Kid Trips Northern Virginia Top Picks for Family Fun: Winter 2013

Now that the leaves are gone and the winter chill has settled in for good, its time to set our sights on holiday festivities, family-friendly shows, and cozy evenings by a fire.  To help Northern Virginia families plan their best ever winter, we have a compiled a list of our TOP PICKS for Winter Fun in the area.  For even more options, check out our book, Kid Trips Northern Virginia, for descriptions of hundreds of local venues, and chapters on ice-skating, indoor play areas, hands-on art studios, seasonal fun and more.  If you don't already have this local guide, its the perfect time to wrap it up as a gift for yourself!

Read our TOP PICKS for Winter Family Events 2013 in the DC metro area: 

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November 

Nutcracker Performances
November-December

Asburn Academy of Ballet at Dominion High School, BalletNova Center for Dance at the Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, Classical Ballet Theatre at the Ernst Community Culture Center NVCC Annandale, Center for Ballet Arts at NVCC Alexandria, Fairfax Ballet Company at W.T. Woodson High School, Gainesville Ballet at the Hylton Performing Arts Center,  Joffrey Ballet at the Kennedy Center, Loudoun Ballet Company at Loudoun Valley High School, Manassas Ballet Theater at the Hylton, Metropolitan School of Arts at  Ernst Community Culture Center NVCC,  Northern Virginia Performing Arts Company in Leesburg, Klezmer Nutcracker Holiday Concert at JCCNV, Virginia Ballet Company at NVCC Annandale, Washington Ballet at the Warner Theatre.

ICE! at National Harbor
November 15, 2013- January 5, 2014
National Harbor, MD
Link

A holiday tradition in the DC Metro area, this year's theme is ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Walk through amazing, colorful ice sculptures and take a ride down a two-story-tall ice slide. Plus, don't miss the nightly Harbor Light Show at the 65-foot National Harbor tree every 30 minutes after sunset until 10 pm.  On the weekends, visitors to the National Harbor can also enjoy Free holiday performances, carousel rides with Santa, and a holiday market.

The Twelve Days of Christmas
November 15- December 30
Adventure Theatre, Glen Echo, MD
www.adventuretheatre-mtc.org

The fate of Christmas is up in the air when the french hens can't stop arguing, the six geese have flown to Florida, and someone has stolen the five golden rings!  

Meadowlark Gardens Walk of Lights
November 15, 2013- January 6, 2014
Vienna, VA
www.nvrpa.org/park/winter_walk_lights

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.

Reston Holiday Parade
November 29, 2013
Reston Town Center
Link

Reston Town Center is alive for the holidays. The ice skating pavilion is open for skaters, and the big parade kicks off at 11 AM. Expect grand floats, Macy's Style balloons, live entertainment, Santa Claus, and big crowds. It's a great event!

Bull Run Festival of Lights
November 20, 2013-January 5, 2013
Centreville, VA
Link

This drive through holiday light display is an epic, local  family-favorite. The event features a carnival and winter village on weekends. Be on the lookout for coupons and online specials closer to opening date.

Lyle the Crocodile
November 20 - January 10
www.imaginationstage.org

Imagination Stage's newest musical show Lyle the Crocodile is sure to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.  Based on the children's book Lyle, Lyle Crocodile and The House on East 88th Street by Bernard Waber, the story tells the tale of the Primm family who finds a crocodile in the bathtub in their New York City apartment.

Turkey Trots
November 23-30

Want to burn off all that pie?  Sign-up the whole family  for one of the areas many turkey trots!  Kid-friendly trots include: Marine Corps' 10K/Turkey Trot Miler, Turtle Trot 5K/1K, Arlington's 5K Fun Run/Walk, Virginia Run's 5K Run/2K Walk, Ashburn Farm 10K/5K/2K, Freeze Your Gizzard 5K/1K, and the Drumstix Dash 8K/Family-Friendly Fun Run.

Elephant & Piggie's We Are in a Play!
Nov. 23- Dec. 31
Kennedy Center
www.kennedy-center.org

Best friends Gerald and Piggie find themselves in an excellent musical adventure in this world premier adaptation of Mo Williams' award-winning books.  

