It may seem early, but the crazy chaos of the holiday season is almost here. Get tickets to these festive holiday events in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and DC before they sell out.
Christmas in Middleburg
December 5, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This holiday extravaganza straight out of a Hallmark movie begins with Breakfast at Santa, followed by a Hunt & Hounds Review, and a kids’ zone with games and family-friendly activities. The crown jewel is a 2 p.m. parade with bands, floats, and animals. Parking is now on sale for the event, which often goes quickly. Middleburg, pricing varies
Enchant Christmas
November 20 to December 27, 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Nationals Park in DC is transformed into a holiday wonderland for the season for Enchant Christmas. There are maze adventures, new photo ops, and festive snacks like s’mores and drinks served in giant Christmas light bulbs. Even your dog can participate—there is a Paws & Claus event on December 6. 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, DC, $28 to $37, add-ons are additional, and additional packages are also available
Gaylord National Ice!
November 26 to January 3, 2027
This year’s theme for the annual walk-through of ice sculptures is Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Guests can explore the holiday story and movie and check out tunnels and slides made of ice. You’ll see sculptures of the Grinch, his beloved dog Max, Cindy Lou Who, and others. The event uses two million pounds of ice, all kept cold at 9 degrees Fahrenheit. 201 Waterfront St., Oxon Hill, MD, $41 to $50, discounted tickets available for children ages 4 to 11 and military
Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon
December 19 and 20, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The family-friendly events include festive lights and fireworks and the opportunity to chat with solders at an 18th-century winter encampment, and shop at an artisan winter market. Aladdin the camel will also be making an appearance, harkening back to when George Washington brought a camel to Mount Vernon in 1787. 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, $46.40 to $58, children ages 6 to 11 are $36, those 5 and under are free. Discounts available for Mount Vernon members
November 14 to January 3, 2027
Every year, Bull Run Regional Park is transformed into a winter wonderland of 2 1/2 miles of holiday light displays. This year, a carnival has been added at the end of the drive, with holiday shopping and a petting zoo. Keep in mind, hours may vary due to inclement weather. 7700 Bull Run Dr., Centreville, tickets on sale week of October 12
Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
November 11 to January 3, 2027
Take a stroll through a garden with sparkling lights decorating the trees, and lots of winter and holiday-themed displays. The trail is paved and wheelchair and stroller accessible. Hot beverages with or without spirits, s’mores, and limited-edition 2026 holiday ornaments will be for sale. This year marks 15 seasons of the event, which typically draws more than 100,000 visitors yearly. 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct., Vienna, $19 when purchased online (December 4 to 31 online only) and $24 at door
The Nutcracker
November and December, various times
There are several places to catch the holiday ballet tradition of The Nutcracker this year, including:
- Manassas Ballet Theatre
December 16 to 23, 3 p.m. or 7:30 p.m.
Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Cir., Manassas, tickets starting at $35 - Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Center
December 19, 6:30 p.m., December 20, 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., December 21, 1:30 p.m.
Loudoun Valley High School, 340 N. Maple Ave., Purcellville, check website for tickets - The Fairfax Symphony Orchestra with the Fairfax Ballet Company
December 19 and 20, 4 p.m.
George Mason University Center for the Arts, 4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, $94 to $44 - Metropolitan School of Arts
December 12 and 13, noon and 5 p.m.
Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center: 4915 East Campus Dr., Alexandria, check website for tickets
Capital One Hall: 770 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, $63.90 to $81.95
