As winter approaches, National Landing is gearing up for a spectacular weekend of festive fun at Metropolitan Park. From December 1st through December 3rd, “The Lodge” will transform the park into a winter wonderland, offering a delightful mix of holiday activities for visitors of all ages.

Embracing the Winter Spirit

Hosted by the National Landing Business Improvement District (BID), the weekend-long winter festival is not just an event; it’s a culmination of National Landing’s beloved holiday traditions over the years. Bringing together smaller holiday events that have spanned the winter season, the BID will deliver a broader and more impactful winter festival for the community.

Ski-Themed Extravaganza

Dubbed “The Lodge” for its ski-themed festivities, the event caters to all ages with different themes. The children’s activities take place on the “Bunny Slope,” while all-age and family activities fall under the “Blue Run” category. For the adults and the 21 and older crowd, the “Black Diamond” routes promise a FUN experience.

Winter Wonderland Activities for All

“The Lodge” will include a diverse range of activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From a Christmas tree lot with trees of all sizes, to wreath-making, carolers, and face painting, the event is a winter paradise for all. For the 21 and older crowd, an après-ski ugly sweater party with an outdoor bar awaits, providing a perfect setting for holiday merriment.

If you have a lofty 20-foot ceiling yearning for the perfect Christmas tree, you can pre-order your tree and have it conveniently delivered to The Lodge for easy pickup. There are truly trees of all sizes available!

Indulge in a variety of Instagram-worthy moments (the perfect spot for holidays photos), featuring carefully curated selfie stations and engaging activities such as ornament calligraphy and crafting. Be among the first to arrive and receive a complimentary bouquet from the enchanting Holly Jolly Flower Truck stationed on-site. Make sure to secure your spot as the early bird catches the festive bloom. And that’s not all — brace yourself for exciting Christmas tree and wreath giveaways! 

Ski School, Train Rides, and More

Children of all ages can enjoy a ski school, glitter tattoos, face painting, and even write letters to Santa at the North Pole. A real holiday-themed train ride through the park adds a special touch, following the meandering paths that resemble ski runs from a bird’s eye view.

Community Partnerships and Giving Back

“The Lodge” is not just about festivities; it’s about community and giving back. Partnering with local businesses, the event includes a donation tree benefiting the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, pet holiday caricature artists, and pet photos with Santa. Additionally, the holiday market, “The Ski Shop,” features 10-15 vendors selling everything from candles to local favorites.

Peppermint Mocha Latte Competition

National Landing BID is excited to bring back the Peppermint Mocha Latte competition, featuring coffee shops like Commonwealth Joe, Beauty Champagne & Sugar Boutique, Brij Coffee, and Rossana Pop Up Coffee Shop. Visitors can vote for their favorite custom peppermint mocha latte recipe.

Drag Show, Music, and More

Partnering with Freddie’s Beach Bar and Restaurant, the event includes a Slay Ride Drag Show on Sunday. Throughout the weekend, enjoy roaming Christmas carolers, a DJ, a rise and glide with NaLa Santa Run, food trucks, a smores hut, and even ax throwing. The event’s onsite bar, The Summit Bar, adds to the ski-themed decor creating the perfect moment to gather with friends and family.

And be sure to swing by the Amazon stand for a banana and pick up a National Landing Banana Bread Kit to bring home the joy of baking banana bread for the holidays!

Save the Dates!

Don’t miss out on the fun! “The Lodge” takes place on:

• Friday, Dec 1, 2023, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
• Saturday, Dec 2, 2023, 1 pm – 8 pm
• Sunday, Dec 3, 2023, 11 am – 5 pm

For more information and to RSVP, visit National Landing’s website and secure your spot through Eventbrite. Don’t miss out on the chance to kick off the holiday season with a weekend full of joy, festivities, and community spirit at “The Lodge” in National Landing.