Through Jan. 12, 2025

10th Annual Glass International. At Workhouse Arts Center, Vulcan Gallery, 9518 workhouse Way, Lorton. Workhouse Arts Center is proud to present the 10th Annual Glass International, an exhibition highlighting the depth and breadth of contemporary functional and sculptural glass art. In celebration of Workhouse Arts’ 10th year exhibiting glass from artists throughout the United States, in 2024, they opened eligibility to include artists working internationally. 

Fresh Evergreen Wreaths and Decorations

Assistance League of Northern Virginia (ALNV) is partnering with Lynch Creek Farm to offer a variety of fresh evergreen wreaths and decorations for your home or as holiday gifts. ALNV, a non-profit providing assistance to needy students across the region, will receive 15% of the proceeds from your order. Use the following link to place your order: https://tinyurl.com/LynchCreekBeauty To order by phone, call 1-800-426-0781 and mention our campaign ID #9630516. Orders will be sent directly to your selected recipients. The deadline for submitting orders is December 15, 2024.

Vienna Holiday Guide

The Vienna Business Association (VBA) is hosting a Vienna Holiday Guide for local business and nonprofit promotions through Jan 1, 2025. You will find events, promotions and fundraisers for many local organizations. Organizations are encouraged to add their promotions for holidays, Small Business Saturday and the Church Street Stroll. You can view it online or download it here: https://viennabusiness.org/vienna-holiday-guide

Potomac Harmony Chorus is Seeking Singers

If you enjoy holiday music, this is for you. Potomac Harmony Chorus will be rehearsing holiday classics during November and December and you can sing along! No experience necessary! No cost! Just a love of music required! They sing a cappella, are an open and safe environment for women and nonbinary singers, and love what they do. Singing brings joy, so come get some! Contact Jackie Bottash at JackieBottash@gmail.com.

Thru Jan. 12, 2025

Winter Lantern Festival. At Tysons Corner Center, 8025 Galleria Drive, McLean. Thursdays to Sundays, 5-9:30 p.m. The Winter Lantern Festival is a must-see display of electrifying lights made from more than 1,000 handmade Chinese lanterns. Guests will enter and wander through a wonderland of light and color inspired by Chinese myths, legends, and zodiacs. Attractions will include a bounce house, sugar paintings, dino ride, interactive light swings, see-saws, tunnels, and many majestic creatures. Guests can also enjoy live entertainment by the Zigong Acrobatic Troupe, a new treat for this year, along with food, drinks and gifts.

Through Dec. 30

LEGO Holiday Bricktacular. At LEGO Site, 6563 Springfield Mall, Suite 12004, Springfield. Families can enjoy a winter wonderland of activities, festive decorations, large Santa Mini Figure and more. A dedicated area in the attraction will inspire guests with various heart designs and inspire families to build a LEGO heart. Additional holiday experiences include the Mini World Washington, D.C. Winter Wonderland takeover featuring holiday scenes, Letters to Master Model Builder and meet and greet with a new Gingerbread Costume Character.

Wednesday/Dec. 4

Holiday & Hearts Event. 7-8:30 p.m. At Fonts Books & Gifts, 626B Old Dominion Road, McLean. Five local authors will discuss their recent releases and the writing process in an evening panel discussion and signing event.

Meet authors:

Barbara Boehm Miller, When You See Her

Carolyn McBride, The Cicada Spring, Santa Overboard

Christine Gunderson, Friends with Secrets

Jennifer Milder, The Epilogue of August

Sharon J. Wishnow, The Pelican Tide

Each book shares a common thread of women navigating complex relationships, personal growth, and societal expectations, delving into themes of identity, resilience, and the enduring power of human connections.

Wednesday/Dec. 4

Legislative Town Hall. 6:30 to 8 p.m. At Lake Anne Community Center, 1609-A Washington Plaza, Reston. State Senator Jennifer B. Boysko, Delegate Irene Shin, and Delegate Karen Keys-Gamarra will host a Town Hall on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, to provide constituents with updates on legislative accomplishments, initiatives from the past year and a preview of the upcoming legislative session. The event is open to the public. Constituents are encouraged to attend and participate.

