South Riding Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Step back in time for a "Dickens of a Christmas" celebration in Middleburg, where the town transforms into a scene from a Charles Dickens novel. Enjoy caroling, dancing, and theatrical performances. Don't miss the traditional Christmas Parade and the Middleburg Hunt Review, plus enchanting horse-drawn carriage rides.

Engage in the festive 'Shop, Dine, & Win!' contest in Occoquan, running from November 22 to December 7. This event encourages visitors to support local businesses by shopping and dining, with opportunities to win over $1,500 in gift cards. Explore unique offerings from boutiques and retailers, and enjoy extended shopping...

Step into a magical holiday wonderland at Lucketts Holiday House, a cherished tradition set within a 100-year-old farmhouse. Award-winning designers have transformed each room into a breathtaking display of festive decor, with every unique item available for purchase. Wander through enchanting murals and vignettes before settling in by the fire...

Discover a festive holiday shopping experience at the Woodbridge/Stonebridge Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show. This event showcases a curated selection of artisans, crafters, and independent vendors offering unique handmade gifts, clothing, accessories, and delicious pre-packaged holiday desserts. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures and get into the...

Discover one-of-a-kind gifts that give back at Strathmore's Museums & Makers Holiday Market. This festive event brings together the area's top museum shops and local artisans for three days of spirited shopping. Every purchase supports nonprofit museums and independent artists, making your holiday gifts even more meaningful.

Discover the charm of the Chevy Chase Winter Market, a festive gathering supporting local small businesses. Browse unique holiday gifts and artisanal products from a variety of vendors set up along Connecticut Avenue NW. Enjoy special promotions and events hosted by neighborhood businesses, including a potential visit from Elsa at...

Discover a treasure trove of unique gifts and delightful treats at the DC Holiday Market in Dupont Circle. This festive market showcases over 35 local artists, crafters, and small businesses offering worldwide handicrafts and boutique brands. Find the perfect holiday presents amidst bright, festive decor in a vibrant neighborhood setting.

This holiday season, immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Alexandria by exploring its charming outdoor winter markets. Discover unique handmade gifts, enjoy live music, and find Santa sightings scattered throughout the city's vibrant neighborhoods. It's the perfect way to experience local culture and find special treasures.

Discover a festive holiday market featuring local artisans and a special tree lighting ceremony. It's the perfect place to find unique gifts and soak in the holiday cheer.

Experience the magic of the holiday season with The Reston Chorale's 'The Wonder of the Season' concert. This delightful musical treat promises festive favorites perfect for the entire family. For a truly immersive experience, join their 'Messiah' Sing-along, where you can lend your voice to Handel's masterpiece. Attendees can also...

Northern Virginia's beloved 'Nutcracker' ballet comes alive with nine enchanting performances. Follow Clara's magical Christmas Eve journey as she receives a special Nutcracker, leading to a dream adventure with the Sugar Plum Fairy and a host of fantastical characters. Featuring breathtaking sets, stunning costumes, and the live Manassas Ballet Theatre...

Experience the joy of the season with the National Chamber Ensemble's 'Holiday Cheer!' concert. This beloved annual tradition is a heartwarming celebration for the entire family, featuring festive classics and beloved seasonal favorites. Enjoy performances by talented young artists, including winners of the 2025 Nancy Peery Marriott Young Artist Piano...

Step into a world of rhythm and holiday cheer with Step Afrika!'s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show. This groundbreaking performance celebrates the African American tradition of stepping, blending it with captivating music, storytelling, and energetic dance. Join festive characters like Popper the Penguin and Polo the Polar Bear for an...

Get ready for a magical holiday evening as Dave Koz and Friends present their 28th annual Christmas Tour. This acclaimed jazz ensemble will fill The Music Center with the spirit of the season, performing beloved Christmas classics, a special Chanukah medley, and hits from their individual careers. Joining Koz are...

Immerse yourself in the magic of the holidays with The Washington Ballet's iconic production of The Nutcracker. This cherished DC tradition, running from November 29 to December 28, 2025, features over 380 dancers in a spectacular performance set in historic Georgetown. Experience the familiar story with unique local twists, including...

