E-mail announcements to the Gazette, gazette@connectionnewspapers.com. Photos and artwork are encouraged. Deadline is Thursday at noon for the following week's paper. Call Rebecca Halik at 703-917-6407 with questions.
Other Items
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is now accepting applications for its new Junior Docent Program. After training, Junior Docents will be able to give tours and assist with public programs including candlelight tours, 18th-century teas, open houses and other special events. Students in grades 2 through 5 are invited to join Gadsby’s staff for a training series Sunday afternoons early next year. Classes will be held from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 18, Jan. 25, and Feb. 1. These free classes will cover basic history and presentation skills to prepare Junior Docents to help with museum special events. To receive an application, call 703-838-4242. Applications are due by Wednesday, Dec. 17.
This holiday season, River Farm will be a collection site for Toys for Tots, an organization that gives toys to needy children in the United States. To make a donation, drop off unwrapped, new toys in the collection box in the estate house by Dec. 16. 703-768-5700 ext. 114.
Ongoing
Mount Vernon Community bands need members. All concert band musicians wanted. Most needed are: oboes, bassoons, French horns, saxophones, flutes, trombones, and clarinets. Also needed and welcome are: percussionists, and players of tubas, euphoniums, trumpets. Visit www.mvbands.com, e-mail MVSwingBand@Cox.net or call 703-339-6534 for more information.
On Mondays, through Dec. 1 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., the Green Spring Gardens located at 4603 Green Spring Road, will be having Yoga for Gardeners for adults. The program will offer a series of classes featuring the Vinyasa method to increase your flexibility, strength, and endurance for gardening. $ 66/ six-class sessions. For more information and to register call 703-642-5173.
On Sundays from noon-5 p.m., visit the Waterfront and see history-inspired performances near the Torpedo Factory; do a “meet and greet” of early Alexandria residents and travelers near the Waterfront and lower King Street. Free. Visit www.historicalexandria.org for more.
Children enter a world of fantasy and fables when costumed interpreters weave three tales together during Mount Vernon’s storytelling session, “Once Upon a Time at Mount Vernon”, held every Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. through December at the Hands-On History room in the Donald W. Reynolds Education Center, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway. The storytelling program is recommended for children ages three to eight. Parental supervision is required. “Once Upon at Time at Mount Vernon” is included in regular Estate admission: adults, $13.00; youth ages 6-11, $6.00; and children under 5 are admitted free.
Historic Mount Vernon has commemorative whiskey sets available for sale. The set includes a shot glass and a 50 mL bottle of whiskey consisting of 11 different whiskey brands blended and aged at Mount Vernon in 2005. The gift sets are $25 and are available for purchase in person with a valid ID at the Shops at Mount Vernon or George Washington’s Distillery. Visit www.mountvernon.org or 703-780-2000.
Historic Mount Vernon welcomes all Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Camp Fire Club members (in uniform or wearing an official pin) to free admission during its Scouting Days program beginning Nov. 1 through Feb. 15, 2009. For more information, visit www.MountVernon.org.
Women can learn how to sing with lessons in a group from 7-8 p.m. on Nov. 19, Nov. 24, Dec. 3 and Dec. 10. Free. Held at The Hermitage, 5000 Fairbanks Ave., Alexandria. 703-764-3896 to RSVP.
Martha Washington hosts an 18th-century Christmas with candlelit walks, fireside caroling, and early American décor during Mount Vernon by Candlelight. The Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings (Nov. 28, 29, & 30; Dec. 5, 6 & 7; and 12, 13 & 14) from 5–8 p.m. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the Ford Orientation Center or through www.MountVernon.org. Admission is $18 for adults and $12 for children under 12.
Mount Vernon welcomes former White House pastry chef Roland Mesnier as he creates a gingerbread replica of George Washington’s home from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 12 through Nov. 25. The five-foot-wide and two-foot-tall gingerbread Mansion replica will be on display as part of the new Christmas at Mount Vernon daytime event, which begins on Nov. 28. Visit www.MountVernon.org for more information.
