Deck the Halls and Explore: The Most Christmassy Weekend in NoVa
As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of cozying up with a warm cup of cocoa and basking in the twinkling lights and festive decorations. And where better to experience the ultimate Christmas spirit than in Northern Virginia? From charming Main Streets adorned with wreaths to dazzling light displays at theme parks, this region has it all when it comes to spreading holiday cheer. So if you’re looking for the perfect weekend getaway this Christmas season, hop on board as we take you on a tour through some of NoVa’s most Christmassy spots that are sure to make your heart merry and bright. Get ready to deck the halls and explore our list of top recommended activities for an unforgettable Christmastime in NoVa
Christmas Carols Sing-A-Long Night!
Dec 20 at 7:00PM – 9:00PM
Community Christian Fellowship Church
6317 Vint Hill Road Warrenton 20187
About the Event
You’re invited to a free Christmas Carols Sing-Along Night at Community Christian Fellowship on Dec 20th from 7-9pm.
Celebrate the joy of the season at our festive Sing-Along Service, where everyone is welcome. Bring your family, friends, and holiday spirit to enjoy timeless melodies that evoke warmth, love, and togetherness. Feel free to wear your ugliest Christmas sweater or anything festive—bonus points if it lights up or jingles!
Open Flow Friday
Dec 20 at 7:00PM – 9:00PM
ARTfactory
9419 Battle Street Manassas 20110
About the Event
Explore creativity in all its forms at ARTfactory’s first “Open Flow Friday”! Happening Friday, Dec. 20 from 7 to 9 pm in the art gallery (1st floor), this is a space where all types of creatives can shine. Whether you’re a poet, author, musician, visual artist, or something else entirely, Open Flow Friday is your platform to present, perform, or share your passion.
This inclusive “open mic night” concept also features an open art demonstration area, creating a safe and welcoming space for self-expression, community, and creativity. Everyone is welcome to attend, and participating is entirely optional.
Interested in performing? Arrive at least 10 minutes early to add your name to the performance sign-up list.
Featured Performers Include:
Dr. Oliver Reid – Writer, poet, and spoken word artist
Aliya Gardner – Sound healing practitioner and vocalist
Yalda Night Music Festival
Friday, December 20 · 7:30 – 11:59pm EST
3115 Golansky Blvd
Woodbridge, VA 22191 United States
$45 – ADMISSION
$65 – VIP
About the Event
Celebrate the beauty of Yalda Night with an evening of live Afghan music, captivating performances from renowned singers, and poetry honoring this cherished tradition. Experience the festive spirit with friends and family in a beautifully decorated venue, complemented by delicious dinner options available for purchase. The celebration takes place on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 7:30 PM to 1:00 AM at Divine Word International Ministries Hall in Woodbridge, VA.
This event welcomes attendees of all ages (tickets required for ages 3 and above) and encourages traditional attire to enhance the Yalda spirit. General admission is $45, while VIP tickets are $65, offering premium seating and exclusive photo opportunities with performers. Please note that tickets are non-refundable, and must be purchased online in advance. Join us for an unforgettable night of music, culture, and community!
Holiday Sip & Cupcake Decorating Class with Mocktails
Friday, December 20 · 6:30 – 8:30pm EST
Fran’s Cake & Candy Supplies
10927 Main Street Fairfax, VA 22030 United States
MUST BE 21+
About the Event
Get ready to celebrate the holidays with a fun and festive cupcake decorating workshop led by Celebrity Pastry Chef Dawn Alston, a Food Network competitor! Learn how to create indulgent flavors like Chocolate Candy Cane, Vanilla Bean Noel, and Red Velvet cupcakes, master buttercream and chocolate ganache techniques, and craft beautifully piped designs with custom toppers. Each participant will leave with a dozen cupcakes to impress family and friends, plus exclusive tips and tricks from Chef Dawn.
Enjoy light refreshments and a delicious holiday mocktail crafted by Chef Dawn (and feel free to bring your favorite adult beverage to sip while you decorate). All tools and supplies are included, and beginner bakers are warmly welcomed. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your cupcake game while spreading holiday cheer—reserve your spot today!
Christmas Crafting Workshop
Friday, December 20 · 2 – 5pm EST
15001 Potomac Town Pl suite 130
Woodbridge, VA 22191 United States
$50
About the Event
Celebrate the Holiday Season with Crafting!
Come together for a Christmas Crafting Workshop on December 20th, hosted by Takisha Bauermeister of House of JITB. Get creative by designing your own snow globe and decorating a festive Christmas stocking alongside fellow craft enthusiasts.
