<b>Ongoing Events
</b>Light Up Rosslyn Collection Drive will run from Nov.14-Jan. 6, 2006. Businesses throughout Rosslyn will have collection boxes in the lobbies and tenant offices, the community drop-off location is at the Rosslyn BID office at 1911 N. Fort Myer Drive LL-10. Monetary donations can be made at www.a-span.org or call 703-820-HELP.
Tis the Season at the Arlington Planetarium, 1426 N. Quincy Street, Arlington from Nov. 25-Dec. 18, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $3/adults and $2/children & seniors.
Santa arrives at the Ballston Mall from the North Pole. The booth will open for pictures Friday, Nov. 24 from noon-6 p.m. and will be open on Saturdays and Sundays until Monday, Dec. 18, when it will be open every day from noon-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16 the booth will be open until 9 p.m. while on Christmas Eve, the booth will close at 6 p.m. Photos with pets Sunday, Dec. 3 and Sunday, Dec. 10 from 7-9 p.m. A Spanish-speaking Santa will be at the booth Sunday, Nov. 26, Sunday, Dec. 3, Sunday, Dec. 10 and Sunday, Dec. 17 from noon-6 p.m. and also on Thursday and Friday, Dec. 21-22 from 6-9 p.m. Visit www.ballston-common.com for more information.
Holiday House at Fort C.F. Smith Park's Hendry House, 2411 N. 24th St., Arlington. Enjoy a juried arts and crafts sale by local artisans from Dec. 9-17. Hours are Mondays-Fridays 4-8 p.m.; Saturdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays noon-5 p.m. Free. Call 703-243-7329.
Photos With Santa. From Nov. 11-Dec. 24, visit Santa at the holiday tree, located in Center Court, at Pentagon City to tell him your holiday wishes and get your picture taken. Photo packages are available. The Santa photo set is sponsored by Gymboree and ABC Family. Visit www.fashioncentrepentagon.com.
Holiday Gift Wrap Center. From Nov. 25-Dec. 24 support the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation by having them wrap your holiday gifts, located on the 2nd level in front of The French Connection. They offer a variety of paper, bows and boxes from which to choose. All proceeds benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Simon Youth Foundation. For more information or to view a list of participating charities, visit www.fashioncentrepentagon.com.
Classika Theatre presents "The Nutcracker" from Dec. 2-Dec. 31 at the Classika Theatre. Classika Theatre creates a magical version of the familiar story with beautiful puppets, elegant sets and the glorious musical score of Peter Tchaikovsky. Call 703-824-6200 or visit www.classika.org for ticket and time information.
<b>Bazaars and Fairs
</b>Throughout the holiday season, visit one of the many bazaars and fairs for unique gifts for family, friends and others on your list. A variety of items will be sold along with food and beverages.
Saturday, Nov. 18
Christmas Gift Market. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 825 S. Taylor St., Arlington. One-of-a-kind gifts, large variety of handcrafted items made by artisans from Lutheran World Relief, House pins to support NOVACO, assorted Christian books and gifts from Concordia Publishing House and more. Proceeds from sales will go to missionary support and NOVACO. 703-892-4846.
Saturday/Dec. 2
Mistletoe Mall at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington, 4444 Arlington Blvd., from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Featuring hand-crafted pottery, jewelry and clothing. There is a children's mall where they can shop by themselves from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music, food and a bake sale. Call 703-892-2565.
Sunday/Dec. 3
Advent Fair at the Little Falls Presbyterian Church, 6025 Little Falls Road, Arlington, from 4-6 p.m. Featuring: make your own X-mas decorations and ornaments, food and singing. Call 703-538-5230.
Mistletoe Mall at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington, 4444 Arlington Blvd., from 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Featuring hand-crafted pottery, jewelry and clothing. Artists work from the area and from Central and South America, the Middle East and Iraq. Live music, food and a bake sale. Call 703-892-2565.
Thursday/Dec. 7
Holiday Boutique. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Calvary United Methodist Church, 2315 S. Grant St., Arlington. Free. Browse gift items from local vendors and artisans, and enter in a luxury gift basket raffle. Sponsored by Aurora Hills Women's Club to benefit The Hume School of Arlington Ridge. Lunch available for $8. For more information call 703-535-8882.
Saturday/Dec. 9
Washington-Lee Annual Holiday Bazaar from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 1300 N. Quincy Street, Arlington. Prospective vendors can still rent tables up to Nov. 18. Six foot tables are $60, two for $100, and each additional table is $40. Vendors should contact Terry Bell, at 703-228-6200.
