’Tis the season for festive family gatherings, light shows, and holiday celebrations. From December 24–31 in Northern Virginia, you’ll find countless activities to rejoice in the most wonderful time of the year. Try delectable food, view Menorah lightings, count down to New Year’s, and more during this week of wintry cheer.
Waterskiing Santa Show
December 24, 1 p.m.
There’s no snow in sight for this skiing extravaganza. Watch as Santa, Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, and other holiday figures waterski on the Potomac in historic Alexandria. This merry crew will begin at BARCA Pier and ski north to Founders Park before circling back and finishing at Ford’s Landing. BARCA Pier: 2 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria, free
Christmas at Café du Parc
December 25, noon–10 p.m.
Enjoy a French-inspired menu for a festive feast at the Willard InterContinental. Dishes include butternut squash soup, Chesapeake rockfish carpaccio, a chocolate yule log, and more. For $155, elevate your meal with expertly selected wine pairings. Café du Parc: 1401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC, $95
Main Street Menorah Lighting
December 25, 5:30 p.m.
Visit Old Town Fairfax for a night of seasonal fun and games while lighting the Menorah. Collect gelt from the firetruck, take home free Chanukah swag, and enjoy potato latkes, donuts, and a hot cocoa bar. You also have a chance to win two tickets to a Washington Capitals game. Old Town Fairfax Square: 10415 North St., Fairfax, free
Riverside Christmas Spectacular
December 26–29, times vary
Come one, come all to an unforgettable Christmas show and dinner at Riverside Center. A stellar cast of singers and dancers perform a glittering celebration meant to spread Christmas cheer and joy. Riverside Center for the Performing Arts: 95 Riverside Pkwy., Fredericksburg, starting at $60
Holiday for the Hounds
December 28, 1–6 p.m.
Show your furry friend some love this holiday season at Shipgarten’s Holiday for the Hounds. The event features treats for both you and your pup, a dog park, and photos with Santa. While you’re there, donate to the toy drive for Second Story for homeless youth. Shipgarten: 7581 Colshire Dr., McLean, free
Holiday Lights Night Walk 5k/10k
December 28, 3–8 p.m.
You’ll be walking in a winter wonderland during this holiday lights 5k/10k through Fredericksburg organized by the Fredericksburg Walking Club. Don’t miss the cookie checkpoint. The group walk begins at 3:30 p.m., and dogs on a leash are welcome. Fredericksburg Visitor Center: 601 Caroline St., Fredericksburg, $3–$4
Tropical and Desert Terrarium Building Workshops
December 28, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.; 1–2 p.m.
For a belated present or just a crafty activity, create a tropical or desert terrarium perfect for home decor. Add small houseplants, moss, rocks, and terrarium accessories to your masterpiece. All materials will be provided. Leaf & Moss: 312 Commerce St., Occoquan, $35
Winter Craft Workshop
December 28, 2–5 p.m.
Decorate a sign to spruce up your home with the help of an expert AR Workshop staff member. Choose from three designs including Let It Snow, Winter Cardinal, and Welcome Mittens. Fee includes a drink ticket for beer or wine. Honor Brewing Company: 42604 Trade West Dr., Sterling, $60
DIY Lava Lamp
December 29, 2–4 p.m.
Create your own lava lamp for a family-friendly crafting experience. Because Science will provide all materials and show you how to activate your lamp. Because Science: 1759 Columbia Rd. NW, Washington, DC, $5
Light Up Arlington
December 29, 5–7 p.m.
Attend the Clarendon Menorah Lighting and Community Celebration for a dazzling festival of lights and Chanukah traditions. After seeing the lighting of a giant 9-foot Menorah, enjoy Chanukah music and delicious potato latkes, hot cocoa, chocolate gelt, and more. Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington: 1307 N. Highland St., Arlington, free
All Ages Noon’s Year Eve Day Celebration
December 31, 8 a.m.–2 p.m.
For an earlier New Year’s Eve gathering, visit the gymnasium at the Vint Hill Community Center for family-friendly festivities. Food, games, entertainment, and a Noon Day Balloon Drop are included. Vint Hill Community Center: 4235 Aiken Dr., Warrenton, free
New Year’s Eve in the City of Light
December 31, 6 p.m.
Bring the magic of Paris to your table at C’est Bon this New Year’s Eve. Enjoy exquisite French cuisine, live entertainment, and a cooking demonstration by executive chef and owner, Joan Wolford. C’est Bon: 6 W Loudoun St., Round Hill, $80
New Year’s Eve Party at Ometeo
December 31, 8:30 p.m.
Visit Ometeo for a night of Tex Mex cuisine and music to round off this year. Live mariachi and a DJ make this the ultimate New Year’s Eve fiesta. Must be 21 to attend. Ometeo: 1640 Capital One Dr., Tysons, $65
Olde Year’s Day
December 31, noon–4 p.m.
Enjoy free hands-on activities and music at Torpedo Factory Art Center. Bring the whole family to meet artists working in their studios and browse gifts and artwork. Torpedo Factory Art Center: 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, free
Turn Back Time 4th Annual New Year’s Eve Bash
December 31, 8 p.m.
Count down to midnight at Reclaim Arcade with a thrilling night of music, food, and more than 75 arcade games. Live music is provided by The Wavos, and a cash bar features craft beer, wine, cider, and canned cocktails. Entry tickets include food and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Must be 21 to attend. Reclaim Arcade: 2324 Plank Rd., Fredericksburg, $55
Feature image by Nick Eckert
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