Thursday/Dec. 5

2024 Holiday Homes Tour. Sponsored by The Woman’s Club of McLean. The tour offers a delightful day of holiday cheer, as the Club welcomes our diverse McLean community to experience the celebration and customs represented in our four beautifully decorated homes. Tickets can be purchased for $45.00 online (https://shop.womansclubofmclean.org/), or take advantage of the special price of $40 at the local ticket outlets: Mesmeralda’s Gifts of McLean, McLean Hardware, Karin’s Florist in Vienna, and Great Dogs of Great Falls. To ensure a smooth experience, online ticket buyers can pick up their ticket entry at House No. 1 on the day of the event. Proceeds will benefit a number of community organizations, including the McLean Volunteer Fire Department.

Dec. 5-7

Winterfest. 5 to 9 p.m. At Brown’s Chapel Park, Reston. Reston Association is proud to announce the return of Winterfest, a three-day event that’s perfect to kick off the holiday season. New additions include live musical performances each night, an expanded Enchanted Forest, bigger light displays on the ‘Light Up the Park’ walk, a ‘Grinch’s Village’, and a Santa Experience -all included in one spectacular event. Returning favorites are the Vendor Village for holiday shopping from local sellers, bonfires and smores, the pop-up bar, food vendors and more. Winterfest is free for all Reston Association members; admission is $8 for non-members ages 3-17, and $18 for non-members 18+. 

Dec. 5-7

Used Book Sale. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. At Richard Byrd Library, 7250 Commerce Street, Springfield. Preview sale, Wed., Dec. 4, 2 - 5 p.m. Entry fee $10. General sale, Thu. – Sat., Dec. 5 - 7, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Free. Bag sale, Sun., Dec. 8, 12 - 2 p.m. $5/bag. Choose from a wide variety of high-quality used books, CDs, and DVDs. Jump start your winter holiday gifts and by-the-fire reading at bargain prices. Thousands of like new books to choose from. The Friends of the Richard Byrd Library is a nonprofit all volunteer organization. Revenue supports library programming. For more information contact the Friends at rbfriends@gmail.com.

Dec. 5-8

Tysons Library Quarterly Book & Media Sale. At Tysons Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church. Dates: Thursday, 5 Dec., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Friday, 6 Dec. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday, 7 Dec., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, 8 Dec., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Bag sale. $10 for a full grocery sack or half price if less. Large selection of books and media for all ages and interests. Visit https://www.tysonslibraryfriends.org/

Holidays at Colvin Run Mill

Embrace the spirit of yesteryear with festive activities at this historic site. Join us for lantern tours, a children’s holiday shopping experience and meet Santa himself! 

* Holiday Lantern Tour: Dec. 6-7, 5:30 or 6:30 p.m., $12

* Children’s Holiday Shopping at Historic Colvin Run: Dec. 7-8, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., $7

* Santa at the Mill: Dec. 14 (3-5:30 p.m.) & Dec. 15 (2-4:30 p.m.), $10

* Sensory-Friendly Santa at the Mill: Dec. 14 (12:30-2:15 p.m.) & Dec. 15 (11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m.), $40 per group (up to five in a group).

Dec. 6-7

Voce Chamber Singers Concert: Radiant Dawn. Friday at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at 4 p.m. At Church of the Holy Comforter, Vienna. Rediscover the cheer of the season with Voce Chamber Singers. The most popular program returns featuring Antonio Vivaldi’s Gloria for soloists, choir, and chamber orchestra. Sing along with beloved choral works by Esmail, Rutter, and Willcocks that shine with the light of morning.

Dec. 6-8

Great Falls Holiday Art Fest. Friday from 6-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Explore three festive locations filled with incredible art, perfect for gifting or treating yourself this holiday season. Just look for the Nutcrackers to guide you. At the following three locations:

* The Grange, 9818 Georgetown Pike;

* The Artists Atelier, 756 Walker Road;

* The Artists on the Green, 776 Walker Road.

