It is the time of year time to start thinking of plans for the holidays, scheduling family trips, booking airline tickets, and creating delicious menus for hungry guests. During the last few months of 2016, consider bringing family and friends to one or more of our historic sites to participate in our special and unique holiday programs.
After the Greater Manassas Christmas Parade, come by and enjoy Lunch with Santa Claus at the Old Manassas Courthouse! On Saturday, December 3, families may partake in a delicious lunch, have a chance to meet Santa Claus, and directly deliver your “wish list” to him.
Kids may make a historic holiday craft before or after their meeting with Santa. If possible, please participate in our efforts to support Toys for Tots by bringing a new, unwrapped toy for donation. Lunch with Santa runs from 1 – 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 3; admission is $20 for ages 6 and up, $10 for ages 5 and below. Call 703-792-4754 for reservations. (Reservations are required as space is limited). The event will take place at the Old Manassas Courthouse, 9248 Lee Avenue in Manassas.
Holidays through the Ages returns to Rippon Lodge Historic Site in December. The historic house’s interior spaces shall be dressed with holiday decorations from various time periods, with a special dedication to the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor. Visit each weekend for these holiday-only tours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, December 2 – 4, 9 – 11, and 16 – 18.
Tours begin on the hour on the front porch. Tour times are 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Fridays and Sundays); 1 p.m. – 8 p.m. (Saturdays); $5 per person, children under six are free. The Rippon Lodge Historic Site is located at 15520 Blackburn Road in Woodbridge. Call 703-499-9812 for more information.
On Saturday evenings (5 p.m.-8 p.m.) enjoy colorful outdoor lights and tree displays decorated for the season by local schools, art studios and organizations, live seasonal or period music by local schools and guitarists, and holiday songs sung by school choirs. Children’s crafts, light refreshments, a warm beverage, and shopping for unique Rippon Lodge merchandise round out a wonderful holiday tour.
Reservations strongly recommended for groups larger than four guests.Â
If you love seasonal music, then join us on Saturday, December 10 for two special Holiday Concerts at Brentsville’s Historic Union Church. Enjoy classic, seasonal music performed by the Brentsville District High School. A nice cup of hot cider and cookies by a warm bonfire round out this special event.
Concerts are Free and open to the public from 5 p.m. -7 p.m. Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Road, Bristow. 703-365-7895.
You better watch out! You better not cry! The one and only Santa Claus comes to Rippon Lodge Historic Site on Saturday, December 10. This visit is for one afternoon only!
Be on your best behavior and keep your name on the “Nice” list. Parents will be given special “Things Santa Should Know” cards upon arrival. Bring your camera for pictures!
With large numbers of excited tots expected, we ask parents bring plenty of snacks and extra activities for young children. Admission is from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.; $2 per child. Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, 703-499-9812.
We look forward to your visit to one of our great historical locations during this holiday season! For more information about our programs, please call the sites or call 703-792-4754.
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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:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
