Sarah McLachlan @ DAR Constitution Hall

Sarah McLachlan has created a true holiday classic with Wintersong. The Arista recording artist imbues this splendid twelve-song collection—the first holiday album of her multi-platinum career—with peerless interpretive skill and exquisite musicianship. Set for nationwide release on October 17, 2006, Wintersong is Sarah’s first new studio album since Afterglow, released November 2003. Afterglow is certified double platinum for US sales of over two million and has sold more than four million copies worldwide, bringing Sarah’s worldwide career sales to more than 26 million albums.

Celebrating three years of renewed growth and self-realization for its creator, the music of Sarah McLachlan takes a joyous and festive turn on Wintersong. It’s a timely gift to her universe of fans, both new and old.

Jan 10, 2011
7:00 pm

DAR Constitution Hall
1776 D Street NW
Washington, DC 20006
http://www.dar.org/conthall/

Purchase tickets through http://eventful.com/

Open Businesses on Christmas Day in Woodbridge

If you need any last minute items or just need someplace to go, here are some of the businesses available on Christmas Eve/Day...

10.) CVS – CVS is a good place to find last-minute gifts for family and friends. Their selection includes gift cards to various stores, picture frames, toys and more. The CVS located at the corner of Jefferson Davis Highway and Occoquan Road will be open 24 hours, while the Tackett's Mill store will be open to serve your needs on Christmas Day until midnight. 12890 Touchstone Cir, Woodbridge, VA

9.) Mr. Hunan – A great way to spend your Christmas is to enjoy some Chinese cuisine at Mr. Hunan. Be sure to try out their General Tso' Chicken or Peking duck. Call Mr. Hunan at 703-490-3456 for their holiday hours. 13725 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Woodbridge, VA

8.) IHOP – The Potomac Mills International House of Pancakes is open 24 hours a day, and will be serving their famous pancakes, waffles and other breakfast foods all day on Christmas. 13718 Smoketown Rd, Woodbridge, VA

7.) Hard Times Cafe – Come out to the Hard Times Cafe to shoot some pool and enjoy their famous chili. They will be open from 5 p.m. Christmas Day until 2 a.m. Dec. 26. 14389 Potomac Mills Rd, Woodbridge, VA

6.) Giant – Stock up on supplies for your Christmas dinner, or find a card for that one person you forgot, at the Lake Ridge Commons Giant supermarket. They will be open until 6 p.m. Christmas Day. Other Giant locations, including the Dale City Centre Plaza store, will be closed.

5.) Denny's – The tasty, affordable diner restaurant that never closes will remain open all day on Christmas, including both the Woodbridge and Dale City locations. 13775 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Woodbridge, VA

4.) T.G.I. Friday's – Why not treat your family to some Buffalo wings or Cajun chicken & shrimp pasta at T.G.I. Friday's on Christmas Day? They open at 5 p.m., just in time to bring in the whole family for a delectable Christmas dinner. 13237 Worth Ave, Woodbridge, VA

3.) Blockbuster – Enjoy movies in front of your Christmas tree after a trip to Blockbuster. You can rent the newest releases, and even buy some new DVDs in case you need an extra gift. They are open from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 13450 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Woodbridge, VA

2.) Starbucks – Be sure to pick up a special holiday gingerbread latte, or peppermint mocha at the Potomac Mills Starbucks, which will be open on Christmas from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Other Starbucks locations, including the Cheshire Station Starbucks in Dale City, will be closed. 2447 Prince William Pkwy, Woodbridge, VA

1.) AMC Theaters – Potomac Mills is closed, but the adjacent AMC Theaters is definitely open for all movie-goers on Christmas Day. You can take your family out to enjoy a movie. Call the AMC Theaters at 703-490-5151 for hours and show times.


http://woodbridge-va.patch.com/articles/10-places-you-didnt-know-were-open-on-christmas-4

Santa Claus @ Potomac Mills

Want a holiday photo of your child with Santa while having a learning experience at the same time? Well, Santa Claus will be living at Potomac Mills Mall November 6th through December 24th and he loves visitors! This is a great opportunity to bring the family out to visit Santa. If your kids have a wishlist, have them write it out and let them read it to Santa. Check out some of these letters http://calhountimes.com/view/full_story/5300218/article-Letters-to-Santa








Potomac Mills Mall
2700 Potomac Mills Cir
Woodbridge, VA 22192
703-496-9330
http://www.simon.com/mall/?id=1260

International Human Solidarity Day

Today, we recognize International Human Solidarity Day. December 20 was designated as the International Human Solidarity Day by the UN. The day is meant to remind the member states to raise public awareness of the importance of solidarity and to encourage new initiatives for poverty eradication.

