October 2014

Through Friday/Nov. 3

Adventures in Learning. 9:30 a.m.-2:45 p.m. Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 5114 Twinbrook Road, Fairfax. This program is open to all adults age 50 or better. Registrants bring a bag lunch and stay for a full day of classes/activities and socializing, or pick and choose the classes that interest them the most. $30. www.scfbva.org or 703-323-4788.

Through Wednesday/Dec. 31

War on the Doorstep: Fairfax Militia in the War of 1812. Exhibition. The Civil War Interpretive Center at Historic Blenheim, 3610 Old Lee Highway. Open Tue.-Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free tours at 1 p.m. 703-591-0560.

Through Sunday/Feb. 8, 2015

Dressing for the Occasion: An Exhibition of Costumes and Textiles Representing Fairfax Personalities and Events. Exhibition. Fairfax Museum & Visitor Center, 10209 Main Stree, Fairfax. Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 703-385-8414.

Friday/Oct. 31-Saturday/Nov. 1

Interstate Haunted Maze. 7-10 p.m. Interstate Service Group, 8601 Morrissette Drive, Springfield. Interstate Haunted Maze event supports ECHO, a nonprofit organization that helps provide for those in need in Northern Virginia communities. admission is any non-perishable food donation.

Workhouse Arts Center Haunted Trail. 7-10 p.m. 9601 Ox Road, Lorton. During an exclusive event for six hair-raising nights only, visitors can walk the Haunted Trail with friends and family. Visitors will experience the macabre outdoor scenes in the lesser traveled areas of the historic prison campus and enjoy special effects, live scare actors and a nightmarish, immersive storyline about a growing horde of infected drones. Evening trail, $10; daytime trail, $5.

Friday/Oct. 31

Pumpkin Patch. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Messiah United Methodist Church, 6215 Rolling Road, Springfield. Pumpkins are available from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily until Oct. 31, when the patch closes at 6 p.m. 703-569-9862.

Side-by-Side in Europe: Two Artists, Two Views, One Subject by Jerry Lewis & Mohsen Alashmoni. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Hunters Woods Exhibit, 2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston. Two artists, one from Reston and the other from Egypt, will approach the same subject from viewpoints influenced by different religions, culture and nationalities. 703-476-4500.

Fine Art Mosaics Exhibit: Anita Bucsay Damron. Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. – noon. Reston Corner One, 120001 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, main floor lobby. Beautiful glass mosaics are inspired by the tapestries of Gurut and Rajasthani India, and created with Italian glass, Czech and Austrian crystals, 24k gold and more. www.AnitaDamron.com

New Solo Shows. Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Reston Corners One and Two, 12001 and 12005 Sunrise Valley Dr., Reston. Mosaics by Anita Bucsay Damron are on display at Reston Corner One and paintings by Norma Lasher are at Reston Corner Two. Free. www.leagueofrestonartists.org.

Members’ Photography Exhibit. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, 1763 Fountain Dr., Reston. Enjoy a display of members' photography at the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce. Free. www.leagueofrestonartists.org.

Genealogy Help Desk. 2 p.m. City of Fairfax Regional Library, 10360 North St., Fairfax. Bring family history stumpers to the experts. Accomplished genealogists and library staff will be on hand to assist. Ask at the Virginia Room desk or call 703-293-6227, option 6. Adults, Teens.

The National Acrobats of the People's Republic of China: Cirque Peking. 8 p.m. George Mason University's Center for the Arts, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. With a combination of traditional and modern music, colorful sets, and imaginative props, the National Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China is among Asia’s most acclaimed ensembles. $29-$48. 888-945-2468.

Reston Friends Puzzle Sale. 10 a.m. Reston Regional Library, 11925 Bowman Towne Drive, Reston. Sale of gently used jigsaw puzzles and games at the library. All proceeds from the sale benefit the Reston Regional Library.

Great Decisions Series. 1:30 p.m. Reston Regional Library, 11925 Bowman Towne Drive, Reston. Join us for a roundtable discussion on the U.S. foreign policy process. The topic for October is China’s Foreign Policy. Discussion materials will be available two weeks before the event.

The Annual Spooktacular. 5-7 p.m. Great Falls Village Centre. http://www.celebrategreatfalls.org/CalendarWide.html

Drop-In Chess. 4:30-6 p.m. Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. All ages are welcome.

Look at the Stars! Observatory Open. 7:30 - 10:30 p.m. Turner Farm Park, Springvale Road, Great Falls. Come to the observatory park for Friday Night viewings. For more information visit http://www.analemma.org/.

