5 Ways to Celebrate the Season in Loudoun
(This blog was originally posted by Lansdowne Resort & Spa. Find the original blog here)
From the holiday music on the radio and lights glistening on the trees to the beautiful window displays at neighborhood stores, there is truly something magical about this time of year. Growing up, the excitement of the holidays revolved around the anticipation of Santa and school vacation but now it’s about seeing family and friends, giving back and making lasting memories.
Historic homes in holiday décor
From its plantation homes to its rich Civil War stories, Loudoun is steeped in history. During December, Oatlands Historic House & Gardens along with Morven Park get decked out for the holidays and offer special tours to visitors. At Oatlands, partake in a holiday tea, a candlelight tour or carols in the carriage house. At Morven, home of former Virginia Governor Westmoreland Davis, see holiday decorations by nationally known interior designer Barry Dixon and visit some of the Thanksgiving turkeys pardoned by past Presidents.
Shopping
You don’t have to go far from Lansdowne Resort & Spa to find great holiday shopping. The resort is just minutes from both boutiques and brand-name deals. During December, Leesburg is transformed into a scene from a vintage holiday postcard, where storefront windows are decorated and street lamps are adorned with greenery and red ribbons. Find a one-of-a-kind gift at an art gallery or boutique and take home a fresh dessert from Mom’s Apple Pie. The town also offers free parking from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. After, shop the 110 brand-name stores at Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets.
Explore Wine Country
It’s always a good time for a glass of wine in Loudoun’s wine country. Many of the wineries feature cozy fireplaces where you can snuggle up with a nice glass of red or even try mulled wine! At 8 Chains North, try a chocolate and wine pairing by the fire or at Winery 32, warm up not only with a glass of vino but also with warm soup or chili by the fire. Or embrace the cold and sit by the fire pit at Stone Tower Winery to enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside.
Holiday beers along the LoCo Ale Trail
Loudoun is not just for wine lovers but also has a booming craft beer scene. With 20 breweries– and counting-there is a beer to please anyone’s palate. Visit one of Loudoun’s farm breweries, Quattro Goomba’s Brewery to try a Gingersnap Brown Ale, filled with all the spice flavors of a gingerbread cookie. Or, visit Corcoran Brewing Company for an oatmeal stout with a twist- it’s full of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Oh Christmas tree
Before you pack up from your weekend getaway in Loudoun, visit one of the local Christmas tree farms. Cut down a tree for the family, buy a holiday wreath for a friend or even enjoy hot chocolate, cider and tractor rides at some of the farms.
We hope you enjoy your holiday vacation in Loudoun. Don’t forget to share your memories and special moments from the season by using #LoveLoudoun or look for more ideas at www.visitloudoun.org .
