Get in the holiday spirit with virtual and socially-distant events!

The pandemic has posed challenges for holding in-person events, but thankfully, many are still on—with proper precautions. Between outdoor holiday markets, festive light displays, or a virtual visit with Santa, the DMV has no shortage of holiday cheer this year!

Keep in mind with the shifting circumstances of COVID-19 that events may be canceled or rescheduled. Please refer to the event's websites or social media pages for more information regarding safety guidelines.

Here's your weekend roundup for Friday, December 11, to Sunday, December 13.

Zoo Lights Express | National Zoo | Washington, D.C. | Fridays & Saturdays

The National Zoo may be closed, but that doesn't mean Zoo Lights is! All month, D.C. residents can watch out for their Zoo Lights Express Truck to swing through their neighborhood. The 24-foot truck will dazzle with light displays and music, along with an appearance by the event mascot, Panda Claws. The truck will hit a different ward each Friday and Saturday night through December 17. Check out the schedule here!

Online Hoptimist Holiday Market | Dupont Circle | Washington, D.C. | Friday

Stumped on gift ideas? This online shop from DC Brau and Heurich House is a treasure trove of artisanal goods made by DMV makers. Purchase unique homewares, art, jewelry, baked goods, and plenty more that can't be found at the mall. You won't even have to leave the couch! The market ends on Friday, so if there's something you're eyeing, don't wait! Browse it here!

Merriweather Symphony of Lights | 10475 Little Patuxent Parkway | Columbia, MD | Ongoing

One of the DMV's biggest holiday traditions is back! Drive through a brightly-lit wonderland of charming light fixtures like candy canes and reindeer, as well as new additions like a 150-foot screen. Don't forget to turn on the radio to 105.5 FM for your favorite Christmas tunes! Admission is $20 per vehicle. Check it out here!

Mead and Mayhem 2 | Mountain Run Winery | 10753 Mountain Run Lake Road | Culpeper, VA | Saturday

Now, this is an event that lives up to its name! Witness rousing combat at Mountain Run Winery while indulging in their fine selections of cider, wine, and mead. Guests can even camp overnight and enjoy a cozy bonfire after the festivities. Sword battles and booze—what's not to love? Admission is $15, or an additional $10 for camping onsite. Interested? Get the details here!

Winter Glow | George Washington's Mount Vernon | Mount Vernon, VA | Friday-Sunday

Holiday lights are here, and Mount Vernon is getting a 'glow up' for the season with Winter Glow! Soak in the sights of the lit-up grounds and partake in food, drink, and shopping from local artisans. Reenactors of soldiers and blacksmiths will transport you back in time to Colonial America. Member tickets are $25-$40 while Non-Members are $30-$45. Find out more here!

Virtual Tea with Santa | Dumbarton House | Washington, D.C. | Saturday

Whip up your own hot cocoa and cookies and join Santa for a virtual visit! For 30 minutes, children can talk to the big man himself and play socially-distant games directly from their computer screen. Kids can even watch out for a special surprise in the mail (all the way from the North Pole!). Zoom sessions will be limited to 10 per session, so reserve your spot ASAP! Admission is $13-$15. Buy your tickets here!

Zoo Lights | The Maryland Zoo | Baltimore, MD | Ongoing

It's not the holiday season without hitting up The Maryland Zoo! Experience enchanting light displays in the shapes of your favorite animals, all powered by over 100,000 LED lights. Guests can drive or walk through the grounds, though walking is only offered on Saturdays. Your patronage will support the zoo's important work in animal conservation! Drive-Thru admission is $45 and Walk-Thru is $20. Get the details here!

D.C.'s Downtown Holiday Market | F Street between 7th & 9th Streets | Washington, D.C. | Ongoing

Sixteen years running, D.C.'s Downtown Holiday Market is back as your ultimate shopping destination. Browse over 60 vendors ranging from funky ceramics and art to lovingly-made leather goods. The perfect place to score unique gifts for loved ones or yourself (come on, you deserve it!) The outdoor market runs daily through December 23 and requires face coverings at all times. Get the scoop here!

A Riverside Family Christmas | Riverside Center for the Performing Arts | Fredericksburg, VA | Friday-Sunday

Riverside Center invites you to enjoy a delightful program of holiday cheer. Come together (safely!) for a delightful medley of music, stories, and the indelible spirit of the season. Light concessions and drinks will be available for purchase before the shows, and the theater's outlined their COVID-19 guideline to keep guests safe and happy. Adult admission is $60. Reserve your tickets here!

Colonial Stroll & Cruise—Holiday Style | Market House Park | 25 Market Space | Annapolis, MD | Saturdays & Sundays

Put on a hat and your warmest coat--it's time for a winter stroll! With the help of a tour guide, guests can walk through Annapolis' Historic District and take a charming boat ride aboard the Miss Anne cruise. The colonial theme and delightful tales of holidays past are sure to put you in the spirit! Tickets are $39. Purchase them here!

So what are your weekend plans? Doing anything from our list, or something different? Share them with us in the comments!