<b>Art and Classes
</b>The many art studios will hold their annual holiday art gatherings where people can meet the artists and browse and buy some original art work. There are also many workshops available to learn how to decorate table tops for Thanksgiving, make homemade soaps for presents among others.
Saturday, Nov. 18
Annual Gala Open House. The Columbia Pike Artist Studios will hold an open house from 6-9 p.m. at the studio, 932 S. Walter Reed Drive, 2nd floor, Arlington. This is a chance for the public to tour the complex, see art and talk with friends and artists. Free. Visit www.columbiapikeartistsstudios.org.
Holiday Arts Sale. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Lee Arts Center, 5722 Lee Highway, Arlington. Buy one-of-a-kind hand-crafted artworks, Including jewelry, prints, ceramics and more, made by the studio artists of the Lee Arts Center. Learn how to make an original raku fired pot. Visit www.arlingtonarts.org/leearts.htm or call 703-228-0560.
Saturday/Dec. 2
Winter Show. Arlington Artists Alliance will have its winter show and sale including oil, pastel and water media painters, potters and woodworkers from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. with a performance by Star Dust Dance Band at 2 p.m. Free. Visit www.arlingtonartistsalliance.org for more information.
Holiday Craft Workshop from 2-5 p.m. at Long Branch Nature Center, 625 S. Carlin Springs Road, Arlington, for adults and young adults ages 12 years and up. Using all-natural items learn to create decorative crafts for home or as gifts. Materials provided for each participant to make at least two seasonal decorations along with basic instruction, music, and refreshments. Participants should bring hand pruners or wire cutters (if you have them) and any extra materials you may wish to add. $30. Reservations required, register online at https:\\registration.co.arlington.va.us\ or call 703-228-4747. Reference program # 614472A.
Sunday/Dec. 3
Winter Show. Arlington Artists Alliance will have its winter show and sale including oil, pastel and water media painters, potters and woodworkers from noon-4 p.m. with a demonstration on making holiday cards and gifts from 1-2 p.m. Free. Visit www.arlingtonartistsalliance.org for more information.
Holiday Crafts Workshop. Make a wreath or centerpiece from local greens, pine cones and other natural materials at 2 p.m. at Potomac Overlook Regional Park, 2845 N. Marcey Road, Arlington. Cost is $10. 703-528-5406.
Friday/ Dec. 8
Holiday Gifts. 6:30-8 p.m. at Gulf Branch Nature Center, 3608 Military Road, Arlington. Learn how to make colorful, scented soaps for guests and gifts with an easy recipe. $3/soap tray, ages 12-adult. Registration required 703-228-4747.
<b>Family Events
</b>Families can come together and enjoy a multitude of events geared towards families, from a Turkey Trot to breakfast with Santa.
Saturday, Nov. 18
Turkey Trot. 5th annual 1-mile Thanksgiving Fox Trot will start at 9 a.m. at Fort Hunt Park. $10/runner, stroller or dog. First 500 registered participants receive a shirt. Registration deadline is Nov. 16. No registration the day of the race. For more information or a registration form, contact Bob Sargent at patiodaddio@excite.com.
Enchanted Forest. Hosted by the Junior League of Northern Virginia from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. at The Westin Arlington Gateway Hotel, 801 North Glebe Road, Arlington. This event includes visits with Santa Claus, holiday crafts, games and two special events. $7 or $5 for a Santa Pass. Tickets sold at the door. Enjoy breakfast with Santa from 9:30-10:30 a.m. for $25/person. Visit www.jlnv.org.
Sunday/Nov. 19
Annual Celebration of Gratitude. Give thanks for the magical influence of stories on our lives at 2 p.m. at Potomac Overlook Regional Park, 2845 N. Marcey Road, Arlington. Refreshments will be served. Adults and children age 6 and older. $3/person. 703-528-5406.
Enchanted Forest. Hosted by the Junior League of Northern Virginia from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. at The Westin Arlington Gateway Hotel, 801 North Glebe Road, Arlington. This event includes visits with Santa Claus, holiday crafts, games and two special events. $7 or $5 for a Santa Pass. Tickets sold at the door. Enjoy breakfast with Santa from 9:30-10:30 a.m. for $25/person. For more information or a list of events, visit www.jlnv.org.
Wild Ones: Turkey Time. 1:30-2:30 p.m. at Long Branch Nature Center, 625 S. Carlin Springs Road, Arlington. Children ages 6-9 can learn about the turkey with activities including crafts, games and more. $2 registration required 703-228-4747.