Dec. 6-15

“Commedia Christmas Carol.” 8 p.m. Presented by Traveling Players in Tysons Corner Center, McLean. Adapted from Charles Dickens’ haunting and heartwarming holiday classic, Commedia Christmas Carol tells the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, an excellent man of business. To purchase tickets, and for more information about the show, visit https://www.travelingplayers.org/performances/

Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park

Celebrate the holidays with an evening of wagon rides, animal interactions and visits with Santa. Enjoy food, indoor activities, and cozy campfires. Dec. 6-7, Dec. 13-14, Dec. 20-21, 4:30-7:30 p.m., $15 in advance, $20 at the door.

Winter Wonderland at Burke Lake Park

Climb aboard the Holiday Express for a train ride, spin on the Carolers Carousel, play Gingerbread Man Golf and savor s’mores by the fire. Meet Santa, sip hot chocolate and enjoy the season’s warmth. Weekends: Dec. 7-8, Dec. 14-15, Dec. 21-22, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., $15 in advance, $20 at the door.

Saturday/Dec. 7

Living Nativity. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. At St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 6320 Hanover Ave., Springfield. Come meet Baby Jesus and pet Delila the Camel and other animals. Bring family and friends to enjoy the greatest story of all times and live music and refreshments. This event is free. If possible, bring a toy to donate. Donations of new or lightly used toys will be distributed to local organizations that help families in Springfield. All are welcome. Visit the website: https://www.saintchristophers.net/

Saturday/Dec. 7

Herndon’s Holiday Tree Lighting and Singalong. 5-6 p.m. At Herndon Town Hall Square. Get into the holiday spirit as Santa rides in on his fire truck. Get ready to sing along with the Herndon High School Band and watch Mayor Sheila Olem light the holiday tree.

Saturday/Dec. 7

Alternative Gift Market. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At Unitarian Universalist Church in Reston, 1625 Wiehle Ave., Reston. Featuring 30-plus local and global charities.Get ready to embrace the spirit of giving at the 2024 Alternative Gift Market (AGM) and Craft Fair. This unique hybrid event combines the convenience of online shopping with the warmth of in-person connection, making it the perfect opportunity to share joy through socially conscious gift-giving this holiday season. Choose from a variety of donation packages that support local and global charities, like providing rent and utility bill assistance for just $50, or emergency groceries for $25. Visit uureston.org/agm.

Saturday/Dec. 7

Jingle on the Lake Christmas Festival. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. At Lake Anne Plaza, Reston. Sponsored by the Lake Anne Washington Plaza Merchant Association (LAWPA). Join the Lake Anne and Reston Community for a day long holiday celebration, starring Santa himself, arriving with a decorated boat parade (made possible thanks to Reston Lakeside Cluster) and accompanied by Santa’s elves on paddleboards! Rumor has it that the Grinch (played by talented theater student Josh Lewis) might attempt to steal Christmas again…but Santa (played by genial neighbor George Broderick) and the kids know how to deal with him...

Schedule:

8 a.m. Christmas Market

11:40 a.m. Lake Anne Elementary Choir

12 p.m. Boat Parade and Santa.

12:45 p.m. Vienna Singing Princesses

1:20 p.m. Sunrise Valley Elementary Choir

2:15 p.m. Reston Stars

3 p.m. Reston Conservatory Ballet

3:30 p.m. Ukrainian Christmas Songs

Saturday/Dec. 7

Breakfast with Santa. 8 – 9:30 a.m. At Tysons Corner Center in the Food Court on Level 3, McLean. Families are invited to join us for some up-close and personal time with Santa, by continuing its long-standing ‘Breakfast with Santa’ tradition. A complimentary catered breakfast, child-focused entertainment, and activities make this a family favorite and must-attend event during the Tysons Corner Holiday season. Sponsored by First Steps Academy and Apple Tree School. Visit the website: www.TysonsCornerCenter.com.