Gallery West presents “Small Works and Holiday Show and Silent Auction” through Jan. 4 at 1213 King St. Features a variety of art work by members in every size. Silent auction ends Dec. 8. Visit www.gallery-west.com or call 703-549-6006.
Gather the Family at Woodlawn runs Dec. 14,21 and 28 at Woodlawn. Experience an 1820s Christmas with America's First Family before trees, Santa and stockings. Tours available from 5:30-8:30 p.m. $15/person; $5/grades K-12. Visit www.woodlawn1805.org or call 703-780-4000.
The Alexandria Jaycees will sell Christmas trees this season, with proceeds in part benefiting the chapter's holiday shopping tour for kids. The annual tree sales support the Holiday Shopping Tour for underprivileged kids and the chapter's general programming funds for community and leadership development. The Holiday Shopping Tour gives area kids a fun shopping day with funds provided and pizza party to follow, which allows them to purchase gifts for their families. This year's shopping event is set for Dec. 13. The Alexandria Jaycees tree lot is located in the parking lot at the Safeway on the corner of S. Royal and Gibbon Streets in Old Town Alexandria. Tree sales run Nov. 29 until Dec. 20 or when trees sell out). Lot hours are: Monday-Friday 6 p.m.-9 p.m.; Saturdays 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For more details or for membership information, call the Jaycees' 24-hour recorded event line 703-866-7171 or visit www.alexjaycees.org.
Tree Sale. The Alexandria Police department Christmas tree sale begins on Friday, Dec. 5 at the Alexandria Union Station parking lot (110 Callahan Drive). The official lot hours are: Monday-Thursday, 3-9 p.m.; Friday, 3-10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. This year's tree selection includes Scotch Pines, Douglas Firs, Fraser Firs, and Concolor Firs. They will range in size from 4 1/2 feet to 10 feet tall. Proceeds benefit the Alexandria Police Youth Camp.
The Little Theater of Alexandria will perform “Scrooge! The Musical” from Nov. 22-Dec. 14 at 600 Wolfe St., Old Town. Performances are Wednesdays-Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $18-$21 and can be purchased at www.thelittletheatre.com.
The Alliance Dance Institute presents “Nutcracker” from Nov. 29 through Dec. 28 in the Landmark Mall, 5801 Duke St. Performances are Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. $20/person. After the show, stay for photo opportunities. Visit www.adidance.com or 703-354-6000.
This Christmas, arrange for a personalized letter from Santa Claus, postmarked from the North Pole. The Alexandria Jaycees are offering customized letters sent directly to children from Santa for only $5 each. The letter will also include a coupon to a child-friendly restaurant. Letter requests must be received by Dec. 8. Orders received after Dec. 8 will be postmarked from Virginia. For more information or to place an order, visit www.alexjaycees.org.
The American Horticultural Society hosts holiday happenings at its headquarters at River Farm. From Dec. 1 to Jan. 16, River Farm’s grounds and estate house will feature lights, poinsettias, and other festive holiday decorations. All are welcome to visit and enjoy Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but note that the grounds will be closed from Dec. 25 through Jan. 4.
Wednesday/Nov. 26
Concert. 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. An evening with B.B. King. Visit www.birchmere.com for information and tickets.
Pajama Party. 7 p.m. at Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library, 4701 Seminary Road. For ages 3 to 6 with an adult.
Storytime. 11 a.m. at Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Ages 2 and up with adult. Free.
Thursday/Nov. 27
Turkey Trot. 10 a.m. at the Cora Kelly Elementary School at the intersection of West Reed and Commonwealth Avenues. With two cans of food: $15/individuals ages 13-21 and $20/ages 22 and over. Food benefits Alive. Visit www.visitdelray.com/turkeytrot for tickets and t-shirt orders.
Friday/Nov. 28
Concert. 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. The Seldom Scene and Dry Branch Fire. Visit www.birchmere.com for information and tickets.
Wee Ones Story Time. 10:30 a.m. at Hooray for Books!, 1555 King St. Children up to age 2 can enjoy songs and stories. Free. Visit www.hooray4books.com or 703-548-4092.
