Manassas Park celebrated the holiday season with its fourth annual Winter Light Extravaganza. Organized by the City’s Community Maintenance Working Group, the event brought festive cheer as residents adorned their homes with dazzling light displays.

Over 20 homes participated in this year’s contest, with awards in categories such as Best Citywide, Best House, and Committee Favorite. Scout Troop 1372 judges scored the homes, commending creativity and holiday spirit.

According to Manassas Park Councilwoman Laura Hampton, the top honor, Best Citywide, was awarded to 9221 Arnie Court, whose spectacular display earned the homeowner the title of 2025 Light Parade Grand Marshall.

Winners by Category:

Best Everything Decorated:
– 114 Cabbel Dr
– 9416 Katelyn Ct

Best House:
– 115 Tremont St
– 9201 Matthew Dr

Best Yard:
– 155 Lambert Dr
– 9208 Fairway Ct

Committee Favorite:
– 217 Cabbel Dr

Each participant received a Winter Light Extravaganza sign to display in their yard, showcasing their involvement in the beloved community tradition. All winners will be formally recognized at a January 2025 Governing Body meeting.

Winter Break is almost here in the Potomac region, here are the dates for the schools in our area.

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Stafford County Public Schools: 

Last day of school is Thursday, December 19th, students will return Wednesday, January 8th

Fredericksburg City Public Schools: 

Last day of school is Friday, December 20th, students will return Tuesday, January 7th.

Spotsylvania County Public Schools: 

Last day of school is Friday, December 20th, students will return Monday, January 6th.

Prince William County Public Schools: 

Last day of school is Friday, December 20th, students will return Monday, January 6th.

Manassas City Public Schools: 

Last day of school is Friday December 20th, students will return Monday, January 6th.

Manassas Park City Schools: 

Last day of school is Friday, December 20th, students will return Monday, December 30th.

The George Washington Foundation:

Past, present, and future bumped into each other. It was a tense moment.

Gingerbread House Contest Theme is Holidays: Past, Present, and Future

Along those (time)lines, Ferry Farm’s 38th Annual Gingerbread House Contest Exhibitors met the theme challenge with entries that were out of this world, so to speak.

Three intrepid judges had the time of their lives as they took a few moments from busy schedules to choose first, second, and third place winners each, from among six categories. They did hard time, as the clock was ticking, but in the end, they came out ahead of their time with some deserving winners.

This year’s judges were B101.5’s Ted Schubel, three-time Olympic gold medalist Jeff Rouse, and Cessie Howell, a leader in the effort to save Ferry Farm from development. Entries had to be completely edible, on a firm base, and on-theme. With intriguing titles like “Christmas Planet Party,” “Peppermint Dragon Kingdom,” and “Nuclear Winter Wonderland” (Complete with its own radiation-detecting blacklight!), judges analyzed the angles of each entry, remarking on creativity, engineering, and ingenuity.

In the end times, 16 winners were selected – with more to come – as exhibit visitors can vote for “People’s Choice” while playing a compelling game of Gingerbread House iSpy. It will be nothing but a good time.

2024 Winners:

Age 2-5

1. Entry #14 Old Time Candy & Futuristic Christmas by Lauren
2. #3 Tiny Hands Make Big Plans by FXBG Preschool
3. #30 Christmas Trees Past, Present, & Future by Noah

Age 5-10

1. #24 Viking Christmas by Teague
2. #15Snow Bowl by Dana
3. #23 Dinosaur Christmas by Lilah

Age 11-14

1. #22 White House by Sophia
2. #4 Little House on the Prairie Christmas by Harper
3. #26 Peppermint Dragon Kingdom by Eva

Age 18+

1. #13 Nuclear Winter Wonderland by Sam
2. #20 Santa’s Garage by Nicholas
3. #2 Vintage Christmas Tree by Missy

Family

1. #16 Freddy Bear Fotos by the Ridout Family
2. #27 Celebrating Christmas Through Time by Kalvin & Drama
3. #17 Past, Present, Future by Lauren & Family

Special Needs

1. #6 Gingerbread Paradise by PEOPLE LLC

Exhibit runs through December 30, during museum hours: Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Sundays 12 -4 p.m. Visitors may purchase exhibit tickets on-site: $6 for adults, $3 for students (ages 6-17), children 5 & under free. The George Washington Foundation holiday events, including Historic Kenmore’s Wee Christmas Dollhouses and Miniatures Show, are sponsored by Burke & Herbert Bank.

