It is one of my favorite days of the year — Christmas Eve — a time full of wonder, magic, and memories.
For so many, so much is possible on this day. Reuniting with family and friends, making new ones, serving your neighbors, and giving to the less fortunate are just some of the things that spring to mind on this day.
And there is a lot of uncertainty for many in our region facing furloughs with a Federal Government shutdown. The National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse in Washington, a symbol of peace not only for our region but around the world, has gone dark in the wake of the shutdown.
But we’ve been here before, and we all hope for quick resolution for the hundreds of thousands of government workers in our region, as well as business owners and non-government employees impacted by the shutdown.
And, I hope that just for a moment this Christmas, you put fear and politics aside and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season, the music, and forget about your woes and do everything you can to bring a smile to the face of the person standing next to you.
Merry Christmas.
Recent Stories
A 39-year-old man was found dead inside a tent late Friday night near the 8400 block of Sudley Road, near Manassas.
A 36-year-old man from Front Royal is still hospitalized with life-threatening injuries following a motorcycle crash on Garrisonville Road.
With this summer’s powerful thunderstorms in our region, and a deadly flood in Texas that captivated the nation, local rivers are getting some attention, including the Rappahannock River and the City of Fredericksburg.
After a sweltering weekend that brought heat index values over 100 and a heat advisory, today feels like a slight relief. Highs will reach the low 90s, but lower humidity and fewer storms will make conditions feel more manageable.
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.
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