Playdate Café. 10 a.m. Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. Toys and play space for children; coffee and conversation for grownups. In the Great Falls meeting room.

Trunk-or-Treat. 6:30 - 8 p.m. Floris UMC, Upper Parking Lot, 13600 Frying Pan Road, Herndon. An evening of fun for all ages - decorated car TRUNKS with lots of candy, popcorn, a petting zoo, a scavenger hunt, a family photo booth (bring your own camera/smart phone) and snacks.

Fall Festival. 6:30 – 9 p.m. Antioch Christian Church, 1860 Beulah Road, Vienna. Games, prizes, candy, pumpkin decorating, popcorn, bonfire, moonbounce, smores and more. For more information, visit www.antiochdoc.org or call 703-938-6753. This event is free and for all ages.

St. Peter’s in the Woods Pumpkin Patch. 5911 Fairview Woods Dr., Fairfax Station. St. Peter’s in the Woods Annual Pumpkin Patch is a community outreach fundraiser. Pumpkins and Gourds of all sizes available for purchase. Come buy a pumpkin and help support community outreach.

November 2014

Saturday/Nov. 1-Monday/Jan. 19

Dada Re-Discovered. Building W-16 Vulcan Gallery, Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. Dada Re-Discovered explores how contemporary media and ideas can filter past Dada concepts and artwork. The exhibit will feature sound, video, performance and other visual mixed media. 703-584-2900. www.workhousearts.org.

Saturday/Nov. 1-Sunday/Nov. 30

Colorful Life. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Hunters Woods Exhibit, 2310 Colts Neck Rd, Reston. Acrylic Paintings on Canvas by Suping Ji. 703-476-4500.

Saturday/Nov. 1-Monday/Dec. 15

FCPS Art Teachers Exhibition. Building W-16 McGuireWoods Gallery, Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. FCPS art teachers display their art. 703-584-2900. www.workhousearts.org.

Saturday/Nov. 1-Sunday/Nov. 2

7th Annual South Run Arts and Crafts Show. Saturday: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. 7550 Reservation Drive, Springfield. This is an annual favorite for visitors looking for holiday gifts and unique hand-crafted items. Beautiful jewelry, intricate woodworking, photography, painting, glasswork, clothing, dolls and pottery to purchase. Admission is $3, and free for children 12 and under. Visit www.nvhg.org. or call 571-278-9621.

Cabaret Series: Heroes Cabaret. 8 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m Sunday. W-3 Theatre, Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. Songs and music of heroes and anti-heroes. 703-584-2900. www.workhousearts.org.

The Kiln Club Holiday Sale. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Colvin Run Mill, 10017 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. Meet local potters and shop quality platters, bowls, cups and more from over a dozen artists. Stunning silhouettes, handpainted details appeal to the artistic eye and are ready to go from kitchen to table. kilnclubwdc.com

Saturday/Nov. 1

Free Choral Event: Duruflé's Requiem Mass. 7:30 p.m. St. Peter’s in the Woods Church, 5911 Fairview Woods Drive, Fairfax Station. Performed by the choirs of St. Peter’s in the Woods, St. John’s McLean, and students of GMU. www.stpetersinthewoods.org

The Robinson Marketplace. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 5305 Sideburn Road, Fairfax. Shop at over 80 vendors at the Holiday Market, raffle and silent auction sponsored by the Robinson Secondary School PTSA. Visit www.robinsonptsa.org.

Ballroom Dance. 8 – 9 p.m. Samba Lesson. 9 -11:30 p.m. Colvin Run Dance Hall, 10201 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. Live music with Mike Surratt & the ECB playing favorite dance tunes from the 1930s to today. Attire is ballroom casual, everyone is welcome. $20. 703-759-2685 or www.colvinrun.org.

Eddie Money. 7 & 9:30 p.m. Wolf Trap, 1635 Trap Road, Vienna. Enjoy the best of classic rock with the star who performed the 80's hits "Take Me Home Tonight" and "Two Tickets to Paradise." Tickets: $45-$50. Visit wolftrap.org for more information, or call 877-WOLFTRAP.

Steve Wynn (Dream Syndicate). 7 p.m. 227 Maple Avenue E, Vienna. In 25 years, Wynn has released at least that many albums and has seen over 300 of his songs recorded. He has played over 2000 shows in more than 25 countries. Tickets: $15. 703-255-1566.

