For indoor and outdoor entertainment, there’s something for the whole family to participate in this weekend throughout Northern Virginia including heartwarming theater, cooking demonstrations, and nature explorations. Here are 11 great weekend events over January 10 to 12 to try.
The Twelve Dancing Princesses
January 10–19, times vary
In this enchanting production from Encore Stage & Studio, see how a king enlists potential suitors for his daughters to discover how these twelve princesses wear out their dancing shoes. The show is recommended for ages 4 and up. Concessions are available for pre-order with tickets. Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre: 125 S. Old Glebe Rd., Arlington, $12–$15
Wassail Party
January 10, 6:30–8 p.m.
Celebrate an old English tradition of blessing the apple trees for a fruitful harvest by singing Wassail songs and “toasting” the trees. Enjoy live music, mulled cider, and DIY floral crowns before continuing the festivities inside a microbrewery. Lost Boy Cider: 317 Hooffs Run Dr., Alexandria, free
Annie Kids
January 11, 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
“The sun’ll come out tomorrow!” Adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, see little orphan Annie warm everyone’s hearts as she navigates cruel Miss Hannigan’s orphanage and finds a new home and family. Franklin Park Arts Center: 36441 Blueridge View Ln., Purcellville, $20–$40
Cooking Demo: Sourdough Bread 101
January 11, 1–3 p.m.
At Salamander Middleburg’s Harrimans Virginia Piedmont Grill, head baker Jean Baptiste teaches all the tips and tricks for a perfect loaf of sourdough bread. After the class, receive printed recipes and your own sourdough starter to help you cook with confidence. Harrimans Virginia Piedmont Grill: 500 N. Pendleton St., Middleburg, $50
Off the Wall High School Art Exhibition and Competition
January 11, 2–4 p.m.
ARTfactory’s 21st annual exhibition and competition invites area high school students to share their talents. View student work in the categories of Art & Technology, Painting/Drawing, Wearable Art, and Photography. ARTfactory: 9419 Battle St., Manassas, free
Stargazing at the Udvar-Hazy Center
January 11, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Observe the dazzling night sky, planets, stars, and the Moon through different telescopes alongside museum staff and members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club. Telescopes will be provided by Smithsonian and stargazing will take place in the center’s bus parking lot. Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center: 14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy., Chantilly, free
Wreaths Out at Arlington National Cemetery
January 11, 8 a.m.–noon
Join thousands of visitors for the annual removal of wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery (ANC) and Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery (SAHNC). Volunteers will help remove approximately 257,000 wreaths at ANC and around 14,000 at SAHNC. Enjoy hot chocolate and hot cider handed out by the Military Women’s Memorial. Arlington National Cemetery: 1 Memorial Ave., Arlington, free
Chocolate and Wine Workshop
January 12, 2–3 p.m.
Head chocolatier Mia Muschek leads wine pairings with different chocolates during this workshop. Learn about the chocolate-making process and history while enjoying five wine tastings and Babylon Chocolates. Old Farm Winery at Hartland: 23583 Fleetwood Rd., Aldie, $50
The Fredericksburg Greater Virginia Bridal Show
January 12, 1–5 p.m.
Whether you’re planning your special day or just want to learn more about weddings, visit this bridal show to experience the area’s premier wedding vendors and have all your questions answered. Sample catering and different cakes, see vendor displays, and enter giveaways for a chance to win thousands of dollars or even an 8-day honeymoon. Fredericksburg Fairgrounds: 2400 Airport Ave., Fredericksburg, $10
Hiking Under the Moonlit Sky
January 12, 6–7:30 p.m.
Join a naturalist for a guided hike through Nokesville Park and experience the wonders of nature under a full moon. After the forest walk, end your evening with a campfire and s’mores. Nokesville Community Park: 12560 Aden Rd., Nokesville, $15
Kiddo Rave
January 12, noon–6 p.m.
Bring the whole family for a thrilling experience as DJ SAAM plays remixes of your children’s favorite dance songs. Bubbles, glow sticks, glow-in-the-dark tattoos, face painting, and moonbounces will be featured. Feel free to bring your pets to this dog-friendly event. Shipgarten: 7581 Colshire Dr., Tysons, free
Feature image by Elizabeth Fraser/Arlington National Cemetery