Location: 15001 Potomac Town Pl Suite 130, Woodbridge, VA 22191
Time: 2 PM – 5 PM
Cost: $50 per person. Create, connect, and enjoy the festive spirit—spots are limited, so reserve yours today!
‘Tis the Season Cookie Decorating Class III
Friday, December 20 · 5 – 7pm EST. Doors at 4:45pm
Located near 76 Monument Drive, Stafford, Va 22554 but final address will be sent to you upon registration confirmation.
AGES 12+
About the Event
The ‘Tis the Season Cookie Decorating Class III is the perfect way to celebrate the holidays! Explore your creativity while learning new techniques to decorate beautiful and delicious cookies that you can enjoy or share as thoughtful gifts.
This in-person event takes place on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 5:00 PM, near 76 Monument Drive, Stafford, VA 22554. The exact address will be provided upon registration confirmation. Come create something special and add a little extra cheer to your holiday season!
Beehive Holiday Party 2024
Friday, December 20 · 5:30 – 7:30pm EST
BeeHive Indoor Playground
13412 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Ste J1 Woodbridge, VA 22191 United States
About the Event
BeeHive Indoor Playground’s Holiday Event 2024 is the ultimate festive celebration for kids and adults alike. Enjoy a magical evening packed with fun activities like moonbounces, bumper cars, face painting, arts and crafts, and even a special visit from Santa Claus! There’s something for everyone—while the kids explore and play, adults can soak in the holiday spirit and create cherished memories with loved ones.
Don’t miss the chance to capture a free photo with Santa (available from 5:30–7:00 PM), participate in the Best Christmas PJ’s Contest at 7:00 PM, and take home goody bags for the kids. BeeHive’s Holiday Event 2024 is all about spreading joy, laughter, and holiday cheer in an inclusive and welcoming setting. We can’t wait to celebrate this season with you!
Beats & Boogie – Line Dance
Saturday, December 21 · 7 – 8:45pm EST. Doors at 6:45pm
Dance AS Dance Academy
17650 Possum Point Road #Suite H Dumfries, VA 22026 United States
AGES 18+
About the Event
Get ready to enjoy an evening of fun, music, and movement at our inclusive Line Dance event! Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or stepping onto the dance floor for the first time, everyone is welcome to groove to great beats and learn some boogie-worthy moves.
When: Saturday, December 21 · 7 – 8:45pm EST (Doors open at 6:45pm)
Where: Dance AS Dance Academy
We can’t wait to see you there—come as you are and dance your heart out!
Christmas Sugar Cookie Decorating Class with Royal Icing!
Saturday, December 21 · 10am – 12pm EST
Fran’s Cake & Candy Supplies
10927 Main Street Fairfax, VA 22030 United States
AGES 13+
About the Event
Learn how to decorate cheerful Christmas cookies with expert guidance! This hands-on class includes 8 pre-baked cookies and step-by-step instruction on flooding, wet-on-wet technique, and detail piping. Perfect for beginners, you’ll leave with stunning cookies to share at your holiday celebrations. All supplies are provided, and you’ll enjoy a 5% discount on supplies at Fran’s Cake and Candy on the day of class.
Professional decorator Stephanie H., with over 15 years of award-winning experience, will guide you through the process. The class is open to ages 13+ (or 10+ with a ticketed adult) and runs approximately 2 hours. Space is limited to 8 students, so secure your spot today for this fun and festive experience! (Cancellation policy applies; please see details before booking.
Holiday Gifting Made Easy (and Fun!) – Beer Tasting Collab with High Side
Saturday, December 21 · 6 – 8pm EST. Doors at 5:45pm
Mode on Main by Mara
10417 Main Street Fairfax, VA 22030 United States
AGES 21+
About the Event
Skip the holiday stress and enjoy a shopping event designed for everyone. Explore unique gifts while indulging in a curated beer tasting presented by Jinson, owner of High Side Restaurant and Craft Beer, starting at 6:15 PM. Upload your partner’s wishlist in advance by visiting their website (https://www.modeonmainbymara.com/). This way, you’ll leave with gifts they’ll truly love.
Make a night of it! After the event, head to High Side for more drinks and delicious food—reservations are highly recommended. Say goodbye to mall madness and hello to a relaxed evening of thoughtful shopping, great drinks, and holiday cheer!
Magical NUTCRACKER Fairfax Symphony & Fairfax Ballet & New York City Ballet Soloists
Dec 21 – 22 at 4:00PM – 6:00PM
Center for the Arts
4373 Mason Pond Drive Fairfax 22030
$39.00 – $89.00
About the Event
The Fairfax Symphony and Fairfax Ballet are bringing the magic of The Nutcracker to life! This enchanting production features live music performed by a full orchestra and spectacular dance by the Fairfax Ballet, along with New York City Ballet soloists Emily Kikta as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Aaron Sanz as the Cavalier.
