On Saturday, December 13, Virginia Railway Express (VRE), Virginia’s commuter rail service, held its 18th annual “Operation Lifesaver Santa Trains.” Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Santa’s helpers rode the rails and walked through the train to meet, greet and hand out candy canes. Helper elves passed out Operation Lifesaver railroad safety information coloring books and carolers from Riverbend, Chancellor, West Potomac, Thomas Edison, Stonewall Jackson, and Osbourn Park High School choirs made sure everyone was entertained. VRE operated 13 sold-out Santa Trains while entertaining nearly 9,000 attendees from the Manassas, Burke Centre, Fredericksburg and Woodbridge VRE stations during this annual holiday event.
“You can’t believe how much happiness VRE Santa Trains deliver until you experience it yourself” said Doug Allen, VRE’s Chief Executive Officer. “Whether you are a staff member working the trains, a parent, or a caroler, there is no greater satisfaction than seeing the excitement of children’s faces when they meet Santa. It’s rare when we get the opportunity to educate people about railroad safety while spreading holiday spirit but that’s what Santa Trains are all about,” said Mr. Allen.
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The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is your destination for all arts and culture activities in Northern Virginia. Find a concert, play, poetry reading, or exhibition in your neighborhood—many events are free and family-friendly!
Are you part of a performing arts group, school, or cultural organization? You can add your events and classes, too. The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is free and easy to use.
Your attendance at local arts events supports small businesses in our community and the art makers who help make Fairfax and its surrounding region so vibrant. With the ArtsFairfax Events Calendar, you can stay curious and stay local to plan your next arts adventure!
Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Christmas in July
Volunteer Prince William will be holding a fun-filled Christmas in July event at Heritage Brewing Co on July 26th from 12pm until 6pm with all proceeds going to support the 2025 Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket Program. Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
