FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
NaNoWriMo101: How to Write a Novel in a Month
Wednesday, 6-7 p.m.
It’s National Novel Writing Month. If you’re taking on the challenge of writing a 50,000-word novel in one month, get some tips on useful strategies and novel prep at this special presentation. // Crystal City Library: 2100 Crystal Drive, Arlington; Free
PERFORMING ARTS
Jeff Dunham
Wednesday, 7 p.m.
Ventriloquist and comedian Jeff Dunham will be joined on stage by his popular characters, including Walter, Achmed and Peanut. // EagleBank Arena: 4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax; tickets starting at $51
MUSIC
John Lloyd Young
Thursday, 8 p.m.
Broadway’s original Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys, the Tony Award-winning singer is prepared to sing the classics with his signature voice. // The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Road, Vienna; $35-$45
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Alexandria Film Festival
This year’s Alexandria Film Festival will be celebrating independent filmmakers from NoVA neighborhoods and around the world. // Multiple venues; $12
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
LightUP Fest
Thursday-Jan. 2
Experience more than 70 different lighting exhibits, including traditional Chinese lanterns and state-of-the-art lighting technology, celebrating a rich cultural heritage. Nightly performances will include acrobats, dancers and musicians. // One Loudoun: 44605 Russell Branch Parkway, Ashburn; $29.99 (adult), $19.99 (children)
ART EXHIBIT
Art of Armistice Reception
Friday, 7 p.m.
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the groundbreaking of the Art Center, Art of Armistice explores the after effects of war. The exhibit will run through Dec. 2. // Target Gallery: 105 N. Union St., Alexandria; Free
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
25th Annual Northern Virginia Christmas Market
Friday-Sunday, Times vary
Get an early start on your Christmas shopping at the Dulles Expo Center, where more than 300 juried artisans from across the country will be on hand. Browse through all the available wares, from fine art to gift-packaged gourmet food. // Dulles Expo Center: 4320 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly; $8
ART
Catoctin Holiday Art Tour
Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Artists will open the doors to their Lovettsville studios allowing visitors to take self-guided tours of their work. Food may be available at some studios, while all the art is available for sale. // Lovettsville; Free
PETS
Paws & Whiskers Bazaar Party
Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Pets get in on the holiday action at Fredericksburg’s Bazaar, with Santa pictures and a pet holiday outfit contest among the highlights. // Hurkamp Park: 500 William St., Fredericksburg; Free
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Celebrating Veterans and the Arts
Saturday, 4 p.m.
Take part in an interactive afternoon of experiences for veterans, service members, their families, military caregivers and the community. // Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10900 University Blvd., Manassas; Free
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Concert in Lights Kickoff Event
Saturday, 4-8 p.m.
Let the holiday lights sparkle at this special kickoff event that will feature ice skating, hot chocolate face painting, balloon animals, tasty snacks and live music. // Spotsylvania Towne Centre: 137 Spotsylvania Mall, Fredericksburg; Free
FOOD & DRINK
Cuban Pig Roast Feat. Virginia Blend
Saturday, 5 p.m.
Come to Sinistral Brewing to grab a plate of Cuban pork, congri and pickled red onions. The whole pig will be cooked on site. Entertainment will be provided by Bob Dickson and the band Virginia Blend. // Sinistral Brewing Company: 9419 Main St., Manassas; $12
FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Mount Vernon Colonial Market & Fair
Saturday-Monday
Find out what it was like to go shopping back in Colonial times when artisans set up shop on the grounds of Mount Vernon. Up for sale will be traditional food and wares made from wood, metal and textiles. Colonial musicians and performers will be on hand, including a demonstration of making chocolate with a authentic Colonial recipe. // George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon; Included in admission
VETERANS DAY
Arlington National Cemetery
Sunday, 11 a.m.
Pay a special tribute to the soldiers that paid the ultimate sacrifice. Events will include a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a parade of colors and remarks by government and military officials. // Arlington National Cemetery: Arlington; Free
VETERANS DAY
Heroes & Hops VetFest
Sunday, 1-4 p.m.
Raise a beer to the veterans that have proudly served our country. Entry fee includes one beer and barbecue, with all proceeds going to Hero’s Bridge to support veterans. // Powers Farm & Brewery: 9269 Redemption Way, Midland; $5-$25
FOOD & DRINK
White Truffle Dinner
Sunday, 6 p.m.
This six-course dinner with wine pairings will feature shaved white truffles from Italy’s Piedmont region in each dish. G.D. Vajra Winery will handle the pairings, while Francesca Vaira will once again serve as the dinner’s host. // Girasole Restaurant: 4244 Loudoun Ave., The Plains; $275
PERFORMING ARTS
Billy Elliot
Through Jan. 6, 2019, Times vary
In a tough British coal mining town, 11-year-old Billy decides to trade in his boxing gloves and takes up dance. // Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington; $40-$103