This week I wanted to do something different since Thanksgiving is just in a few hours. I know it’s a little late tonight, but I still wanted to send this because I hope these tips end up being useful:

🍽️ If you’re skipping the oven, I pulled together some great places for a proper holiday dinner out.

🥂 If you’re looking to enjoy the break with friends, family, or visitors, there’s a full list of events happening all week.

🎄 And if you’re craving something different, I added a few easy holiday escapes that are worth the drive.

Scroll in and enjoy, and let me know if you end up trying any of them!

If you’re skipping the oven this year and just want to enjoy Thanksgiving out, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

I pulled together a full list of Northern Virginia restaurants serving special holiday menus, from elegant prix fixe dinners to cozy, family-style feasts.

Take a look, find your vibe, and book a spot before tables fill up.

If you end up trying one of these places, reply and tell me how it went. I love hearing real experiences and sharing them with the community.

And if you have a hidden gem that's not in this list, I want to know! The best recommendations always come from locals.

If you’re looking to enjoy the long holiday week or show visiting family a good time, I’ve got you covered.

Northern Virginia and DC are packed with fun events, cozy traditions, and festive moments that make these days out even better. I pulled together a full list of what’s going on, so you can skip the planning and just pick what feels right.

Scroll through, find your favorites, and enjoy the week!

If you’re already planning your calendar, don’t stop here. Keep scrolling (or click here) for the section “Quick Holiday Escapes from NoVA”, perfect if you want a change of scenery.

It’s just a bit down in the email! Go→

Thinking about moving to Northern Virginia? In this video, I will tell you everything about Dumfries, a town in NoVA that is doing the IMPOSSIBLE in 2026!

If the local holiday options are starting to feel familiar, it’s the perfect time for a little road adventure.

These quick holiday escapes are full of lights, treats, and winter charm, and the most important: all within driving distance from NoVA!

Baltimore’s Inner Harbor transforms into a European-inspired Christmas market with wooden booths selling handmade gifts, ornaments and crafts. Warm up with schnitzel or raclette, then grab mulled wine or hot chocolate served in souvenir mugs.

West Shore Park, Baltimore, MD • Free
🔗 MORE INFO→

This long-running Richmond tradition celebrates big, bold and over-the-top décor. Houses across the city light up with bright displays, making it a fun and self-guided tour you can explore at your own pace.

Various locations around Richmond, VA • Free
🔗 MORE INFO→

Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square is known for its 1,100 acres of gardens, meadows and fountains. During the holidays, it’s covered in lights, seasonal florals and themed displays. Ride the Garden Railway, then grab snacks and hot chocolate at the Café and Beer Garden. Timed entry required.

Kennett Square, PA • $45 adults, $25 ages 5–18, kids 4 and under free
🔗 MORE INFO→

The Williamsburg theme park becomes a winter wonderland with lights throughout the park, holiday entertainment and seasonal shows. Experience Gloria!, the Wisemen musical trio and the ‘Twas That Night ice-skating show.

Williamsburg, VA • Tickets from $41.99
🔗 MORE INFO→

City Hall and Love Park are transformed into a bustling holiday market with food, drinks and handcrafted gifts. Shop for scarves, hats, pottery and jewelry, snack on German treats and stop by the Festival of Trees benefiting CHOP. Don’t forget a photo at the Love sign!

Love Park, Philadelphia, PA • Free
🔗 MORE INFO→

Tried one of these day trips before? Or planning to go soon? Hit reply and tell me which one. Your experience might help someone else pick their holiday adventure.

The market’s holding steady with a median sale price around $675K, up 12% year-over-year. Homes are taking about 69 days to sell, and the sale-to-list ratio is 98.3%, still a sign of solid demand.

For Buyers: With listings staying active a bit longer, there’s room to negotiate, especially on homes that have been sitting for a few weeks. Still, desirable properties move fast, so be ready with pre-approval.

For Sellers: Price strategically and stay flexible. Demand remains strong, but buyers have options. Well-staged, accurately priced homes are the ones selling quickest.