Gingerbread House Exhibit Event Address:

Ferry Farm’s 38th Annual Gingerbread House Contest & Exhibit

268 George Washington Way (Formerly 268 Kings Highway)

Fredericksburg, VA 22405

Historic Kenmore’s 10th Annual Wee Christmas and Dollhouses Show

1201 Washington Ave.

Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Event Questions:

Contact Allison Ellis, [email protected], 540-370-0732 x11

Contact Lori Pikkaart for event photos, [email protected]

Stafford County is gearing up for a magical evening to kick off the holiday season with its annual Tree Lighting Event, scheduled for Friday, December 6, 2024, at the Stafford County Government Center, 1300 Courthouse Road. Beginning at 6 p.m., the event promises various performances, activities, and surprises for the whole family.

Attendees will be treated to holiday music from local choirs and bands, showcasing the talents of Stafford’s youth and community groups. For art enthusiasts, artisans and crafters will offer unique holiday-themed creations.

Kids and adults can enjoy festive activities, including ornament-making stations and a photo booth to capture holiday memories. Food vendors will serve seasonal treats.

The highlight of the evening is a visit from Santa Claus, spreading holiday cheer and posing for photos. However, families should also watch for a naughty guest—none other than the Grinch, who may add a humorous twist to the festivities.

Residents are encouraged to bring their families and friends to this free, community-centered celebration of joy, unity, and holiday spirit. For more details about the event, visit staffordcountytreelighting.com.

The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, is hosting its Annual Toy Drive in partnership with OAR NOVA to support local families affected by the criminal justice system. Running through December 8, the community is encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys at drop-off locations across the Workhouse campus. The drive aims to bring holiday joy while emphasizing the center’s commitment to creativity, compassion, and community engagement. For more information, visit the Workhouse Arts Center’s website.

Press Release:

Workhouse Arts Center is excited to continue its tradition of giving back with its Annual Toy Drive in partnership with OAR NOVA. Running through Sunday, December 8, the community is invited to donate new, unwrapped toys for local families impacted by the criminal justice system. Donation drop-off locations include the Visitor Center (Bldg 16), Lucy Burns Museum (Bldg 2), and Art of Movement (Bldg 11) at Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA.

The Toy Drive runs through December 8, with new, unwrapped toys collected at the Workhouse. “Our community thrives on creativity and compassion,” says Keith Gordon, CEO of Workhouse Arts Center. “Every toy donated brings joy and reminds us of all of the differences we can make in the lives of others.”

Donations can be dropped off at the holiday tree in W16. Help us make the season brighter for local families and share the magic of the holidays!

For more information, visit Workhouse Arts Center Toy Drive.

About Workhouse Arts Center

The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the arts. Once a historic prison, the Workhouse is now a vibrant cultural hub offering gallery exhibitions, live performances, educational programs, and special events that inspire creativity and foster community engagement. Committed to excellence, inclusivity, and sustainability, the Workhouse empowers artists, enriches lives, and drives positive social change while serving as a dynamic platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue. Visit us online at www.workhousearts.org to learn more.

About Workhouse Arts Center

The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to
transforming lives through the power of the arts. Once a historic prison, the Workhouse is now a vibrant cultural hub offering gallery exhibitions, live performances, educational programs, and special events that inspire creativity and foster community engagement. Committed to excellence, inclusivity, and sustainability, the Workhouse empowers artists, enriches lives, and drives positive social change while serving as a dynamic platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue.

