Kid Trips Top Picks For Family Fun: Holiday Season 2014

Get ready for mistletoe, merriment and memories. The holiday season is fast approaching and what better place to celebrate the season then the DC Metro area.  See our "Kid Trips Top Picks" list for wonderful family-friendly events for the whole family.  For even more events and year-round fun buy our book, Kid Trips Northern VA.

Fairfax Corner Tree Lighting
Fairfax VA
November 14, 2014

Join the fun on Friday, November 14, from 6 - 9pm at the Plaza.  Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus, horse and carriage rides, the first 200 children will receive a festive Fairfax Corner Santa Hats. Holiday entertainment, balloon twisters and more.

Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol
Adventure Theatre – Glen Echo, MD
November 14 – January 1, 2015

Tiny Tim longs to have his father home on Christmas day, but mean old Mr. Scrooge won’t give Bob Crachit the day off! There must be a way to change Scrooge’s mind – perhaps a ghost or two will set Scrooge right. Can this clever boy and his best friend Charlotte save Christmas and change the heart of the meanest man in town? This exciting world premiere story of a father and son is adapted by Broadway’s Tony-winning Ken Ludwig (Twas the Night Before Christmas) and his very own son, Jack. Get ready for the wildest ride you've ever had at Christmas!

Meadowlark Gardens Walk of Lights
November 15, 2013- January 6, 2014
Vienna, VA

Walk through a magical winter wonderland on the magical grounds of Meadowlark Gardens. Read our review of the 2012 event here to see pictures and find out what to expect.  Read our review of the 2012 event here to see pictures and find out what to expect.

National Harbor - Capital Wheel Tree Lighting
National Harbor
November 15, 2014

National Harbor - Capital Wheel Tree LightingNational Harbor MarylandNovember 15, 2014 National Harbor - Capital Wheel Tree LightingNational Harbor MarylandNovember 15, 2014 Join in on a full day of holiday fun topped off by the annual Tree Lighting! There will be tons of holiday activities–from the opening weekend of the Harbor Holiday Market to choir performances and holiday movie screenings.

Virginia Gateway Light Up
Gainesville, VA
November 15, 2014

The Plaza at Promenade on Saturday, November 15, from 5 - 8pm lights up the night sky.  Kick off the holiday season with a dazzling fireworks show and family fun activities!  Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus. Enjoy fireworks that begin at 7pm (viewable from the Plaza at Promenade).  Holiday performances by members of the Manassas Symphony Orchestra (5:30pm and 6:30pm) Horse and carriage rides and the first 200 children will receive a festive Virginia Gateway Santa Hat. Holiday entertainment, balloon twisters* and more!  NOTE - Tree lighting is on December 6, 2014 from 4:30pm to 7:30pm.

Symphony of Lights in Columbia
Columbia Symphony Woods
November 17, 2014 - January 4, 2015

Symphony of Lights is a spectacular display of 70 larger-than-life, animated and stationary light creations.  It is a treasured community tradition and a "must-see" during the holiday season. Cars, vans and buses can take a 20-30 minute drive-through the Symphony of Lights. Enjoy a beautiful display of holiday light creations, illuminated by a fantasy of color, design, and animation. Wonderful for all ages!  Click here for details.

Bull Run Festival of Lights
Nov 19, 2014 to Jan 4, 2015
Centreville, VA

For more than 17 years the Bull Run Festival of Lights at Bull Run Regional Park has drawn thousands of visitors from hundreds of miles away to Centreville, Virginia.  The Bull Run Festival of Lights is more than just a light show! After enjoying two and a half miles of light displays, don’t forget to stop at the Holiday Village. Complete with bonfires, s’mores, holiday merchandise, and free children’s activities, the Holiday Village is fun for the whole family.  Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are the busiest nights. Try to take advantage of the Monday through Thursday discounted price and avoid a long wait.  Admission fees vary by day.  Check the website for fees and discount options. 

Gift Of Nothing
The Kennedy Center – Family Theater
November 22 – December 28, 2014

This Kennedy Center world premiere musical stars characters from the comic strip MUTTS, a charming cat searches for a special gift for his best friend, and a lovable pup. Join Mooch and Earl for this heartwarming adventure!  This family-friendly theatrical production is recommended for ages 4 and up.

Silver Spring Thanksgiving Day Parade
November 22, 2014

2014 Silver Spring Thanksgiving Day Parade will be held on Saturday, November 22nd 10:00 a.m. From Ellsworth Dr. to Silver Spring Ave.

