‘Tis the season for sipping on hot chocolate, finding those one-of-a-kind gifts, and the smell of fir on every street corner. The holidays bring plenty of reasons to celebrate, but between the packed calendars and endless to do-lists, finding time to really soak it all in feels like a chore!
Consider this your invitation to slow down, embrace the holiday spirit, and do that one activity will bring a smile to your face. Whether you’re a foodie searching for a seasonal treat, a market shopper who stumbles across a charming stall, or someone who gets a twinkle in their eye from all the lights, there’s a festive outing with your name all over it!
We’ve rounded up some seasonal happenings to add to your calendar, along with ways to get there. Spend less time in traffic and save a little money on parking, so you have more to spend on yourself—or someone special—this holiday season.
Your Holiday Line Up
Tysons Corner Center Holiday Kick-Off Celebration
Nov. 13, 2026 | 6-8 p.m. | PenFed Plaza
Tyson’s is kicking off the holidays with an evening of festivities – between the holiday market, enchanting light show and performances, to a visit from Santa – you won’t want to miss out!
To get to PenFed Plaza, take the RIBS 3 from the stop across Sunrise Valley Drive from Reston Kabob to the Wiehle-Reston East Metro station, then ride three stops to Tysons. From Tysons station, walk about 6 minutes to the plaza.
Reston Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
Nov. 27, 2026 | 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Reston Town Center
Reston’s holiday celebration has it all – from the parade with marching bands and floats, to the evening of sip & stroll and tree lightning – there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Reston Town Center is a 30-minute walk from The Point at Rise or opt to take the bus for a 15–20-minute heated ride on the RIBS 1 or Fairfax Connector 605. Both routes pick up at the bus stop at Reston Parkway & Sunrise Valley Drive and drop off at the Reston Town Center bus bay.
Herndon WinterMarkt
Dec. 12, 2026 | 12-7 p.m. | 777 Lynn Street
Experience a European-style holiday market featuring artisan vendors, festive food, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
From The Point at Rise, enjoy a 20-minute bike ride along the Washington-Old Dominion (W&OD) trail or take a 35-minute bus ride from the RIBS 1 stop at Reston Parkway & Sunrise Valley Drive. Ride three stops and get off at Reston Town Center to hop on the RIBS 5 bus toward Herndon. Ride for 15 minutes to exit the bus at Fortnightly Boul & Branch Avenue. From here, the market will be a three-minute walk away.
Ready to Get Festive?
Now, are you ready to soak up all the holiday cheer? The Reston Heights Access Guide can help you connect with transit to get to events like these and more. Check off everything on your holiday list this season, and you might just find a new seasonal tradition along the way!