For those that don’t love the Holidays- look away! But for anyone like me, this is the best time of the year. Actually my favorite time of the year is September – December, but I LOVE November and December. I’m not sure if it’s just me, but I feel like people are just… happier? This time of year. I’m sure there’s a lot of other reasons people enjoy this time, but that is my top reason.. well one of them.
Also, as a mom of a 2 year old who destroys the house in 3 seconds if we don’t have plans on the weekend- I am always looking for something to do that is family friendly and if it’s FREE or affordable?? Sign me up! Which is one of the best things about this time of the year, it seems like there’s always something to do and 9 times out of 10 it’s also family friendly. Speaking of family friendly upcoming events, Manassas Park has quite a few of them between November and December. And while my 2 year old’s opinion isn’t the only one (don’t tell him that), he loves these events so I’m betting a majority of other children and families would also love them!
Starting with November 14, we have a returning event for it’s second year- Capture the Claus! This event is perfect to come and get a picture with Santa for those Holiday cards or just to have as a keepsake or an Instagram post. This event is totally FREE! We’ll have some activities and games for kids to play while they wait for photos or just to hang out with us afterwards. The event itself will run from 2pm-4pm that day in MPCC.
Next up – our December events! I could do a paragraph for all 4, but I personally find it easier if I can screenshot the event with full details in list form to open up later when I’m reminding myself of the weekend’s activities so that’s what I’ll list here below!
1. December 3 – 6:30-7:30pm – Handmade for the Holidays – an ornament/craft workshop where children will make 2 ornaments to take home!
2. December 5 – 5pm – Annual Light Parade – this parade will start at Public Works and end at City Hall, so Manassas Dr has your best seat to catch the parade! However, there will be a tree lighting and activities downtown at City Hall, so highly suggest catching the parade from there!
3. December 10 – 6:30pm-7:30pm – Gingerbread House Workshop – decorate a gingerbread house, you supply the creativity and we supply everything else! Perfect event for the family!
4. December 12 – 9am – 11am – Breakfast with Santa – Join Santa for breakfast, play some games, get some pictures with Santa, and have an awesome morning. We highly suggest PJs for your attire, but feel free to wear what you wish!
We hope to see you at 1 or ALL of these events over the next 2 months, as we get into the most wonderful time of the year here at MPCC!
Kaitlyn Hall is the Recreation Specialist for Special Events for the City of Manassas Park, Department of Parks and Recreation. She can be reached at 703-335-8872 or via email at k.hall@manassasparkva.gov