US Botanic Gardens Seasons Greenings 
Washington, DC
November 27, 2014 - January 4, 2015

This must-see exhibit is a wonder to behold, with model trains and replicas of DC buildings and monuments made of real plants.   The theme of "World's Fair" features famous historical buildings from past fairs such as Paris' Statue of Liberty, Chicago's Ferris wheel, Seattle's Space Needle and more.
 
Alexandria Holiday Tree Lighting
November 28, 2014, 6-8 p.m.

Everyone is invited to kick off the holiday season with musical entertainment, greetings from the Mayor and Santa Claus, and the lighting of Alexandria's Holiday Tree. Held rain or shine @ Market Square, 301 King Street.

Mount Vernon By Candlelight
November 28 - December 21, 2014

"Mrs. Washington" hosts an enchanting evening of candlelit tours, fireside Christmas caroling, and hot cider and ginger cookies. The tour includes the first and second floors, featuring characters from the Washington’s world guiding visitors through the home and adding ambiance and authenticity to a traditional Christmas evening at Mount Vernon.  Timed tickets are $22 for adults and $15 for children 11 and under and are on sale now at the Ford Orientation Center or at MountVernon.org.

Reston Town Center Holiday Parade
Friday, November 28, 2014 – 11am

Join all the fun at Reston Town Center.  An annual tradition on the Friday after Thanksgiving since 1990, the Reston Holiday Parade has grown in every way! Macy’s-style balloons, musicians and marching bands, dancers, antique cars, community groups, and more make up this one-of-a-kind, one-hour procession welcoming the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus for the season.  The 2014 Parade Theme - “Home for the Holidays” - invites adults and kids alike to join the fun to celebrate home, family, and freedom!

Ticonderoga Farms Christmas Festival
Chantilly, VA
Nov 28 – Dec 21, 2014  - Check Weekend Schedule

The Winter Christmas Festival includes access to farm attractions with an admission fee of $7.95 per person. Depending on the weather, it can be a winter wonderland with snow, or just another outdoor time at the farm exploring the nature. Fire pits are inviting to keep you warm and make some s’ mores or for roasting hot dogs.  This site is open weekends Nov 28th, 29th, 30th Dec 6th, 7th, 13th,14th  and the last weekend of 20th & 21st.  

ZooLights at the National Zoo
Nov 28, 2014 - Jan 1, 2015 (Except Dec 24, 25, 31)

Save the date for ZooLights, the National Zoo’s annual winter celebration.  ZooLights includes live music performances, tasty winter treats, and plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping. More than 500,000 environmentally friendly LED lights transform the Zoo into a winter wonderland. New this year will be a dazzling light show set to music!

Nutcracker
The Warner Theatre
November 29, 2014 - December 28, 2014

On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of his highly-acclaimed production, Septime Webre is planning some special surprises for his celebrated all-American Nutcracker. Set in 1882 Georgetown, this gorgeous production showcases the grandeur of The Washington Ballet’s international roster of dancers and majesty of Tchaikovsky’s music. Replete with swirling snowflakes, cherry blossoms and historical characters, including George Washington as the heroic nutcracker, TWB’s The Nutcracker has become a tradition for generations of family and friends to celebrate the holidays.

Discovery Theater’s Seasons of Light
Smithsonian Theatre For Young Audiences
December 1-19, 2014

Joy, warmth, and community illuminate seasonal holiday celebrations the world over. Back for its 16th season, this signature Discovery Theater show celebrates the history and customs of Ramadan, Devali, Sankta Lucia, Chanukah, Las Posadas, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and the First Nations’ tradition of the Winter Solstice in an interactive event that bridges communities and cultures. This show sells out early, so get your tickets now! Book earl as show sells out quickly!  Recommended for ages 5 – 10.  Tickets go fast.  Tickets for this show are $6 for groups and $8 for individuals. For additional ticket info, check the website.