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December

Please see November listings for events and shows that are ongoing thru December

Hanukkah Festival
December 1
Alexandria, VA
www.chabadalexandria.org

Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria-Arlington hosts a Menorah lighting, dreidels, latkes and donuts at the Crown Plaza Hotel.

Seasons of Light
December 2-20
Washington, DC
www.discoverytheater.org

This signature Discovery Theater show celebrates the history and customs of Ramadan, Devali, Santa Lucia, Chanukah, Los Posados, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and the Winter Solstice in an interactive event that bridges cultures.

Drumming With Dishes: The Holiday Edition
December 3-8
Lorton, VA
www.artsonthehorizon.org

This playful adventure takes place in a special kitchen, where two friends cook up joyful music together.  From a pasta-box Christmas tree to dreidels spinning on posts and pans, these friends bring favorite holiday songs to life in a whimsical 35-minute interactive show.

Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting
December 6
Leesburg, VA
www.leesburgva.gov

Join friends and neighbors at the Town Green for festive holiday songs and the lighting of the Leesburg Christmas Tree and Menorah.  

National Christmas Tree & Pageant of Peace
December 6 - January 1
Washington, DC
www.nps.gov

Although tickets are required for the tree lighting ceremony, after the tree is lit you can visit the Ellipse  throughout the holiday season to enjoy free concerts and displays including a 57 decorated trees, the model National Christmas Tree Railroad, and a Christmas manger.  Children can visit Santa and his Elves at Santa's Workshop at scheduled afternoon and evening hours right up until 3:00 p.m. on Christmas eve (to allow him to return to the North Pole).

A Christmas Carol
December 5-22
Alexandria, VA
www.thelittletheatre.com

The Little Theatre of Alexandria presents this family classic complete with Victorian carols and a charming set.

Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend 
December 6-7
Alexandria, VA
www.campagnacenter.org

Celebrate the holiday season and Alexandria's Scottish heritage with a Christmas Marketplace, special Deck the Halls With Santa event, Taste of Scotland, a Holiday Designer Tour of Homes, and the famous Scottish Walk Parade with over 100 clans, pipe and drum bands, Scottish dancers, re-enactment groups, Scottie dog groups and dignitaries - including Santa!

Ticonderoga Farms Breakfast With Santa
December 7, 8, 14, 15
Chantilly, VA
www.ticonderoga.com

The Red Barn will serve pancakes and sausage while children visit with Santa.  Reservations must be made before December 2.

Holiday Sing-Along at Wolf Trap
December 7
Vienna, VA
www.wolf-trap.org

This free sing-along let by the Marine Band is a wonderful way to kick-off the holiday season.  Dress warmly, bring a bell, a candle, and a donation for the Toys for Tots collection!

Holiday Parade of Boats
December 7
Alexandria, VA
www.visitalexandriava.com

At dusk more than 50 illuminated boats cruise the river at Old Town Alexandria's waterfront.  Festivities begin in the afternoon at Alexandria City Marina behind the Torpedo Factory.

Childrens Holiday Shopping at Frying Pan Farm Park
December 7-9
Herndon, VA
www.fairfaxcounty.gov

Volunteers help children shop the Country Store for unique items in all price ranges.  Free wrapping too!

Christmas Dreams from The Nutcracker
December 7
Washington, DC
www.thenationaldc.org

This annual presentation  by the Virginia Ballet Company is part of the popular Saturday Morning at the National series and features selections from The Nutcracker.  Arrive early to get your free ticket to this popular event.  

Gunston Hall Plantation Christmas
December 7
Mason Neck, VA
www.gunstonhall.org

Costumed characters will greet your family at this enchanting annual Christmas event at Gunston Hall.  Ride in a horse-drawn carriage,  sip warm cider by the fires, and sample period food prepared in the hearth kitchen.  A wonderful way to experience Christmas as it was in the 18th century.

Vienna Boys Choir
December 13 (at GMU)
December 15 (at the Hylton)
www.cfa.gmu.edu
www.hyltoncenter.org

The spirit of Christmas comes to life when the angelic voices of the Vienna Boys Choir come together in this joyous holiday concert.

