Fight Back Against Mold Illness with Help from Proactive Wellness Centers

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CIRS Mold Toxicity Treatment in Alexandria, VA

Experiencing mold toxicity is a terrifying thought for most people. Although it may seem like an interesting concept for a medical drama, nobody wants to experience the effects of mold exposure firsthand.

Mold is a fungus that thrives in wet environments, such as under tiles, wood floors, and ceilings, pipes, and roofs. While several types of mold exist, some are more hazardous than others, and some individuals may be allergic or sensitive to mycotoxins, the toxins that mold naturally produces. Exposure to excessive amounts of mold, or the types of mold that trigger health problems, can lead to mold toxicity and even CIRS - Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome. This acute and chronic systemic inflammatory response syndrome is typically acquired after exposure to mold or other producers of biotoxins, usually from damaged water buildings.

If you believe that you're suffering from mold toxicity or mold illness, it can seem like the world is folding in on you. No matter what you do, your symptoms persist, lowering your quality of life and eliminating your peace of mind. Fortunately, there is reason to be hopeful: Proactive Wellness Centers now offers a research-backed, highly effective mold illness poisoning treatment in Alexandria, VA for men and women just like yourself and your children as well if they have been impacted.

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Understanding

CIRS and Mold Toxicity

CIRS and mold illness are on the rise, and accurate diagnosis of the issue plays a major role in this trend. Thanks to Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker, there is a huge body of evidence that covers diagnosing and treating patients with CIRS. Dr. Lawson is one of less than 30 practitioners in the United States that are fully certified by Dr. Shoemaker for diagnosing and treating CIRS. The body of evidence by Shoemaker and many associates is the largest body of scientific evidence that is published in major medical journals. Around 80% of CIRS/Mold cases are caused by indoor air contaminated with mold toxins and other triggers. However, it's important to note that CIRS can also be caused by biotoxin producers such as cyanobacteria and a marine dinoflagellate that produces the Ciguatera toxin found in certain types of fish.

When mold or biotoxins are not processed effectively, a series of biochemical changes known as the Biotoxin Pathway occur. Genetic studies have revealed that approximately 24% of individuals have a genetic makeup that makes them susceptible to developing an illness related to mold or biotoxins. The remaining 76% of the population can typically eliminate these toxins from their system and avoid the development of the Biotoxin Pathway that can lead to various diseases.

CIRS Treatment Alexandria, VA

CIRS and Mold Poisoning Misdiagnosis

CIRS and mold exposure symptoms overlap with many other chronic illnesses, which makes diagnosis challenging and can even lead to missed diagnosis of CIRS. Based on research from Proactive Wellness Centers, CIRS is frequently misdiagnosed. Some of the most common misdiagnoses include:

  • Lupus
  • Chronic Pain Syndrome
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • PTSD
  • More

Lyme disease, in particular, is often misdiagnosed. We have treated a number of patients whose symptoms were in line with Lyme disease. Fortunately, we were able to confirm the presence of CIRS and mold and were able to successfully help those patients using CIRS treatment in Alexandria, VA.

Note that many of these patients have CIRS and Lyme disease and in that case, it is necessary to treat both in order for full recovery. Treating one or the other will invariably leave the patient with debilitating symptoms and even more frustration with their medical team. At Proactive Wellness Centers, we are skilled In diagnosing and treating both.

CIRS Mold Toxicity Treatment Alexandria, VA
CIRS Mold Poisoning Treatment Alexandria, VA

CIRS and Mold Poisoning Symptoms

If you're reading this page, chances are you're concerned that you might have CIRS or some form of mold poisoning. You may be wondering what you have - is it CIRS, or is it something else like Lyme disease? We can't provide the answer to that question without consultation and testing at our wellness center in Virginia. However, there are common symptoms of CIRS and mold toxicity you should know.

