The holidays are upon us, and while many families like to travel, here in the D.C. region many military families choose to stay put, because why not have the family come to you? After all, there are multiple sites to choose from during the holidays to show off what the area has to offer.
As you make your list of places to show family and friends, you might want to include some of these locations and events near Marine Corps Base Quantico.
Holiday Events Near Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia
Holiday Lights
D.C. Area
If you plan to head into Washington, D.C. be sure to swing by the National Tree. The National Tree was officially lit on November 28, 2018. The tree will be lit daily from dusk until 11:00 p.m., so check times before you head over.
Another great stop is the National Zoo for Zoo Lights. Free admission and a spectacular winter wonderland of lights, along with entertainment, a play area for kids and, of course, plenty of goodies for all to try.
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By S Pakhrin via Wikimedia Commons
Another great light show not too far from home is the Bull Run Festival of Lights. Every year from Thanksgiving to just after New Year's, this is a spectacular event for the whole family, and you get to stay in your warmth of your car for 2.5 miles of lights. Then be sure to stop and visit the holiday village to purchase some goodies or souvenirs. Avoid the crowds and come by during the week, where there is also a reduced admission per vehicle.
Holiday Decorations
National Museum of the Marine Corps
Right out the front gate of MCB Quantico is the hidden gem for all Marines and military families. The National Museum of the Marine Corps is open daily from 9-5 every day except for Christmas Day. With admission free along with the parking, you won’t want to miss out on what the museum has to offer during the holidays.
The museum has been decorated for the holidays and, depending on the day you visit, you might be treated to live musical entertainment, a visit from Santa, or even a Marine Corps event such as a promotion ceremony. There is also a Children’s Gallery, so yes, there is something for every age! You never know what you will be able to be a part of when you enter the museum.
Mount Vernon
Planning to head north of Quantico? Consider George and Martha’s estate for "Mount Vernon by Candlelight." A candlelit character tour takes you back many centuries to understand their holiday traditions. Be sure to check the Mount Vernon website for dates and information.
National Harbor
Heading even further north, plan a day trip to National Harbor where the entire area is decorated for the holidays. So many options to choose from; there's fun for all ages! From shopping and holiday movies on the weekends to Gaylord National’s ICE, there are too many options to choose. Plan to start and end your day there and be sure to check for military discounts.
Live Entertainment
Photo by Scott Suchman Ford's Theatre. Gregory Maheu as Bob Cratchit and Craig Wallace as Ebenezer Scrooge.
It wouldn’t be the holiday season without Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, which runs at Ford’s Theatre. This is an annual tradition for many D.C. families, so order your tickets now.
The National Cathedral holds various choral performances each weekend. A wonderful place to visit year-round, the cathedral is decorated and filled with festive music. The cathedral also holds services and offers some unique holiday finds in their museum store.
During your time at MCB Quantico, start a new tradition with your family and enjoy the area! And please share with us a place you've visited--we'd love to hear!