Reception. See the Springfield Art Guild’s art show through Dec. 15 at the Goodwin House, 4800 Fillmore Ave. Free. All paintings for sale. 703-644-6677.
Tree Lighting. 7 p.m. at Market Square, 301 King St. Features performances, guests and more. Free. Visit www.visitalexandriava.com or 703-883-4686.
Saturday/Nov. 29
Concert. 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. The Seldom Scene and Dry Branch Fire. Visit www.birchmere.com for information and tickets.
Dinosaur Story Time. 11 a.m. at Hooray for Books, 1555 King St. Hear stories about dinosaurs. Free. Age 2 and up. Visit www.hooray4books.com or 703-548-4092.
Art Exhibit. See artwork by Yuri Kokoyanin at The von Brahler Ltd./Gallery, 1437 Powhatan St., from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Call for weekday hours, 703-798-8686. Free.
Scottish Heritage Preview. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St. Enjoy music, performances, re-enactors and more. Free. Visit www.alexandriahistory.org or 703-838-4994.
Holiday Concert. 1 p.m. at Market Square, 301 King St. Hear Alexandria Kleztet and then Michael Mulvaney at 2 p.m. Free. 703-838-4686.
Sunday/Nov. 30
Concert. 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Aaron Neville and his Quintet, featuring Charles Neville. Visit www.birchmere.com for information and tickets.
Bridge Club. 4 p.m. at Sherwood Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane. Beginners and advanced players age 12 and up. Free. 703-765-3645.
Art Exhibit. See artwork by Yuri Kokoyanin at The von Brahler Ltd./Gallery, 1437 Powhatan St., from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Call for weekday hours, 703-798-8686. Free.
Holiday Music. 2 p.m. at Market Square, 301 King St. Hear Doris Justis and Lisa Taylor perform. 703-883-4686.
Holiday Concert. 6:30 p.m. at The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St. Performance by the Dennis J and friends. $15/person; $25/couple. 202-438-5704.
Monday/Dec. 1
Donations Wanted. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Drop off new toy and gift certificate donations (no bikes) for the Alexandria Domestic Violence Program Children’s Holiday Party at 421 King Street, Suite 400, Alexandria. Donations accepted Monday – Friday through Dec. 15. 703-838-4911 for information.
Holiday Trip. 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Green Spring Gardens sponsors a trip to Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA. See Holiday lights and floral displays and a holiday concert. Trip leaves from Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road. $85. Registration required – 703-642-5173.
Wednesday/Dec. 3
Noonday Noel. 12:05 p.m. at The Old Presbyterian Meeting House, 323 S. Fairfax St. Hear A “Colonial Christmas.” Free. Visit www.opmh.org or 703-549-6670. Followed by lunch for $5.
D is for December. 10:30 a.m. at Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane. Preschool age children can enjoy stories and fun. Free. Registration required, 703-765-3645.
Lunch Bunnies. Noon at Kingstowne Library, 6500 Landsdowne Centre. Ages 1-5 can bring lunch and enjoy stories. Free. Registration required, 703-339-4610.
Girls Night Out. 7 p.m. at John Marshall Library, 6209 Rose Hill Drive. Teens can enjoy a book discussion. Call for title. Free. Registration required, 703-971-0010.
Thursday/Dec. 4
Book Discussion. Noon at Kingstowne Library, 6500 Landsdowne Centre. Adults can discuss “Ethan Frome” by Edith Wharton. Free. 703-339-4610.
Scottish Christmas Walk Marketplace. Noon-5 p.m. at Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. Shop for a variety of holiday items, visit a café and buy heather and greens. Visit www.scottishchristmaswalk.com or 703-549-0111.
Heather and Greens Sales. 7-9 p.m. at Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. Try a touch of heather and greens to enhance holiday decorations with a Scottish flair. Purchase fresh heather bundles or a variety of wreaths, garlands, flatwoods and more. Free. For more information on the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, visit www.campagnacenter.org or www.scottishchristmaswalk.com.