Some of the most common symptoms of CIRS include:

  • Fatigue
  • Decreased Word Finding
  • Headaches
  • Difficulty Concentrating
  • Morning Stiffness
  • Tremors
  • Excessive Thirst
  • Tingling
  • Night Sweats
  • Frequent Urination
  • Confusion
  • Mood Swings

Proactive Wellness Centers'

Tools for Diagnosing Mold Sickness and CIRS

Identifying and confirming if a patient is being impacted by CIRS and identifying the cause and source of the biotoxin are the two main steps in diagnosing CIRS and Mold Exposure. To diagnose CIRS and Mold Exposure, the following diagnostic tools are commonly used:

To learn more about the debilitating symptoms of mold sickness and to find out whether you have CIRS or something else, contact Proactive Wellness Centers. Our team of medical professionals is here to help you every step of the way.

Mold Toxicity Symptoms Alexandria, VA

Hope for Patients with CIRS: Proactive Wellness Centers' Mold Illness Treatment in Alexandria, VA

Our approach to treating CIRS utilizes integrative and functional medicine, The Shoemaker Protocol along with the latest evidence-based approaches to treating mold illness and the related secondary issues that it causes. We begin by utilizing advanced diagnostics to confirm the presence of the condition and identify the specific environment causing continued exposure to biotoxins. Next, we take a stepwise approach to halt the progression of the disease, eliminate biotoxins from the body, and reverse any damage to cellular structures. Our goal is to help patients achieve a full recovery.

To do this, we not only have to identify the primary condition like CIRS or Lyme disease, but we then have to continue looking to see if you have any of the common secondary conditions like reactivated EBV, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and others. Once we understand the totally of your condition, then we can implement a treatment plan tailored for you. Yes, it will leverage the Shoemaker protocol, but we have found that we have to extend the protocol to cover the secondary issues that we uncover.

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The steps we follow to reach that goal include:

In order to initiate the recovery process, it is important to address and resolve any affected areas, or, alternatively, relocate the patient from that environment if necessary. Prolonged exposure to mold can hinder the success of the treatment plan and impede the healing process.

Two commonly used binding agents in the process of treating Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome are Welchol and Cholestyramine. Cholestyramine is particularly effective in binding biotoxins that are processed in the liver's bile ducts and helps to eliminate them from the body. It has been scientifically proven, through placebo-controlled studies, to reverse multiple aspects of the inflammatory process associated with CIRS.

Many individuals experiencing mold sickness and other chronic inflammatory illnesses may have a staph infection called MARCoNS (Multiple Antibiotic Resistant Coagulase Negative Staphylococci) residing deep in their nasal cavities. This infection is resistant to antibiotics and needs to be eliminated for the patient to fully recover.

Each patient requires a customized plan based on the affected areas and CIRS severity. Retesting is necessary after each step to confirm balance restoration. Testing may include some or all of the following:
  • VIP
  • TGF Beta 1
  • MMP9
  • ADH
  • Antigliadin
  • Androgen Imbalance
  • C4a
  • More

In order to halt the growth of mold fungi, patients need to avoid foods that can cause mycotoxins. Some examples of these foods include:
  • Barley
  • Cottonseed
  • Peanuts
  • Corn
  • Black Pepper
  • Figs
  • Rice
  • Bread
  • Beans
  • More
Proactive Wellness has a proven track record of treating patients who have experienced severe health issues without any clear explanation. Unlike other "syndromes," our diagnosis process involves specific tests to confirm a diagnosis rather than simply ruling out other diseases.
Mold Poisoning Symtoms Alexandria, VA

Fibromyalgia, Lupus, Chronic Fatigue, and Chronic Pain Syndrome are examples of illnesses that are often diagnosed without such confirmatory tests. If you are experiencing unexplained health issues or have been exposed to water-damaged buildings, it is possible that you are suffering from CIRS or a mold illness.

The good news is that we can diagnose and address this disease with a mold illness treatment program in Alexandria, VA tailored to your body and your symptoms. That way, we can help you regain your health as soon as possible.