Flamenco Vivo/Carlotta Santana “The Soul of Flamenco.” 8 p.m. The Alden, 1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean. Flameno Vivo brings an exciting evening of flamenco to the stage featuring accomplished artists from the U.S. and Spain. Admission: $30/$20 MCC district residents.

Children’s Flea Market. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Sellers are age 3-15. Free. www.mcleancenter.org.

Puzzle Sale. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Reston Regional Library, 11925 Bowman Towne Drive, Reston. Used puzzles galore, puzzle books, and gently used games await you.

Arts and Crafts Fair. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Community of Faith United Methodist Church, 13224 Franklin Farm Road, Herndon. Handcrafted items by local artists.

Cars & Coffee. 7-9 p.m. 760 Walker Road, Great Falls. Gathering of cars at Katie’s Coffeehouse. Antique, custom, hotrod, exotic, sports, etc.

Sunday/Nov. 2

The Amazing Max. 4 p.m. The Alden, located inside the McLean Community Center, at 1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean. "The Amazing Max," will perform his one-of-a-kind, interactive magic show. Tickets are $20, $15 for MCC district residents. For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit: www.aldentheatre.org

Puzzle Sale. 1 – 5 p.m. Reston Regional Library, 11925 Bowman Towne Drive, Reston. Used puzzles galore, puzzle books, and gently used games await you.

Nate Hausmann Author Talk. 2 p.m. Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia, 8900 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax. j.talks event. Author with autism shares his story. $11/$9/$7. 703-323-0880.

Holiday Bazaar. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, 432 Van Buren St., Herndon. Benefits the Gifts to Glorify the Lord Campaign (1870 pipe organ restoration) and the Episcopal Church Women’s efforts to revitalize the parish hall. ehorsfield@cox.net.

New Orleans Legends: Featuring the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Allen Toussaint. 7 p.m. George Mason University's Center for the Arts, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. Join us for an evening of music. The legendary jazz and New Orleans R&B pianist Allen Toussaint recently received the highly prestigious National Medal of Arts by President Obama in recognition of his seminal influence on New Orleans music. Tickets: $29-$48.

The Alden McLean Kids Performance Series. 4 p.m. The Alden Theatre, McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. “The Amazing Max and the Box of Interesting Things.” $20/15 MCC district residents. www.mcleancenter.org.

“A Thurber Carnival.” 2 p.m. Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry Street, SE, Vienna. “A Thurber Carnival” is a collection of humorous scenes from American life including some of Thurber's most celebrated and insightful satires based on his cartoons and humorous short pieces from The New Yorker magazine. Tickets: $14. www.viennatheatrecompany.org

National Men’s Chorus Performance. 4 p.m. Saint Luke Catholic Church, 7001 Georgetown Pike, McLean. The Chorus now in its 15th season, performs a variety of musical styles. Tickets: $20, will be available at the door. www.nationalmenschorus.org.

Monday/Nov. 3

Move & Groove with Mr. Skip. 10:30 a.m. Old Town Hall, 3999 University Drive, Fairfax. Mr. Skip, who is all about music and movement, sings original and classic kids songs like Old McDonald to the five and under crowd. He gets the kids off their seats and moving. For more information, visit www.fairfaxarts.org or call 703-352-ARTS.

Kaydee Puppet Show-Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. 11-11:45 a.m. Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. A puppet show performance of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. $4-$5. 703-435-6800.

Children’s Performing Art Series. 11-11:45 a.m. Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. For more information call 703-787-7300.

Trip to Massanutten Indoor Water Park. 8:30 am.-6:30 p.m. Old Firehouse Teen Center, 1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. McLean Community Center teacher work day trip departs from and returns to teen center. $75/$65 MCC district residents. www.mcleancenter.org.

Tuesday/Nov. 4

Reston Garden Club Meeting. 1 p.m. Walker Nature Center, 11450 Glade Drive, Reston. Dr. Dennis Koop, a recently retired USDA Extension Entomologist, will introduce and discuss some critters that live in backyards that have an impact on gardens. Guests and members are invited to attend. More information is at www.therestongardenclub.org.

CR Dance Lessons. 6:30-10:30 p.m. Colvin Run Community Hall, 10201 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. $12 per person includes lesson and snacks. Contact Ed Cottrell at 703-435-5620 or EdCottrell@MACP.org for more information.

GFCA Env, Parks & Trails Meeting. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. Monthly Meeting of the GFCA Environment, Parks & Trails Committee.