The magic of the holiday season returns to Northern Virginia as the 78th Annual Greater Manassas Christmas Parade takes to the streets on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 10 a.m. Themed “Christmas in Candyland,” this year’s parade promises a of marching bands, floats, balloons, and holiday cheer.

The parade, a staple of the community for over seven decades, is among the largest holiday celebrations in Northern Virginia. With over 100 units participating, attendees can look forward to performances by local marching bands, including those from Osbourn High School in Manassas, Freedom High School in Woodbridge, and others, alongside decorated floats, dancers, and balloons.

Honoring Community Leaders

The 2024 parade will honor three outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the community:

• Lucky Whitehead, Grand Marshal: A native of Manassas and Osbourn High School alumnus, Whitehead has enjoyed a successful career in professional football, including stints with the Dallas Cowboys and the Canadian Football League. Known for his community engagement and mentorship of local athletes, Whitehead represents a beacon of hometown pride and leadership.
• Donna Sechler, Woman of the Year: A lifelong resident of Prince William County, Sechler has dedicated over 13 years to spreading holiday joy as part of the Greater Manassas Christmas Parade Committee. Her volunteer work has brightened countless lives, and her contributions to organizations like The Sweet Julia Grace Foundation showcase her generosity and compassion.
• Joe Martin, Man of the Year: A lifelong Manassas resident and Osbourn Park High School graduate, Martin has an extensive history of civic engagement. From leading community organizations to helping found the Manassas Saint Patrick’s Parade, Martin’s commitment to service has left a mark on the city.

The parade begins at Mathis Avenue and travels through downtown Manassas, offering prime viewing locations along the route. It ends at Harris Pavilion. The event culminates with a special appearance by Santa Claus, bringing joy to children and families alike.

Santa Lights Manassas: A Festive Prelude to the Greater Manassas Christmas Parade

The holiday season in Manassas kicks off with the beloved Santa Lights Manassas, also known as the Tree Lighting Ceremony, on Friday, December 6, 2024. This tradition, spanning over 30 years, brings families and friends together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas in the heart of downtown Manassas.

The evening begins at 5:15 p.m. with holiday musical performances on West Street and the Museum Lawn Stage. At 6:19 p.m., Santa is scheduled to arrive on the Virginia Railway Express train at the historic Manassas Depot. Shortly after, at 6:30 p.m., the tree lighting ceremony begins, illuminating the night with holiday cheer. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the TD Bank Santa Tent following the ceremony to greet children, hear their holiday wishes, and pose for photos.

Family-Friendly Activities

Santa Lights Manassas offers a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy:

• Free Wagon Rides: Embrace the holiday spirit with scenic wagon rides through downtown after the tree is lit.
• Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus: Share your holiday wishes with the jolly duo at the TD Bank Santa Tent.
• Ice Skating: The Harris Pavilion Ice Rink will be open for a magical skating experience (admission required).
• Explore Downtown: Enjoy the Manassas Museum and browse the downtown shops and restaurants.

Event Schedule

• 5:15 p.m.: Entertainment begins on West Street and Museum Lawn Stage.
• 6:19 p.m.: Santa arrives on the VRE train at Manassas Depot.
• 6:30 p.m: Tree lighting ceremony.
• 6:45 p.m.: Santa greets children at the TD Bank Santa Tent.

Virginia State Parks offer a variety of holiday events, including light displays, educational programs, crafts, and guided hikes, at locations across the state. Many activities are free or included with park admission, with details and reservations available online.

Press release:

Virginia State Parks invites visitors of all ages to experience the magic of the holidays with various festive events across the state. From historic educational programs to enchanting light displays, many parks offer unique ways to create memories and celebrate the holidays amidst Virginia’s breathtaking natural landscapes.