Norwegian Christmas - Union Station Tree Lighting
December 01, 2014 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

A tradition begun in 1996, the tree is a gift from the people of Norway to the people of the United States as thanks for your assistance during and after World War II, and for the continued friendship between our two nations.  This year's theme: Celebrate the Arctic. The Arctic is home to Santa Claus -- and to a wide variety of furry friends, some of whom will be on our tree.  The Embassy has confirmed that Santa Claus will be on hand with gifts for the children, and there will be gløgg and cookies for the rest of the audience.
This will be held at Union Station, West Carriage Porch, 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington DC 20002. Admission is free and no tickets are required.
VillageVillage of ShirlingtonShirlington, VADecember 2, 2
Village of Shirlington - Tree Lighting
Shirlington, VA
December 2, 2014

Shirlie's annual Light Up the Village tree lighting event will be Tuesday, December 2nd from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm. Christmas tree lighting, photos with Santa, horse & carriage rides and more!National Harbor - Capital Wheel Tree LightingNational Harbor MarylandNovember 15, 2014

Festival of Lights - The Mormon Temple
Kensington, MD
Dec 4, 2014 – Jan 1, 2015

In December, celebrate the Christmas season by coming to the 37th annual Festival of Lights. See a spectacular outdoor light display, a live Nativity scene, international Nativity sets, and nightly concerts. Free tickets available 90 minutes before each performance.  For more details and to see the video of the stunning light show, visit the website.

National Christmas Tree Lighting
December 4, 2014

The opening ceremony for the 92nd Annual Lighting of the National Christmas Tree will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2014, at 5:00 p.m., and marks the opening of the three-week event sponsored by the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation.  For those that did not get tickets in this year’s lottery, never fear.  The National Christmas Tree is lit daily and can be viewed by the public throughout the holiday season.  Please note, it is cold and little ones can get cranky.  Be sure to bring a stroller if needed and make plans to warm up with at a nearby restaurant or café.

Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
December 6, 2014

At sundown on the day of the Scottish Christmas Walk parade, Alexandria's harbor lights up as more than 50 illuminated boats cruise the Potomac River at the historic waterfront, led by Alexandria's fireboat Vigilant and Washington, DC's fireboat John Glenn. New this year, DC media personality Tommy McFly of 94.7 Fresh FM will be the parade announcer. At the marina before and after the parade, stop in to the Torpedo Factory Art Center's Holiday Open House between 4 and 7 p.m. to enjoy performances by the Alexandria Choral Society plus gift shopping in open artist studios.

Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend
December 6, 2014

Consistently ranked by the Southeast Tourism Society as one of the Top 20 Events in the South, The Campagna Center's Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend and Parade draws nearly 30,000 individuals and families. Tourists travel from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region to participate in this celebrated community event. Dozens of Scottish Clans, pipe and drum bands, Scottish dancers, re-enactment groups, Scottie dogs, dignitaries and, of course, Santa Claus will march through the streets of Old Town. Parade begins at St. Asaph and Wolfe sts. Admission is free and the parade starts at 11am.

Bethesda's Winter Wonderland
December 6, 2014

Enjoy a variety of holiday activities including a professional chorale concert, live ice sculpting, musical performances by local elementary and high schools, and a visit from Santa Claus.

Christmas Revels
Lisner Auditorium Washington, DC
December 6-7 and 12-14, 2014

The Christmas Revels, is a festive, fully staged celebration of the Winter Solstice and the return of sun and light after the “shortest day,” radiating hope and joy in the renewal of life and the circle of the seasons. Seen by over 10,000 people every December, it draws on traditions and rituals from many lands and peoples, focusing each year on a different culture or related cultures.  For show times and ticket information, visit the website.

College Park Aviation Museum Santa Fly In
December 6, 2014

Watch Santa fly in to the historic College Park Airport and then have your picture taken with him. Enjoy holiday arts and crafts in the museum. The event will be held on December 6, 2014 from 12 - 4pm.  Free with museum admission.

Holiday Train Show Weekend
Fairfax Station Railroad Museum
Fairfax Station, VA
December 6 – 7, 2014

The 25th Annual Holiday Train Show will be at the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum on December 6, 2014 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 7 from noon to 4:00 p.m

Home Sweet Home
Family Gingerbread Workshop
The National Building Museum
Washington DC
December 6, 2014

Join the interactive and fun gingerbread workshop! Build your own edible house using gingerbread and royal icing, and decorate it using an assortment of materials. Imagine a home with candy trim, a cookie roof, and icing-covered eaves—fun for all! Two sessions will be offered on Saturday, December 6, at 10 am–Noon and at 2–4 pm. $60 Members, $75 Non-members, cost per house. One house is a large enough project for a family of four.  This event does not require an RSVP.  You must register for this event. Register

Manassas Christmas Parade
December 6, 2014

The Greater Manassas Christmas Parade has become the largest holiday parade in Northern Virginia. Attracting an average of 60,000 spectators, the parade consists of over 100 marching units, high-flying balloons, and approximately 2,000 Participants. Watch the enchantment of the parade unfold as it marches through Old Town with amazing floats, local celebrities, live performances, marching bands, equestrians, animated characters, giant balloons, and, of course, Santa himself!  Join the parade this year on Saturday, December 6th at 10 am.