Trip to Dave & Buster’s. 8:30 am.-5:30 p.m. Old Firehouse Teen Center, 1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. McLean Community Center teacher work day trip departs from and returns to teen center. Lunch provided. $60/$50 MCC district residents. www.mcleancenter.org.

McLean Woman’s Club Guest Speaker Event. 12:30 p.m. Trinity United Methodist Church, 1205 Dolley Madison Blvd., McLean. McLean Woman’s Club hosts speaker Tony Mendez, former CIA officer who oversaw the rescue of six Americans during the 1979 Iran hostage crisis, inspiring the film “Argo.” Free. For reservations and more information, call 703-356-3646 or visit www.mcleanwc.org.

Wednesday/Nov. 5

F-150 “Drive the Future of Tough” Consumer Event. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Ted Britt Ford, 11165 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax. Customers can test-drive the new 2015 F-150. 703-218-4644.

“South Pacific Cauldron.” 7 p.m. George Mason Regional Library, 70001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale. Author Alan Rems, a 10-year volunteer at the Fairfax Regional Library, will discuss and sign his book, “South Pacific Cauldron,” It’s about WWII in the South Pacific, plus the cover-up of a Marine Corps general’s death.

GFL Pokemon League. 4:30- 6 p.m. Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. Come play Pokemon with your friends. Ages 5 to 15.

Thursday/Nov. 6

GF Rotary Club. 7:30-8:30 a.m. River Bend Country Club, 375 Walker Road Great Falls. Great Falls Rotary Club Weekly Speaker Series. Download a membership form on their website. Open to anyone who has a personal connection to Great Falls and is interested in furthering Rotary’s mission of Service Above Self.

Artists Meet for Coffee. 8:30-10 a.m. Katie’s Coffeehouse, Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. Local artists meet for coffee. All are welcome to drop in.

Friday/Nov. 7

“Forecasting Weather and Life in Times of Turbulence.” 12-1:15 p.m. Maggiano’s Little Italy, Tysons II Galleria Mall, 2001 International Drive, McLean. Enjoy lunch while hearing a business leader discuss integrating faith and spiritual values with work and life. Register by Nov. 5 to phil.kratovil@viennapress.org.

Field Trips Medieval Times. 3:30-10 p.m. Old Firehouse Teen Center, 1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. Trip departs from and returns to teen center. $50/40 MCC district residents. www.mcleancenter.org.

Martha Graham Dance Company. 8 p.m. George Mason University's Center for the Arts, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. Tickets: $28-$46. For more information call 888-945-2468.

Saturday/Nov. 8

Herndon Community Center's 35th Anniversary. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Avenue, Herndon. An open house and celebration for all.

Christmas Craft Fair and Bake Sale. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. New Hope Church, 6905 Ox Road, Lorton. Begin your holiday shopping early. Crafts, artwork, holiday items, inspirational items, soaps/scrubs, jewelry, baked goods, jams/jellies, candies/nuts/fudge, raffles, stuffed animals, food, etc. Free. Doris Lama, 703-644-0139/571-234-7322.

David Bendernagel. 2-4 p.m. Reston Museum, 1639 Washington Plaza N., Reston. Bendernagel reads from debut novel, “The End of the City.” 703-709-7700.

I’ll be Seeing You with the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra. 8 p.m. George Mason University Center for the Arts, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. Based on actual letters from Mr. Frazier’s family written during World War II, the evening includes songs of the era by Gershwin, Kern, Carmichael, Ellington, and more. Tickets $25, $45, $60. Students ages 6-25: free fairfaxsymphony.org

Annual Christmas Craft Bazaar. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Annandale United Methodist Church, 6935 Columbia Pike, Annandale. Handcrafted jewelry, ornaments, glass art, bath and body, purses, Spirit wear, pins greeting cards, needle work, children clothes, fabric art and blankets.

Fairfax County's 10th Annual History Conference. 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. The theme of the conference is "Fire, Flight & Fury!" The War of 1812 in Fairfax County-200 years later.

Fairfax Symphony Orchestra presents "I'll Be Seeing You" by Luke Frazier. 8 p.m. George Mason University's Center for the Arts, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. For more information call 888-945-2468.

2nd Saturday Art Walk. 6-9 p.m. Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. Guests can tour seven unique studio buildings, mix and mingle with artists, buy original works of art, experience ever-changing exhibitions and meet featured artists, all while enjoying light refreshments and music. Free. 703-584-2900. www.workhousearts.org.

