The Town of Occoquan and Occoquan Business Partners is pleased to announce the lineup for the annual HolidayFest in historic Occoquan. There will be plenty of shopping, entertainment, and family fun planned for this magical time of year.
ANNUAL TOWN TREE LIGHTING & SHOP LATE NIGHT
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Historic District
Shop Occoquan throughout the day, while enjoying visits from Santa. When you #shopsmall and #shoplocal, you’re supporting your neighborhood artists, shop keeps, restaurant owners and their hardworking staff. Businesses are busy curating unique holiday selections just for you. Many businesses will be open until 8 pm or later this evening.
After you’ve had a bite to eat and checked some names off that gift-giving list, join us at 8 pm in front of Town Hall (314 Mill Street) for our annual holiday tree lighting. Mayor Earnie Porta will officiate this time-honored tradition as Occoquan residents and visitors gather to kick off the holiday season.
There will be a free shuttle service 12 pm-8:30 pm from the Rt 123/Old Bridge commuter lot.
HOLIDAY ARTISAN MARKET
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4, 11 am-8 pm
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5, 11 am-4 pm
River Mill Park
This year, our Holiday Artisan Market transforms River Mill Park into a magical holiday shopping experience. Join us on December 4 & 5 when artisans and craft persons will offer original, handmade work in a full range of media. From handmade bath and body
products, candles, gourmet food products, and home décor to fine art and jewelry, you are sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your holiday list–and maybe something for yourself too.
Free shuttle service from the commuter lot at 123 and Old Bridge Road will be available December 4, 11 am to 9 pm, and December 5, 11 am to 5 pm.
VISIT WITH SANTA
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4
Visit Santa while you are in town. The big guy will arrive by boat at the town dock at
Mamie Davis Park (202 Mill Street) on December 4 at 10:30 am. Kids of all ages are then invited to escort Santa to River Mill Park (458 Mill Street). He will be ready to visit with families from 11 am to 1:30 pm both market days.
SWEETS WITH SANTA
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4
River Mill Park
From 4 pm-7 pm on December 4, fire pits will be burning and ready to roast some marshmallows. S’more packets and hot cocoa will be available for purchase and Santa may make an appearance too.
SHOP, DINE, & WIN! CONTEST
NOVEMBER 20 – DECEMBER 12
Historic District
Shop and dine at your favorite Occoquan businesses for a chance to win $1,600+ in Occoquan business gift cards. Over 30 businesses are participating:
- Anewed Soul Designs
- Art A La Carte Gallery
- Artists’ Undertaking Gallery
- Babba and Me
- Ballywhack Shack
- Bar J Chili Parlor
- D’Roccos Grille
- Forever Young
- Gift & Gather
- Glory Be
- Grind N Crepe
- Hitchcock Paper Co.
- Jerry’s Occoquan Jewelers
- Leaf & Petal
- Madigan’s Waterfront
- Man Overboard Enterprises
- Marin Woodturning
- Nazbros
- Organic Allure
- Patriot Scuba
- Potomac Chocolate
- Puzzle Palooza Etc
- Sincerely Yours Stained Glass Studio
- So Bohemian
- So Olive
- The Loft Gallery
- The Reclaimed Treasures
- The Spot on Mill Street
- theOCQ.com
- Third Base Pizza & Frozen Custard
- VanEch Studio Home & Garden
- Zorba’s Grill
A CHRISTMAS CAROL STAGED READING
DECEMBER 11 AT 3PM & 5PM
DECEMBER 12 AT 3PM & 5PM
River Mill Park
Get in the holiday spirit with a festive production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. This staged reading from Castaways Repertory Theatre will take place outdoors in River Mill Park at 458 Mill Street. Tickets are $5 for adults/youth; ages 12 and under are free. Bring camp chairs and dress appropriately for an outdoor performance. Tickets are on sale now HERE.
LETTERS TO SANTA
NOVEMBER 20 – DECEMBER 24
Drop your letter to Santa in our North Pole mailboxes at Town Hall (314 Mill Street) or Hitchcock Paper Co. (125 Mill Street). Free coloring and fill-in Santa letters with envelopes will be available to kids of all ages at Hitchcock Paper Co. If you include a return address, Santa will send a personalized letter back.
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? A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras! ?
?? Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
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