"Based on equality, inclusion and social justice, solidarity implies a mutual obligation among all members of society and across the global community. And that, in turn, should point the way towards partnerships and cooperation among all development actors - governments, inter-governmental and non-governmental organisations, civil society and the private sector...On this International Day, let us renew our commitment to human solidarity and collective action in building a better, safer world for all."(UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon)

The theme for the 2010 International Human Solidarity Day is: "Reach out to our neighbors." To live in solidarity with all those around us- to include the poor, the sick and elderly, those enduring abuse, discrimination or violations of their rights- and through which create a safe world based on unity and harmony.

For more information, visit http://www.un.org/en/events/humansolidarityday/

http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/un/international-human-solidarity-day

Fredericksburg First Night

Make plans today for Fredericksburg First Night 2011 - Friday, December 31, 2010!

Since 1994, Fredericksburg First Night® has become a holiday tradition and city treasure. Downtown Fredericksburg is the stage through out the evening with revelers enjoying - and even joining in - the multiple, simultaneous, and continuous performances and activities by our region's diverse artists. The New Year is welcomed in with the dropping of the pineapple and fireworks.

Held in historic churches, Old Town streets, and businesses, all First Night sites are alcohol free, allowing our city's celebration on New Year's Eve to be an event that everyone can enjoy. Our mission and goal is to provide a safe, entertaining, and family friendly alternative to traditional New Year's Eve celebrations.

Friday, December 31, 2010 - Saturday, January 01, 2011
7.00pm- 12.30am

Admission Fee: $7.50

Downtown Fredericksburg
700 to 1000 block of Caroline and Sophia Streets
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
http://www.fredericksburgfirstnight.com/

Office............... 540.972.2749
Parks and Rec Office: 540.372.1086

Holiday Tea @ Oatland

The teas include an assortment of delicate tea sandwiches, delicious tea cookies and sweets, scones with preserves and cream complemented by Oatlands special “Afternoon Tea Blend”. Teas book early, so please call today to make your reservation.

Oatlands is a 360-acre, self-supporting National Trust Historic Site. In addition to an 1804 mansion, restored 4-1/2 acre garden, the site holds an 1810 restored greenhouse and 19th century brick dependencies.

Holiday teas are available on Thursdays, thru Sundays from Dec. 3 through Dec. 27 (except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the day after Christmas). Holiday teas are $24.95 per person, not including tax. Seatings are at 1 p.m.

Oatlands Plantation
20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane
Leesburg, VA 20176

703.777.3174
http://www.oatlands.org/

Holiday Concert at the National Museum of the Marine Corps

There will be a special event at the National Museum of the Marine Corps on Sunday, December 12. The Woodbridge Community Choir will be performing a holiday concert. The concert begins at 2 pm.

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is located in Triangle, Virginia, just 3 miles south of the Hampton Inn, Dumfries, Virginia. (To get to the museum from the hotel, take I-95 South to Exit 150A, Triangle/Quantico, then turn right onto Jefferson-Davis Highway, US-1 South. At the flashing traffic light, turn right into the museum's entrance.)

Happy Holidays!

Military Holiday Concerts @ DAR Constitution Hall

A Holdiday Festival

The US Army Band
http://www.usarmyband.com/events/holiday_festival.html

The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” celebrates the holiday season with its annual “A Holiday Festival” concert at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, DC. This concert features The U.S. Army Orchestra, The U.S. Army Chorus, and vocalists from The U.S. Army Band Downrange. Special guest artist is country music’s Mark Wills.