Watch as dancing Snowflakes, Candy Canes, and a Gingerbread House fill the stage, with dramatic battles between Toy Soldiers and Mischievous Mice. Celebrate the holiday season with this unforgettable performance at George Mason University Center for the Arts in Fairfax, VA—perfect for the entire family to enjoy!
Live Saxophone Music @ Siam Classic Thai Cuisine
Saturday, December 21 · 5 – 8:30pm EST
Historic District
9403 East Street Manassas, VA 20110 United States
About the Event
Siam Classic is delighted to host an evening of live saxophone music, featuring talented students from the 51-time superior award-winning Lake Braddock band.
Immerse yourself in the artistry of these young musicians as they showcase their exceptional skills in an unforgettable performance. Don’t miss this celebration of music and talent!
2024 Campbells Frozen Custard Gingerbread House Decorating Party – Event 1
Saturday, December 21 · 10 – 11:30am EST
Campbells Frozen Custard
4125 Merchant Plaza Woodbridge, VA 22192 United States
About the Event
Campbells Frozen Custard is thrilled to host the 8th Annual Gingerbread Decorating Party! Choose from two fun options to join the festivities—reserve a table for $50, which includes one gingerbread house (additional houses $35 each, up to 4 houses and 4 participants per table), or snag a seat at the bar for $35, perfect for decorating solo with one gingerbread house.
Each gingerbread house purchase comes with a fully constructed house, plenty of decorations and frosting, a hot beverage of your choice, a scoop of custard with toppings, and we’ll carefully wrap your creation for you to take home. Decorating dates are Saturday, Dec. 21st, and Sunday, Dec. 22nd—don’t miss the chance to spread some holiday cheer!
Sidewalk Prophets – Great Big Family Christmas – Burke, VA
Saturday, December 21 · 7 – 9pm EST
Burke Community Church
9900 Keene Mill Rd. Burke, VA 22015 United States
About the Event
Great Big Family Productions presents Sidewalk Prophet’s “Great Big Family Christmas” – an unforgettable evening filled with joy, music, and the spirit of togetherness. Step out from the chill of winter and experience the warmth of the Great Big Family Room, where cherished memories are made, and the birth of Christ is celebrated through heartwarming songs and surprises. Featuring Sidewalk Prophet’s original Christmas music alongside your favorite hits, this festive concert is guaranteed to spread holiday cheer. Plus, there’s always the chance for a surprise gift or two!
To make the night even more special, each stop on the tour supports a local charity or individual in need, with an inspiring goal of giving away over $1 million within the next decade. With ticket options designed for everyone—from General Admission to VIP packages with early seating and an exclusive reading of “The Luckiest Star” by lead singer Dave Frey—this event is for families, friends, and anyone looking to share in the joy of the season.
Fairfax and Ashby Ponds ROCKS – 12/21 Winter Concert
Saturday, December 21 · 2 – 3pm EST
Burke United Methodist Church
6200 Burke Centre Parkway Burke, VA 22015 United States
About the Event
Get ready for a festive afternoon of holiday fun at our Cookies with Santa event! Kids can decorate their own cookies, sip on hot cocoa, and share their Christmas wishes with Santa himself. With plenty of photo opportunities to capture magical moments, this is the perfect chance to create cherished memories as a family and get into the holiday spirit. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot early for an event that’s sure to be merry and bright!
Grateful & Grounded: Lotus Holiday Wellness Retreat
Saturday, December 21 · 11am – 3pm EST. Doors at 10:50am
The Lotus and The Light Metaphysical Center
9256 Mosby Street ##101 Old Town Manassas, VA 20110 United States
AGES 18+
About the Event
Grateful & Grounded invites you to step away from the holiday rush and into a day of reflection, connection, and renewal. This one-day wellness retreat is a peaceful sanctuary where you can explore meaningful practices such as journaling, gratitude workshops, Reiki healing, and movement to release tension and cultivate inner peace. Thoughtful refreshments, a serene atmosphere, and a small, intimate group ensure a supportive and nurturing experience.
This retreat is designed to be a space where everyone feels welcome and valued. Whether you’re seeking clarity, balance, or a deeper sense of gratitude, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, grounded, and ready to embrace the holiday season with greater joy and ease. Spaces are limited to 10 participants—reserve yours today to begin this beautiful and restorative experience.