Saturday/Dec. 7

Squirrel Nut Zippers Christmas Caravan. 8 p.m. At GMU Center for the Arts, Fairfax. Swing into the holiday season with platinum-selling jazz-rock band Squirrel Nut Zippers. Serving up a boisterous blend of Delta blues, big band, klezmer jazz, and calypso sound in its holiday program Christmas Caravan, Squirrel Nut Zippers is sure to get audiences dancing along.

Saturday/Dec. 7

Holiday Homes Tour of Herndon. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Holiday Homes Tour of Herndon started in 1979 as one of many events held in celebration of the town’s centennial and has continued as an annual event since 1985. The volunteer organized tour is a much-anticipated holiday event cultivating community to showcase all that is good, beautiful and the evolving history of Herndon. The Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston is pleased to volunteer at this year’s event, showcasing “The Blue House.” Volunteers are needed for shifts throughout the day. Visit www.HerndonRestonRotary.org.

Dec. 7-8

Children’s Holiday Gift Shopping. 11 a.m. Ages 5-12 years. Children are accompanied by a secret shopper to assist them with purchasing holiday gifts at the Colvin Run Mill General Store. Assistants help wrap and tag gifts. Cost of gifts not included. Adults may tour the site and visit the Miller’s House exhibit while waiting. Register at Fairfax County Park Authority ParkTakes web site.

Dec. 7-8

Holiday Train Show. Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday noon to 4 p.m. At the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, 11200 Fairfax Station Road, Fairfax Station. The Fairfax Station Railroad Museum will host its 33rd annual holiday train show with a multitude of model trains to include N (NTRAK), HO (PMC), LEGO, and G (WVMGRS) scales. The European Train Enthusiasts (ETE) group will display on Sunday. Santa is planning a stop on both days! Adults as well as children 13 and over - $6; children 5 to 12 - $3; 4 and under – free; museum members – free. Information on the museum and show can be found on the web: www.fairfax-station.org or call 703-425-9225.

Dec. 7 to Jan. 12, 2025

Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m. At Workhouse Arts Center, Lorton. The Hunchback of Notre Dame is based on the Victor Hugo novel with songs from the Disney animated feature. Set in 15th-century Paris, the musical tells the story of Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer who longs to be in the outside world. Held captive by his devious caretaker, the archdeacon Dom Claude Frollo, he escapes for the day, only to be treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Frollo are equally enthralled. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to save them all.

Santa Is Coming to Angelika Mosaic

Santa is lighting up the lobby at the Angelika Film Center this season with his annual visit to the Mosaic District. Guests are invited to bring their children and have family photos taken with Santa. Moviegoers are also invited to get comfy cozy at Angelika Mosaic this season with the return of popular signature holiday showcases and new releases lighting up the big screen.

Santa at Angelika Mosaic:

Sunday, Dec. 8 – 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 12 – 2:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 13 – 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 15 – 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 20, Saturday, Dec. 21, Sunday, Dec. 22, and Monday, Dec. 23 – 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 24 – 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Pajama Party:

Every Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 30 – Dec. 21, at 10 a.m. 

·      “Arthur Christmas” – Nov. 30 and Dec. 1

·      “Polar Express” – Dec. 7 and Dec. 8

·      “Elf” – Dec. 14 and Dec. 15

·      “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” – Dec. 21 and Dec. 22

3 Weeks of Christmas: 

The first three Wednesdays in December at 7 p.m.

·      “Elf” – Dec. 4

·      “It’s A Wonderful Life” – Dec. 11

·      “Love Actually” – Dec. 18

National Museum of the Marine Corps Celebrates the Holidays

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. 

Holiday Film Series

* “The Nightmare Before Christmas”: Dec. 7 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; December 8 at 1:30 p.m.

* “Mickey’s Magical Christmas: Snowed in at the House of Mouse”: Dec.14 at 11 a.m.; Dec. 17 at 1 p.m.; Dec. 22 at 1:30 p.m.