Holiday Pottery Show and Sale. Noon-6 p.m. at The Art League in the Torpedo Factory, 105 N. Union St. Free. Purchase a variety of items by residents ranging from $5-$100. Visit www.theartleague.org or 703-683-5358.
Celtic Concert. 8-9:30 p.m. at the Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. Listen to fiddlers, pipers, Scottish dancers and more. $30/person. For more information on the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, visit www.campagnacenter.org or www.scottishchristmaswalk.com.
Children's Tea Party. 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. This special event features Santa Claus. $40/adult and child and $10/each additional ticket. For more information on the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, visit www.campagnacenter.org or www.scottishchristmaswalk.com.
Holiday Open House. Torpedo Factory is holding an open house from 6-9 p.m. at 105 N. Union St. Features music, drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Meet artists and browse gifts. Free. Visit www.torpedofactory.org or 703-838-4565.
Friday/Dec. 5
ArtFest: Fiber & Form Celebration. 6-9 p.m. at the Art League’s Madison Annex. Join for the relaunch of Springwater Studios at the Art League. Free. Visit www.theartleague.org or 703-683-1780.
Holiday Concert. 8 p.m. a the Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St. Hear music by the NOVA Community Chorus and the Alexandria Band. Donations requested, 703-845-6252.
Pet Photos. Pets can take photos with Santa at Olde Towne School for Dogs, 529 Oronoco St. Proceeds benefit Vola Lawson Animal Shelter. $45/sitting. Visit www.alexandriaanimals.org or 703-838-4774 ext. 216.
Lunch Bunch. Noon at John Marshall Library, 6209 Rose Hill Drive. Children up to age 5 can enjoy stories. Free. Registration required, 703-971-0010.
Scottish Christmas Walk Marketplace. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. Shop for a variety of holiday items, visit a café and buy heather and greens. Visit www.scottishchristmaswalk.com or 703-549-0111.
Heather and Greens Sales. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. Try a touch of heather and greens to enhance holiday decorations with a Scottish flair. Purchase fresh heather bundles or a variety of wreaths, garlands, flatwoods and more. Free. For more information on the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, visit www.campagnacenter.org or www.scottishchristmaswalk.com.
Tree Sale. The Alexandria Police department Christmas tree sale begins on Friday, Dec. 5 at the Alexandria Union Station parking lot (110 Callahan Drive). The official lot hours are: Monday-Thursday, 3-9 p.m.; Friday, 3-10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. This year's tree selection includes Scotch Pines, Douglas Firs, Fraser Firs, and Concolor Firs. They will range in size from 4 1/2 feet to 10 feet tall. Proceeds benefit the Alexandria Police Youth Camp.
Art & Crafts Holiday Market. 7 p.m. at the Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Search through gifts created by more than 20 artist members and enjoy baked goods. Call 703-838-4827 for more.
Very Merry Musical. 7:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 2932 King St. Hear A cappella music and enjoy a family meal with Santa. $25/adult; $12/child. Visit www.harmonizers.org or 703-910-4600.
Holiday Dinner Theater. Alexandria Harmonizers Chorus presents “A Very Merry Musical” at 7:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 2932 King St. $15/adult; children ages 6-12 are $7; age 5 and under free. Enjoy favorite songs and a family meal with Santa. Reserved table seating. Visit www.harmonizers.org or 240-206-9626 for tickets.
Artists Reception. The Del Ray Artisans' Fine Art & Crafts Holiday Market will have a free reception from 7-9:30 p.m. at the Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Call 703-838-4827 for more.
Saturday/Dec. 6
Wreath Making. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road. Learn how to create your own holiday wreath. Materials provided. $48. Registration required – 703-642-5173.
Art Exhibit. See artwork by Yuri Kokoyanin at The von Brahler Ltd./Gallery, 1437 Powhatan St., from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Call for weekday hours, 703-798-8686. Free.
Wild for Winter Waterfowl. 11:30 a.m. at Mason Neck, 7301 High Point Road. Observe swans, ducks and more. Free. 703-339-2385.
Majestic Eagles. 5 p.m. at Mason Neck, 7301 High Point Road. Look for bald eagles while learning about them. Free. 703-339-2385.
