There is a specific kind of magic that settles over Northern Virginia as the leaves finish their turn and the air gets crisp. It’s not just the smell of woodsmoke or the anticipation of a roasted turkey; it’s the vibrant sense of community that comes alive right here in our neighborhoods.

As one of the best real estate teams in Fairfax County since 1989, Debbie Dogrul Associates don’t just help you buy or sell homes here; we live here, celebrate here, and raise our families here. Over the last three decades, we’ve seen our area grow from sleepy suburbs into a bustling cultural hub, yet it has never lost that small-town warmth, especially around the holidays.

Thanksgiving weekend is often a whirlwind of cooking and travel, but it’s also the perfect time to slow down and enjoy the local traditions that make NoVA so special. Whether you are hosting out-of-town guests or looking for a way to burn off that pumpkin pie, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 notable events happening right in your backyard this Thanksgiving weekend, November 27–30, 2025.

1. The Reston Holiday Parade

• When: Friday, November 28, 2025 | 11:00 AM
• Where: Reston Town Center, Reston, VA
• Why Go:
  Since 1991, the Reston Holiday Parade has been a staple of the post-Thanksgiving calm. USA Today consistently ranks it among the best holiday parades in the nation, and for good reason. It’s the perfect antidote to Black Friday madness. Instead of fighting crowds at a big box store, line Market Street to see massive balloons, marching bands, antique cars, and the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus in a horse-drawn carriage.
  • Insider Tip: Arrive early (around 10:00 AM) to snag a spot near the Christmas tree for the best view. The tree lighting happens later that evening at 6:00 PM, making for a full day of festive fun.

2. Mount Vernon by Candlelight

• When: Friday, November 28 & Saturday, November 29, 2025
• Where: George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon, VA
• Why Go:
  For a truly Virginian experience, you can’t beat Mount Vernon. During Thanksgiving weekend, the estate opens its doors for an atmospheric candlelight tour. You’ll walk through the historic area illuminated by soft lantern light, watch 18th-century dancing, and hear stories of Christmases past from costumed interpreters. It is an immersive step back in time that highlights the history of our region.
  • Note: These tickets sell out fast, so booking online in advance is essential.

3. Merry Mosaic: Holiday Tree Lighting & Santa Parade

• When: Friday, November 28, 2025 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Where: Mosaic District, Fairfax, VA
• Why Go:
  If you want a more modern, high-energy vibe, head to the Mosaic District. Their annual "Merry Mosaic" celebration kicks off the season with a tree lighting that feels like a block party. The highlight is the Santa Firetruck Parade, a hit with the kids. Afterward, you can grab a hot cocoa from one of the local cafes and shop the holiday village market.
  • Real Estate Connection: The Mosaic District has transformed the Merrifield area into one of the most walkable and desirable spots in Fairfax County—a trend we are seeing increase property values nearby!

4. Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights

• When: Open nightly (including Thanksgiving Day & Weekend)
• Where: Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA
• Why Go:
  Walking through 500,000 LED lights is a dazzling way to digest your Thanksgiving dinner. The Winter Walk of Lights is a half-mile, paved trail that is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it perfect for multi-generational family outings. The displays feature nature themes, a magical fountain of lights, and a tunnel that is perfect for Instagram photos.
  • Pro Tip: Buy your tickets online. They are timed-entry, and weekend slots fill up quickly.

5. Bull Run Festival of Lights

• When: Open nightly (Carnival closed Thanksgiving Day, open weekend)
• Where: Bull Run Regional Park, Centreville, VA
• Why Go:
  If it’s too cold to walk, drive! The Bull Run Festival of Lights is 2.5 miles of illuminated holiday displays that you view from the comfort of your warm car. It’s a nostalgic experience for many locals. After the drive, you can stop at the Holiday Village (open Friday-Sunday) for bonfires, s’mores, and carnival rides.

6. Alexandria Turkey Trot 5 Miler

• When: Thanksgiving Morning, November 27, 2025 | 9:00 AM
• Where: George Washington Middle School, Alexandria (Del Ray), VA
• Why Go:
  Before the feast, join thousands of locals in the Del Ray neighborhood for the Alexandria Turkey Trot. It’s known as one of the premier turkey trots in the D.C. region. The flat, fast course goes through the charming streets of Del Ray. It’s incredibly dog-friendly and stroller-friendly, and seeing runners dressed as turkeys and pilgrims is a tradition in itself.
  • Missed the morning run? Check out the Bunnyman Turkey Trot in Lorton on Saturday, November 29, if you prefer a post-Thanksgiving workout!

7. Small Business Saturday in Old Town Alexandria

• When: Saturday, November 29, 2025
• Where: King Street & Surrounding blocks, Alexandria, VA
• Why Go:
  Skip the mall and support the local economy. Old Town Alexandria turns "Small Business Saturday" into an event. You can enjoy "Plaid Friday" deals the day before, but Saturday is the main event with free parking at city meters and unique promotions from the independent boutiques that line King Street. Plus, walking on the cobblestones with a coffee in hand is arguably the best way to shop.

8. Occoquan HolidayFest & Shop Small Weekend

• When: November 28–30, 2025
• Where: Historic Occoquan, VA
• Why Go:
  Occoquan is a hidden gem that feels like a Hallmark movie set. This riverside town goes all out for the weekend. The "HolidayFest" features a gingerbread contest, letters to Santa, and a town decorated to the nines. It’s a quieter, quainter alternative to the bigger malls, perfect for finding unique artisan gifts.

9. Outdoor Ice Skating at Westpost

• When: Open all weekend (including Thanksgiving Day)
• Where: Westpost (formerly Pentagon Row), Arlington, VA
• Why Go:
  The rink at Westpost is the largest outdoor ice skating rink in Northern Virginia. It recently opened for the season and offers a festive atmosphere surrounded by restaurants and shops. It’s a great date night spot or a fun activity for teens needing to get out of the house.

10. NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet

• When: Sunday, November 30, 2025
• Where: Capital One Hall, Tysons, VA
• Why Go:
  Cap off the long weekend with a dose of high culture. The Nutcracker is a holiday rite of passage. This year, catch the Magical Christmas Ballet at the stunning Capital One Hall in Tysons. It’s a beautiful venue and a spectacular production featuring puppets, acrobatics, and exquisite costumes.

A Final Thought from Debbie Dogrul Associates

Whether you are sprinting through Del Ray in a turkey costume or sipping cider by a bonfire in Centreville, we hope this Thanksgiving weekend brings you joy and connection.

We know that a home is more than just walls and a roof; it is the community that surrounds it. If you fall in love with one of these neighborhoods this weekend—whether it’s the historic charm of Alexandria or the vibrancy of Reston—and want to know more about living there, give us a call. We’ve been the local experts since 1989, and we’d love to welcome you home.

Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!

Sources:

• Visit Alexandria VA Events Calendar
• Reston Community Center - Holiday Parade 2025
• NOVA Parks (Meadowlark & Bull Run) Official Schedules
• Mosaic District Events Page
• Mount Vernon Official Site - Candlelight Tours
• Capital One Hall Event Listings