Here’s a glimpse of what guests can look forward to this holiday season:

Holiday lights

• Southwest Virginia Museum: Festival of Trees, Nov. 10-Dec. 31
• Natural Bridge: Festival of Trees, Nov. 22-Dec. 31, and Luminary Nights, Dec. 13-15 and Dec. 20-22
• Wilderness Road: Karlan Christmas: Parade of Trees, Nov. 29-Dec. 1, Dec. 6-8, Dec. 13-15 and Dec. 20-22
• Bear Creek: Lights at the Lake, Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13-14
• Staunton River Battlefield: Lighting of the Bridge, Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13-15
• Natural Tunnel: Christmas Lighting of the Tunnel, Nov. 29-30, Dec. 6-7, Dec. 13-14 and Dec. 20-21
• Caledon: Night Before Christmas Wagon Ride: Dec. 6, Dec. 8, Dec. 13-15, Dec. 20-22

Educational programs

• Mason Neck: Ranger at the Refuge: Tundra Swans, Dec. 7, Dec. 8, Dec. 21 and Dec. 22
• Machicomoco: Christmas at Timberneck, Dec. 14
• Powhatan: Winter Birding, Dec. 14
• Southwest Virginia Museum: Birding in the Gap, Dec. 14
• Wilderness Road: A Frontier Christmas, Dec. 14
• Sweet Run: Christmas Bird Count, Dec. 15
• High Bridge: Christmas in the Camps, Dec. 21
• Sailor’s Creek Battlefield: The Science Behind the Star of Bethlehem, Nov. 30 and Dec. 21

Crafts

• Pocahontas: Winter Wreath Workshop, Nov. 30, Dec. 1 and Dec. 7, and Handmade Holidays, Dec. 1, Dec. 8, Dec. 15, Dec. 22 and Dec. 29
• Widewater: Deck the Halls, Dec. 1, Dec. 8, Dec. 15, Dec. 22 and Dec. 29
  Claytor Lake: Holiday Cheer Celebration, Dec. 7
• False Cape: Tree Cookies and Cocoa Ornament Workshop, Dec. 7

Guided walks/hikes

• First Landing: Season’s Greetings Nature Walk, Nov. 23
• Sky Meadows: A Winter Tree-mendous Hike, Dec. 7
• Belle Isle: A Walk on the Wild Side: Nature in Winter, Dec. 12
• Pocahontas: Winter Solstice Rambles, Dec. 21

Some events are free with standard park admission, while others may require pre-registration or additional fees. Learn more and find other upcoming events at virginiastateparks.gov/events.

Depending on the park, overnight accommodations, including cabins, family lodges or campsites may still be available. Go to reservevaparks.com for more information.

Prince William County Parks and Recreation is hosting the 3rd annual Holiday Walk of Lights at Neabsco Regional Park, featuring hand-crafted light displays, holiday characters, carolers, and a holiday market on select nights. The event runs from December 6–27 with a special sensory-friendly evening on December 10, and shuttle services are provided from designated parking areas.

Press release:

Prince William County Parks and Recreation is hosting its 3rd annual Holiday Walk of Lights at Neabsco Regional Park. The FREE lights display begins Friday, December 6. New this year: in addition to the dazzling light display, visitors can experience the magic of the holiday season with visits from holiday characters, joyful holiday music sung by carolers and an unforgettable holiday shopping experience on select nights. A special sensory-friendly night will be held on Tuesday, December 10. All dates/times and important parking information can be found at pwcva.gov.

Admission is free for this family-friendly event. All are invited to enjoy the beautiful hand-crafted light displays that will light up the park!

Visitors are encouraged to sign up for text alerts by texting the word “lights” to 703-382-6716 to stay connected with latest event information.

