Immerse yourself in the magic of the holidays with a performance of The Nutcracker at the Hylton Performing Arts Center. Presented by the Manassas Ballet Theatre and the Manassas Ballet Theatre Orchestra, this production of the beloved holiday tale is one of the finest shows of the year, according to many. The ballet theatre has been in operation since 1983, teaching local and international artists while providing cultural performances for Manassas locals and beyond.

The show will be performed December 15-18 and 20-23, with shows in the evening at 7:30 p.m. and a few at 3 p.m. depending on the day. Tickets start at $25 for the second-level seating and increase to $65 depending on where you’re looking to sit. Military, town and state employees can purchase tickets at a discounted rate. Don't miss it!

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Among some of the most beloved holiday sounds in Manassas is the clip-clop of horse hooves strolling down West Street and throughout downtown. Horse-drawn carriage rides are back for select dates in December and are the perfect activity to get in the holiday spirit! The beautiful horses pull intricate carriages dressed in their holiday finest. You’ll glide through the streets of downtown, able to take a peek in all the shop windows as you relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.

Between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on December 11 and 18, head over to the Manassas Train Depot to enjoy your free ride (yep, all rides are free!). Rides are weather dependent, however, so keep that in mind before heading to the depot.

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Whether you’re looking for a local oasis or want to play tourist for a day, Bristoe Station Battlefield is the perfect place. Located on Bristow Road, the battlefield spans an incredible 140 acres of land and played a key role in the Civil War. The land hosted many encampments throughout the war, and was also the site of the Battle of Kettle Run and the Battle of Bristoe.

As you walk around the park, you’ll come across various signage explaining the significance of the park throughout these times in our history. You may also download a podcast that will give you a guided tour of the land. (Between May and October, guided tours are offered three times daily for free.)

If you’re simply looking for a new place to do your morning walk, there are two trails open that offer over two miles of gravel paths through the wooded areas to enjoy.

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Joe Shlabotnik