Friday, Dec 10 .. 8.00pm
Saturday, Dec 11 . 8.00pm
Saturday, Dec 11 . 3.00pm
Sunday, Dec 12 ... 3.00pm

The US Navy Band
http://www.navyband.navy.mil/Holiday_Concert.shtml

The United States Navy Band presents its annual Holiday Concert on December 18 at 7:30 p.m. and December 19 at 3:00 p.m. The concert is entitled “Season of Magic” and will feature the Concert Band, Sea Chanters chorus, Country Current and select members of the Commodores and Cruisers.


Both performances are FREE, but tickets are required. Based on a historic, high no-show rate for this free event, more tickets are distributed than there are seats. Seats will be given to patrons with tickets on a first-come, first-served basis.


DAR Constiution Hall
1776 D Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006
http://www.dar.org/conthall/schedule.cfm

Sugarloaf Crafts Festival

More than 250 jury-selected artists will present thousands of unique, one-of-a-kind crafts and keepsakes, including functional and decorative pottery, sculpture, glass, jewelry, fashion, furniture, home accessories, and photography.

Gourmet foods and seasonal favorites including old fashioned candies and chocolates, hearty soups, artisan breads, cider and cocoa drink mixes, and syrups from more than a dozen specialty foods purveyors will be available to sample and purchase.

The Festival also features live music, cool demonstrations, and children's entertainment.

Admission Fee
$7 online, 9 at door

Show Hours
Friday, December 10... 10.00am to 6.00pm
Saturday, December 11. 10.00am to 6.00pm
Sunday, December 12... 10.00am to 5.00pm

Dulles Expo Center
4368 Chantilly Shopping Center
Chantilly, VA 20151
http://sugarloafcrafts.com/festivals/chantilly/december/

Lighting of Christmas Tree - Merry Old Town Manassas

Lighting of the Christmas Tree

Join Old Town Manassas for their annual Holiday tradition. Gather on the lawn of the Manassas Museum at 6 pm, and Santa will arrive on the VRE at 6:30 PM to greet all of the children. Stay for the lighting of the tree, lit by Vice Mayor Harrover and Santa. Evening holiday music to be provided by Osborne High School Band, The Prince William Chorale, The Manassas Chanticleers, and swing singer Jason Curtis.

A fun and free event for the whole family!

Date: Friday, December 3, 2010

Time: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

Location: Historic Manassas, 9431 West Street, Manassas, VA 20110

Event Contact Phone Number: 703-361-6599

GardenFest of Lights @ Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

A holiday tradition! The show features more than a half million lights arranged in botanical themes throughout the Garden.

Holiday dinners are available in the Garden Café and in the Robins Tea House (Tea House dinners require Garden admission and reservations, please call 804-262-9887, ext. 329. Reservations will be taken starting Oct. 1.

Merry Mondays include storytelling for kids with the Garden Keeper and Butterfly Fairy.

Friday, November 26 - Monday, January 10, 2011
5.00pm -10.00pm

2010 Special Dates
GardenFest Illumination: November 26
Member nights: Nov. 29, 30, Dec. 1 & Jan. 10.
New Year’s Eve Family Frolic at the Garden: Dec. 31
GardenFest for Fidos: January 6, 2011

Admission Fee: $10 adult; $6 child

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
1800 Lakeside Avenue
Richmond, VA 23228
http://www.lewisginter.org/

Help the Homeless Walk-A-Thon

Going to be in the Northern Virginia area this weekend? Need something to do Saturday that will jumpstart your holiday spirit and give you a little exercise before upcoming feasts? Well, then drive (or metro) up to DC and join in the 23rd Annual Help the Homeless Walkathon November 20 and help raise money to prevent the uprise in homelessness.

Thrive DC needs your help to get more feet on the street! Dinner Program for Homeless Women Thrive DC’s goal this year is 1,100 walkers. If they meet their goal, Fannie Mae will award Thrive DC with a $20,000 walker bonus.

Pre-registration is ongoing until Friday, Nov 19 at 5pm.
Fee: $25 adult, $15 youth (age 25 and younger)
Once registered, you will receive your Event Waiver in an email. Bring that Event Waiver to the Check-In tent on the National Mall on Event Day, pickup your T-shirt(s) and you are ready to walk!

Register on Event Day, Saturday, Nov. 20
Fee: $30 adult, $15 youth (age 25 and younger)
On Walkathon day, bring the completed, signed registration form and payment to the Event Day registration located on the Department of Agriculture lawn, pick up your T-shirt(s), and you are ready to walk!