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January 

Please see November and December listings for events and shows that are ongoing thru January

First Day Hikes
January 1
State Parks

Begin the New Year by taking a healthy hike, connecting with nature, and welcoming in the New Year with friends and family.  State parks across the region are participating with special events.

The Little Mermaid Jr.
January 10-19
Arlington, VA
www.encorestageva.org

Sing along to your favorite songs and watch Ariel and her friends try to break Ursula's curse and win the heart of the Prince. 

Recess Monkey: Deep Sea River
January 19
https://jamminjava.com/kids-shows

This popular, award-winning national children's group is visiting Jammin' Java for two amazing shows. Expect to move, sing-along and rock out in an afternoon of fun. 

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February

Please see January listings for events that are ongoing thru February

Chinese New Year Festival
February 1
Falls Church, VA
www.chinesenewyearfestival.org

Celebrate the Chinese New Year at Luther Jackson Middle School with live music, Asian dancers, children's games and crafts, Asian cuisine, cooking demonstrations, Chinese language workshops, and the popular dragon parade.

Lunar New Year Celebration
February 1-2
Fairfax, VA
www.shopfairoaksmall.com

Special Asian exhibitions, performances, children's craft workshops and ceremonies are held over this two-day celebration in Fair Oaks Mall Grand Court including dragon dances, martial arts demonstrations, and a lantern festival.

Rumpelstiltskin
February 5-March 16
Bethesda, MD
www.imaginationstage.org

When a poor miller's daughter enlists the help of a rotten riddling fairy named Rumpelstiltskin to spin straw into gold, she learns the price for his help is too high.  Will she be able to solve his riddle in time to save her family?

FROGZ
February 8
Manassas, VA
www.hyltoncenter.org

After two broadway runs, the critically acclaimed Imago troupe brings their enchanting mix of dance, circus arts, masks and illusions to the Hylton Center.  Frogs do acrobatics, penguins play musical chairs, and lizards wrestle in this lively, inventive show.  For our sister site's review of a previous Imago Theatre performance at the Hylton click HERE.

Orphie and the Book of Heroes
February 8-23
Washington, DC
www.kennedy-center.org

Spunky and curious Orphie, a young girl in Ancient Greece, sets out to save storyteller Homer and his Book of Heroes in this humorous world premier musical.  

Hanukkah on Ice
Nov. 26
Arlington, VA
www.chabadalexandria.org

This popular event at the Pentagon Row Ice Rink combines ice skating fun for all ages  with a  giant menorah lighting.  Kosher hot dogs, hot latkes & refreshments are available for dinner.
 
National Hanukkah Menorah Lighting 
Nov. 27
Washington, DC
www.nationalmenorah.org

This free lighting ceremony on the Ellipse features performances by the US Air Force Band, The Three Cantors, and violinist Miri Ben-Ari.  Family fun includes hot latkes and donuts, menorah kits and dreidels, and Dreidelman and The Macabees.

Nutcracker Fantasy
November 29-December 29
Glen Echo, MD
www.thepuppetco.org

Tickets are going fast for this wildly popular holiday show by the Puppet Co.  Music from Tchaikovsky's famous ballet accompanies dancing marionettes and costume characters in this unique production.
  
Santa's Frosty Follies
November 29
Reston, VA
www.metropolitanarts.org

This free family fun performance at the Reston Town Center Ice Rink includes Metropolitan School of Arts dancers and playful routines by Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Suzy Snowflake and her International Dolls.

Christmas at Mount Vernon
November 29 - January 6
Alexandria, VA
www.mountvernon.org

On selected days and evenings starting the last week in November through the first week in January, families can get in the holiday spirit by learning about the Washington family's Christmas traditions, meeting historical characters, touring the mansion by candlelight, and singing carols in front of a bonfire.

US Botanic Gardens Seasons Greenings 
November 28- January 5
Washington, DC
www.usbg.gov

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. 

Old Town Christmas Tree Lighting
November 29
Alexandria, VA
www.alexandriava.gov

Stroll the shops along historic King Street, join in caroling, and enjoy the lighting of Old Town's Christmas tree in market square.   

