There is something undeniably special about December in Northern Virginia. As the air turns crisp and the neighborhoods of Fairfax, Loudoun, and Alexandria begin to twinkle with festive lights, our community truly comes alive. At Debbie Dogrul Associates, we’ve been proudly serving Northern Virginia since 1989, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned over nearly four decades of helping people find their dream homes, it’s that a home is more than just four walls—it’s the community that surrounds it. Whether you are a long-time resident or new to the area, we are thrilled to share our curated guide to the most magical events happening right here in our backyard this holiday season.

From historic parades on the Potomac to dazzling light shows in our finest parks, here is your essential bucket list for December 2025.

Dazzling Light Displays & Winter Wonderlands

Nothing sparks the holiday spirit quite like a stroll (or drive) through a winter wonderland. Northern Virginia boasts some of the region’s most spectacular light displays.

Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights

• Location: Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA
• Dates: Daily through January 4, 2026
• Why You Should Go: A perennial favorite for Vienna residents and visitors alike, the Winter Walk of Lights transforms the serene botanical gardens into a half-mile animated walk of lights. In 2025, expect new nature-themed displays and the return of the beloved "singing trees." It’s the perfect spot for a romantic date night or a family outing. Afterward, warm up with a hot chocolate or a s’mores kit by the fire.
• Local Tip: Tickets are time-entry specific and sell out fast on weekends. Book online in advance!

Bull Run Festival of Lights

• Location: Bull Run Regional Park, Centreville, VA
• Dates: Nightly through January 4, 2026
• Why You Should Go: For those chilly nights when you want to enjoy the lights from the warmth of your car, the Bull Run Festival of Lights is the premier drive-through experience. The 2.5-mile route is lined with thousands of colorful lights set to music.
• Bonus: Don’t just drive away! Stop at the Holiday Village to visit the carnival, take a photo with Santa, or browse the holiday merchandise.

Historic Holiday Traditions in Alexandria

Old Town Alexandria is a national treasure during the holidays, offering a "Dickens-esque" charm that is hard to replicate anywhere else.

Alexandria’s Biggest Holiday Weekend (December 5-7, 2025)

If you only mark one weekend on your calendar, make it this one.

• 54th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (Dec 6): Celebrating the city’s heritage, dozens of Scottish clans dressed in tartans parade through Old Town with pipe and drum bands. It is a unique cultural experience that has defined Alexandria's holiday season for over half a century.
• 25th Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (Dec 6): As evening falls, head to the waterfront to watch dozens of brightly lit boats cruise along the Potomac River. It’s a dazzling spectacle that pairs perfectly with a dinner reservation at one of Old Town's waterfront restaurants.

Markets & Shopping for Unique Gifts

Skip the big box stores this year and support local artisans at these festive markets.

Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market

• Location: John Carlyle Square, Alexandria, VA
• Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025 (11 AM - 4 PM)
• What to Expect: This open-air market is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts. From handmade jewelry to local art, you’ll support small businesses while soaking in the festive atmosphere.

Mosaic Holiday Village

• Location: Mosaic District, Fairfax, VA
• Dates: December 13-14, 2025
• What to Expect: The Mosaic District is already a hub for great dining and shopping, but the Holiday Village takes it up a notch. Managed by URBNMarket, this event features over 65 local vendors lining the streets. It’s incredibly family-friendly, often featuring live music and plenty of spots to grab a festive treat while you shop.

Family Fun & Ice Skating

Reston Town Center Ice Skating

• Location: Reston Town Center Pavilion
• Details: Open daily (Holiday hours vary)
• The Vibe: Skating at the Pavilion is a rite of passage for Northern Virginia families. The towering Christmas tree and the surrounding shops create a movie-like backdrop. It’s a fantastic way to burn off some energy before grabbing dinner at one of Reston’s many excellent eateries.

Del Ray Artisans Holiday Market

• Location: Del Ray, Alexandria
• Dates: Weekends through December 21, 2025
• The Vibe: For a more intimate, artistic vibe, head to Del Ray. Known for its eclectic and community-focused atmosphere, this market features fine arts and crafts that make for truly special heirlooms.

Celebrating Community

At Debbie Dogrul Associates, we believe that knowing your community is just as important as knowing the housing market. We hope this guide helps you create lasting memories with your loved ones this season. Whether you are sipping cocoa in Vienna or watching the boat parade in Alexandria, we wish you a warm, safe, and joyous holiday season.

Planning a move in 2026? Let our team of local experts guide you home. Contact us today to discuss your real estate goals.

Sources:

• Visit Alexandria: "Alexandria's Biggest Holiday Weekend 2025"
• NOVA Parks: "Winter Walk of Lights" & "Bull Run Festival of Lights"
• Mosaic District: "Mosaic Holiday Village Events"
• Fairfax County Visitors: "Holiday Lights in Fairfax County 2025"