Holiday Extra

Now Thru Dec. 8

Annual Toy Drive. At Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton (Bldgs. 16, 2, and 11). Annual Toy Drive in partnership with OAR NOVA to bring joy to local families impacted by the criminal justice system.

Winter Wonderland at Burke Lake Park

Climb aboard the Holiday Express for a train ride, spin on the Carolers Carousel, play Gingerbread Man Golf and savor s’mores by the fire. Meet Santa, sip hot chocolate and enjoy the season’s warmth. Weekends: Dec. 7-8, Dec. 14-15, Dec. 21-22, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., $15 in advance, $20 at the door.

Dec. 7 to Jan. 12, 2025

Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m. At Workhouse Arts Center, Lorton. The Hunchback of Notre Dame is based on the Victor Hugo novel with songs from the Disney animated feature. Set in 15th-century Paris, the musical tells the story of Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer who longs to be in the outside world. Held captive by his devious caretaker, the archdeacon Dom Claude Frollo, he escapes for the day, only to be treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Frollo are equally enthralled. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to save them all.

Saturday/Dec. 7

Living Nativity. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. At St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 6320 Hanover Ave., Springfield. Come meet Baby Jesus and pet Delila the Camel and

other animals. Bring family and friends to enjoy the greatest story of all times and live music and refreshments. This event is free. If possible, bring a toy to donate. Donations of new or lightly used toys will be distributed to local organizations that help families in

Springfield. All are welcome. Visit the website: https://www.saintchristophers.net/

Saturday/Dec. 7

Squirrel Nut Zippers Christmas Caravan. 8 p.m. At GMU Center for the Arts, Fairfax. Swing into the holiday season with platinum-selling jazz-rock band Squirrel Nut Zippers. Serving up a boisterous blend of Delta blues, big band, klezmer jazz, and calypso sound in its holiday program Christmas Caravan, Squirrel Nut Zippers is sure to get audiences dancing along.

Capital Art & Craft Festival/Dec 13-15

Join 300+ artists and vendors, and thousands of attendees at the Winter Capital Art and Craft Festival. Enjoy shopping for beautiful one-of-a-kind art, jewelry, clothing, furnishings, pottery, décor, and more. www.capitalartandcraftfestivals.com

National Museum of the Marine Corps Celebrates the Holidays

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is hosting a series of festive events to celebrate this year’s holiday season. From classic holiday films to creative crafts and Santa visits, there are activities for everyone to enjoy. Admission to the Museum and parking are free, and all events are open to the public. 

Holiday Film Series

* “The Nightmare Before Christmas”: Dec. 7 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; December 8 at 1:30 p.m.

* “Mickey’s Magical Christmas: Snowed in at the House of Mouse”: Dec.14 at 11 a.m.; Dec. 17 at 1 p.m.; Dec. 22 at 1:30 p.m.

* “Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch” (2018 version); Dec. 14 at 3:00 p.m.; Dec. 15 at 1:30 p.m. 

Cookies, Cocoa, and Crafts

Families are invited to visit the Museum to create holiday memories on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Kids may enjoy free cookies, hot cocoa and holiday-themed picture frame crafts on the Museum’s second floor.

Santa Claus Visits: Santa Claus is paying a special visit to the Museum in his traditional red outfit on Dec. 14 from 1-4 p.m. and in his special camo suit on Dec. 17 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Families may take free photos with Santa and enjoy holiday-themed activities.