Ticonderoga Farms Winter Christmas Festival
November 29 - December 15
www.ticonderoga.com

Shop for Christmas trees for free or pay admission to visit the Winter Christmas Festival.  The Festival includes hayrides, access to the farm attractions, and fire pits for roasting s'mores and hot dogs.  See November listing for Breakfast with Santa information.

Santa's on the Farm
November 29-30
Bluemont, VA
www.greatcountryfarms.com

Welcome Santa as he arrives at Great Country Farms in his Red Tractor Sleigh.  Enjoy fresh cider donuts, 5-acre play area, and shop the Country Store for Christmas gift baskets.  

Santa's Secret Shop
November 30-December 22 (weekends)
Sterling, VA
http://www.heritagefarmmuseum.org

On Saturdays and Sundays kids only are invited to shop for family and friends in Santa's Secret Shop full of unique gifts.

Zoolights
November 29-January 1
National Zoo
www.nationalzoo.si.edu

In addition to the zoo's magnificent light displays, the new Amtrak Wildlife Train Park will be on display and kids can take a ride on the FedEx Panda Express around the Great Meadow.

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Santa's Frosty Follies
December 14
Alexandria, VA
www.metropolitanarts.org

This free family fun performance at the Kingstown Towne Center includes Meropolitan School of Arts dancers and playful routines by Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Suzy Snowflake and her International Dolls.

MSO's Annual Family Concert: Bedtime Stories
December 14
Manassas, VA
www.hyltoncenter.org

This world premiere Manassas Symphony Orchestra production features delightful music and the illustrations of the provocative and beautiful new children's picture book Bluebird.

Holiday Ice Skating Show
December 14
Alexandria, VA
www.fairfaxcounty.gov

Watch talented skaters show off their moves at Mount Vernon RECenter's free holiday ice show.

Santa Hayride and Lakeside Winter VIllage
December 14
Lake Accotink Park, VA
www.fairfaxcounty.gov

Enjoy holiday music and merriment on a horse-drawn wagon ride through scenic Lake Accotink Park.  Call ahead to reserve your spot!  The $10 fee includes the wagon ride, a visit with Santa, and stories around a lakeside campfire.  

Winter's Eve at Glen Echo Park
December 14
Glen Echo, MD
www.glenechopark.org

This wonderful free evening celebration includes a sing-along, holiday crafts, story time, hot cocoa, and musical performances.

Santa at the Mill
December 14
Great Falls, VA
www.fairfaxcounty.gov

Enjoy old-fashioned holiday fun at Colvin Run Mill.  Visit Santa, join the 49th Virginia Volunteer Infantry caroling around a bonfire, roast marshmallows, and make a family craft.

Holidays From Around the World
December 14
Washington, DC
www.thenationaldc.org

From Kwanzaa and Christmas to the Festival of Lights, this family-friendly show offers families a look into the global celebrations that occur during this most wonderful time of the year.

Jingle Jam
December 14
Leesburg, VA
www.tallyholeesburg.com

Support the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at the Tally-Ho Theatre with a Junior Jam Rock-n-Roll concert and pictures with the Jingle Jam Santa.  Junior Jingle Jam is at 11:30 a.m.; Jingle Jam is at 2:30 & 8 p.m.

The Lion, the Unicorn, and Me
December 14-22
www.kennedy-center.org

The Washington National Opera brings the award-winning children's book to life in this heartwarming family opera based on the story of the Nativity from the donkey's point of view.

Elf: The Musical
December 17-January 5
Washington, DC
www.kennedy-center.org

Elf is the hilarious tale of Buddy, an orphan who leaves the North Pole to find his true identify.  

Holiday Model Train Display
December 21, 22, 28, 29
Great Falls, VA
www.fairfaxcounty.gov

Watch G-gauge trains travel through a mini-western town in the Colvin Run Barn.

Rocknoceros New Years Eve Party
December 31
Vienna, VA
www.jamminjava.com

At Jammin' Java, families can rock-in the New Year on the early side (11:00 AM or 2:00 PM) at the 7th Annual Rocknoceros New Years Eve Party.  It's a blast!