Annual Fall Bazaar. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Vienna Fire Department, 400 Center Street, South, Vienna. The Auxiliary to the Vienna Volunteer Fire Department will hold their bazaar sale that includes crafts, holiday decorations and more, For information, or to reserve a space, please call Carol at 703-309-3468 or email Dancers1023@aol.com.

Fairfax County - 10th Annual History Conference “Fire, Flight & Fury – The War of 1812 200 Years Later.” 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. Speakers will present the history of the War of 1812 and its impact on Fairfax County. Admission registration is $20. No registrations will be accepted at the door. A continental breakfast, deli lunch and conference materials will be included. Local historical organizations and authors will have displays. Registration forms are available at: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/histcomm/event.htm

Art Auction. 6:30 p.m. King of Kings Lutheran Church, 4025 Kings Way, Fairfax. There will be art for everyone’s taste and budget, in all media and price ranges. Event benefits the Preschool Scholarship Fund and the youth program. Admission: $20 per person - $35 per couple. For more information or to reserve your tickets call Judi Cooper at 703-378-7272, ext. 225 or email jhangen@kofk.org.

Saturday/Nov. 8 - Sunday/Nov. 9

McLean Antiques Show & Sale. Saturday 10 a.m - 6 p.m., Sunday 11 am. - 5 p.m. McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave. $10 good for both days. www.mcleancenter.org.

Sunday/Nov. 9

Not Forgotten: The Story of the Offerings at the Wall. 2 p.m. Fairfax Museum, 10209 Main St., Fairfax. Megan Leining, Collections Manager with Fairfax County Park Authority, will talk about her former work with the National park Service of curating objects left at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. For more information call 703-385-8414.

The Cold War in Lorton: Missiles in Your Backyard. 2 p.m. W-3 Theatre, Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. Marvin 'Shep' Crow, Lieutenant Colonel, US Army (Retired), will discuss the Nation’s perceived need for air defense weapons during the Cold War with the Soviet Union and the development of the U.S. air defense system, focusing on the Lorton site. Free-$10 suggested donation. 703-584-2900. www.workhousearts.org.

Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel: Three Great B’s – Beethoven, Brahms, and Bartók. 7 p.m. George Mason University's Center for the Arts, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. Tickets $24-$40. For more information call 888-945-2468.

Taste of Greater Springfield. 3-7 p.m. Embassy Suites, 8100 Loisdale Road, Springfield. Will feature cuisine from 20 local restaurants. Tickets for adults are $30 at www.togs.us Sponsored by the West Springfield Rotary Club Foundation.

"Hands On" Modeling Day. 1-4 p.m. The Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax Station Road. Learn about railroading and the Fairfax Station through hands on modeling activities. You may also bring your own model train items that need work. Admission is free for children under 5 and Museum members; $2 ages 5-15; $4 ages 16 and over. www.fairfax-station.org

Wednesday/Nov. 12

Design & Wine: Sketching with Martin Steinhobel. 7-9pm. ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon. Discover your inner artist and learn to sketch a little. This lighthearted session will provide you with few basic tips and techniques that make sketching fun and approachable. A $30 fee covers all supplies and two glasses of wine. Registration is required with payment in advance. To register go to www.artspaceherndon.org.

Wednesday/Nov. 12 - Saturday/Nov. 15

World of Color Expo 2014. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Hilton Washington Dulles Hotel, 13869 Park Center Road, Herndon. Registration is required to take classes. No prior painting experience necessary. For more information call 703-754-3191.

Thursday-Saturday/Nov. 13-15

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” 7 p.m. South County High School, 8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton. Tickets are $10 for general admission, and $8 for students and seniors. southcountytheatre.org

Friday/Nov. 14 - Sunday/Jan. 4

Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights. 5:30 p.m. Meadowlark Botanical Garden, 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna. A winter wonderland, including a flowing stream of softly glowing lights, a two story animated fountain and a Gingerbread Village. Admission: $13 adults, $8 children ages 3-12; children under 3 are free.

Friday/Nov. 14

Senior Tea. 1-2pm. ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon. Each month seniors are invited to visit the gallery to view the current exhibit and enjoy a cup of tea. All teas are free and open to the public. For more information visit www.artspaceherndon.org or call 703-956-6590.

Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. 8 p.m. George Mason University's Center for the Arts, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. Czech Philharmonic Orchestra has maintained an outstanding international reputation on par with many of Europe’s most prominent orchestras. Tickets: $42-$70. For more information call 888-945-2468.

Field Trip: Double Feature at AMC Tysons. 3:30-10 p.m. Old Firehouse Teen Center, 1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. Trip departs from and returns to teen center. $30/20 MCC district residents. www.mcleancenter.org.

Christopher K. Morgan & Artists: “Inconstancy.” 8 p.m. The Alden Theatre, McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. The Alden, Professional Artists Series. $30/$20 MCC district residents. www.mcleancenter.org.

Saturday/Nov. 15

Date Night: Chef’s Table. 7-9 p.m. Building W-3, Classroom 302, Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. The menu items will be prepared by participants working together at each of the cooking islands. Participants will be served a tasting portion of all the entrees and a chef-selected drink of choice. $85 per person. 703-584-2900. www.workhousearts.org.

Ballroom Social Dance. 7:30-10:30 p.m. W-16 McGuire Woods Gallery, Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. Mini-lesson begins at 7:30 p.m. and is $5 per person. Open dancing begins at 8 p.m. Open dance is $10 per person. Complimentary refreshments and a cash bar will be available in the gallery. All skill levels welcome. $10-15. 703-584-2900. www.workhousearts.org.

Ballroom Dance. 8 – 9 p.m. Cha-Cha Lesson. 9 -11:30 p.m. Colvin Run Dance Hall, 10201 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. DJ music with Craig Bukowski playing favorite dance tunes from the 1930s to today. Attire is ballroom casual, everyone is welcome. $15. 703-759-2685 or www.colvinrun.org.

Amadeus Strings with Josef Spacek, violin soloist. 4 - 6 p.m. Saint Francis Church, 9220 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. This concert will feature works by Johann Sebastian Bach, Astor Piazzolla, and Dmitri Shostakovich. Tickets are $30 at the door, and season passes are available for purchase at www.amadeusconcerts.com, or you can call 703-759-5334.

Christopher K. Morgan & Artists: “Inconstancy.” 8 p.m. The Alden Theatre, McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. The Alden, Professional Artists Series. $30/$20 MCC district residents. www.mcleancenter.org.

Herndon Has Talent. 7:30 p.m. ArtSpace Herndon, 750 Center Street, Herndon. Herndon Has Talent will showcase five performing artists. This event is free and open to the public. For more information go to www.artspaceherndon.org or call 703-956-6590.

The Mystery of Oolong Teas. 1-3 p.m. Colvin Run Mill, 10017 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. Taste a variety of “wulong” teas as you learn how they are created and what makes each style special, while enjoying some tea infused treats. Advance reservations and payment ($30 per person) required through the Mill at 703-759-2771.

The 15th Annual Taste of Fall with FACETS. 7 p.m. Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. Sample delicious food and drinks from local restaurants, wineries and breweries; enjoy live musical entertainment; bid on unique items in the silent and live auction. Tickets are $50 and include tastings of all food and beverages, including wine, beer and sodas. Register online at www.FacetsCares.org or at the door.

Monday/Nov. 17

Children’s Performance Series: Peter McCory & His One Man Band. 10:30 a.m. Old Town Hall, 3999 University Drive, Fairfax. Peter McCory has been thrilling children and adults with his one-man band musical shows since 1996. A master of multi-tasking, Peter's feet play the drum set while his hands are busy on the guitar. For all ages. Free, but donations are accepted. 703-385-2712.

Lorton Evening Book Conversations. 7 p.m. Lorton Library, 9520 Richmond Highway, Lorton. Book discussions every third Monday. November book, Hush Money by Robert Parker. Adults.703-339-7385.

Tuesday/Nov. 18

April Mae & The June Bugs. 7:15 p.m. Amphora Diner Deluxe, 1151 Elden St., Herndon. April Mae & The June Bugs play Americana under the influence of jump blues, swing and boogie. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Folk Club of Reston-Herndon. $11/$10 members. 703.435.2402 or jamessue@aol.com or restonherndonfolkclub.com

Great Falls Writers Group Presents Jim Lehrer. 7 p.m. Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. The veteran newsman, playwright and author will discuss his lifetime in words and his recent novel, entitled “Top Down,” about the Kennedy assassination.

Wednesday/Nov. 19

“Murder by Death.” 1 p.m. The Alden Theatre, McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. The Alden, Midday Movies. Free. www.mcleancenter.org.

