As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, the Thanksgiving season brings an abundance of festive activities to our vibrant McLean and Tysons neighborhood. For those seeking to move into Indigo at McLean Station in 2026, the holiday spirit is just moments away. From active morning traditions to dazzling evening lights, here’s a guide to some of the local events and attractions to enjoy with friends and family this November 2025.
Start the Day With a Turkey Trot
What better way to earn your Thanksgiving feast than with a community run? These popular local "Turkey Trots" are the perfect way to get active and give back before the day's main event.
- Tysons Rotary 5K Turkey Trot: Mark your calendar for Sunday, November 16, and head to Lerner Town Square for this fun and festive 5K run and 1-mile fun run. It's a great opportunity to enjoy a brisk morning walk or run while supporting local charities.
- Fairfax Turkey Trot 4 Miler: On Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 27, join the Fairfax community for their family-friendly 4-mile run and walk. Proceeds benefit Britepaths, and with both in-person and virtual options, it's a great way for everyone to participate.
- Alexandria Turkey Trot: If you're up for a slightly longer drive, the Alexandria Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day is a beloved tradition in the area. This road race is a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday with a memorable run.
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, and there are many opportunities to share your blessings with others through local volunteer work and food drives.
- FACETS Thanksgiving Food Drive: Help prepare Thanksgiving "bundles" for local households in need. Drop-off dates for non-perishable pantry staples start in late October and run through November 14.
- Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS) Holiday Volunteer Opportunities: NVFS offers several ways to help, including preparing and delivering meals for shelter guests on Thanksgiving Day at their SERVE campus in Manassas. This is an excellent opportunity for families or small groups.
- Bread for the City Holiday Helpings: While located in D.C., this organization's efforts to provide food for low-income households during the holidays are well-known and worth the trip for residents who want to volunteer or donate. This year's distribution runs from November 3 to 25.
Get a head start on the holiday season with some of these dazzling local light displays and performances.
- Tysons Corner Center Holiday Kick-Off Celebration: The holiday season officially begins on Friday, November 14, at PenFed Plaza. Enjoy Santa's grand arrival, festive performances, a fireworks display, and a special market.
- Meadowlark Gardens Winter Walk of Lights: After your Thanksgiving meal, enjoy a festive outdoor experience at Meadowlark Gardens. The dazzling Winter Walk of Lights typically opens for the season on Thanksgiving weekend.
- The Nutcracker at Capital One Hall: The magic of the holidays comes to the stage at Capital One Hall in Tysons. Catch a classic performance of The Nutcracker from one of several local dance companies, with shows scheduled throughout late November and December.