Patch 2021 Holiday Guide Lists Seasonal Events And Activities To Enjoy Around Fairfax

FAIRFAX CITY, VA — Even though many early birds were putting up their Christmas lights the day after Halloween — if they waited that long — Thanksgiving is generally considered the unofficial start of the holiday season.

As the weather gets colder and the shoppings malls become more crowded, many Fairfax City residents look forward to taking some time to enjoy their favorite holiday activities.

Here are some of the holiday events happening in November and December in the Fairfax City area:

2021 Fairfax Turkey Trot 5K: Thursday, Nov. 25, 9-11:59 a.m., at Fire Station 3, 4081 University Drive. Join the annual run through Old Town Fairfax to benefit the City of Fairfax Fire Department Benevolent Fund. Register online by 3 p.m. on Nov. 24 for the 5K ($45) or by 6 p.m. on Nov. 25 for the virtual race ($50).

Home for the Holidays Cathedral Brass Christmas: Friday, Dec. 3, 8-10 p.m., at the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Old Lee Highway. Free.

Fairfax City Holiday Market: Dec. 3-5, and Dec. 10-12; Fridays, 5-8 p.m.; Saturdays, 12-6 p.m.; Sundays 12-5 p.m., at Old Town Square, 10415 North St. Free.

Photos with Santa: Children and family photos Sunday, Dec. 5, and pet photos Sunday, Dec. 12, 3-5 p.m. at Old Town Square, 10415 North St. Free.

2021 Festival of Lights: Saturday, Dec. 4, 12-6 p.m., at Old Town Square, 10415 North St. Enjoy caroling and the tree lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Free.

Christmas in Camp and Making Do at Home: Sunday, Dec. 5, 12-4 p.m., at Civil War Interpretive Center at Historic Blenheim, 3610 Old Lee Highway. Meet the soldiers in camp; real with soldiers and participate in a cease-fire exchange of gifts. Group tours into house (limited sizes). Free.

Sounds of the Season and Gift Shop Specials: Sunday, Dec. 12, 2-4 p.m., at Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center, 10209 Main St. Enjoy festive music while shopping at the museum.

A Christmas Carol: Sunday, Dec. 19, 2-4:30 p.m., at Old Town Hall, 3999 University Drive, Fairfax. Enjoy a one-man adaptation by the John Hardy Touring Theatre of Dickens' holiday classic.

Got a holiday event you want people to know about and add to this list? Add a comment to this story or email Patch editor Michael O'Connell at michael.oconnell@patch.com.