Get into the holiday spirit in Prince William Virginia. Visit any time during the winter season to see historic streets decked out in lights and hunt for that perfect gift at our boutiques.
Day One:
The first weekend in December kicks off the holiday season with Santa sightings throughout the region, epic shopping locations and seasonal music to get visitors in the holiday spirit. Start your day at the Bull Run Mountain Community Center to explore their annual holiday bizarre - find the perfect unique gifts for those hard to shop for family members on your list.
Head over to the Farm Brewery at Broad Run to sip on seasonal craft brews, grab a bite to eat and pick up a fresh evergreen wreath. Find consignment treasures in the variety of shops in the Town of Haymarket and grab a warm cup of hot chocolate or coffee at the Hidden Julles Cafe. Spend the afternoon perusing the shops in Virginia Gateway. Enjoy traditional Irish fare at Grafton Streets Irish Pub and cap off your festive day taking in a musical holiday show at Hylton Performing Arts Center.
Day Two:
Head to Historic Occoquan to visit the 50+ independently owned shops and finish your Christmas gift shopping– grab lunch at a café and stroll the streets to see the holiday lights and decor. Get ready for a holiday history lesson at Rippon Lodge, one of Prince William's oldest homes. Learn about the customs and traditions of Saint Nick and what the holidays were like during World War II. Holiday crafts, music and refreshments are available throughout the day.
In the evening, visit Ben Lomond Historic Site, which features one of the few public slave quarters left in Northern Virginia. Learn how the enslaved community celebrated the holidays through living history vignettes and tours. Reservations suggested for this $10-a-person tour.
Return to Prince William to visit a Civil War-era Santa at Leesylvania State Park, home of Light-horse Harry Lee. Enjoy period music, costumed interpreters and light refreshments.
Attend a holiday concert at the 1875 Union Church at Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre. Roast marshmallows by a fire and stop by the old courthouse for photos with Santa. In the evening, head back to Historic Occoquan for dinner and to see sparkling lights and decorated trees.
Amenities
- LGBTQ+ Friendly
Region
Last Updated: 11/28/2018