Pentagon Row Tree Lighting
Arlington, VA
December 6, 2014

On December 6 from 5pm to 8pm will celebrate Pentagon Row’s expanded ice rink with its second annual Let it Row event. The holiday celebration will feature an on-ice firework display, live entertainment, music by DJ Saucee, a $1000 shopping spree giveaway, food samples and more.  The ice rink will officially open for the holiday season on Saturday, November 1 and will continue its holiday tradition of its nightly snowfall every night beginning Thanksgiving Day at 6:30 pm and again at 8:30 pm.

Ticonderoga Farms Breakfast With Santa
Chantilly, VA
December 6, 7, 13 & 14

Breakfast with Santa  is back this year.  Saturday Dec 6th – Sunday Dec 7th and for Saturday Dec 13th – Sunday Dec 14th at 10:30am each day. The Red Barn will have Breakfast with pancakes and sausage links hot and ready to eat. If you wish visit with Santa in the barn all decorated in red and green for the holidays and also take that special “family” picture during the holidays. Breakfast paid reservation includes the above activities at the site. Adults $13.95  Children 10 and under $9.95. This is by reservation only so please fill out the form and submit online.

Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-A-Long
Vienna, VA
December 6, 2014 – 4pm

Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Wolf Trap’s 2014 Holiday Sing-A-Long! This annual musical celebration hosts a performance by the United States Marine Band and a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs with choir and vocal groups from the metropolitan Washington area. Trap will be participating in Toys for Tots by collecting new, unwrapped toys at the entrance to the Filene Center before the Sing-A-Long. Donations are strictly voluntary and not a requirement. Admission is free, and no tickets are required. Parking is free, but limited, so please plan on arriving early.

DAR Christmas Open House
DAR Constitution Hall – Washington DC
Wed, Dec 10, 2014 – 5:30pm – 8pm

Bring your friends and family to the 13th annual public holiday open house! Experience the elegance and Christmas splendor of Memorial Continental Hall, a Registered Historic Landmark. Tour the 31 period rooms depicting scenes of early American life. Explore the DAR Museum Gallery, featuring antique toys and a celebration of childhood of the past in the exhibition "Return to Toyland ".  View other smaller exhibitions on historic Revolutionary War documents as well as famous DAR members.  Enjoy Christmas caroling from area choirs.  This event is free to the public.

Nutcracker
Hylton Performing Arts Center
December 11 - 18, 2014

A “crown jewel of holiday entertainment” our family friendly, traditional Nutcracker is set in nineteenth century Germany. The ballet opens at a charming Christmas party at which the mysterious Dr. Drosselmeyer gives his little niece Clara a magical toy that takes her on an unforgettable journey. From the Christmas tree that grows to a towering sixty feet tall to toy soldiers who come to life and the magical land of the Sugar Plum Fairy, this “Nutcracker” is sure to enchant audiences of all ages. The professional dancers of MBT are accompanied by over thirty members of the Manassas Ballet Theatre Orchestra performing the classic Tchaikovsky score.

Alexandria Candlelight Tours
December 13, 2014

Take a break from the fast pace of the season and enjoy the unique charm and history of Old Town at Alexandria’s most popular holiday event! Tour Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, Carlyle House, and Lee-Fendall House by candlelight, while enjoying seasonal decorations, entertainment and light refreshments. This year even sweeter with Historic Chocolate!  The event runs from 6-9 p.m. Admission is $20 adults, $15 seniors (65 and older) and active military, $5 children (ages 5-12); tickets online: shop.alexandriava.gov.

Annapolis Christmas Lights Boat Parade
Eastport Yacht Club
December 13, 2014, 5:30pm – 8:30pm

2014 marks the 32nd annual Lights Parade in Annapolis Harbor.  More than 70 power and sailboats show off their holiday decorations.  The Lights Parade takes place along the Annapolis Spa Creek waterfront, below and above the bridge.  Bring the whole family to enjoy this fun-filled evening and be sure to dress for the weather. You may also view the parade from the decks of the Harbor Queen, which will be decorated, and be open to the public for perfect viewing of the parade and be in her normal slip at the end of City Dock from 5:30 - 8:30 pm on December 13, 2014. For more information about ticket prices, visit the website.