 

2024 Hours of Operation

Friday, Dec 6, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Characters, Carolers

Saturday, Dec 7, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Market

Sunday, Dec 8, 5:30-9:00 pm

Tuesday, Dec 10, (Sensory Friendly Event only*), 5:30-8:00 pm – Holiday Characters, Carolers

Friday, Dec 13, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Characters

Saturday, Dec 14, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Market

Sunday, Dec 15, 5:30-9:00 pm

Wednesday, Dec 18, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Characters

Thursday, Dec 19, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Market

Friday, Dec 20, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Characters

Saturday, Dec 21, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Market

Sunday, Dec 22, 5:30-9:00 pm

Friday, Dec 27, 5:30 pm-9:00 pm – Holiday Market & Characters

 

Location

Neabsco Regional Park

15125 Blackburn Road

Woodbridge, VA 22191

 

Free Parking Information

Shuttle buses will pick up and drop off at Neabsco Regional Park from the following lots:

Rippon Middle School

15101 Blackburn Rd.

Woodbridge, VA 22191

 

Porter Traditional School (Unavailable December 6th)

15311 Forest Grove Dr.

Woodbridge, VA 22191

 

Featherstone Elementary School 

14805 Blackburn Rd.

Woodbridge, VA 22191

 

Important Parking Information

Parking at Neabsco Regional Park is reserved for those with a disabled placard or license plate ONLY. All others should park at the designated free parking locations.

No Parking at Rippon Lodge Historic Site

 

Free Shuttle Bus Available (No Animals Allowed)

A shuttle bus will be running continuously every 7 minutes to pick up and bring visitors to and from from the designated parking lots. The last shuttle picks up at 8:35 p.m., the lights turn off at 9 p.m. Each shuttle ride is approximately 2-3 minutes long.

 

Where to Park When Bringing Pets

For visitors who would like to bring their dog(s) to Holiday Walk of Lights, there are two options for parking:

1. Park & Walk: Park at Porter Traditional School and walk to the Neabsco Creek Boardwalk using the sidewalk/crosswalk at Rippon Blvd & Blackburn Rd. (see map) (Unavailable on 12/6)
2. Park & Ride the Cool Bus: Park at the small parking lot at Rippon Middle School adjacent to the ball field and ride the “Cool Bus”. Make sure to ride the “Cool Bus” back with your pet.

Pet Rules

• All pets must be on a leash.
• Please pickup after your pet (please bring your own waste disposal bags)

 

Food & Beverage

Concessions will be available onsite.

Restrooms

Portable restrooms will be available onsite.

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is celebrating the holiday season with events including a holiday film series, craft activities, and visits from Santa Claus. Admission, parking, and select activities are free, with full event details available on the Museum’s website at marineheritage.org.

Press release:

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is hosting a series of festive events to celebrate this year’s holiday season. From classic holiday films to creative crafts and Santa visits, there are activities for everyone to enjoy. Admission to the Museum and parking are free, and all events are open to the public. The full list and schedule of events can be found on the Foundation’s website.

December highlights include:

Holiday Film Series

The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation’s annual holiday film series features three movies showing on the Medal of Honor Theater’s giant screen throughout December. Tickets are $7 and may be purchased online at ticketing.useast.veezi.com or at the theater with special snack bundles available for $5 to enjoy during the show.

 The Nightmare Before Christmas

• December 7 at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
• December 8 at 1:30 p.m.

Mickey’s Magical Christmas: Snowed in at the House of Mouse

• December 14 at 11:00 a.m.
• December 17 at 1:00 p.m.
• December 22 at 1:30 p.m.

Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch (2018 version)

• December 14 at 3:00 p.m.
• December 15 at 1:30 p.m.

Cookies, Cocoa, and Crafts

Families are invited to visit the Museum to create holiday memories on Saturday, December 14, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Kids may enjoy free cookies, hot cocoa, and holiday-themed picture frame crafts on the Museum’s second floor, available as long as supplies last.

Santa Claus Visits

Santa Claus is paying a special visit to the Museum in his traditional red outfit on December 14 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. and in his special camo suit on December 17 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Families may take free photos with Santa and enjoy holiday-themed activities. Visitors must arrive at least one hour before the end of the event to guarantee a photo opportunity.