For the ultimate winter break bucket list, bring the whole family to these dazzling experiences throughout Northern Virginia to celebrate the holiday season. From artistic activities to musical masterpieces and light displays, there’s something for everyone to delight in.
Benjamin’s Winter Circus Adventure
December 12 to January 3
Step into a winter wonderland for mesmerizing circus performances with Benjamin’s Winter Circus Adventure. The circus has traveled across the Americas, Europe, and Asia to deliver multiculturalism and a deep appreciation for performance art. Each 90-minute show features exciting acrobatics, comedy, and thrilling aerial artistry — with a touch of holiday magic, too. Dulles Town Center: 21100 Dulles Town Cir., Sterling, $38–$72, free for 2 and under
Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds
Through December 28
In collaboration with the Kiln Club, “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” is on view in Scope Gallery’s Studio 19 to close out 2025. This festive exhibit showcases distinct sculptures and hand-made pieces, including iconic seasonal ornaments and items for gift-giving. Scope Gallery at Torpedo Factory Art Center: 105 N Union St., Alexandria, free
White Christmas
Through December 28
Riverside Center hosts this classic Christmas musical by Irving Berlin for a festive and dreamy song-and-dance performance. Follow the story of veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis as they meet a singing sister duo on their way to perform a Christmas show. Matinee and evening showings feature a meal service option. Riverside Center for the Performing Arts: 95 Riverside Pkwy, Fredericksburg, $55–$82
Bull Run Festival of Lights
Through January 4
Stay warm and experience Northern Virginia’s largest drive-through holiday light display at Bull Run Regional Park. This 2.5-mile route showcases a variety of animated holiday and fairytale scenes. Afterward, visit the holiday village and carnival open through January 2 for a petting zoo, festive merchandise, and a ferris wheel. Bull Run Regional Park: 7700 Bull Run Dr., Centreville, $32.45–$40
Candle Bar Workshop
December 18 through 23 and 26 through 31; January 1 through 4
Whether you’re searching for a gift or wanting to try a creative activity, visit The Global Local to learn the art of candle making. The sessions allow you to create standard vessels, large vessels, teacups, or limited edition Christmas tree vessels. Enjoy tea and cookies from local makers while crafting your candles. The Global Local: 102 Loudoun St. SW, Leesburg, $30–$50
Holidays Through the Ages
December 19 through 22 and 26 through 29
Explore seasonal festivities over the centuries at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. You can learn about traditional feasts and past holiday celebrations while strolling through the richly decorated lodge. Guided tours are available at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Rippon Lodge Historic Site: 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, $5
Ice & Lights
December 20 through January 4
An immersive winter village awaits at Cameron Run with glittering light displays, perfect for family pictures or holiday cards. Walk through the 100-foot tunnel arch and explore the interactive orb field while enjoying hot cocoa and other snacks. Daytime ice skating is available, or you can take a spin under the stars until 10 p.m. Cameron Run Regional Park: 4001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria, $9–$24
DMV Winter Lantern Festival
Until January 18
Bundle up for a charming stroll through the Winter Lantern Festival to see spectacular light displays. Wander among handcrafted Chinese lanterns inspired by ancient folklore, watch energetic acrobatic performances, and try delicious drinks and food from local vendors. Lerner Town Square: 8025 Galleria Dr., Tysons, $19–$26, free for 2 and under
Fiddler on the Roof
Through January 25
Joseph Stein’s beloved musical comes to Signature Theatre this winter for a glorious production of song, dance, and tradition. Set in Tsarist Russia, Fiddler on the Roof tells the story of Tevye, a poor Jewish milkman, and how his community grapples with honoring tradition and contending with a rise in antisemitism. Hear classic songs including “Sunrise, Sunset,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Matchmaker,” and more. Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, starting at $47
Westpost Outdoor Ice Skating at National Landing
Open until mid-March
For a timeless winter activity, visit the plaza at Pentagon Row for the largest outdoor ice rink in Northern Virginia at 7,200 square feet. Enjoy two hours of skating with your reservation and even try private or group lessons. Peruse several shops, restaurants, and a coffee shop at the plaza, complete with an outdoor dual-sided stone fireplace. Westpost at National Landing: 1201 S Joyce St., Arlington, $11–$18
Feature image courtesy Westpost Outdoor Ice Skating at National Landing