Pet Photos. Pets can take photos with Santa at Olde Towne School for Dogs, 529 Oronoco St. Proceeds benefit Vola Lawson Animal Shelter. $45/sitting. Visit www.alexandriaanimals.org or 703-838-4774 ext. 216.
A Christmas Marketplace. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. Vendors sell unique, holiday gift wares in a boutique setting. Free. For more information on the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, visit www.campagnacenter.org or www.scottishchristmaswalk.com.
Heather and Greens Sales. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Drive. Try a touch of heather and greens to enhance holiday decorations with a Scottish flair. Purchase fresh heather bundles or a variety of wreaths, garlands, flatwoods and more. Free. For more information on the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, visit www.campagnacenter.org or www.scottishchristmaswalk.com.
Craft Sale. Heritage Presbyterian Church is holding a craft sale "Made by the Bell" from 9 a.m.-noon at the church, 8503 Fort Hunt Road. One hundred percent of the proceeds go to support Heritage Presbyterian Women’s outreach programs for children and women. Call Jenny Kennedy at 703-360-9546 or visit www.heritagechurchva.org for more information.
Art & Crafts Holiday Market. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Search through gifts created by more than 20 artist members and enjoy baked goods. Call 703-838-4827 for more.
Emmanuel Episcopal Church Holiday Bazaar. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at 1608 Russell Road. Free. There will be a silent auction, vendors, variety of items, children’s activities and more. 703-683-0798.
Holiday Pottery Event. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Schlesinger Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St. Free. Browse works by students of NOVA. Visit www2.nvcc.edu for more.
Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. Begins at 3 p.m. with a holiday review featuring local school groups performing. Santa will arrive via boat dockside at the gazebo. Pets are welcome for photos as well. Boat parade starts at 5:30 p.m. Free. Visit www.funside.com for more.
Lights of Love. The Inova Mount Vernon Hospital Auxiliary will present the 26th annual Lights of Love program at 5 p.m. in the hospital's main lobby. For a donation of $5 dedicate a light in memory of a loved one or to honor a friend, neighbor, or relative who has added joy. For a donation of $100, dedicate a light in the tree-top star. Entertainment includes the "Festival of Music" by the West Potomac High School Soundsations and songs by Dr. Cleve Francis, Inova MVH cardiologist and renowned vocalist. A reception in the hospital cafeteria will follow the program. The hospital is located at 2501 Parker's Lane, Alexandria. For any questions contact the Volunteer Services Office at 703-664-7260.
Tree Lighting and Luminaria Display. 5:30 p.m. on Mount Vernon Avenue, followed by a tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. near the Mount Vernon Rec Center, located at Commonwealth and Mount Vernon avenues. Free. Visit www.pwba.org, www,funside.com or 703-683-2570.
Massed Band Concert. 1-1:30 p.m. at King and Royal streets, in front of City Hall at Market Square, 301 King St. Free. Hear a variety of songs after the parade route.
Holiday Concert. 7-8:30 p.m. at River Farm, 7931 E. Boulevard Drive. Features music by Jody Marshall, Andrea Hoag and Paul Nahay. $10/member or $15/nonmember. Space is limited. Visit www.ahs.org or 703-768-5700 ext. 125.
Scottish Preview. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St., Alexandria. Includes bagpipe performances, Celtic music, military living history demonstrations and more. Free. Call 703-838-4994 for more information.
Mount Vernon by Candlelight. Learn about the Washington's Christmas traditions, meet historic characters and tour the home by candlelight, including the rarely seen third floor from 5-8 p.m. at George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens. Visit www.mountvernon.org or call 703-780-2000 for cost information.
Santa Railway Express. Ride with Santa from King Street Station to Old Town Manassas and back on two Fridays before Christmas. The train departs King Street Train Station in Alexandria at 1:25 p.m. and travels to Old Town Manassas Train Station. Passengers will disembark for holiday stories and treats. The train returns to King Street at 3:30 p.m. Buy tickets only at Whistle Stop Hobbies in Old Town. Visit www.whistlestophobbies.com for more.
The Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. 11 a.m. beginning at the corner of Wilkes and South Pitt Streets in Old Town and ending at the Campagna Center. Over 100 Scottish Clans, pipe and drum bands, Scottish dancers, re-enactment groups, Scottie dog groups, dignitaries and, of course, Santa Claus will march down the cobblestone streets of Old Town. For more information on the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, visit www.campagnacenter.org or www.scottishchristmaswalk.com.
Holiday Designer Tour of Homes. 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. Stroll through buildings of historic importance dressed up for the holidays by acclaimed interior designers and local florists. Tickets required $25/advance or $30/day of purchase and can be purchased at homes. Call 703-549-0111 for tickets. For more information on the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, visit www.campagnacenter.org or www.scottishchristmaswalk.com.
A Soldier’s Christmas. Noon-4 p.m. at Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax St. The First Virginia Regiment will highlight the life of a soldier during the American Revolutionary War. Includes demonstrations, music, gaming and more. The Regimental surgeon will discuss medicine and show 18th century surgical instruments. Admission is a suggested $5 donation per person. Visit www.carlylehouse.org or 703-548-2997.
Holiday Dinner Theater. Alexandria Harmonizers Chorus presents “A Very Merry Musical” at 12:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 2932 King St. $15/adult; children ages 6-12 are $7; age 5 and under free. Enjoy favorite songs and a family meal with Santa. Reserved table seating. Visit www.harmonizers.org or 240-206-9626 for tickets.
Holiday Ornament Decorating Workshop. 1-4 p.m. at the Alexandria Archaeology Museum, 105 N. Union St., 3rd floor of the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Families are invited to celebrate the holiday season with an afternoon of historic arts and crafts with the Alexandria Archaeology Museum. Decorate take-home ornaments using shapes, colors and patterns based on the Museum's collection of excavated artifacts. Free. Call Alexandria Archaeology for more information, 703-838-4399.
Holiday Reception. 6-9 p.m., Gallery West presents “Small Works and Holiday Show and Silent Auction” through Dec. 24 at 1213 King St. Features a variety of art work by members in every size. Silent auction ends Dec. 8. Visit www.gallery-west.com or call 703-549-6006.
Sunday/Dec. 7
Gardener’s Open House. Noon-4 p.m. at Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road. Enjoy live music, refreshments and view holiday decorations while you make your own holiday designs. Free.
Noel. 4 p.m. at Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St. Performance by the New Dominion Chorale and Orchestra. $25/adult; $20/senior; $5/student, child. Visit www.newdominion.org or 703-442-9404.
Advent Carols and Lessons. 8:30 a.m. or 11 a.m. at The Old Presbyterian Meeting House, 323 S. Fairfax St. Free. Visit www.opmh.org or 703-549-6670.
Art Exhibit. See artwork by Yuri Kokoyanin at The von Brahler Ltd./Gallery, 1437 Powhatan St., from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Call for weekday hours, 703-798-8686. Free.
Wild for Winter Waterfowl. 11:30 a.m. at Mason Neck, 7301 High Point Road. Observe swans, ducks and more. Free. 703-339-2385.
Majestic Eagles. 5 p.m. at Mason Neck, 7301 High Point Road. Look for bald eagles while learning about them. Free. 703-339-2385.
Wintering Animals. 1 p.m. at Mason Neck, 7301 High Point Road. Visit some animals that live in the park. Free. 703-339-2385.
Pet Photos. Pets can take photos with Santa at Olde Towne School for Dogs, 529 Oronoco St. Proceeds benefit Vola Lawson Animal Shelter. $45/sitting. Visit www.alexandriaanimals.org or 703-838-4774 ext. 216.
Toys for Tots Benefit Square Dance. 1-5 p.m. at Lee Center Exhibit Hall, 1108 Jefferson St. Features performance by the Capital Squares Demonstration Team and more. Donation is unopened toy or $10 minimum/couple. 703-883-4686.
Holiday Music. 2 p.m. at Market Square, 301 King St. Hear Shir Tze’ir and the Family Choir of Beth El Hebrew Congregation. Free. 703-883-4686.