Be Wary of These

5 Symptoms of Mold Exposure

Mold spores can easily be brought into your home on your shoes or clothing or through open windows or doors. If these spores can find a warm, damp, humid environment, they can begin to multiply. Soon, your home can be filled with toxic mold. If you think mold has invaded your home or another environment, like in an office or warehouse, it's important for you to know about the symptoms.

Unfortunately, diagnosing mold issues can be exceptionally difficult. But why? The answer can be quite frustrating.

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Understanding the Difficulty of Diagnosing Mold Symptoms

Many doctors fail to recognize the impact of mycotoxins emitted by certain indoor mold species, which can lead to chemical and inflammatory reactions. While conventional medicine acknowledges that mold can cause allergies, it may overlook this crucial aspect of mold-related health issues.

This can happen for several reasons:

  • Standardized treatment protocols for mold toxicity are offered mostly by Functional/Integrative physicians as the conventional physicians are not on board despite over 20 years of published research. Due to this issue, patients spend precious months/years going from doctor to doctor in the conventional channel with no answers.
  • Though ERMI testing has been accepted in the integrative/functional medical community, there isn't a "gold standard" in mold testing that is universally accepted.
  • Mold symptoms can manifest in vastly different ways depending on the patient.
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome Treatment Alexandria, VA

After understanding the points above, it's no wonder that mold poisoning can be hard to diagnose. Fortunately, integrative and functional holistic medicine providers and wellness centers like Proactive Wellness are flipping the proverbial script. Unlike traditional clinics, our team considers environmental factors that can affect patient health and has advanced training to provide mold poisoning treatment in Alexandria, VA.

Now that you understand why mold symptoms are so hard to diagnose let's take a closer look at five of the most common indicators of mold sickness.

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome Symptoms Alexandria, VA

Fatigue

Fatigue is probably the number one symptom of well over 90% of CIRS patients. The level of fatigue varies from 5 on a 10 point scale all the way to 10 on a 10 point scale. Many patients can no longer work or remain productive as in the worst cases, the fatigue is overwhelming. College students living in moldy dorms frequently have to drop out of school until the illness is treated effectively. Older adults have to retire or stop working due the fatigue. If you have overwhelming fatigue, CIRS may be a major contributor to your illness.

CIRS Treatment Alexandria, VA

Breathing Problems

Exposure to mold can cause a host of respiratory problems, such as breathing difficulties, allergies, and asthma, especially in individuals with a weakened immune system. Mold can worsen asthma, irritate the nasal passages, lungs, and throat, and lead to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, sneezing, sore throat, and nasal congestion. Other health issues such as hypersensitivity pneumonitis, sinus congestion, allergic rhinitis, asthma, and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis have also been associated with mold sickness.

CIRS Mold Toxicity Treatment Alexandria, VA

Sadness and Depression

Mold can cause a variety of illnesses that can show up in different ways, such as psychological symptoms like anxiety, depression, insomnia, concentration problems, and memory loss. It has been reported that nearly 40% of people who live in moldy homes experience depression. Researchers suggest that exposure to toxic mold and dealing with the physical symptoms of mold illness can contribute to mental health issues.

Due to this phenomenon, many mold patients are given antidepressant medications in the conventional channels.

CIRS Mold Poisoning Treatment Alexandria, VA

Feeling "Pins and Needles"

Numbness, twitching, or tingling in the extremities, such as hands, feet, legs, and arms, is another symptom of mold illness. The sensation is similar to pins and needles, which are often felt when the body is held in an uncomfortable position for a long time. While this sensation can indicate serious nerve damage or disease, it can also be a symptom of mold sickness.

Mold Toxicity Symptoms Alexandria, VA

Digestion Problems and Disorders

When exposed to mold, individuals may experience various digestive problems. Some may lose their appetite, leading to unintentional weight loss. Others may suffer from stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Furthermore, the influx of mold spores may trigger systemic inflammation, causing bloating and weight gain due to the digestive system's exposure to harmful mold.

