5 family-friendly events to enjoy before the end of winter break

With the holiday celebrations over and the kids going back to school next week, get in some last minute family fun at one of these local events.

By Michele Kettner • Posted December 30, 2020 at 10:45 a.m.

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

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Michele Kettner

Audience Engagement Editor

Michele Kettner joined Northern Virginia Magazine in 2020 after spending two semesters as an editorial intern at the magazine. The University of Maryland graduate is currently the audience engagement editor and covers everything from can’t-miss things to do and holiday events to new restaurant and store openings throughout Northern Virginia.