* “Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch” (2018 version); Dec. 14 at 3:00 p.m.; Dec. 15 at 1:30 p.m. 

Cookies, Cocoa, and Crafts

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

Santa Claus Visits: Santa Claus is paying a special visit to the Museum in his traditional red outfit on Dec. 14 from 1-4 p.m. and in his special camo suit on Dec. 17 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Families may take free photos with Santa and enjoy holiday-themed activities. 

Sunday/Dec. 8

45th Annual Herndon Holiday Arts & Crafts Show. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. At the Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. Featuring over 80 artisans, free reusable tote for the first 300 shoppers, perfect gifts for your loved ones.

Sunday/Dec. 8

Holiday Sip & Paint. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. At The Winery at Bull Run, Centreville. Join in a delightful day of creativity and relaxation as you learn to paint the charming “Winter Barn” scene on your own blank canvas while sipping on delicious Bull Run Wines.

Sunday/Dec. 8

Traditional Celtic Music. 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. At The Old Brogue Irish Pub, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls. Featuring Jody Marshall’s Annual Holiday Celebration. Jody’s sparkling hammered dulcimer, along with Paul Nahay’s rock-solid piano and Jim Queen’s versatile fiddle, deliver holiday spirit in repertoire ranging from beloved favorites to lesser-known gems. Tickets must be purchased in advance at https://oldbrogue.com/celtic-concert-series-fall-2024 - $21 plus tax general admission. 

Sunday/Dec. 8

McLean Winterfest Parade. 3:30 p.m. On Old Chain Bridge Road, from Fleetwood Avenue to Elm Street, McLean. After a five-year hiatus, this beloved tradition will once again wind its way through downtown McLean, showcasing the vibrant spirit of our community. Local businesses, youth organizations, schools, non-profits, elected officials, and many more will come together to celebrate the season and delight spectators of all ages. Pre-parade entertainment, featuring local dance groups, will be presented at the Langley Shopping Center and will begin at 2:30 p.m. Visit www.mcleantday.org/winterfest

Now Thru Dec. 8

Annual Toy Drive. At Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton (Bldgs. 16, 2, and 11). Annual Toy Drive in partnership with OAR NOVA to bring joy to local families impacted by the criminal justice system.

Sunday/Dec. 8

Traditional Celtic Music. 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. At the Old Brogue Irish Pub, 760-C Walker Road, Great Falls. Featuring Jody Marshall’s Holiday Celebration. One of the top hammered dulcimer players in America, Jody Marshall has been performing for more than a quarter century. She is accompanied by Jim Queen on fiddle, banjo and vocals, Susan Queen on bass guitar and vocals, and Paul Nahay on piano, bringing us holiday favorites old and new. Visit jodymarshall.net

Sunday/Dec. 8

Santa Cares: A Sensory Friendly Experience. 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. At Tysons Corner Center, McLean. Tysons Corner Center is pleased to offer a Sensory Santa experience this Holiday season, providing a calm and welcoming environment for children with sensory sensitivities to enjoy a memorable visit with Santa. Visit the website: www.TysonsCornerCenter.com.

Monday/Dec. 9

Pet Nights with Santa. 6 – 8 p.m. At Tysons Corner Center in Santa’s Chalet – Lower Level near Wasabi, in McLean. Tysons Corner Center invites your furry friend to dress in their holiday best for photos with Santa – Sponsored by the Veterinary Emergency Group. This beloved event has become a signature theme night during the Tysons Holiday season. Shoppers can bring their furry friends for memorable photos with Santa, along with treats and fun giveaways. Visit the website: www.TysonsCornerCenter.com.

Tuesday/Dec. 10

Vienna Police Santa’s Ride 2024. Santa and his reindeer are trading in their sleigh for motorcycles and joining Vienna police officers and other Northern Virginia agencies on a special detail – to bring holiday cheer to sick children in local hospitals. Residents who wish to support Santa’s Ride can drop off new, unwrapped toys, games, books, and gifts at the Vienna Police Department, 215 Center St. S; the Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry St., SE; or Vienna Town Hall, 127 Center St. S, during normal business hours (8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.). All items must be dropped off by 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024. On Tuesday, Dec. 10, police officers on motorcycles will escort Santa to local schools and government buildings to pick up the donated items and deliver them to hospitals and to community children in need. 