For more information on the event and how to register, please visit http://bit.ly/dnOlxJ

Mount Vernon By Candlelight

Going to be in the area for the holidays? Come see the beauty of 'winterized' Mount Vernon...

"Mrs. Washington" hosts an enchanting evening of candlelit tours, fireside Christmas caroling, and hot cider and ginger cookies. The tour includes the first and second floors only, featuring characters from the Washingtons' world guiding visitors through the home and adding ambiance and authenticity to a traditional Christmas evening at Mount Vernon.

Mount Vernon's modern buildings include merry music and the opportunity for holiday shopping until 9 p.m. Tickets are available at Mount Vernon's Ford Orientation Center or at http://www.mountvernon.org/ starting November 1.

Friday, November 26 - Sunday, November 28 5.00pm -8.30pm
Saturday, December 04 - Sunday, December 05 5.00pm -8.30pm
Saturday, December 11 - Sunday, December 12 5.00pm -8.30pm
Saturday, December 18 - Sunday, December 19 5.00pm -8.30pm

Admission Fee: $20/adults $14/child

Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy
Mount Vernon, VA 22121

Public Inquiries: 703.780.2000
Dining Reservations: 703.780.0011
Group Sales: 703.799.8688


Photos courtesy of Life ©2010 See Your World LLC http://www.life.com/

Murder Mystery Dinner Theater - Murder, Las Vegas Style

Now in their 17th smash year, Mystery Dinner Playhouse is Arlington, Richmond, Williamsburg and Virginia Beach's very popular comedy murder mystery dinner theater. Audience members solve a hilarious murder mystery while enjoying a delicious four course dinner. The dinner is served to you by a zany cast of characters who all the while are providing clues to help solve the evenings crime. You're given bribe money and a clue dossier to help you better solve the mystery, and a "Super Sleuth" prize is given for the correct solution!

Year-round, weekly performances. Great idea for families, seniors, couples, students and tour groups. Children's, senior, military, and group discounts available.


Admission Fee: $44.95 adult price
Children Welcome

Every Friday & Saturday at 7:30 pm.
For more hours and information, please visit http://www.mysterydinner.com/washington-dc/#season

1800 Jefferson Davis Highway
Arlington, VA 22202
888.471.4802

Model Railroad Club Exhibit

Prince William County Model Railroad Club Exhibit
All aboard for the Prince William Model Railroad Club's 2010 Modular Layout Show! Tracks will be set up in the Community Room and model trains will run throughout the weekend on layouts featuring modeled areas of Prince William County and other points of interest. Club members will be available to answer questions and provide information about model railroading. Train lovers of all ages are invited to drop in for this free event.
When: Saturday, November 20, 10:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Sunday, November 21, 12:00 noon–4:00 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location:
Prince William Public Library
8051 Ashton Avenue
Manassas, VA 20109

Event Contact Info
Phone: 703-792-4530

Veteran's Day in Washington, DC

Veterans Day is intended to honor and thank all military personnel who served the United States in all wars, particularly living veterans. It is marked by parades and church services and in many places the American flag is hung at half mast. A period of silence lasting two minutes may be held at 11am.

Washington, DC is holding many events to show appreciation for veteran's of all kinds who have served for the United States. On Thurs, Nov. 11, Washington, DC will host:

Vietnam Veterans Memorial- 1pm Constitution Avenue and Henry Bacon Dr. NW. Color guard, speakers and a wreath-laying ceremony.

Arlington National Cemetery- 11am Across the Potomac from Washington at the west end of the Memorial Bridge, Arlington, VA. 703.607.8000 This is the national Veterans day service with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Seating in the amphitheater is limited, so visitors should plan to arrive at least a half hour before the ceremony.

Vietnam Women's Memorial- 9am- 12pm and 2- 5pm Constitution Ave and Henry Bacon Dr, NW Washington, DC. 301.314.8505. Vietnam-era veterans and the children of veterans tell stories "in their own voices" about their experiences.

World War II Memorial- 9am 17th Street, between Constitution and Independence Aves, NW Washington, DC. 202.619.7222. Wreath laying ceremony.

Navy Memorial- 1pm 701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC. 202.737.2300 The Naval District of Washington will lay a wreath, at the Lone Sailor Statue in commemoration of Veterans Day.

