December in Arlington

It's the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season is upon us and there's no shortage of ways to celebrate and get festive in Arlington.

Explore unique holiday displays, vote for the best Peppermint Latte, or grab a photo with Santa.

There's something for everyone to enjoy this December in Arlington.

Festive Activities

The Lodge at National Landing | December 1-3

'Tis the season to celebrate at National Landing! Join the National Landing BID at The Lodge, a ski-themed holiday festival to ring in the most wonderful time of year. Celebrate the season with festive Instagrammable moments, activities and bites featuring National Landing’s most beloved businesses.

Ballston Singing Tree Lighting | December 6

Enjoy food from Rustico and DMV Empanadas, hot beverages from The Ballstonian a hot chocolate bar, and much more at the Ballston BID's festive tree lighting, happening from 5-7 pm.

Rosslyn Cheer 2023: Tree Lighting | December 7

Join the Rosslyn BID live at Central Place Plaza for music, raffles, an outdoor bar, and more, as they light up the neighborhood.

Melwood's Miracle on 23rd Street | December 8

Join Melwood for its annual event, Miracle on 23rd Street! Enjoy this free community event and kick off the holiday season with a grand tree lighting, photos with Santa, refreshments and more festivities! Please bring a non-perishable item for Melwood’s food drive.

Rosslyn Cheer 2023: Santa Paws Yappy Hour | December 8

Bring your furry friends out to Central Place Plaza to enjoy pictures with Santa and pet goodie giveaways. Happy Hour, which runs from 5-7 p.m., will include beer, wine, and
spiked cider to warm you up, while your pup can enjoy a puppuccino!

Holiday Markets

Rosslyn Cheer 2023: Holiday Market | December 9 & 10

Enjoy two days of local vendors, festive drinks, photo ops with Santa, and more! A variety of local vendors will be selling unique goods from art and jewelry to bath products, snacks, and more,

Winter Warmer / Winter Market at MoCA Arlington | December 9

Join in Arlington for a cozy and fun-filled afternoon at Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington. Shop handmade goods, enjoy live music, cookie decorating and more.

Holiday Performances

Of All the Kings - Arlington Chorale Holiday Performance | December 9

Join the Arlington Chorale for an extraordinary evening! Celebrating historical icons and musical legends, this concert has something for everyone

Snow Maiden at Synetic Theater | December 9 - January 6

Told through Synetic Theater's signature style of dazzling movement, dance, and acrobatics, this magical take on the beloved folktale Snegurochka is a heart-warming story of love, hope, and the transformative powers of awe and wonder. Snow Maiden comes to life in a 45-minute production set to an enchanting score to get us all in the holiday spirit.

Holiday Cheer with Renowned Violinist Dylana Jenson | December 16

Celebrate Holiday Cheer with an evening of classical and popular holiday favorites the entire family will enjoy, opening with Leroy Anderson's popular Sleighride. Violinist Dylana Jenson, the first American woman, and the youngest ever to win at the prestigious Tchaikovsky Competition will be the featured guest artist.

Holiday Displays

The boulevards and public spaces in Arlington get all dressed up for the holidays, making winter in Arlington a jolly one. Marvel in front of gigantic trees, stroll through festive neighborhoods, experience magical holiday surprises, and ice skate outdoors to catch the holiday spirit.

Rosslyn Central Place Plaza

Throughout December, you can enjoy the Rosslyn neighborhood’s dazzling Christmas tree the corner of Wilson Boulevard and North Lynn Street, just steps from the Rosslyn Metro Station. See the magic come to life at their Christmas Tree Lighting and enjoy a variety of additional holiday events happening in Rosslyn.

Ballston Quarter

In the heart of the Ballston neighborhood, the Ballston Quarter shopping and entertainment district is all decked out for the holidays. While you’re there to admire the tree, stop in for some Christmas shopping or a hot cocoa doughnut from District Doughnut. Brighten your day by stopping at any of their exciting and festive holiday events.

The Village at Shirlington

On the other side of town, The Village at Shirlington always puts on its seasonal best with hanging light ornaments, holiday lights and a Christmas tree. Browse the boutiques for some unique holiday gifts, and pop into one of the sidewalk cafes to warm up with a to-go drink.

Fashion Centre at Pentagon City

Fashion Centre at Pentagon City goes all out for the festive season with a Christmas tree, glitzy
decorations and a Santa Photo Experience. Stop into major retailers to do some holiday shopping and pick up a few goodies for yourself.

Pentagon Row (West Post)

Pentagon Row brings the Christmas spirit outdoors with a has an ice skating rink adorned with giant glowing stars, a menorah and a Christmas tree. Grab some hot cocoa and hit the ice.

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