Arlington Wreath Laying Ceremony
December 13, 2014, 9:30am – 3pm

The annual Wreaths Across America event will be held at Arlington National Cemetery Saturday, December 13, 2014. The Opening Ceremony will be held at 9:30 a.m. at McClellan Gate, which is at the intersection of McClellan and Eisenhower Drives – near the main entrance of Arlington National Cemetery. At the ceremony, volunteers will receive a short briefing and then move to the designated areas of the cemetery to participate in the laying of wreaths at headstones.
For a schedule of events, parking details and more general information, go to www.wreathsacrossamerica.org

Civil War By Candlelight Tours
Sully Historic Site – Chantilly, VA
December 13, 2014 – Check Tour Times

Experience a Civil War Christmas as Confederate soldiers cook dinner in the field and fire the Christmas guns. Enjoy music by Evergreen Shade, make a 19th century holiday decoration, sample hot cider and homemade cookies. House tour is 45 min. outside festivities available until 8 p.m.  Recommended for ages 5 to adult.  Prepaid reservations are required.

College Park Aviation Museum - Trains & Planes
December 13 - 20, 2014

During the holiday season College Park Aviation Museum gets ready for the festivities as miniature trains, villages, tunnels, and depots spark the imagination and bring history to life. The National Capital Trackers bring a fascinating and constantly moving display of model railroads to the Museum.  The event will be held from Saturday, December 13 to Saturday, December 20.  FREE with museum admission.

National Cathedral Christmas
The Joy Of Christmas
December 13, 2014 - Noon

A perennial holiday favorite, from the opening procession accompanied by the Great Organ to the Cathedral carillon and the beloved carols, old and new, this festive concert has long been a Washington family tradition and one that is often sold out.  Bring the whole family for this hour-long presentation of the Joy of Christmas specially designed for our younger fans.  For ticket information visit the website.

Santa At The Mill
Colvin Run Mill
Great Falls, VA
December 13, 2014

No reservations required. 3-6 p.m. Enjoy old-fashioned family holiday fun at Colvin Run Mill. Visit Santa in the mill and see the Christmas tree trimmed with Victorian decorations. Join the costumed 49th Virginia Volunteer Infantry caroling around a bonfire. Roast marshmallows and make a family craft. $5/person.

Choral Arts Society of Washington presents: A Family Christmas
The Kennedy Center
December 20, 2014 - 1 pm

The magic of Christmas is found in the eyes of children, and A Family Christmas has been inspiring this excitement for 10 years. This one-hour highly participatory concert delights the young with songs of Santa, Rudolph, and Frosty, and fills the young-at-heart with joy. Perfect for children 5 and older... and don't forget the grandparents. Check the website for ticket information.

Holiday Model Train Display
Colvin Run Mill
Great Falls, VA
December 20, 21, 27 & 28, 2014

No reservations required. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Fun for all ages! Watch G-gauge trains wend their way through a miniature western town in the Colvin Run Barn. FREE

Water Skiing Santa
Old Town Alexandria
December 24, 2014 - 1 pm

Now in its 29th year, this favorite DC-area Christmas Eve event comes to Old Town Alexandria for the very first time. Gather at Alexandria's Potomac River waterfront for a spectacular show by the Waterskiing Santa and his wakeboarding reindeer, plus flying elves, the Grinch and his friends, Frosty the Snowman, and Jack Frost. And this year's show will feature a new, never-seen-before act in the Washington, DC area. The prime viewing area is along the waterfront between King Street and Oronoco Street, which includes Founders Park and the Alexandria City Marina. Admission is free!

Alexandria First Night – New Years Eve Celebration
December 31, 2014

First Night Alexandria is one of the best New Year's Eve Party in the Washington, DC region for families with kid under 12! Tickets are only $20 per person (13 years and older), and kids under 12 get in FREE! First Night is a celebration of the New Year through the performing arts. Coffee shops, retail stores, office lobbies, museums and public buildings are turned into performance venues to showcase incredible local and regional talent.  Plus don’t miss the big finale just before midnight when the mayor and friends count down to a fabulous fireworks display on the Potomac River!

Rocknoceros New Years Eve Party
Vienna, VA
December 31

At Jammin' Java, families can rock-in the New Year on the early side at the 8th Annual Rocknoceros New Years Eve Party.  The show is Wednesday Dec 31, 2014. Doors open at1:30 PM.  The show begins at 2:00 PM.  All ages are welcome. Full lunch and drink menu available.  General admission seating. First come, first seated. It's a blast!

 

Image Credit:

Smithsonian National Zoological Park