Air Force Memorial- 11am One Air Force Memorial Dr, Arlington, VA. Wreath laying ceremony and a two-minute moment of silence will be observed to commemorate those members of the U.S. armed forces who were killed during war.

Groundbreaking for the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial-
Washington Ave. and Second St. SW. The American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial will serve as a national public tribute to the over three million living disabled American veterans and the countless hundreds of thousands who have died. The Memorial will be built on a 2.4-acre triangular site across from the U.S. Botanic Garden and within sight of the U.S. Capitol, so members of Congress can be continually reminded of the human cost of war and the need to support America’s veterans. November 10 at 10:30am

For more information, visit http://dc.about.com/od/hoildaysseasonalevents/a/VeteransDay.htm

Fireside Fridays Live Music @ Potomac Point Winery

Come and join Potomac Point Winery for live music every Friday evening! Enjoy listening to the music while dining at the bistro, or sitting by the campfire (or fireplace in winter). Call for details or check the event calendar on the website each week for a list of performers. $5.00 cover fee, plus the purchase of wine or meals

Friday, June 18 - Friday, November 26
6:30pm - 9:30pm

Admission Fee: $5.00 cover


Potomac Point Winery
275 Decatur Road
Stafford, VA 22554

www.potomacpointwinery.com
(540) 446-2266

Fireside Fridays Live Music @ Potomac Point Winery

The Lazy Susan Dinner Theatre Presents: Me and My Girl

Celebrating more than 30 years of Excellence in Dining, the Lazy Susan is Washington’s premier showcase for Broadway Musicals and Theatrical Productions. One of the oldest and most prestigious dinner theatres in the Washington, D.C. area, the Lazy Susan is located off US 1 at Woodbridge. Our Dinner Theatre begins your evening with cocktails, served from 6 o’clock, followed by one of the finest buffets ever offered by a Dinner Theatre; salads, relishes, home baked breads, Pennsylvania Dutch hot entrees—all prepared from scratch—roast beef, chicken, fish, homemade desserts — an endless bounty of delicious treats for your enjoyment. Then sit back, relax, and enjoy a full scale Broadway production, performed by experts. All this in the unique atmosphere provided by the Lazy Susan. . .

Me and My Girl is a musical with book and lyrics by L. Arthur Rose and Douglas Furber. Similar to My Fair Lady, Me and My Girl tells the story of a cockney lad who suddenly inherits an earldom with all the trimmings. He must give up his ties to his old life, which include his girlfriend, to learn how to become a refined gentleman. This is a funny, lighthearted comedy with the right touch of song and dance to make you smile. This is a fun, upbeat show appropriate for the whole family. Running September 22nd – November 28th.


The Lazy Susan Dinner Theatre
http://lazysusan.com/

Route 1 at Furnace Road
Woodbridge VA 22190

703.550.7384

WMZQ Coats for Kids Coat Drive

Thinking of buying a new winter coat? Don't just throw out the old. Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center and WMZQ will be collecting new and gently used coats for The Salvation Army to distribute to needy children in the Washington DC Area. The first 200 customers that donate a coat will receive special gifts and discounts from the merchants at Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center. All attendees will have the opportunity to meet Michael J. from WMZQ 98.7 FM’s Morning Show and register for FREE prizes donated by the merchants at Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center including AT & T, Jos A. Bank, PNC Bank and Uncle Julio’s Rio Grande Café.

November 6, Saturday
11:00am

Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center
14900 Potomac Town Place
Woodbridge, VA 22191

Comedian Kevin Hart @ Constitution Hall

Looking for some great entertainment while you are in Northern VA area? If so, then go see Kevin Hart, the stand-up comedian who has also starred in movies such as Soul Plane, Meet Dave with Eddie Murphy Death at a Funeral with Chris Rock and the upcoming Meet the Fockers sequel- Little Fockers, at the DAR Constitution Hall in DC. Hart's stand-up specials air frequently on Comedy Central with "I'm a Grown Little Man' ranking among the highest rated. With his passion for stand-up, Hart continues to tour the country to sold-out audiences. So get your tickets while you can, you do not want to miss out! Search for tickets through stubhub.com at http://www.stubhub.com/kevin-hart-tickets/kevin-hart-washington-11-5-2010-996589/?cjpub=cj-2632968

