Grab some hot chocolate and hand warmers: It’s time to brave the cool temperatures and shepherd in the holiday season in style at one of Northern Virginia’s charming holiday parades. Before you set out, here’s what you need to know to make the most of these popular events.
Reston Town Center Holiday Parade
Friday, November 28, 11 a.m.
This Macy’s-style parade takes place the day after Thanksgiving and features large character balloons, marching bands, dance troupes — and even stormtroopers. There’s a bandstand near the ice skating rink where participants pause to perform, so snag a seat near that area to get the best view. (Performers stop at more intermittent points along the parade route, too.)
What to Know: Arrive early to save your spot, especially if you have little ones. Bring blankets and bundle up — Reston Town Center has some windy spots, even when it’s not an especially cold day. After the parade ends, let the crowds filter out before you attempt to leave the parking garage. You can stop for lunch at Jackson’s, Open Road Distilling Co., or Tatte, get photos will Santa, and take a horse-drawn carriage ride. Santa and Mrs. Claus also return that evening for a tree-lighting ceremony.
Christmas in Middleburg
Saturday, December 6, 11 a.m. for the Middleburg Hunt Review, 2 p.m. for the Middleburg Christmas Parade
For a small-town experience, you can’t beat Christmas in Middleburg. The day starts as the Keeper of the Hounds and his pack of hunting dogs lead horses down the parade route. Riders of all ages don their red and black hunting coats for a beautiful scene, and it’s the most iconic part of the event. The community parade at 2 p.m. includes floats, area marching bands, animals, vintage vehicles, and, of course, Santa Claus.
What to Know: You must buy a parking pass in advance and take shuttles to the parade route downtown. Passes are $50 to $100. No parking is allowed downtown or along Route 50. The parade route stretches from the intersection of The Plains Road and Washington Street to Hamilton Street. The main stage is located at the corner of Madison and Washington streets (in front of King Street Oyster Bar). Stop in to eat at The Upper Crust, Cuppa Giddy Up, The Red Fox Inn & Tavern, or King Street Oyster Bar.
Alexandria Scottish Walk Parade
Saturday, December 6, 11 a.m.
Alexandria was founded by Scottish merchants more than 275 years ago, and its parade celebrates that heritage. Pipe and drum bands dressed in colorful tartans walk the route in Old Town, accompanied by terriers and hounds. You can bring a camping chair to sit in, but you need to avoid blocking the sidewalks or residences. If you can’t make it during the day, that evening, you can enjoy the city’s 1-mile Boat Parade of Lights along the Potomac River at 5:30 p.m. Family-friendly dockside festivities start at 2 p.m.
What to Know: Arrive early and stay for the day to catch both parades. Parking is limited outside of the Scottish Walk parade zone; public transportation is recommended. The parades are accessible via Metro on the Blue and Yellow lines to the King Street station. If you’re looking for a place to eat or warm up between the festivities, try Eddie’s Little Shop & Deli, Misha’s Coffee, or Sisters Thai.
Feature photo by John Canery/The Zebra Press
This story originally ran in our November issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