Art & Crafts Holiday Market. Noon-4 p.m. at the Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria. Search through gifts created by more than 20 artist members and enjoy baked goods. Call 703-838-4827 for more.
Holiday Shopping Spectacular. The Alexandria Commission for Women is holding a art and shopping spectacular from 3-6 p.m. at the Next Realty, 900 N. Fayette St. Purchase arts and crafts, jewelry, handbags and more from emerging women artists. Free. 703-838-5030.
Holiday Performance. 2:30 p.m. at the George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan DRive. The Washington Metropolitan Philharmonic (WMP) will present holiday music. General admission tickets are $20. Students 18 and under are free. All concert tickets can be purchased at the door or online at www.wmpa.us.
Mount Vernon by Candlelight. Learn about the Washington's Christmas traditions, meet historic characters and tour the home by candlelight, including the rarely seen third floor from 5-8 p.m. at George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens. Visit www.mountvernon.org or call 703-780-2000 for cost information.
Holiday Tea at Woodlawn. Enjoy a special blend of tea and period confections while learning about tea customs of the early 19th century and then take a tour of the house. Noon and 2 p.m. $25/tea or $30/including tour. Reservations required. Private teas available for groups. Visit www.woodlawn1805.org or call 703-780-4000 ext. 27.
Monday/Dec. 8
Meeting. 6-8 p.m. at The Westin Alexandria, 400 Courthouse Square. The Eisenhower Partnership will hold its annual meeting. For information call 703-684-5124.
Gingerbread Tales. 10;30 a.m. at Kingstowne Library, 6500 Landsdowne Centre. Children ages 24-35 months can enjoy stories, songs and more. Free. Registration required, 703-339-4610.
Books and Ideas. 7:30 p.m. at Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane. Discuss “The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down” by Anne Fadiman. Free. Registration required, 703-765-3645.
Tuesday/Dec. 9
Music Performance. 7:30 p.m. at Episcopal High School, 1200 N. Quaker Lane. The National Chamber Players are performing. Free. Visit www.episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4135.
Music Performance. 7:30 p.m. at Episcopal High School, 3900 W. Braddock Road. The National Chamber Players will perform selections of Bach. Free. 703-933-4135.
Snowfest. 10:15 a.m. or 11:15 a.m. at John Marshall Library, 6209 Rose Hill Drive. Children ages 2-3 can enjoy stories and activities. Free. Registration required, 703-971-0010.
In Sparkle Time. 10:30 a.m. at Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane. Children ages 2-3 can learn about wintertime. Free. Registration required, 703-765-3645.
Wednesday/Dec. 10
Noonday Noel. 12:05 p.m. at The Old Presbyterian Meeting House, 323 S. Fairfax St. Hear music sung by Marjorie Bundy. Free. Visit www.opmh.org or 703-549-6670. Followed by lunch for $5.
Rising Words, Rising Images. 11 a.m. at Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane. Children ages 6-12 can discuss “Drylongso” by Virginia Hamilton. Free. Registration required, 703-765-3645.
Writers Peer Review. 7 p.m. at Kingstowne Library, 6500 Landsdowne Centre. Adults can bring work to get feedback. Free. 703-339-4610.
Thursday/Dec. 11
Holiday Party. 6 p.m. at River Farm. Celebrate the success of 2008. RSVP by Dec. 8, 703-768-5700 ext. 114.
Miniatures Exhibit Reception. See “Childhood Memories in Miniature: African American Dollhouses” from 6-8 p.m. at the Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St. Free, but reservations required, 703-838-4356.
Hey, Snowman. 1 p.m. at Kingstowne Library, 6500 Landsdowne Centre. Children ages 3-5 can enjoy stories, songs and more. Free. Registration required, 703-339-4610.
Holiday Tree Lighting. 5-7 p.m. at Hoffman Town Center. Free. The Alexandria Harmonizers will provide entertainment. Free. Gift card donations will be requested to help the wounded and their families at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. There will be raffles, free food and more.