Friday, November 05
8:00 PM

DAR Constitution Hall
1776 D Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006
http://www.dar.org/conthall/schedule.cfm?ID=11&YR=2010

Woodbridge Dance Company Fundraiser Gala

Semi Formal, Masquerade Cocktail Reception, Join Us for Wine & Hors Doeuvres. RSVP by October 15th, $45.00 per person,$55.00 following Proceeds to benefit WDC's Annual Winter Concert presented at the Hylton Performing Arts Center. Special Award presented to our long time, committed sponsors; James W. McDonald, D.V.M. of Woodbridge Animal Hospital & Mark Furr, President of Furr Roofing Inc.
To purchase tickets, visit http://www.WoodbridgeDanceCompany.com

Friday, October 29
7:00 PM

The Historic Rockledge Mansion
440 Mill Street
Occoquan, VA 22125

Let It Fly Flag Football Tournament

Let It Fly, the worlds largest 4 on 4 flag football tour, is coming to Washington, DC! The tournament will take place November 13th & 14th at Occoquan Regional Park in Fairfax County, Virginia. 4 categories of competition available to male, female, and coed teams ages 8-18 and adult. Let It Fly will be touring 20 cities nationwide, culminating in the Let It Fly World Championships in Daytona Beach, Florida on May 28-29, 2011. Your team may qualify to compete in the Championships! Learn more at http://www.letitfly.org/.


Saturday, November 13
8:00 AM

Occoquan Regional Park
9751 Ox Rd.
Lorton, VA 22079

Fairfax NOVA's Out of the Darkness Walk

The Out of the Darkness Community Walks are 3-5 mile walks taking place in over 200 communities across the country this fall, with the proceeds benefitting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). By walking in the Out of the Darkness Community Walks, you will be walking with thousands of other walkers nationwide to raise money for AFSP's vital research and education programs to prevent suicide and save lives, increase national awareness about depression and suicide and provide support for survivors of suicide loss. In deciding to walk you are taking us a step closer to making suicide prevention a national priority.

To register for this event click the Register Now! button to get started! Once you have registered you will have your own personal fundraising page to help you with your fundraising efforts as well as watch your progress!

Good luck!

Online registration closes at 11:45PM the day before the walk. However, anyone who would like to participate can register in person at the walk! Please know that walk donations are accepted until December 31st, 2010. For more information, visit the Fairfax NOVA Walk online
http://sites.google.com/site/fairfaxnovawalk/fairfaxnova


Saturday, October 23
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA

Kidgits Get Magical at Potomac Mills Mall

Open to parents and kids of all ages!

• Revel in the magical mysteries of The Great Zucchini
• Delight in complimentary refreshments courtesy of Rita's Ice and Starbucks
• Pick up goody bags for moms
• Enter for a chance to win awesome prizes

Not a Kidgits member yet? It's just $5 per child to join for a whole year; membership includes a free t-shirt at sign up, a birthday gift, and all kinds of special deals, discounts and goodies throughout the year!

Thu October 21, 2010
10.00 AM

Potomac Mills Mall
Grand Court - Neighborhood 2
2700 Potomac Mills Circle,
Woodbridge, VA 22192
http://on.fb.me/cU5aoG

Celebrate MadHatterDay, 10/6

MadHatterDay fills the need for a second crazy day in the year, almost exactly half a year from April Fools' Day. The real spirit of MadHatterDay is turnabout: The nonsense we usually have to pretend is sane can be called madness for one day in the year; the superficially crazy things that really make sense can be called sane on MadHatterDay.

MadHatterDay is 10/6. The date was chosen from the illustrations by John Tenniel in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, wherein the Mad Hatter is always seen wearing a hat bearing a slip of paper with the notation "In this style 10/6". We take this as inspiration to behave in the style of the Mad Hatter on 10/6. Some astute observers have noted that the paper in the Mad Hatter's Hat was really an order to make a hat in the style shown, to cost ten shillings sixpence. However, it is well known that Time Is Money, and therefore Money Is Time, and therefore 10/6 may as well be the sixth of October.