Thursday/Nov. 20

Stranger than Fiction: Great Art Heists in History. 7:30 p.m. Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, W-3 Theatre, Lorton. Discover what Japanese gangsters, bear spray and daring boat getaways have in common with noteworthy art thefts. In this lecture, you will travel the globe learning why museums from Amsterdam to Zimbabwe have been targets for thieves and what tools they used to elude detection. Find out who got caught…and who did not. $10 per person, $5 for Artists at and Friends of the Workhouse, Volunteers and Military. Contact Moria Nisbet, 703-584-2986.

James Cotton. 8 p.m. The Barns at Wolf Trap, 1645 Trap Road, Vienna. Widely regarded as one of the best harmonica players of all time, this instrumentalist and blues legend has made his mark on music history. Tickets: $25. For more information, visit www.wolftrap.org.

Saturday/Nov. 22

Asian Style Miniature Dish Garden. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria. Come and learn to create an Asian garden scene where “East meets West.” Admissions: $45 (plus $20 supply fee). Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring. 703-642-5173.

Garden Sprounts: Little Gobblers: 11 a.m.-12 p.m. 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria. Bring the little ones to learn about turkeys, habits and survival. They’ll look for footprints, listen for a gooble and bring home decorations. Admissions: $6. For ages 3-5. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring. 703-642-5173.

Family Fun: Turkey Hunt. 1-2 p.m. 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria. Learn the history of the turkey, it’s importance to early Americans and track it through the Green Spring Gardens’ grounds. Make table decorations to bring home. Admissions: $6. Register online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring. 703-642-5173.

Thanksgiving Table Arrangement. 1:30-3:30 p.m. 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria. Come and make a centerpiece for turkey day with a fresh pumpkin. Admissions: $35 per person plus $25 supply fee.

Turkey Trot 5K. 1:30 p.m. Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. The race will begin at 4 p.m. but registration begins at 1:30 p.m. Online registration is recommended. $20-$25. herndon-va.gov.

Andes Manta in Concert. 8 p.m. The Alden Theatre, McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Live @ The Alden. $20/$15 MCC district residents. www.mcleancenter.org.

Sunday/Nov. 23

Concerts at The Alden. 3 p.m. The Alden Theatre, McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Live @ The Alden. Free. www.mcleancenter.org.

“Autumn Splendor.” 3-5 p.m. The Alden Theatre, McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Sunday Soiree Series Dance. $15 per couple, $8 single. www.mcleancenter.org.

CROP Walk. 1:15 p.m. Living Savior Lutheran Church, 5500 Ox Road, Fairfax Station. Distance 6K/3.7 miles with a shorter option. Nonperishable food will be collected for ECHO. No entry fee but registration required. Walker envelopes for sponsor donations are available prior to the walk or at registration. Janet Smith, 703-455-9025, BurkeVA.CROP@cox.net.

Saturday-Sunday/Nov. 22-23

23rd Annual Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show. Saturday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. More than 20 dealers, minerals, fossils, gems, jewelry, meteorites, crystals, demonstrations, exhibits, door prizes, kids' mini-mines, learning activities and more.

Friday/Nov. 28 - Sunday/Nov. 30

Art and Craft Showcase. Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry St., SE, Vienna. Showcase of more than 80 local artisans. Admission, $3, free for children 12 and under. Free parking. Go to www.nvhg.org or call 703-273-6264.

Friday/Nov. 28

Black Friday Holiday Celebration at the Workhouse. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. Explore the artwork of nearly 100 artists, join in interactive demonstrations and find that perfect gift while supporting local artists. Festivities will also include Doughnuts with Santa, fine-art projects for children, and holiday music and theatrical performances throughout the day. Free. 703-584-2900. www.workhousearts.org.

Reston Holiday Parade. 11 a.m. Reston Town Center, 11900 Market St., Reston. Come for a full day of community, charity and cheer including the Gingerbread Man Mile & Tot Trot, visits and photos with Santa, tree lighting, sing along and horse-drawn carriage rides.

The Thanksgiving Story. 11 a.m. Frying Pan Farm Park, 2309 West Ox Road, Herndon. Bring the family and holiday guests to this lively and interactive retelling of the Thanksgiving Story. Gleemania's Sue Cournoyer entertains and informs while engaging everyone. After the show, stroll the park and visit our animals or take a ride on our carousel or wagon rides. Admission: $5 per person.