Day of Giving. This day of shopping, from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. sponsored by Tab Energy, includes offers from more than 75 mall retailers, a strolling fashion show and entertainment, door prizes and much more. Simon Day of Giving tickets can be purchased at Guest Services for $10. All proceeds from ticket sales benefit participating local charities and the Simon Youth Foundation. For more information or to view a list of participating charities, visit www.fashioncentrepentagon.com.
Wednesday/Nov. 22
Thanksgiving Throwdown 2005 at the Clarendon Ballroom, 3185 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, from 6 p.m.-2 a.m. featuring Gonzos Nose and DJ Pat Premier. There will be prizes. $10 with canned goods $15 without. Call 703-469-2244 or visit http://www.hiballevents.com.
Friday/Nov. 24
Black Friday. For the first time, The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City will open its doors to the public on Black Friday, at 5 a.m. Many stores open for business between 5 and 6, with all stores open for business by 6 a.m. The mall will close at 10 p.m. Visit www.fashioncentrepentagon.com.
Wednesday/Dec. 6
4th Annual Holiday Open House. From 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Pentagon Row Plaza, enjoy free horse and carriage rides, pet photos with Santa, carolers, entertainment, refreshments and more. The ice skating rink will be open. Free. Visit www.pentagonrow.com or call 703-413-6691.
Thursday/Dec. 7
A Holiday House Tour and Tea hosted by the Commonwealth Circle of Northern Virginia, will be held from 1-4 p.m. Tour four decorated homes in Arlington's Chain Bridge Forest neighborhood. The proceeds from this event will be donated to Vanguard and Child Help USA. Cost is $30. Tickets may be purchased at Prezzies Gifts and Degage in McLean and Serendipity Gifts and Lemon Twist in Arlington.
Holiday Animal Crafts. 4:30-5:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Gulf Branch Nature Center, 3608 Military Road, Arlington. $5/child ages 5-10. Registration required 703-228-4747.
Saturday/Dec. 9
Holiday Party. Annual party to thank folks who have helped during the past year at 1 p.m. at Potomac Overlook Regional Park, 2845 N. Marcey Road, Arlington. By invitation. For information on how to get on the mailing list, call 703-528-5406.
Breakfast with Santa. 9-11 a.m. at Rockbotton Restaurant and Brewery Ballston, $8/person, 3 and under free. Make reservations by calling 703-516-4688. Call Regan Davis 703-533-5505 ext. 13.
Holiday Concert at Westover Baptist Church, 1125 N. Patrick Henry Drive, at 4 p.m. featuring the Senior Singers Choral and the New Horizons Band. Visit www.levineschool.org or call 703-237-5655.
Sunday/Dec. 17
Wisdom of the Elders. Annual winter solstice event starts at 2 p.m. at Potomac Overlook Regional Park, 2845 N. Marcey Road, Arlington. Celebrate the wisdom of those who have come before. Refreshments will be served. Adults and children age 6 and older. 703-528-5406.
<b>Areas Light Up
</b>Four areas in Arlington are celebrating a community-wide holiday kick-off with tree lightings. Area tree lightings include various activities such as photos with Santa, a visit from the Washington Capitals' mascot, receptions, caroling and more.
Tuesday/Nov. 28
Light Up the Village. The Village at Shirlington will officially kick off the holiday season with its 4th annual Light Up the Village event at 6:30 p.m. Festivities include a tree lighting ceremony, free horse and carriage rides, photos with Santa at The UPS Store, holiday carolers, strolling entertainment, delicious refreshments and more. Free. Visit www.villageatshirlington.com or call 703-413-6691.
Wednesday/Nov. 29
Ballston Tree Lighting. County Board Chairman Chris Zimmerman and Washington Capitals' mascot will light the Ballston Holiday tree in Welburn Square at 5:30 p.m. with a reception to follow in the lobby of the Qwest Building, 4250 N. Fairfax Drive. There will be music, food and beverages. Free.
Thursday/Dec. 7
Light Up Rosslyn will start at 5:30 p.m. with Beltway Brass, The Metropolitan Chorus at 6:30 p.m. and the ceremonial light switch will be flipped at 6:45 p.m. by Christopher Zimmerman, County Board Chairman. All takes place underneath the JumboTron, 1100 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. Free. Bring donations from A-SPAN's list. Call 703-522-6628 for information.
Friday/ Dec. 8
Miracle on 23rd Street Tree Lighting Ceremony. 750 S. 23rd St., 6:30 p.m. Free. The event, features caroling, refreshments, prizes and a special visitor from the North Pole. Caroling begins at 6 p.m., tree lighting at 6:30, a visit from Santa at 6:45, followed by a reception. Call 703-521-4441.
