It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and that means it’s time to take advantage of the cozy, festive date destinations that Northern Virginia has to offer. From strolling an outdoor Christmas market to taking in a showing of The Nutcracker, these date night options can help you and your special someone get in the holiday spirit.
Go Outdoor Ice Skating
Nothing screams winter date quite like outdoor ice skating. Head to Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run, and check out the skating rink and holiday light display. Nighttime tickets include admission to the village and one hour of ice skating; daytime tickets include one and a half hours of ice skating. Tickets are available online. 4001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria
Take in a Performance of The Nutcracker
Get in the spirit of the season by immersing yourselves in this holiday classic. This year, the Fairfax Ballet Company is joined by the Fairfax Symphony for special performances of The Nutcracker on December 21 and 22 at George Mason University’s Center for the Arts. Tickets can be purchased online and range in price from $44–$95. 4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax
View Beautiful Lights from the Cozy Car
Stay toasty and view holiday light displays from the comfort of your car at the Bull Run Festival of Lights in Centreville. The 2.5-mile route features new displays every year as well as a Winter Wonderland (where it’s always snowing). And don’t miss out on the walk through Holiday Village at the end of the drive. Tickets are available online for $30 per car and are $40 onsite. 7700 Bull Run Dr., Centreville
Dine at a Festive Restaurant
Why not do dinner with festive ambiance to really set the tone? Ambar Clarendon in Arlington has transformed the restaurant’s lower level into a winter wonderland that feels like walking through a forest with a fresh dusting of snow. In addition to three flocked Christmas trees of varying heights, the restaurant/bar also features frosted and natural evergreen branches with pinecones and ornaments suspended from the ceiling. The fantasy setting will remain in place through Jan. 31. Make sure you try one of their new winter cocktails, like the Balkan Hot Toddy or Marshmallow Martini. 2901 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
Stroll Through a Christmas Market
Grab a hot cocoa (with extra marshmallows) and stroll through the twinkling lights and decorations of one of NoVA’s many Christmas markets. It’s the perfect date, and a perfect opportunity to find a gift for everyone on your list. Options include the DowntownDC Holiday Market, through December 23; and the Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market & Holiday Craft Show and the Herndon WinterMarkt, both only Saturday, December 14.
Feature image courtesy Ambar
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