December 2014

Monday/Dec. 1

Children’s Performance Series: Mr. Skip. 10:30 a.m. Old Town Hall, 3999 University Drive, Fairfax. Start the week off with Mr. Skip, who is all about music and movement, sings original and classic kids songs like Old MacDonald to the 5 and under crowd. He gets the kids off their seats and moving. Free but donations are accepted. 703-385-2712.

Monday/Dec. 1-Wednesday/Dec. 31

La Lumiere DuBois. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Hunters Woods Exhibit, 2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston. An exhibit of the colorful nature photographs of award-winning artist, Michael DuBois. 703-476-4500.

Monday/Dec. 1-Monday/Jan. 5

Annual “Gifts from the HeART” to Benefit Reston Interfaith. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Jo Ann Rose Gallery, 1609 Washington Plaza N, Reston. Sales of original works of art in many mediums will benefit Cornerstones. 703-476-4500.

Friday/Dec. 5

Towne Square Singers. 7:30-9 p.m. Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. Annual holiday concert with cider, cookies and sing-along carols. $12. 703-435-6800.

Saturday/Dec. 6

City of Fairfax Festival of Lights and Carols. Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. Come enjoy live holiday music, hot cider, s'mores by the Yule log, petting farm, Ferris wheel, caroling and lighting of the Christmas tree in the winter wonderland. Visit www.fairfaxva.gov/about-us/special-events/festival-of-lights-and-carols for times and locations.

Holiday Homes Tour. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. Tour five different homes that are decorated for the holidays. $15-$20. http://www.herndon-va.gov/

Sunday/Dec. 7

Gardeners Holiday Open House. 12-4 p.m. 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria. Come to an open house hosted by Friends of Green Spring for gardeners of all ages to get in the holiday mood, including a children’s puppet show. Admissions: $3 (puppet show only). 703-642-5173.

McLean WinterFest Parade. 3:30 p.m. Old Chain Bridge Road, McLean. Groups interested in participating in the parade should go to www.mcleanwinterfest.org to complete the registration information and submit it to parade officials. Each entrant will receive confirmation of their registration with this year’s parade rules. Registrations will be accepted until Nov. 18.

Towne Square Singers. 2-3:30 p.m. Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. Annual holiday concert with cider, cookies and sing-along carols. $12. 703-435-6800.

Wednesday/Dec. 3-Sunday/Dec. 7

Snow Day. 10:30 a.m. W-3 Theatre, Workhouse Arts Center, 9601 Ox Road, Lorton. One cold December morning, a young girl named Skip wakes up to find the entire neighborhood covered in a thick, dazzling blanket of white snow. $8. 703-967-0437 or www.artsonthehorizon.org.

Wednesday/Dec. 10-Sunday/Dec. 14

Snow Day. 10:30 a.m. W-3 Theatre, Workhouse Arts Center, 9601 Ox Road, Lorton. One cold December morning, a young girl named Skip wakes up to find the entire neighborhood covered in a thick, dazzling blanket of white snow. $8. 703-967-0437 or www.artsonthehorizon.org.

Saturday/Dec. 13

A Story Book Holiday. 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. Enjoy a variety of holiday activities including a visit with Santa and crafts. $14. 703-435-6800.

Monday/Dec. 15

Children’s Performance Series: Bob Brown Puppets. 10:30 a.m. Old Town Hall, 3999 University Drive, Fairfax. Bob Brown Puppets have been a major children's theater company for the past 50 years, offering the finest in children's education and entertainment and performing to over 300,000 children a year. Free but donations are accepted. 703-385-2712.

Thursday/Dec. 18

An Album of a Century-Photographer Jacques Henri Lartigue. 7:30 p.m. Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, W-3 Theatre, Lorton. French photographer and painter Jacques-Henri Lartigue (1894-1986) is most famous for his stunning photos of automobile races, planes, and fashionable Parisian women from the turn of the century. This lecture explores Lartigue’s photographs from his first sincere, often playful, presentation of friends, family, and French society made as early as age 6 to his later fashion layouts and portraits. $10 per person, $5 for Artists at and Friends of the Workhouse, Volunteers and Military. Contact Moria Nisbet, 703-584-2986.

Saturday/Dec. 20

A Christmas Carol. 7 p.m. Art Room, Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. Solo performance. NYC actor / playwright, Greg Oliver Bodine performs his one-man performance of Charles Dickens. Children over 10 and adults. General admission $15 / $10 Seniors and Students. www.artful.ly/store/events/4306.