Finding the right NoVa Holiday things to do with kids isn’t always an easy thing. It has become a bit more difficult this year, but it’s not impossible.

2020’s holiday season looks a little different than usual, but there are still light displays at which to marvel, Christmas cookies to bake, and decorating to be done! There are also a number of local events in the Springfield and Burke areas specifically geared toward families and children. Here are just a few of the NoVa holiday things to do we found — and that we think children will love — to get you and yours in the spirit of the season this year.

Top NoVa Holiday Things to Do with Kids This Year

Jingle Bells and Balls

Hit a holiday hole-in-one at the Christmas Open Mini-Golf hosted by Sydenstricker United Methodist Church (8508 Hooes Rd. Springfield, VA). On December 19th from 4 PM- 8 PM, groups of five or fewer can sign up to enjoy the competition at this putt-putt course designed for our area youth in grades 5 -12 (though younger siblings welcome) and their families. 

Wrapped snacks will be provided after the course is completed.

And while you’re having fun, you can also be doing good works. While there is no charge to participate in the Christmas Open, there will be an opportunity to donate to support the church’s youth missions programs upon registration.

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Friday evenings in December from 6 – 11 PM, Bowl America Burke invites everyone in the family to Unlimited Bowling. Bowl as many games as you wish for a flat rate of only $15.99 per person (rental shoes not included.) 

Masks mandatory and lanes between skipped for safety and distancing.

See Santa!

Does Santa need to know if you’ve been naughty or nice this year? Santa’s elves have installed a special North Pole Mailbox for the children of Barrington (but we’re pretty sure you could take advantage, too). Just drop your letters to Father Christmas at this North Post post office box from 10 AM to 4 PM daily. And if you wish to receive a response from Mr. Clause (not guaranteed) don’t forget to include your home address. 

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Photos with Santa and Friends is happening at Springfield Town Center. You can visit with real-bearded Santa in the Grand Court to capture your holiday memories through Christmas Eve, but did you also know that on December 15th he’ll be joined by popular Superheroes at 4 PM?!

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The annual Super, Awesome & Amazing Pancake Breakfast with Santa at the St. James is also happening in a safe and socially distanced way this year. On December 19th, sign up for your time to ensure you get in before capacity limits to dine on pancakes, get your child’s picture taken, and enjoy the magic of the season.

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And, of course, don’t forget to enter our List With Elizabeth sweepstakes for a private video visit with Santa on Christmas Eve!

Living Nativities

St. Stephens United Methodist Church hosts a special outdoor Living Nativity event on December 20th at 11 AM to 1 PM on the church’s front lawn, where a camel, a donkey and more come to salute the baby Jesus. 

Sign-up is required for safety. Each 15-minute slot accommodates 20 people, though the last 30-minute slot is open to everyone for Drive-Thru only. 

Unlike previous years, there will be no costumes of angels, shepherds and wisemen, but there will be a special headband for the kids to commemorate the Nativity.

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Abiding Presence Lutheran is also hosting a Christmas Drive-Thru Nativity with live animals, actors, caroling, and more. On Christmas Eve, from noon to 2 PM, the whole family can drive through to see the nativity story come to life.