Winter Events throughout January

Although Christmas has come and gone, and the weather has been downright spring-like, winter activities are still in full swing in Northern Virginia. One of the coolest winter activities is skating on an outdoor ice rink. Tysons Corner Center Plaza rink  or Reston Town Center Pavilion ice rink are both open through March. They conveniently offer skate rentals as well. If you’re looking to venture into the city, the National Mall Gallery’s Sculpture Garden also has an ice rink.

Many people associate Christmas and the holidays with lights! There are some really phenomenal light shows in our area. The Meadowlark Walk of lights Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna is truly a sight to see this holiday season. If you aren’t into walking and seeing the lights, you can actually drive through the Bull Run Festival of Lights at Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville. After your drive, you can visit the holiday village for s’mores and gifts. Although these lights are stunning, be sure to go soon, as the displays are only open until January 3rd.

Another holiday tradition for many families in the area is visiting George Washington’s Estate, Mt. Vernon. The historic estate gets decorated for Christmas with lights and decorations. You can even take a candlelit tour through the mansion, see fireworks, and experience time-period-specific dancing and carol singers.

If being outside isn’t in your cards, you can always get the kids out of the house and take them to the Children’s Science Center Lab. The Lab explores STEM concepts through engaging and fun exhibits for kids. The Science Center focuses mainly on ages 2-12 and has different zones for different-aged learners.