Your world is crazier than you think:

-We travel around by taking the juice from hundred-million-year-old rotten dinosaur food and exploding it in a metal can.

-A "sports fanatic" is not someone who participates in sports, but someone who sits indoors on a beautiful day, drinking beer while yelling at the picture on a little box. (Throw the ultimate football party: Forget the TV; just sit around eating and drinking with friends.)

-As much as we say we like to "get away from it all", the more successful we are, the more we take it all with us when we go. (Take a vacation with all the comforts of home: Just stay home!)

-We've saved so much gift-giving for the Christmas season that it has entirely unbalanced the flow of cash and consu mer goods through the year. So merchants decided to start the season early to have something to do the rest of the year. (There's now only one major gift-giving holiday -- but it lasts for five months. Surprise someone with a MadHatterDay present.)

And remember, there are 364 UN-birthdays in a year, today might be yours!

http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~ari/madHatter.html

Verizon Children's Health Festival and Monster Mash Mountain Bike Race

Join experts on physical fitness, nutrition, safety, environment and wellness as they provide information, demonstrations and hands-on activities. Activities include Bicycle Skills, Kids Fun Run (11am), under 8 Kids Bike Races (start at 1:30pm), Street Hockey, Obstacle Course, Free Skate with the Pros of Fairfax (Noon to 1:00pm), Inflatable Obstacle Course, Nature Hands-On Learning Course, Youth Fitness Circuit and more. More information available at http://www.trailsforyouth.org/.


Saturday, October 16, 2010
9:30 AM

Wakefield Skate Park
8100 Braddock RD, Annandale, VA 22003
703.321.7081

Happy World Smile Day :)

"Do an act of kindness. Help one person smile"

The idea of World Smile Day® was coined and initiated by Harvey Ball, a commercial artist from Worcester, Massachusetts. Havard Ball is known to have created the Smiley Face in 1963. The World's first World Smile Day was held in the year 1999 and has been held annually since on the first Friday in the month of October. After Harvey died in 2001, the "Harvey Ball World Smile Foundation" was created to honour his name and memory. The slogan of the Smile Foundation is, "improving this world, one smile at a time". The Foundation continues as the official sponsor of World Smile Day each year.

If each of us becomes a World Smile Day® Ambassador and help just one person smile that day - the world will be a better place. Harvey Ball believed that each of us, as individuals, can make a difference in this world. World Smile Day® is the day when all our individual acts can make the world a better place.

http://www.worldsmileday.com/
http://www.facebook.com/worldsmileday

Art on the Avenue

Art on the Avenue is a regional multicultural arts and music festival which occurs annually in Alexandria. Come help celebrate its 15th anniversary! With more than 300 artisans and crafters taking part, over 10 blocks of handmade arts and crafts, including jewelry, paintings, sculpture and pottery; textiles and clothing; and furniture and home accessories including hand crafted water fountains, glassware and cutting boards will be available. A variety of musicians have signed on to perform throughout the day. Find more information at http://www.artontheavenue.org/

Saturday, October 02
10 am to 6pm

Art on the Avenue
Mount Vernon Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22302

Padrino's II

DJ & Karaoke at Padrinos II hosted by STARLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT with the largest selection of karaoke songs in the area. DJ songs from the 1950's up until todays from all genres and both DJ & Karaoke music is updated monthly. Relaxing atmosphere with fun people, dance floor w/ lights. Come on out and have a good time! 21+ no cover. Located between Triangle & Quantico Marine Corp Base. See reviews at http://bit.ly/dlKSeP on Facebook.




Padrinos II
http://padrinos2.com/
703.221.2188
18035 Dumfries Shopping Plaza
Dumfries, VA 22026

Clifton Day 2010

The annual Clifton Day is a non-profit event, raising funds for a variety of local organizations. The festival includes arts and crafts, antiques, demonstrations, a flea market, live music ("The Banjo Man" will again be walking the streets of Clifton strumming to his own beat), children’s activities (including a petting zoo and pony rides) and lots of good food.

Clifton Day is on the Sunday before Columbus Day (usually the second Sunday of the month). In 2010, the event is on October 10th with the rain date the following Sunday on October 17th. Located just outside Washington, D.C., Clifton Day attracts more than 25,000 visitors each year. This year marks the 42nd annual festival. For a map of the area, visit http://www.cliftonday.com/content/map

Historic Clifton Virginia
October 10, Sunday
9am to 5pm

Chapel Road and Main Street, Clifton, VA 20124
http://www.cliftonday.com/.

