Bring in the Holidays With Prince William County Parks and Recreation

It’s hard to believe we’re less than a month away from the start of a new year. We hope you’ve enjoyed the classes, programs and events we’ve offered this year and that you will join us this month for holiday programs and events.

On December 3, our popular Holiday Market will be held at Pfitzner Stadium with over 40 vendors expected. It’s the perfect place to find that special holiday gift!

And mark your calendars as you won’t want to miss our Rocking Around the Boardwalk event featuring a Holiday Walk of Lights running Fridays-Sundays from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m, beginning Saturday, November 26 – December 31 at Neabsco Regional Park; and our unique Holiday Tree Display at Neabsco Creek Boardwalk. The tree display will kick off on December 10. There will also be holiday music and a holiday “S-Elfie” Station. Click here for more information.

Check out our holiday offerings below, and be sure to register, as these events are expected to fill up.

Holiday Nature

Join us for a chance to make some unique ornaments from items found in nature. On December 1, at James Long Park we will be making one-of-a-kind, handcrafted ornaments—always a favorite on the family holiday tree or give them as a special gift. Sign up today!

Baking for the Holidays

Starting December 1, your little chef can learn how to bake and decorate some tasty treats just in time for the holidays! Early registration is encouraged for this popular class as space is limited. This is a drop-off program; the child must be able to separate from the guardian. The class includes a take-home bag of baked treats to share. The class will take place at Pat White Center at Ben Lomond and Sharron Baucom Dale City Recreation Center.

*Please note we are not able to make allergy accommodations.

Monthly Paint Series

Enjoy an evening out with friends or make new friends at this paint night class on December 7. Each month we make a seasonal craft for the following month. In December, the crafts are a "Welcome Fall" sign; painted wine glass candle holders; seasonal cards; or a snowman family scene on canvas. Click here for more details and to register.

Winter Break Camp

If you’re looking for something to keep the kids busy over the holiday break, we’ve got a camp just for you. Kids should bring a lunch, water bottle, two snacks, bathing suit, and towel each day, and be ready for tons of fun! Registration is now open.

Holiday Events at Rippon Lodge Historic Site

Holidays Through the Ages

On select days starting December 2 – December 23, Holidays Through the Ages will also be taking place at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. Join us for an in-depth exploration of season festivities over the centuries. Interiors and exteriors will be richly decorated for the holidays to help you get into the holiday spirit.

Holiday Evenings at Rippon Lodge

If evenings are more your thing, come to Rippon Lodge on December 2 and 3 to enjoy the ambiance of the season by viewing Holidays Through the Ages tours at night. These special evening tours include music and period lights inside the historic home and along the grounds making for great holiday photo opportunities. Click here for all dates and times available and to register.

Santa Comes to Rippon Lodge

Santa Claus is coming to town! More specifically, he’ll be coming to Rippon Lodge Historic Site on Saturday, December 10, from 12–3 p.m. Register today and join us to get your photo taken with Santa.

Santa will be visiting Rippon Lodge for just this one afternoon so be sure to be on your best behavior and keep your name on the “nice” list. Parents will be given special “Things Santa Should Know” cards to fill out upon arrival. Bring your camera for pictures and dress appropriately for the weather as some activities are outside. This is always a popular event, so be sure to register promptly.

Christmas in a Civil War Camp

The Civil War did not pause at Christmas time. There were still battles to be fought, though camp life consumed most of the soldiers’ time. On December 3, at Bristoe Battlefield Heritage Park, come experience how soldiers spent the holidays away from their families. Living history demonstrations and a visit from Civil War Santa Claus will accompany each tour. Nineteenth-century Christmas crafts will be available for children. Please come dressed appropriately for the weather. Register today.

Christmas Traditions in Back of the Big House

On December 10, learn what Christmas was like in plantation homes in 19th-century Virginia. This unique program at Ben Lomond Historic Site will explore what this holiday was like for enslaved men and women living on southern plantations and farms. More details can be found on page 29 of the fall Leisure magazine.

Historic Holidays & Christmas Concert at Brentsville Courthouse

If you’re looking for something free to do, check out our Historic Holidays & Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 10, from 5–9 p.m. at Brentsville Courthouse. Experience the holidays of years past at Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre as you explore each of Brentsville’s historic buildings decorated for the holidays. Learn how locals celebrated the holidays and how they enjoyed the winter weather through the years through crafts and activities. Have some hot cider as you enjoy a musical performance by the Brentsville District High School Choir. Santa will also make an appearance, so bring your cameras for photos.

We hope to see you during the holidays!