Civil War Peace Service
Dec 22 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Dranesville Church of the Brethren
11500 Leesburg Pike Herndon 20170
About the Event
The Dranesville Church of the Brethren invites you to a special peace service on Sunday, Dec. 22, to honor the lives lost in the Battle of Dranesville and reflect on the human cost of war. Held near the site of the 1861 battle, which marked the first Union victory in the East, the service will include an account of the events that took place just three days before Christmas and a reading of the names of those who perished.
The service begins at 7:00 P.M. in the church sanctuary, located at 11500 Leesburg Pike, Herndon, Va. Small exhibits on the battle will be available for viewing after the service. All are welcome to attend. For more information, call 703-430-7872.
Parent & Me Winter Wonderland Treats Event
Sunday, December 22 · 2:30 – 5pm EST
Fran’s Cake & Candy Supplies
10927 Main Street Fairfax, VA 22030 United States
About the Event
Celebrity Pastry Chef Dawn Alston of Ravy Cakes, LLC invites you to a magical Winter Wonderland Workshop fit for all ages! Perfect for beginners, this hands-on class includes expert guidance on decorating cupcakes with buttercream, designing gingerbread cookies, and creating festive embellishments. Enjoy hot cocoa, s’mores, and a festive atmosphere while tapping into your creativity. Plus, attendees get a 5% discount on baking supplies at Fran’s Cake and Candy on the day of the class.
This workshop is suitable for children aged 4+ (with a parent/adult) and includes all supplies and tools needed in class. Each ticket covers 1 adult and 1 child, with the option to add an extra child for $30. Spaces are limited to 7 teams, so secure your spot today. For cancellations or rescheduling policies, please refer to the refund guidelines provided. It’s time to create sweet memories together!
Winter Holiday Concert: Good Beats Ensemble ft. SoulTET
Sunday, December 22 · 4 – 5:30pm EST
Fairfax Old Town Hall
3999 University Drive Fairfax, VA 22030 United States
$12.50 – CHILD
$22.50 – ADULT
About the Event
Experience the joy of the season at the Winter Holiday Concert, featuring the Good Beats Ensemble and the incredible funk/soul/R&B/jazz band SoulTET at Christ Crossman UMC. Expect a night filled with holiday cheer and iconic melodies from Super Mario, Zelda, Sonic the Hedgehog, Donkey Kong Country, Pokemon, Frozen, and more!
Enjoy light refreshments, take part in a raffle for exciting merch and swag, and know that proceeds will support Good Beats’ performances at Children’s National Hospital and other local healthcare venues. Celebrate the holidays with music, community, and goodwill!
Mrs. Magnolias Holiday Hang Out
Sunday, December 22 · 6 – 10pm EST. Doors at 5:45pm
SpringHill Suites Gainesville Haymarket
7921 Gateway Promenade Place Gainesville, VA 20155 United States
About the Event
Welcome to Mrs. Magnolia’s Holiday Hang Out! This festive gathering at SpringHill Suites Gainesville Haymarket is filled with fun activities, delicious treats, and plenty of holiday cheer. It’s the perfect way to kick off the season with loved ones, celebrating the magic of the holidays together.
Whether you’re bringing friends, family, or meeting new faces, this event offers something special for everyone. Create lasting memories, enjoy the festivities, and help us spread joy this holiday season. We can’t wait to celebrate with you.
Sharp and Smooth Buttercream Reindeer Cake
Sunday, December 22 · 10am – 1:30pm EST
Fran’s Cake & Candy Supplies
10927 Main Street Fairfax, VA 22030 United States
AGES 16+
About the Event
Create your own festive masterpiece with our Sharp and Smooth Buttercream Reindeer Cake class! Led by the talented Steph Lawshe of Sweet Little Morsels, LLC, this hands-on session will teach you how to achieve a flawless sharp edge and smooth buttercream finish using acrylic discs. Once your base is ready, you’ll bring your creativity to life by designing an adorable reindeer cake with charming seasonal details. Perfect for decorators of all skill levels, this class offers expert instruction in a fun and supportive environment.
All participants will receive step-by-step guidance from Steph, along with a box to safely take your cake home. Plus, enjoy an exclusive 5% discount on supplies and tools at Fran’s Cake and Candy on the day of the class. Don’t miss this opportunity to refine your skills and create a showstopper just in time for the holidays!
Embrace the joy of the season and make the most of the most Christmassy weekend in NoVa! With so many events to explore, you’re sure to create magical memories with your loved ones. So bundle up, grab your holiday spirit, and experience the charm of Northern Virginia at its festive best. Happy holidays! 🎅✨
KATIE WEDGE
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