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Holiday Things to Do: In and Around Northern Virginia

Christmas at Mount Vernon
Christmas at Mount Vernon
Courtesy of Mount Vernon

While the below-freezing weather and premature snow storm may have put you in the holiday mindset weeks ago, we are just now truly entering it. Regardless of which holiday you celebrate, this time of year is truly magical. Whether you are spending winter break at home this year or are just looking for some holiday events to fill your weekends, there are countless options of how to celebrate. Below are just a few of the many events in and around Northern Virginia this year.

Christmas at Mount Vernon:

Date: November 23-December 31

Time: 9am-4pm

If you are looking for a day trip to take this December, visit George Washington’s home and celebrate the holidays at his old-fashioned estate. With cookie decorating, a Christmas camel, cooking demonstrations, activities for kids and holiday music, Mount Vernon will definitely put you in the holiday spirit.

Website:

https://www.mountvernon.org/plan-your-visit/tours-activities/christmas-at-mount-vernon

 

City of Fairfax Holiday Market:

Date: December 7-9, December 14-16

Time: Fridays 5-8pm, Saturdays 12pm-6pm, Sundays 12pm-4pm

For the second year, the City of Fairfax will be hosting a festive holiday market in Old Town Square. If you are looking for last minute gifts or just want to grab some special treats, the holiday market is the perfect destination. From food and drink to art vendors and live music, the market has all of your December needs.

Website: https://www.fairfaxva.gov/government/parks-recreation/special-events/holiday-market

 

Photos With Santa and Holiday Shopping at Tysons Corner Mall:

Date: Through December 24

Time: Varies

Nothing says the holidays like a picture with Santa Claus. For a day filled with festivities, head to Tysons Corner Mall and grab some food, take a photo with Santa and get some much-needed holiday shopping done.

Website: http://www.tysonscornercenter.com/Events/Details/500311

 

Holidays in Old Town Alexandria:

Date: Through January 1

Time: Varies

Old Town Alexandria is the home of many holiday events this year. With many shops, restaurants, candlelit tours, tree lightings and concerts, Old Town is a great place to spend your December weekends. Even just a simple walk down King Street is a great way to spend time with friends and family over the holidays.

Website: https://www.visitalexandriava.com/holidays/

 

Holiday Market at Del Ray Artisans:

Date: December 7-9, December 14-16

Time: Fridays 6-9pm, Saturdays and Sundays 11am-6pm

For the 23rd year in a row, Del Ray in Alexandria is hosting their art and craft holiday market. The admission is completely free, and market hosts an assortment of venders. A percentage of all sales goes to promote art in the Del Ray community, so be sure to stop by this season.

Website: http://www.delrayartisans.org/event/holiday-market-2018/

 

Northern Virginia is full of fun and festive activities during this time of year. If you are looking for some quick shopping opportunities, full day trips or celebrations of the holidays, there is definitely something for you.

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About the Contributor
Anna Trainum
Anna Trainum, Opinion Editor
Anna Trainum is The Yorktown Sentry’s opinion editor, and is a senior in her fourth year on staff. She is interested in covering topics surrounding sustainability and environmental protections, and spends time outside of class doing yoga and dance. She is abnormally small and has webbed toes.