Illuminating lights, decorated trees and classic holiday traditions set the scene for the holiday season. For some, local winter festivities have become annual traditions that hold lasting memories, providing a warm touch to the frigid winters.
Bull Run Festival of Lights
Junior Nila Elangovan’s family tradition is to visit the Bull Run Festival of Lights, which is held from Nov. 15 to Jan 5. Located in Bull Run Park, the holiday light display spans 2.5 miles.
“I really enjoy the winter season, especially because there are so many memories tied to winter.” Elangovan said. “One of my favorite places to go is the Bull Run Festival of Lights.”
Some displays include a rainbow tunnel, a blue, frozen-themed display and multiple light reindeer throughout the drive. At the end of the ride there is a winter carnival that includes rides, like a carousel, multiple bonfires and food options such as funnel cake, hot cocoa and popcorn.
“My family and I go every year and the lights are always so beautiful to see,” Elangovan said. “I like that I can sit in my car since it can get really cold. Usually my family and I get warm cinnamon buns and it is a really pretty place to take Instagram pictures.”
Reston Town Center Ice Skating Pavilion
“My favorite part of the skating rink is that it’s really pretty during the night,” sophomore Demi Sandler said.
Sophomores Demi Sandler and Ariana Stitt, enjoy hanging out at the Reston Town Center Ice Skating Pavilion every winter. The winter season has a special place in Sandler and Stitt’s hearts due to the joyful memories it brings for their friendship.
“We went together last winter break to celebrate our friendship of five years,” Stitt said. “I love how the lights are so beautiful around the rink, especially during night time.”
The Pavilion is open through Feb.17, from 11:30 a.m to 9 p.m on weekdays and 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on weekends. The Pavilion provides plastic support penguins for beginners and guests are welcome to bring their own.
National Harbor Tree Light Show
Bustling crowds and Christmas carols play in the background as sophomore Aminah Naqvi and her family take pictures in front of the 60-foot-tall Christmas tree at Maryland National Harbor.
“It’s one of my favorite places to be,” Naqvi said. “I wouldn’t say it’s a tradition going there every year, but if I don’t go, it feels like my winter is sort of incomplete.”
The show runs every half hour from sunset to 9 p.m through December, alongside the light show holiday medley played by the United States Air Force band. Every Saturday night,festive fireworks start from 5:30 p.m. and on Sundays holiday movies play on the National Harbor Plaza screen starting at 11:30 a.m. through Dec.29.
Nutcracker Ballet
Every year, sophomore Fable Ivy and her family attend the Mia Saunders dance school Nutcracker hosted at Centerville High School. The Nutcracker ballet showcases a girl who befriends a nutcracker that comes to life on Christmas Eve and wages a battle against the evil Mouse King. The holiday theme of the ballet provides a festive start to the holidays.
“We go a day after Thanksgiving with my grandparents and my cousins,” Ivy said. “After the ballet we go to Ihop,” Ivy said. “I think that winter is the season to be with family and brings a sense of togetherness.”
Mia Saunders Nutcracker takes place from Dec. 14 to 15. The community holiday tradition doesn’t only involve ballet, but also gives back to the community. All proceeds from the Nutcracker ballet go to student scholarships and CaringBridge, a non-profit platform that gives community and support to health risk individuals.
Other popular holiday events in the area include holiday markets in downtown D.C., the holiday lights at Meadowlark Gardens, and “A Christmas Carol” at Ford’s Theater.
