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.

December is going to be a festive month around Prince William County and Manassas with several events and activities scheduled. Take a look at some highlighted events.

Monday (Dec. 2)

• Board of County Supervisors Joint Legislative Meeting, 9 a.m. (Woodbridge)
• Holiday Gift Bringers Scavenger Hunt, All day through the month (Bull Run Library)
• Festival of Trees, All day through the month (Haymarket Gainesville Library)
• Ornament Take & Make, All day while supplies last (Independent Hill Library)
• Manassas City Council Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (Manassas City)

Tuesday (Dec. 3)

• Cardboard Gingerbread House Contest, through Dec. 8 (Manassas Park City Library)

Friday (Dec. 6)

• Holiday Through the Ages, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Woodbridge)
• Santa Lights Manassas and Tree Lighting Ceremony, 5:15 to 7 p.m. (Manassas City)
• Holiday Walk of Lights, 5:30 to 9 p.m. until Dec. 22 (Woodbridge)
• Kids Night Out, 6 to 9 p.m. (Woodbridge)

Saturday (Dec. 7)

• West County Household Hazardous Waste Disposal, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Manassas)
• Holiday Market, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Woodbridge)
• Greater Manassas Christmas Parade, 10 a.m. to noon (Manassas City)
• Elementary School Strings Holiday Performance, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Haymarket Gainesville Library)
• Craft & Create: Coffee Filter Snowflakes, 2 to 3 p.m. (Manassas Park)

Sunday (Dec. 8)

• Holiday Carriage Rides, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday until Dec. 15 (Manassas City)

Dec. 9

• Chinn Park Library reopens (Woodbridge)
• Woven Wall Hangings Take and Make, All day (Dumfries Library)
• Manassas City Council Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (Manassas City)

Dec. 10

• Homeschool Hangout, 1 to 3 p.m. (Chinn Park Library)
• Board of County Supervisors Meeting, 2 p.m. (Woodbridge)
• Busy Hands Social Club, 6 to 7:30 p.m. (Central Library)

Dec. 11

• Coffee with a Cop, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. (Gainesville)
• Pajama Story Time, 7 to 7:30 p.m. (Haymarket Gainesville Library)

Dec. 12

• Holiday Illustrated Poems, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Dumfries Library)
• Teens Create: Holiday Picture Frames, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. (Manassas Park)

Dec. 13

• Kids Create: Play-Doh Snowmen, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. (Manassas Park)

Dec. 14

• Santa Trains 2024, various times and locations
• Family Gingerbread House Building Contest, 10 a.m. to noon (Woodbridge)
• Mistletoe Holiday Craft Festival, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Montclair Library)
• Building Emergency Kits for a Safer Tomorrow, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Potomac Library)
• Yuletide Yoga, Noon to 1:30 p.m. (Woodbridge)
• Teddy Bear Picnic, 2 to 3 p.m. (Bull Run Library)

Dec. 16

• Ribbon Rendezvous, 4 to 7:30 p.m. (Chinn Park Library)
• Teen Gingerbread Challenge, 6 to 7:30 p.m. (Haymarket Gainesville Library)
• Recording in Progress, 6 to 7:30 p.m. (Bull Run Library)

Dec. 17

• Board of County Supervisors Meeting, 2 p.m. (Woodbridge)
• Adults Create: Clothespin Snowflake Ornament, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. (Manassas Park)
• Winter Snowflake Making, 6 to 7 p.m. (Haymarket Gainesville Library)

Dec. 18

• AARP Smart Driver Course, 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. (Haymarket Gainesville Library)
• Crochet and Coffee, 11 a.m. to noon (Nokesville Library)

Dec. 20

• Memory Café with Comfort Keepers of Greater Prince William, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Haymarket Gainesville Library)
• Taverns & TTRPGs, 6 to 9 p.m. (Great Mane Brewery)

Dec. 21

• BRAVA Handbells Holiday Concert, 2 to 4 p.m. (Haymarket Gainesville Library)

Dec. 22

• Bad Art, 3 to 5 p.m. (Great Mane Brewery)

Dec. 23

• Bad Art Night, 6 to 7:30 p.m. (Chinn Park Library)

Dec. 30

• Brit Lit Book Club, 1 to 2:30 p.m. (Potomac Library)

Dec. 31

• New Year’s Eve Pre-Party Palooza, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Central Library)
• Countdown to Noon, 11:45 a.m. (Bull Run Library)

The latest: We’re working on bringing you more details on a person who was struck by a train at the Fredericksburg station.

Kick Off December with Holiday Cheer: December is here, and the holiday spirit is in full swing. Start the month with these exciting local events happening on December 1, 2024.

Winter Reading Kick-Off
Prince William Ice Center
5180 Dale Blvd, Woodbridge, VA 22193
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Dive into winter reading with fun activities for the whole family. Grab your library card and get ready to enjoy a frosty afternoon at the rink.

A Chanticleer Christmas
Hylton Performing Arts Center
10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas, VA 20110
4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Experience the magic of the holiday season with the Grammy-winning Chanticleer ensemble. This breathtaking performance will feature classic carols and timeless Christmas melodies.

Heritage Brewing Company Winter Market
Heritage Brewing Co.
9436 Center Point Lane, Manassas, VA
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Browse over 20 local vendors offering handcrafted gifts and enjoy festive treats like mulled wine, hot chocolate, and Duck Donuts. Don’t forget to sip on your favorite Heritage beer while soaking in the holiday cheer.

