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As winter break approaches, many Rock Ridge families find themselves searching for ways to fill the two weeks without their regular school routines. Luckily, there are a number of local events, both relaxing and exciting, to keep families occupied and enjoying their time together. Here is a list of our top eight local activities to do over winter break. Enjoy!
1. Reston Town Center Skating Rink:
Looking for a fun activity to connect with friends and family? Try the skating rink! The Reston Town Center provides many fun activities, one of which is ice skating in a huge rink decorated with Christmas lights for $11 ($8 of skate rentals). Once you’re done, you can take a walk around the town center, which is filled with shops and restaurants, making it the ultimate spot for holiday fun.
2. Brambleton Regal Holiday Classics:
If you love Christmas movies, then this one’s for you! The Brambleton Regal is showing Christmas movies, including “Elf,” “The Polar Express,” and “The Grinch” until Dec. 31! Bring your family, snacks, and a blanket to cozy up and see your favorite Christmas movie in theaters! If you want more of a relaxing activity over break, try this!
If you’re in for a drive, cozy up in the car with some Christmas music for Winter City Lights, a 45 mile drive from Ashburn. For a relaxing walk and a view of beautiful Christmas lights, attend the Winter City Lights festival in Maryland for $35 a person! Complete with a 52-foot tall-tree, a large canopy of lights, and the incredible ice palace, Winter City Lights is the perfect holiday outing! Offering activities like tubing rides, bonfires, and tasty concessions, this is the perfect way to spend your day. Buy tickets here!
4. Jingle Paws Parade – Middleburg (Dec. 20):
If you’re looking for an opportunity to socialize with fellow dog owners, and show off your furry friend’s Christmas costume for a chance to win a prize, come out to the Jingle Paws Parade in Middlesburg on Dec. 20, with the event starting at 12:30 p.m.. The organizers describe the event as “a special way for residents and visitors to come together, enjoy the holiday spirit, and support local businesses while making joyful memories in the heart of Middleburg.”
The event is free to attend and participate in and will be followed by a “yappy hour” starting at 1:30 p.m. on the Brick & Mortar patio, featuring a photo booth and treats for dogs and their owners.
5. Songs of Light and Wonder – Master Signers of Virginia Christmas Concert (Dec. 20-21):
The Master Singers of Virginia, a group that has been performing in Loudoun County for 31 years, will perform Songs of Light and Wonder on Dec. 20 and Dec. 21 at 4 p.m. at the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. The group of 42 singers includes five Loudoun County teachers and many graduates of Loudoun County Public Schools. Attending the concert is a great opportunity to support the local community and immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit through both acapella and instrument-accompanied Christmas pieces.
Tickets can be purchased here.
6. The Nutcracker – Purcellville:
Get a ticket to the Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company’s full-length production of Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet to experience an adventure filled with holiday magic. Staged only 35 minutes away from Ashburn, this family-friendly performance is a beloved seasonal tradition for audiences of all ages. The performance can be enjoyed during the following dates:
- Friday, December 19, 6:30 p.m. (Cast A)
- Saturday, December 20, 1:30 p.m. (Cast A)
- Saturday, December 20, 5:30 p.m. (Cast B)
- Sunday, December 21, 1:30 p.m. (Cast B)
Tickets can be purchased via this link.
Want to do all your holiday shopping at one place? The Leesburg Outlets is the place to go! With over 70 stores, including Nike, Aerie, GAP, UGG, Coach, and Pacsun, you can buy a gift specialized for each loved one during this holiday season all at once. The Leesburg Outlets is open from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. everyday.
The Christmas Village at Leesburg Animal Park is officially open! Open from Dec. 19 – 23 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., it features thousands of Christmas lights, perfect for taking a walk with family and friends, an animal petting zoo, marshmallow roasting on a bonfire, and Christmas train rides. Tickets start at $19.95!
