The holidays are busy. Everyone is rushing around grabbing gifts, seeing relatives and—more often than not—getting stuck in Northern Virginia traffic.
If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle, or simply seeking a few events to add to your pre-holiday calendar to pass the time, here’s where you can learn, dance and drive the days away.
Synchronized Ballroom Dancing Lessons
Monday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m.-noon
Waltz, tango, fox trot, quick step, rumba and cha-cha. Whether you’re trying to get back into the rhythm or you’ve never stepped on the dance floor before, this is your time to shine! Lessons are free and open to the public, and no partner is required. Before you know it, you’ll be stepping and turning just like on Dancing with the Stars. // Herndon Senior Center: 873 Grace St., Herndon; free
Financial Scams
Monday, Dec. 16, 10:30 a.m.
With increased scamming activity on the internet and via home phone numbers, it can be difficult to avoid lesser-known or potentially damaging scams. You may be aware of the “tax fraud” scam or others, but new ones seem to pop up every day. To learn all about the tricky ways people are trying to scam you out of your money, head to this short and simple presentation. Your wallet will thank you. // South County Senior Center: 8350 Richmond Highway, Suite 325, Alexandria; free
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Cooking with Winter Squash
Tuesday, Dec. 17, 11 a.m.-noon
Meet a volunteer from the Virginia Cooperative Extension and learn just how easy it is to prepare and enjoy winter squash. The nutrient-dense fruit is a great option for ensuring you get your antioxidants and minerals throughout the winter months. Plus, you’ll get to take home the recipe too. // Langston-Brown Community Center: 2121 N. Culpeper St., Arlington; free for members, $20 for Arlington residents 55 and older
Hanukkah Celebration
Tuesday, Dec. 17, 1-2 p.m.
Local members Sheryl Lansford and Sandy Smith, with special guest Arlene Williams, are excited to host you for the 2019 Jewish Festival of Hanukkah celebration. Stop by to learn how and why the holiday is celebrated around the world, and get a taste of a traditional food item. // Dulles South Senior Center: 24950 Riding Center Drive, South Riding; drop-in fee $2 for non-members, $30 for 55-plus membership
Improving Communication and Comprehension
Tuesday, Dec. 17, 1:35 p.m.
Christy Gavitt, known best as a global health consultant who spent more than 30 years living abroad while working with the Peace Corps, CARE and other international organizations, will give a presentation on how to better communicate between individuals, groups and more, as well as how to promote longer-lasting comprehension. // Falls Church Senior Center: 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church; free
Ride Sharing Options for Seniors
Wednesday, Dec. 18, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
You’ve heard of Uber and Lyft, but what transportation services are really the safest and most accessible to keep you independent? Attend this short workshop about your available ride-sharing options in NoVA that are best for transporting you to and from medical appointments, social engagements and daily errands. // Aurora Hills Community Center: 735 18th St. S., Arlington; free for members, $20 for Arlington-resident 55-plus pass
AARP Smart Driver Course
Wednesday, Dec. 18, 9 a.m.
With a course specifically designed for 55-plus drivers, AARP is offering research-based safe driving strategies, information on select medications’ effects on driving, measures to decrease distracted driving and an array of safety rules and regulations to follow. The course is a great opportunity to gain more confidence in your own driving, even if you just need a refresh on your driving safety and skills. // Arlington Mill Community Center: 909 S. Dinwiddle St., Arlington; free
Where’d You Go Bernadette
Thursday, Dec. 19, 1-3:30 p.m.
Join other seniors to watch and critique the 2019 film Where’d You Go, Bernadette, starring Cate Blanchett and Billy Crudrup. The plot follows former architect Bernadette, who has what many might see as the perfect life in Seattle, until she disappears. Follow the characters on an exciting adventure to solve the mystery of where she might have gone, and bring a notepad to contribute to the group’s monthly movie critique newsletter. // Arlington Mill Community Center: 909 S. Dinwiddle St., Arlington; free for members, $20 for Arlington-resident 55-plus pass
Infinity Scarves
Thursday, Dec. 19, 1-3 p.m.
Looking for a new scarf, but would rather make one than buy it? You’re in luck. Learn a new hand-knitting technique from Jennifer, a library associate of the Columbia Pike Branch Library, who will teach you how to create your very own colorful, handmade scarf that makes a complete circle. Once you learn, you can start knitting them for others too! Supplies included. // Walter Reed Community Center: 2909 16th St. S., Arlington; free for members, $20 for Arlington-resident 55-plus pass
National Ugly Sweater Day
Friday, Dec. 20, 10 a.m.
Kick off the humorous holiday with an ugly craft, followed by an ugly sweater dance and ugly sweater karaoke. Not only will the event be festive and fun, you’ll also get the chance to sport those cozy (yet not cute) sweaters hanging out in your closet. New memories make for a happy holiday season. // Lewinsville Senior Center: 1613 Great Falls St., McLean; free for members, $28-$48 for annual pass to all Fairfax County senior centers