The Kitchen of Don Alfredo Food Truck
The Winery at Sunshine Ridge Farm
15850 Sunshine Ridge Ln, Gainesville, VA
7:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Start your day with a delicious breakfast or brunch from The Kitchen of Don Alfredo. Enjoy the stunning vineyard views while indulging in comforting dishes.

Gingerbread House Contest and Exhibit
George Washington’s Ferry Farm
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Enjoy the whimsical sights and delicious smells of gingerbread creations at the 38th Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Exhibit. This year’s theme is Holidays: Past, Present, and Future. Categories include children, families, and professionals. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for children ages 6 to 17. Children under 5 are free.

Post your events FREE to our calendar.

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.

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.

Looking for something fun, educational, or relaxing to do today? Whether you’re in the mood for art, a good mystery, or a little gratitude with your drink, we’ve got you covered. Check out these exciting events happening in our area.

Cup of Cozy Mysteries @ Vita Nova Creatives & Coffee
Nokesville Library, 12993 Fitzwater Dr, Nokesville
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries and crave a little community time, stop by the Nokesville Library for Cup of Cozy Mysteries. This fun, laid-back event invites you to chat about your favorite whodunits while enjoying something tasty from Vita Nova Creatives & Coffee.

With a 4.7-star rating, the library is a welcoming space to connect with fellow mystery lovers. So, grab your favorite cozy scarf and spend an hour sharing theories and discovering new reads!

View more details here: pwcgov.libnet.info

Teacher Tuesdays at Eavesdrop Brewery
Eavesdrop Brewery, 7221 Royal Fern Cir, Manassas
Today: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Teachers, this one’s for you! Eavesdrop Brewery wants to thank you for your dedication and hard work. Every Tuesday, teachers can enjoy 10% off their tabs as a small token of appreciation. Gather your colleagues and unwind with some local brews in this cozy and vibrant brewery.

It’s the perfect way to relax, connect, and celebrate the amazing work you do for our community. Don’t forget to bring your school ID to claim your discount!

Learn more about Eavesdrop Brewery: facebook.com/eavesdropbrewery

UMW Galleries Presents: Mid-Atlantic New Painting 2024
UMW Campus Galleries, 1301 College Ave, Fredericksburg
Open today during gallery hours

If you’re in the mood for art, the Mid-Atlantic New Painting Biennial is a must-see. Hosted by UMW Galleries, this juried exhibition showcases 76 stunning paintings by 69 talented artists from across the region. From abstract to figurative, the range of styles and techniques is sure to inspire.

Admission is free, so it’s a perfect outing for art lovers or anyone looking to explore something new. Can’t make it today? The exhibition runs through January 19, 2025.

View event details here.

Which event will you be checking out? Let us know in the comments below. Add your events to our calendar FREE.

Looking for fun activities to enjoy this weekend? From author talks to festive holiday experiences, there’s something for everyone. Check out these events happening from Thursday through Sunday. If you’re planning an event or know of one the community should check out, submit it to our event calendar—it’s easy and free.

Thursday, November 21, 2024

Teen Blackout Poetry Night
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Manassas Park City Library, 100 Park Central Plaza, Manassas Park, Virginia
Create poetry in a fun and creative environment.

Music Trivia Night
Multiple times, November 21 – December 19
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 15200 Potomac Town Place, Woodbridge, Virginia
Enjoy an evening of music-themed trivia.

Friday, November 22, 2024

Adult Author Talk with Alex Matsuo
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Manassas Park City Library, 100 Park Central Plaza, Manassas Park, Virginia
Meet Alex Matsuo and learn about their latest work.

DHS Veteran Career Fair
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Clubs at Quantico, 3017 Russell Road, Quantico, Virginia
A career fair focused on resources and opportunities for veterans.

G’s Comedy Show and Live Music
8 p.m. – midnight
Giuseppe’s, 15120 Washington Street, Haymarket, Virginia
Enjoy live music and comedy at this local venue.

Riverside Christmas Spectacular: Home for the Holidays
Showtimes vary, November 20 – December 29
Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, 95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg, Virginia
Celebrate the season with a festive show featuring live music, dance, and holiday cheer. Tickets range from $60 to $82.

Saturday, November 23, 2024

Spanish Storytime
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Manassas Park City Library, 100 Park Central Plaza, Manassas Park, Virginia
Stories and fun for young readers in Spanish.

Enchantment Theatre Company: My Father’s Dragon
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas, Virginia
A family-friendly theater experience based on a beloved book.

City of End Book Release
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Heritage Hunt Country Club, 6901 Arthur Hills Drive, Gainesville, Virginia
Celebrate the release of a new book and meet the author.

Financial Literacy Workshop with Amanda Lockhart Davis
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Manassas Park City Library, 100 Park Central Plaza, Manassas Park, Virginia
Learn valuable tips on managing your finances.

Holiday Lights Ride
5 p.m. – 10 p.m., Friday through Sunday, November 23 – January 2
Courtyard Marriott, 620 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia
Experience the charm of the holidays with a ride in a restored 1920s Ford Model-A. Tickets are $20 per rider and include cozy blankets and festive music.

Make the most of your time and enjoy everything the community offers. If you have an event to share, submit it to our calendar to help spread the word.

Registration is open for the 2025 Polar Plunge at Leesylvania State Park on February 15, which benefits Special Olympics Virginia. Participants can join as individuals or teams, donate funds, or cheer on plungers, and the proceeds will support Special Olympics programs.

Press release:

This article is FREE to read. Please Sign In or create a FREE account today. Make the smart choice for staying informed about your community. Thank you!