It’s that time of year to lean into the holiday cheer, and Northern Virginia is abuzz with events that’ll keep things merry and bright this season. Holiday parades throughout NoVA are hailed as some of the best in the country, and it’s easy to see why. For an opulent Christmas experience with a healthy dose of nostalgia, try one of these holiday parades in NoVA.
Reston Holiday Parade & Events
November 29, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
See Reston Town Center sparkle at this holiday parade celebrating its 32nd anniversary. The half-mile parade marches down Market Street at 11 a.m. to welcome the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Get there early to get a good spot and stick around after to enjoy a train, carriage ride, or ice skating on the seasonal outdoor rink. (Plus, if you stay around, you can avoid the lines of cars leaving the parking garages.) After sharing some milk and cookies to recharge from their journey, the Clauses return to help light the Christmas tree at 6 p.m. 11900 Market St., Reston
Mosaic Holiday Tree Lighting & Santa Firetruck Parade
November 29, 6–9 p.m.
Stroll through the Mosaic District to get a good spot before the fun begins at 6 p.m. with a performance by cellist Benjamin Gates. The parade begins at Penny Park, followed closely by Santa’s arrival and lighting of the Christmas tree. The GMU Band will perform after the parade, and attendees can snap a selfie with Santa at the Angelika Film Center. Strawberry Park, Fairfax
Christmas in Middleburg
December 7, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
There’s nothing quite like spending the holidays in horse country. Discover it yourself at Christmas in Middleburg. Arrive before 11 a.m. on Saturday to witness the Middleburg Hunts and Hound Review parade down Washington Street. Next, the community parade kicks off at 2 p.m. Plus, festivities in Middleburg span the entire weekend, with a tree lighting Friday evening at 6 p.m. and horse and carriage rides throughout the town. Be aware, reserved parking starts around $60 per car and is extremely limited. W. Washington and Madison streets
Greater Manassas Christmas Parade
December 7, 10 a.m.
This Christmas parade has entertained and delighted Northern Virginia residents for 77 years. With over 100 units of marching bands, floats, balloons, and more, it takes over 300 volunteers and 2,000 participants to make it a reality. This year, the theme is “Christmas in Candyland.” 8890 Mathis Ave., Manassas
Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade
December 7, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Alexandria’s most festive weekend wouldn’t be complete its annual celebration of heritage at the Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. The spectacle features marchers festooned in traditional tartans, accompanied by pipe and drum bands. Various community groups will also be marching, including the Campagna Center, which hosts the parade in partnership with the City of Alexandria. Old Town Alexandria
Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
December 7, 5:30 p.m.
Stick around after Scottish Christmas Parade for a holiday parade by sea — or rather, by river. The Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade is almost 25 years old and promises to be an event full of heartwarming lights and festivities. Trek to the Old Town Waterfront for the best views, and maybe grab a pint from the pop-up beer garden hosted by Port City Brewing Company. Old Town Alexandria Waterfront
Purcellville Holiday Parade
December 14, 12 p.m.
This little NoVA town is big on Christmas spirit. The 2.5-mile parade route wraps in a square through Purcellville, so there’s no pressure to find the best spot to join the fun. Don’t forget to stop by the Holiday Market and LEGO Display after the parade wraps up for some last-minute shopping. Pictures with Santa will be available at the Purcellville Train Station from 2 to 5 p.m.551 E. A St., Purcellville
Leesburg Christmas and Holiday Parade
December 14, 6 p.m.
A very Leesburg Christmas awaits with this parade through Historic Downtown. Everything starts at 6 p.m. as the parade marches down North King Street. Welcome Santa as the parade wraps up, then explore on foot to find a bite to eat. It is strongly recommended that you arrive early to reduce pre-parade stress and find a good parking spot. 60 Ida Lee Dr. NW, Leesburg
Stafford Christmas Parade
December 21, 3 p.m.
Experience Stafford’s charm with this parade just in time for the holidays. The parade route runs along John Lee Pratt Park, so you’ll have plenty of space view the procession. Organizers recommend arriving hours before the parade to grab a bit of nosh and get in position before the event begins. 120 River Rd., Fredericksburg
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Feature image of Scottish Christmas Walk courtesy Visit Alexandria
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