Thanksgiving in Northern Virginia isn’t just about turkey, travel, or football.
It’s about community.
It’s about neighbors who become family.
It’s about military households finally getting a moment to breathe after a PCS.
It’s about remembering that home is more than a place — it’s a feeling.

Whether you live in Prince William County, Fairfax County, Manassas, Gainesville, Lake Ridge, or somewhere between Quantico and Fort Belvoir, this season has a way of grounding us in gratitude. Even in such a fast-moving region filled with long commutes, constant growth, and busy schedules, Thanksgiving invites us to slow down and appreciate the people around us.

Here’s your 2025 guide to celebrating Thanksgiving in Northern Virginia, whether you’re new here, settling into a new duty station, or gathering with loved ones for the first time in years.

🍂Why Thanksgiving Feels So Special in Northern Virginia

Northern Virginia reflects every kind of family — military, civilian, local, relocated, multigenerational, blended, and everything in between. What makes this area unique is how all these backgrounds merge into a strong, supportive community.

You see it in:

• Neighbors inviting new PCS families over for dessert

• People packing donations for local food drives

• Veterans volunteering to serve meals

• Shops and restaurants decorating early to welcome the season

• Families walking through historic towns lit with warm, golden light

The region is diverse and fast-paced, but during Thanksgiving, it feels more connected than ever.

🏡New to the Area? (Especially Military Families)

Relocating close to the holidays can feel overwhelming — new home, new town, new everything. You may still be staring at half-opened boxes, learning new routes, or figuring out where the best grocery stores are.

Here’s how to settle in quickly and keep the holiday stress low:

✔ Go to a Local Event

Many communities host Thanksgiving-week activities, including:

• Turkey Trots

• Fall festivals

• Craft fairs

• Market weekends in Old Town Manassas and Occoquan

✔ Support Local Bakeries & Restaurants

Perfect if you’re not ready to host or cook yet:

• Mom’s Apple Pie (Occoquan)— legendary pies

• Crumbliss Bakery (Manassas)— pastries + holiday treats

• The Secret Garden Café— cozy brunch and great atmosphere

✔ Take the Pressure Off

This year doesn’t need to be “perfect.”
If you’re fresh off a PCS — one dish and one moment of peace is enough.
Your family won’t remember the missing side dish…
But they will remember feeling at home.

🚶‍♂️Where to Enjoy the Best Fall Views Before Dinner

Northern Virginia shines this time of year. Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time for a walk, photos, or a moment to reflect.

Here are some of the best fall spots:

🍁 Prince William Forest Park

Quiet trails, crisp air, golden leaves — perfect for resetting before dinner.

🍁 Occoquan Historic District

Cobblestone streets, small shops, river views, incredible charm.

🍁 Old Town Manassas

A favorite spot for holiday strolls, small businesses, and warm lighting.

🍁 Lake Ridge & Lorton Trails

Family-friendly routes with bridges, creeks, and tons of leaf color.

If you go in the early morning or near sunset, you’ll catch the best light — and fewer crowds.

🤝Ways to Give Back This Thanksgiving

Northern Virginia is one of the most generous regions in the country.
Here are simple ways to make an impact:

✔ Donate a Thanksgiving Meal

Local organizations that accept food or monetary donations include:

• ACTS of Prince William

• SERVE Shelter

• Northern Virginia Family Service

• Local food pantries in Stafford & Fairfax Counties

✔ Support Veterans

Many veteran-focused charities run holiday programs to help those in need.

✔ Check on a Neighbor

Especially:

• New PCS families

• Older adults

• Single parents

• Recently deployed or returning spouses

Sometimes the most meaningful gift is letting someone know they’re seen.

❤️A Personal Note: What I’m Thankful For This Year

Every year, I take a moment to reflect on the people I’ve had the honor of helping here in Northern Virginia.

This year, I’m thankful for:

• Every military family who trusted me through their PCS transition

• Every homeowner who let me help them close an important chapter

• Every buyer who started their “next chapter” with me beside them

• Every neighbor, vendor, partner, and community member

• And YOU — for reading this, connecting with me, and being part of this journey

Helping families find home — however you define it — will always be something I’m grateful for.

🦃Final Thoughts

No matter what this holiday season looks like for you — full house, small gathering, or still settling in — I hope you find peace, gratitude, and warmth.

If you're thinking about buying, selling, relocating, or simply exploring Northern Virginia neighborhoods, I’m always here to help you make All The Right Moves™.

About the Author

This Thanksgiving guide was written byGayle “GG” Sfreddo, a licensed Northern Virginia REALTOR®, Military Relocation Professional (MRP), community advocate, and long-time local resident serving Prince William County, Fairfax County, Stafford County, and the Greater Quantico–Fort Belvoir region.

Born on an Air Force base and raised across multiple military communities, GG brings lived experience and a deep understanding of the challenges that military families face during PCS seasons — especially around the holidays.

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