And just like that, winter break is almost over. Before the kids head back to school, get in some last minute family time. From a family hike to start the new year to a local adaptation of a classic fairy tale, check out these five family-friendly events this weekend.
First Day Hike
Friday, 9 a.m.-noon
Start off the new year with a hike. Whether you want to keep the kids away from their screens or start your family’s resolutions to spend more time outdoors, take in the local wildlife and natural surroundings with a morning on the trails. // Motts Run Reservoir Recreation Area: 6600 River Road, Fredericksburg; free
Winter Wanderland Ice Display
Friday through Jan. 31, times vary
Start off your chilly January by walking through the ice sculptures at Winter Wanderland. The sculptures will change every weekend as the theme changes. Those who guess the correct theme will be entered to win a $100 gift card to a store of their choice. // Village at Leesburg: 1602 Village Market Blvd. SE, Leesburg; free
Twilight Boardwalk Stroll
Saturday, 4:30 p.m.
Spend your Saturday night on the boardwalk. Take the family for a guided walk around the wetland at Huntley Meadows Park. See how the local wildlife changes from day to night when the nocturnal residents start to come out of their slumber. // Huntley Meadows Park: 3701 Lockheed Blvd., Alexandria; $9
Winter Walk of Lights
Through Sunday, 5-10 p.m.
Get in one last weekend of holiday lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. Squeeze out that last bit of Christmas spirit as you walk through the whimsical display. Tickets for the event can only be bought online. // Meadowlark Botanical Gardens: 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna; $12.50-$20
Cinderella’s Dream – The Movie
Cozy up on the couch for Creative Cauldron’s Cinderella’s Dream. The theater turned its magical spring production into a movie just for you. So grab the popcorn and turn on the funny adaptation of the classic fairy tale. // $15
For more family-friendly events, subscribe to our things to Do newsletter.