Thursday/Dec. 12

December Lunch N’ Life. 11:15 to 1 p.m. At Annandale United Methodist Church, 6935 Columbia Pike, Annandale. Hear Christmas Music performed by the Annandale High School Chorus, plus Guitarist, Art Hildebrand. Cost: $15. Visit the website: shepherdscenter-annandale.org.

Dec. 12-29

“Laughs in Spanish.” At 1st Stage, McLean. Step into the vibrant world of Miami’s Wynwood arts district with a joyous and downright hilarious snapshot of Cuban and Colombian-American culture. As Art Basel approaches, Mariana, the director of a swanky modern art gallery, faces a serious dilemma: her showroom has become an active crime scene. Part crime-comedy, part mother-daughter story, this play follows Mariana and her eccentric squad including her larger-than-life mother, a film and television star determined to save the show. Tickets can be purchased online at www.1ststage.org or by calling the 1st Stage box office at 703-854-1856. 

Dec. 13-29

Aurora’s Winter Circus Adventure. At Dulles Town Center, 21100 Dulles Town Circle, Suite 234, Dulles. Featuring world class artists from all over the globe, Aurora’s Winter Circus Adventure will immerse your family into the holiday spirit while keeping you on the edge of your seat. The 90-minute extravaganza includes performances in aerial artistry, FMX stunt cyclists, tight-wire dances, comedians, and more, all made complete with a dazzling award-winning set and lighting design. Visit the website, WinterCircusAdventure.com, or call the ticket hotline, (941) 870-7444.

Capital Art & Craft Festival/Dec 13-15

Join 300+ artists and vendors, and thousands of attendees at the Winter Capital Art and Craft Festival. Enjoy shopping for beautiful one-of-a-kind art, jewelry, clothing, furnishings, pottery, décor, and more. www.capitalartandcraftfestivals.com

Saturday/Dec. 14

Historic House Tours. 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. At Sunrise at Silas Burke House, 9619 Burke Lake Road, Burke. The Burke Historical Society will lead free tours of the historic house located on the grounds of Sunrise at Silas Burke House. Tours are free and reservations are not required.

Saturday/Dec. 14

American Festival Pops Orchestra: Holiday Pops: Songs of the Season. 4 p.m. At GMU Center for the Arts, Fairfax. Holiday Pops: Songs of the Season returns under the baton of Artistic Director and Conductor Peter Wilson, the former senior enlisted music advisor to The White House who served as a Marine violinist for 30 years. Enjoy a festive evening of seasonal favorites designed for the entire family.

Saturday, Dec. 14

Mystery Lovers Unite. 1-3 p.m. At Reston Regional Library, 11925 Bowman Towne Drive, Reston. Some 22 crime writers from the Chesapeake Chapter of Sisters in Crime talk about their new books and short stories published this year. Come hear about the new tales by Donna Andrews, Paul Awad, Kathleen Bailey, Kathryn Prater Bomey, Maya Corrigan, John DeDakis, Ginny Fite, Barb Goffman, Jeffrey James Higgins, Eleanor Cawood Jones, Libby Klein, Tara Laskowski, Con Lehane, Adam Meyer, Tom Milani, Kathryn O’Sullivan, Josh Pachter, Frances Schoonmaker, Shannon Taft, Art Taylor, Heather Weidner, and Stacy Woodson. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Visit Mystery Authors Extravaganza 2024 - Fairfax Library Calendar - Library Home (fairfaxcounty.gov)

Saturday/Dec. 14

Holidays at Lake Accotink Park. Starts at 10 a.m. At 7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield. Celebrate the holidays with family, friends and four-legged buddies over at Lake Accotink Park for a merry good time! Volunteer setup and decorations start at 10 a.m. and Santa arrives at noon. Enjoy holiday goodies, including treats for your pets, prizes and photos with Santa at the Lake Accotink Park Marina Pavilion.

