, face painting, ice carving, and more. 15201 Potomac Town Pl., Woodbridge
Tree Lighting at Reston Town Center
November 25, 6 p.m.
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by horse and carriage to light up the tree at Reston Town Center. Horse-drawn carriage rides will be available until 10 p.m. The evening events follow the 31st annual Reston Holiday Parade down Market Street — a Macy’s-style parade that starts at 11 a.m. Reston Town Center: Market St., Reston
Mosaic Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
November 25, 4-8:30 p.m.
After a day full of shopping, ring in the start of the holiday season at Mosaic District. Line the streets of the shopping district to catch a glimpse of jolly Kris Kringle as he makes his way down the street on a fire truck. After the tree lights shine bright, enjoy a special screening of Dr. Suess’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Strawberry Park: 2910 District Ave., Fairfax
Church Street Holiday Stroll
November 28, 6-8:30 p.m.
Grab a thermos full of hot chocolate and make your way down Church Street for Vienna’s tree lighting. Before the town flips the switch on the lights, enjoy live holiday music and a message from Mayor Linda Colbert. Historic Church Street, Vienna
Santa Lights Manassas
December 2, 5:15-7 p.m.
Santa is stopping by Manassas to start the holiday season. The night kicks off with a Christmas parade through the town as everyone welcomes Santa and Mrs. Claus after their long trip from the North Pole. Once St. Nick illuminates the tree, the two will meet with children to gather their holiday wishes before heading back to the workshop. Historic Downtown Manassas: 9201 Center St., Manassas
Holidays in Leesburg
December 2, 6 p.m.
Join the community of Leesburg for its annual ceremony on the Town Green. Sing carols and watch local performances before the tree is lit for the holiday season. After you see the tree lighting, mosey on downtown to see some of the city’s beautiful holiday displays. Town Green: 25 W. Market St., Leesburg
Warrenton Christmas Tree Lighting
December 2, 6 p.m.
Join Mayor Carter Neville as he kicks off the holidays in Warrenton. Arrive early to grab a close spot on the parade route for the best view of Mr. and Mrs. Claus. To top off the magical night, bright fireworks will light up the night sky to signal the start of the Christmas season. Main St., Warrenton
Purcellville Town Tree Lighting
December 2, 6:30 p.m.
The annual tree lighting marks the start of Christmas in Purcellville. After the initial weekend of festivities, the town will also be hosting a parade, holiday market, and pictures with Santa leading up to Christmas. Town Hall: 221 S. Nursery Ave., Purcellville
One Loudoun 10th Annual Tree Lighting
December 3, 5-7 p.m.
One Loudoun’s biggest holiday event is finally here. Gather on the plaza for the tree lighting, then take part in the additional festivities, which includes train rides, holiday music, and Santa photos. One Loudoun: 20626 Easthampton Plz., Ashburn
Del Ray Holiday Tree & Menorah Lighting
December 4, 6 p.m.
Del Ray’s holiday season officially begins with its annual holiday lighting ceremonies. Spread Christmas cheer throughout the community with carols before hitting the neighborhood stores to shop local this season. Pat Miller Square: Mount Vernon Ave. and E. Oxford Ave., Alexandria
National Tree Lighting Ceremony
November 30, 8:30 p.m.
The most famous Christmas tree in the country is getting ready to light up the White House. The 100th annual lighting and holiday performances, which include Shania Tawin, Gloria Estefan, and more, will be available to watch on CBS. Those wanting to head to the President’s Park to see the National Tree and the 56 trees that represent the states, territories, and the district in person can visit starting December 2.
Rosslyn’s Tree Lighting
December 8, 5-8 p.m.
Rosslyn’s in-person and virtual ceremony is bringing together the community for the holidays with music, raffle prizes, and its spectacular tree. The celebration will also feature tasty holiday drinks at the Open Road onsite beer, wine, and spiked hot cider bar. Central Place Plaza: 1800 N. Lynn St., Arlington
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