Get crafty this holiday season. | Photo via Pexels
From beginners to DIY pros, there’s something for everyone in this roundup of upcoming craft workshops across Northern Virginia. Here are six we’re excited about.
Super Size Snowflakes | Arlington When: Thursday, Dec. 18 from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Cost: Free
The Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington offers a variety of workshops on Thursdays at the Innovation Studio for free. This one at the end of December will help you create some winter wonderland decorations for your home.
Make Your Own Ornaments | Alexandria When: Thursday, Dec. 18 from 5:30-7 p.m. Cost: $17 Want to make your Christmas tree more personalized? Your ticket enables you to make two ornaments with tools like tinsel and sequins.
Silent Night Holiday Paint Event | Leesburg When: Friday, Dec. 19 from 7-9 p.m. Cost: $50
Want to work with a paintbrush? Head to the Painted Tiger Art Studio to create your own “Silent Night” scene. Who knows… maybe you’re the next Picasso.
We’ve got yet another McLean home for you. This 1970s mansion is the epitome of 70s-style architecture. It’s located on Chain Bridge Road, which is one of the more expensive stretches in Northern Virginia. Don’t miss other properties on this street.
Tech
These robots are serving. Serve Robotics is partnering with the City of Alexandria and Uber Eats to offer human-less food service in neighborhoods like Del Rey, Potomac West, and Old Town North. This offering will likely expand in Alexandria in the coming months. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Environment
Not quite the Lorax, but the nonprofit EcoAction Arlington comes pretty close. This organization works to grow Arlington’s tree canopy, and they offer two planting cycles every year. If you want a tree this spring, they are accepting applications through Wednesday, Jan. 14. Join in and speak for the trees.
Holiday
Hanukkah has officially begun and runs through Monday, Dec. 22. Celebrate on Wednesday, Dec. 17 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the National Museum of American Jewish Military History’s free 2025 Annual Hanukkah Party, featuring museum access, jelly doughnuts, and live music.
Trending
Winter-themed cabins are now open at Proof Kitchen + Bar in Manassas at the NOVA Live campus, offering a cozy and private dining experience. The custom Cabin Shareables menu features items ranging from $25 to $150. Best of all, there are no extra fees or food-and-drink minimums to enjoy the cabins. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Try This
Are you a spice fan? These three George Mason University students have created a hot sauce for a class, only for it to become a campus staple. SOSS now offers three flavors, and you can purchase them here. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Film
If “Home Alone” is on your watchlist this December, you’re in good company. The 1990 film is the most popular holiday film in Virginia, per a new PixlParade report. Pro tip: Fuel your movie night with takeout from a new local restaurant.
Seasonal
It’s the most bun-derful time of the year. Google Trends data shows that December typically brings about an increased interest in baking at home. If you prefer your baked goodies made by an expert, there’s an abundance of excellent loaves around NOVA.
Travel
The approaching New Year is befitting a time as any for a healthy dose of wanderlust. That’s what we’re doing with Condé Nast Traveler’s 26 hottest travel destinations for 2026. Whether you’re after natural wonder, buzzy cities, or a vibrant food scene, you’ll get there quicker by starting at Dulles International Airport.
Eat
You donut want to miss this. Dunkin’ Donuts was just named the most popular donut chain in Virginia, edging out Krispy Kreme, Shipley Do-Nuts, and Daylight Donuts. Want to branch out? Grab a pastry from a local brunch restaurant.
Jobs
“The process is super easy and far more cost-effective than using a recruiter.” That’s what one business owner said about hiring through our Job Board. See for yourself — post your open positions for free.
Finance
You’re smart — but your spending can still be dumb. These are the 11 dumbest things smart people waste money on.*
Holiday
Two days. That’s when the Manassas Ballet Theatre’s annual performance of “The Nutcracker” returns to the Hylton. Snag tickets to this classic holiday show through Dec. 23 — or join the community in honoring service members and veterans during “Salute to the Military” opening night.*
The Buy
Fresh, small-batch coffee from Trade. Take the quiz + get matched with coffee blends that align with your tastes and preferences. Bonus: Our readers get an exclusive 50% off their first month subscription — no code necessary.
On the hunt for a golfer gift idea? The Fairfax County Park Authority offers golf gift cards, valid at all seven Fairfax golf courses. They can be used toward green fees, golf balls, food and beverages, and other amenities fore your golfer.
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