<b>Theater
</b>This year's theatre brings to life "The Nutcracker" in various adaptations and a unique twist on "A Christmas Carol."
Friday/Dec. 1
Theater Performance. "Nutcracker" at 7:30 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington. Buy tickets online at www.arldance.org or at Arlington Center for Dance, 3808 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. Call 703-522-2414. Advance Sale Tickets: $22/$25 Adults, $17/$22 Youth and Seniors. Box office tickets are $5 more per ticket.
Saturday/Dec. 2
Theater Performance. "Nutcracker" at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington. Buy tickets online at www.arldance.org or at Arlington Center for Dance, 3808 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. Call 703-522-2414. Advance Sale Tickets: $22/$25 Adults, $17/$22 Youth and Seniors. Box office tickets are $5 more per ticket.
Sunday/Dec. 3
Theater Performance. "Nutcracker" at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington. Buy tickets online at www.arldance.org or at Arlington Center for Dance, 3808 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. Call 703-522-2414. Advance Sale Tickets: $22/$25 Adults, $17/$22 Youth and Seniors. Box office tickets are $5 more per ticket.
Duke Ellington "Nutcracker." At 7:30 p.m., the U.S. Army Blues Jazz Ensemble presents its most popular concert featuring a mix of Stan Kenton's seasonal tunes and the playful and creative Duke Ellington Nutcracker. Free at Kenmore Middle School, 200 S. Carlin Springs Road. Call 703-696-3399 or visit www.usarmyband.com for more information.
Thursday/Dec. 14
Comedy Performance. Watch The Comedy Spot in Ballston Mall put a new twist on the classic "A Christmas Story" at 8 p.m. at the mall, 4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. $14/person. Visit www.comedyindc.com for more information.
<b>Holiday Music Events</b>
There are a multitude of music events to celebrate the holidays and being with loved ones.
Saturday/Dec. 2
Music Performance. 5 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington, 601 N. Vermont St. Enjoy singing the Advent/Christmas portion of this masterpiece with members of the chorus or listen to the music. Free. Non-perishable food and donations will be accepted. 703-933-2500 or visit www.metchorus.org for more.
Sunday/Dec. 3
"Songs and Stories of Christmas" Christmas carols and Advent and Solstice poems and readings, performed by the Washington Women's Chorus at 7 p.m. at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 4000 Lorcom Lane, Arlington. For more information, visit www.washingtonwomenschorus.org.
Songs of the Season Concert. At St. George's Episcopal Church from 5-6 p.m. The concert includes advent music sung by St. George's vocalists. The event is free and open to the public. St. George's is located at 915 N. Oakland St., Arlington. Call 703-525-8286.
Saturday/Dec. 9
Holiday Concert at Westover Baptist Church, 1125 N. Patrick Henry Drive, at 4 p.m. featuring the Senior Singers Choral and the New Horizons Band. Visit www.levineschool.org or call 703-237-5655.
Sunday/Dec. 10
Season's Greetings Concert. 3 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington. Guest artists will be the Metropolitan Chorus. $18/adult; $15/senior or military; $5/16 and under. 703-933-2500 or visit www.metchorus.org for more information.
14th Annual Messiah Sing-Along at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 4250 N. Glebe Road, Arlington, at 7:30 p.m. Call 703-536-6606.
Christmas Recital at St. George's Episcopal Church, 915 N. Oakland St., at 7:30 p.m. featuring members from the St. George's Choir. Call 703-525-8286.
Choral Union Candlelight Christmas Celebration. 7:30 p.m. at Mount Olivet United Methodist Church Sanctuary, 1500 N. Glebe Road, Arlington. Concert features Matt Niess and the Mount Olivet Brass. Free. Call 703-527-3934.
Saturday/Dec. 16
Holiday Music. Three women sing holiday songs with a new twist at 7:30 p.m. at The Comedy Spot in the Ballston Mall, 238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. For adults only due to content. $14/person. Visit www.comedyindc.com for more information.
Sunday/Dec. 17
Music Performance. Potomac Harmony Chorus performs "Celebrate with Light!" a holiday music show and sing-along at Thomas Jefferson Theater, 125 South Old Glebe Road, Arlington, at 3 p.m. Adults $15, Seniors (62 & over), Children (12 & under) $12. Call 703-764-3896 or 703-979-8028 or visit www.potomacharmony.org.