Ringing in Hope Walk, Run & Fun
December 31
Brambleton/Asburn, VA
www.ringinginhope.com

Ring in the new year with a fun run before sundown and loads of family fun.  Proceeds support local charities including Loudoun Habitat for Humanity, Make-A-Wish, LAWS, and INOVA.

First Night Alexandria
December 31
Alexandria, VA
www.firstnightalexandria.org

The biggest New Year's Celebration in Northern Virginia requires tickets, but with the annual Fun Hunt, 90 live performances, children's activities, and a spectacular fireworks finale, it is well worth the price of admission.

City of Falls Church Watch Night
December 31
Falls Church, VA
www.fallschurchva.gov

This annual, free New Year's Eve celebration is held near the crossroads of Broad and Washington Streets in Falls Church.  Children's entertainment includes magicians, storytelling, face painting, and a moon bounce.  Events are held indoors and out.

Sesame Street Live: Make A New Friend
December 12-15
Fairfax, VA
www.patriotcenter.com

Elmo, Grover, Abby and their Sesame Street friends welcome Chamki, Grover's friend from India, to Sesame Street.  Together they share friendship, singing, dancing, and cookies.

Winter Wonderland Train Show
December 12-16
Manassas, VA
www.center-for-the-arts.org

Enjoy a festive holiday train display at the Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory.  Bring a canned-good or toy donation to benefit SERVE, Inc.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute
January 20
Arlington, VA
LINK

This annual tribute at the Washington-Lee High School features live music, dance, and the spoken word.  

The Wizard of Oz
January 25-25
Manassas, VA
www.hyltoncenter.org

The Center for the Arts' Pied Piper Theatre celebrates the 75th Anniversary of The Wizard of Oz with this musical journey through the land of Oz to the Emerald City. 

Miss Nelson is Missing
January 17 - March 9
Glen Echo, MD
LINK

Spitballs flying and paper airplanes sailing across the room send Miss Nelson, a long-suffering teacher over the edge.  But when a petrifying substitute teacher takes her place, the students can't wait to get Miss Nelson back! here to edit.

The Wright Brothers to the Right Stuff
January 11
LINK

Through demonstrations and hands-on activities, visitors of all ages will become immersed in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics topics related to aviation and space exploration at this family friendly event at the Udvar-Hazy Air and Space Museum.

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George Washington's Birthday Celebration and Parade
February 15-17
Alexandria, VA
www.washingtonbirthday.org
www.mountvernon.org

Celebrate George Washington's birthday with a weekend of special events at Mount Vernon including a wreath-laying ceremony, music, story-telling, and special appearances by costumed historical figures. Celebrations throughout Alexandria include a 10-K Race, Revolutionary War Reenactment at Fort Ward Park,  and the largest parade celebrating Washington's birthday in the USA.

Discover Engineering Family Day
February 22
Washington, DC
www.nbm.org

Discover how engineers turn ideas into reality during this hands-on day of free family fun at the National Building Museum.

Disney Junior Live! Pirate and Princess Adventure
February 23
Fairfax, VA
www.patriotcenter.com

Featuring characters from Sofia the First and Jake and the Never Land Pirates, this brand new production includes a special interactive pre-show with Doc McStuffins.  

NSO Family Concert: Peter and the Wolf
February 23
Washington, DC
www.kennedy-center.org

Prokofiev's timeless musical tale comes roaring to life with the NSO and a vaudeville-inspired performance by actor Michael Boudewyns.

The Secret Case of Sherlock Holmes
February 28-March 9
Arlington, VA
www.encorestageva.org

Join Detective Holmes and Dr. Watson in a humorous 21st century mystery that brings Sherlock and Watson to the Freudly Institute where they supposedly meet Marilyn Monroe, George Washington, Tarzan, Count Dracula, and other remarkable characters.

For more fun suggestions, be sure to follow us on Facebook for the latest updates, subscribe to our free monthly e-newsletter, and  buy the  book. May your winter be merry and bright!

Although we try to be as accurate as possible, we please check with the venue before heading out to verify scheduling.