International Housekeeping Week Celebration

Our Housekeepers keep our rooms shining and our guests smiling. While we show our appreciation for our Housekeeping team year ‘round, September 12-18 has been set aside to celebrate International Housekeeping Week to really put the spotlight on them. All around the world, Hilton properties join in to thank the housekeeping department for all their hard work and commitment.

Here at the Dumfries Hampton Inn, we invited our Housekeepers on a cruise- all aboard the S. S. Hampton! Everyday we had an event correlated with our cruise theme. Housekeepers received boarding passes with an itinerary; everyday a different event or an instructional game was held. One day, the housekeepers were surprised with Banana Boat Splits.

At the end of the week, a luau was held complete with leis, rootbeer floats, and some of our male staff in grass skirts dancing the hula! Everyone needs to let loose every now and then, right? :) We just want our employees to know how much we value the service they bring into making Hampton Inn #1 on Tripadvisor http://bit.ly/bwLyWF.

We Love Having You Here!!

INOVA Blood Drive

Recent studies show only 37 percent of people in the United States are eligible to donate blood. Of those, fewer than 5 percent donate on a regular basis. Together with friends, family, business, and media partners, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation in our community. We ask you to help.

Donors should call 1-866-256-6371 or register online at www.inova.org/donateblood . One must weigh at least 110 pounds, be healthy for 3 or more days and present a photo ID. It is best to eat a meal and drink plenty of fluids 6 hours prior to donating blood. Walk ins are welcome but appointments are given priority.

Sat September 25
10.00AM
Chinn Park Regional Library
13065 Chinn Park Dr., Woodbridge, VA 22192

Images Bridal and Fashion Show @ Hilton in Springfield

Looking for budget friendly wedding vendors? Meet with some of the best wedding professionals from across the DC metropolitan area specializing in floral, catering, jewelry, event cakes and more. Enjoy a Bridal Fashion Show, try displayed samples, book services, see live entertainment by Rush Hour provided by Keen, Free admission, parking, lots of door prizes and don’t forget your complementary goodie bag full of great deals and offers.

Springfield Hilton Hotel

http://bit.ly/dbjUC6

Sunday, May 15
11:00am to 3:00pm

6550 Loisdale Road
Springfield, VA 22150

THE LOST SONGS OF BROADWAY, 1950-1960 @ Signature Theater

The 1950s were Broadway's Golden Age – Gypsy, The Music Man, Guys and Dolls, The King and I, West Side Story, The Pajama Game, and My Fair Lady. But what about the songs that got away? Signature performers know their way around a lyric, and they'll showcase some of the best songs of the 1950's that have sadly been lost from the Broadway songbook. Tickets start at $34, to purchase visit http://bit.ly/dCoHZU.

September 14 – 18, 2010
8.30pm

Signature Theatre
4200 Campbell Ave, Arlington, VA
http://www.sig-online.org/index.htm

Saving Promise Comes to You

Potomac Mills will host the Washington DC leg of the Saving Promise Comes to You 10-city tour. Saving Promise, a national non-profit movement dedicated to taking on domestic violence through research, awareness and action, inspires communities and individuals to speak out about domestic violence. This all day interactive event will be an ideal jump start to Octobers Domestic Violence Awareness Month with domestic violence speakers, artwork, book signings and participation from community groups. For more information about the cause, please visit http://www.savingpromise.us/.

Potomac Mills Mall
Saturday, September 18
11:00 AM
2700 Potomac Mills Circle, Woodbridge, VA 22192
http://www.potomacmills.com

Twilight River Cruises on the Occoquan

Please join the Prince William Conservation Alliance for a tour of the scenic Occoquan River, light dinner fare and good conservation with fellow nature lovers. All proceeds benefit habitat enhancement - conservation landscaping - behind the Stone House Visitor Center at Merrimac Farm Wildlife Management Area

PWCA Tour Dock
Wolf Run Shoals Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192

Saturday, Sept 12
5pm

For a list of tour dates and more information visit http://www.pwconserve.org/rivercruise.html