Dec. 14-15

The Nutcracker. 3 p.m. At Centreville High School, 6001 Union Mill Road, Clifton. Presented by Mia Saunders Ballet. This production is more than a performance—it’s part of MSB’s Season of Giving. All proceeds from the event will support the Centreville High School Drama Boosters’ scholarship fund and the nonprofit CaringBridge, which connects families and caregivers with vital resources during health challenges. Tickets: $12 are available online at www.MiaSaundersBallet.com or at the door.

Sunday/Dec. 15

Burke Historical Society Meeting. 3-4:30 p.m. At Pohick Regional Library, 6450 Sydenstricker Road, Burke. Explore the rich history of Occoquan, Virginia at the December 15 meeting. The speaker will be Mayor Earnest Porta who has written a number of pieces on the history of this community to our south.

Sunday/Dec. 15

Gingerbread House Workshop. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. At Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, 1902 Reston Metro Plaza, Reston. Children are invited to participate in a one-of-a-kind workshop with Davio’s own pastry chef Chris Works who will lead the demonstration and workshop, teaching children how to decorate personalized gingerbread houses fit for the North Pole! The event is $55 per child (excluding tax and gratuity) and adult admission is free. Each participating child will receive one gingerbread house to decorate (with decorations included), hot chocolate and lunch. Visit: https://davios.com/reston/events/childrens-gingerbread-house-workshop

Sunday/Dec. 15

“L’Chaim II: A Tribute to the Jewish Legacy of Broadway (and Christmas).”

2 p.m. At McLean Community Center, Ingleside Ave., McLean. Four Broadway singers return to The Alden for the ‘sequel’ to their wildly popular “L’Chaim” performance last year. More than just stellar voices singing the best of Broadway’s Jewish composers (everyone but Cole Porter), “L’Chaim II” traces the history of musical theater with the parallel history of Jewish Americans. But mostly, it’s great music sung by great singers.

Sunday/Dec. 15

Holiday Charcuterie Building Workshop. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. or 2:30-4:30 p.m. At The Winery at Bull Run, Centreville. Join private instructor and owner of The Grazing Board, Naomi, as you sip on delicious mimosas and wines while learning to craft a beautiful charcuterie display just in time for your holiday entertaining! 

Sunday/Dec. 15

Free Holiday Concert. 4-5 p.m. At St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3439 Payne Street, Falls Church. NoVA Lights Chorale, a mixed chorus based in Northern Virginia, will present a free concert. Ring in the Holidays with music from all over the world, plus many traditional favorites and a special singalong. Visit https://novalightschorale.org.

Monday/Dec. 16

Legislative Town Hall. 6:30-8 p.m. At McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. State Senator Jennifer B. Boysko and Delegate Rip Sullivan will host a Town Hall to provide constituents with updates on legislative accomplishments, initiatives from the past year, and the upcoming legislative session. The event is open to the public. Constituents are encouraged to attend and participate. Question and answer period will follow the update by legislators.

Wednesday/Dec. 18

Senior Movie Day, “The Fabulous Four.” 10 a.m. Movie Theater at Reston Town Center, Reston. Sponsored by the Reston Association. Coffee, donuts and OJ are provided and door prizes are distributed prior to the movie. Free for 55-plus; registration is not required. Just show up.

Saturday/Feb. 1

Kiwanis Polar Dip. 2 p.m. At Lake Anne Village Plaza, Reston. The Kiwanis Club of Tysons is hosting its annual Kiwanis Polar Dip to raise money for organizations that benefit youth. The goal of the Kiwanis Polar Dip is to raise $30,000 for Food for Neighbors and a variety of Kiwanis Youth Programs in the Fairfax County area. A portion will also benefit Camp Sunshine, a retreat for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. Visit kiwanispolardip.org.