With winter officially here, there is still plenty of fun to be had at your favorite parks. Whether you want to warm up by the campfire or enjoy a virtual craft with the family, here are five parks and recreation events to help close out 2020.
Campfire Your Way
Dec. 26, 5 p.m.
After the holiday fun, warm up by the fire at Hidden Oaks Nature Center. This private program allows participants to learn about the survival strategies of nocturnal animals. After the lesson, enjoy some delicious toasted marshmallows. This event is for groups of up to 12.// Hidden Oaks Nature Center: 7701 Royce St., Annandale; $90
Hot Cocoa Wetland Night Hike
Dec. 27, 4:30-6 p.m.
Enjoy the night sky over Alexandria with a special night hike. Join a local naturalist for a tour of the wetlands as you look for signs of nocturnal animals. Stay warm during your hike with a tasty cup of hot chocolate. // Huntley Meadows: 3701 Lockheed Blvd., Alexandria; $9
The Union Army in Arlington
Dec. 28, 11 a.m.-noon
Join a Union soldier for a virtual tour of Fort C.F. Smith Park. Viewers will learn about the soldiers that lived in Arlington during the Civil war and what brought them to the city. Registration is required. // free
Marshmallow Madness
Dec. 29, 1-2:30 p.m.
Celebrate the start of winter with some fun marshmallow activities. Spend the afternoon making your own marshmallow creations, then roast them on the fire. All marshmallows will be supplied and individually wrapped. // Claude Moore Park: 21544 Old Vestal’s Gap Road, Sterling; free
Rec @ Home – NYE Party Poppers Art
Dec. 31, 3 p.m.
Have some family fun on New Year’s Eve with a fun art project. Get ready for your nighttime celebration with a party popper. Just gather some supplies from around your home and join the class on Facebook live for the tutorial. // free
For more things to do around NoVA, subscribe to our Things to Do newsletter.