Experience the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge's redemption in this enchanting production of 'A Christmas Carol.' This music-infused adaptation brings Dickens's Yuletide classic to life with beloved characters and a vibrant children's ensemble. Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace returns to embody Scrooge in Ford's cherished annual tradition, promising a 'rich visual...

Experience the enchanting Bull Run Festival of Lights, a spectacular drive-through holiday light display. Journey through 2.5 miles of dazzling illuminations, transforming the park into a winter wonderland. Turn off your headlights and follow the magical glow for an unforgettable festive experience.

Experience the magic of Winterfest 2025, a vibrant three-night holiday celebration in Reston. Wander through a dazzling trail of thousands of festive lights, enjoy live music, and gather around cozy fire pits for s'mores. Meet Santa for a free photo, explore the enchanting Grinch's Village, and discover unique gifts and...

Step into a world of enchantment at the Winter Lantern Festival, a dazzling outdoor event that transforms the night with hundreds of illuminated Chinese lanterns. This magical journey blends ancient tradition with modern technology, featuring handcrafted displays inspired by folklore and nature. Be captivated by live acrobatic performances and savor...

Experience the enchantment of 'Light Up the Holidays' at Glen Echo Park, where the park transforms into a winter wonderland under twinkling lights. Discover fine art and unique gifts from resident artists, enjoy festive performances, and immerse yourself in holiday magic. This event offers a delightful array of activities for...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. This cherished national tradition features the beautifully decorated National Christmas Tree, illuminated with thousands of lights. Visitors can also admire unique ornaments representing every U.S. state and territory, creating a festive and inspiring atmosphere.

Step into a winter wonderland at Christmas at Gaylord National, featuring the enchanting ICE! attraction brought to life by The Polar Express™. Marvel at colossal ice sculptures, slide down thrilling ice slides, and enjoy festive activities for the whole family. From gingerbread decorating to meeting Santa, create unforgettable holiday memories.

Experience the magic of the holidays with American Girl's Holiday Teatime Traditions. Guests can indulge in a festive spread of sweet treats and delightful tea sandwiches, perfect for creating cherished memories. Children can engage in a fun tableside craft activity, adding a creative touch to the experience. For a truly...

Experience a quintessential Washington, DC holiday tradition at The Nutcracker Tea Party. This festive event offers delightful treats and family fun, culminating in a choice of attending either the afternoon or evening performance of the beloved Nutcracker ballet at the Warner Theatre. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in...

Experience the magic of the season in Leesburg with a series of beloved holiday events. Kick off the festivities with the enchanting Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony, featuring live music and festive characters. Discover unique treasures and gifts at the juried Holiday Fine Arts and Crafts Show, showcasing local artisans. Conclude...

Occoquan welcomes the holiday season with its Annual Town Tree Lighting ceremony on Saturday, November 22. Join residents and visitors at Town Hall for the official tree lighting at 6:00 p.m., officiated by Mayor Earnie Porta. Following the ceremony, enjoy late-night shopping until 8:00 p.m. or later, as local businesses...

Experience the magic of Christmas Eve at Christ Church with a special service featuring a heartwarming Nativity pageant presented by the children. This family-friendly event includes a communion service and festive Christmas music, creating a memorable holiday celebration for all.

Join the community at The Square for a magical Tree Lighting ceremony. This beloved tradition marks the start of the holiday season with dazzling lights, festive music, and joyful cheer, creating a memorable experience for the entire family.

First Night Alexandria returns for 2025, offering a vibrant, family-friendly, and alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration. This event transforms local venues into stages for diverse performing arts, providing a meaningful and budget-conscious alternative to traditional revelry. Discover a wide array of talent and community spirit as Alexandria rings in the...

Experience a magical holiday weekend in historic Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, from December 5-7, 2025. This beloved event features the vibrant Scottish Christmas Walk Parade with clans and Scottie dogs, and the spectacular Holiday Boat Parade of Lights illuminating the Potomac River. Immerse yourself in festive cheer, explore charming streets,...

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a cherished national tradition. Each year, a magnificent tree, sourced from a different national forest across the United States, is selected and transported to the West Front Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. Visitors can witness the tree's grand arrival with a police...