Mold Poisoning Symtoms Alexandria, VA

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Top Tips for

Controlling Mold in Your Environment

It's not possible to completely eliminate all mold and mold spores from your home or place of work. However, since mold spores need moisture to grow, the best way to prevent or get rid of growth is to reduce the moisture in your environment. If you already have mold growing there, it's important to clean it up and address the issue causing dampness. If you only clean up the mold and don't address the underlying problem, the mold is likely to return.

Here are some tips to help reduce moisture throughout your home or office:

  • Use A/C or Dehumidifiers. This is especially important if you live in a hot, humid area of the United States.
  • Ensure A/C drip pans are clean, dry, and obstruction-free.
  • Thoroughly dry areas that are damp or wet within 48 hours.
  • Be sure to install insulation in cold areas like your home's exterior walls and windows. Doing so will reduce condensation.
  • Work with an HVAC company to check your HVAC system. Doing so can help ensure your unit is removing as much humidity as possible.
  • Keep the humidity in your home below 60% whenever possible.
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome Treatment Alexandria, VA
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome Symptoms Alexandria, VA

Here are some tips to help reduce moisture in your kitchen:

  • Check for leaks near your ice makers, sinks, and anywhere else water is present.
  • Make sure your exhaust fans are directing moisture outside, not into your attic.
  • If you notice your appliances are causing moisture on windows and other surfaces, turn them off as soon as you're done using them.

Here are some tips to help reduce moisture in crawlspaces:

  • Use a plastic covering on the dirt in your crawlspace. Doing so will prevent moisture from saturating the ground.
  • Ensure that your crawlspace or basement is ventilated well.
  • Check your home's gutters. Make sure they're directing water away from your property, not toward your foundation or crawlspace.

Your Top Choice for

Mold Toxicity Treatment in Alexandria, VA

Trying to "tough it out" through life with CIRS isn't any way to live. If you're suffering from the effects of biotoxin illness, you should know that there are solutions available to help you reclaim your health and your life. With the help of a can-do attitude, healthy living, and mold illness treatment from Proactive Wellness, there's light at the end of the dark tunnel you're trapped within. Contact our office today to get started on your first step toward recovery!

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Latest News Near Alexandria, VA

Veterans Day 2025: DMV Restaurants Honor Veterans with Free Meals and Special Offers

Alexandria, VA – This Veterans Day, November 11, 2025, restaurants across the DMV area are saluting veterans and active-duty military members with free meals, discounts, and special offers. Please note: Many restaurants require proof of military service andsome deals are dine-in only. Check with your local restaurant for details before visiting. :Complimentary full-size entrée from an exclusive menu and a $5 “Bounce Back Card” for a future visit to all active-duty military, veterans, reserves, and National Gua...

Alexandria, VA – This Veterans Day, November 11, 2025, restaurants across the DMV area are saluting veterans and active-duty military members with free meals, discounts, and special offers. Please note: Many restaurants require proof of military service andsome deals are dine-in only. Check with your local restaurant for details before visiting.

:Complimentary full-size entrée from an exclusive menu and a $5 “Bounce Back Card” for a future visit to all active-duty military, veterans, reserves, and National Guard members who dine in-restaurant.

Choose one of the following farm-fresh favorites when they dine in: Country Biscuit Breakfast, The Classic Breakfast, Banana Berry Oatmeal, Sunrise, The Mini Sampler, Brioche French Toast, Cup of Sausage Gravy & Biscuits, Buttermilk Hotcakes, Bowl of Rolled-Oat Oatmeal, or Down-Home Country-Fried Steak.

California Pizza Kitchen: Your choice of one complimentary beverage and one entree. All military guests who dine in will receive a Buy One Get One bounce-back card for a future Pizza, Pasta, or Salad purchase.

Chili’s: Enjoy a complimentary meal for dine-in only from a limited menu.

Chipotle Mexican Grill: From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. local time, guests who order an entrée in-restaurant will receive a second entrée for free. The offer is valid at U.S. Chipotle restaurants.

Dave & Buster’s: All veterans and active-duty military are invited to enjoy a FREE entrée (up to $20) + a $10 Power Card for gameplay at any Dave & Buster’s nationwide.

Get a free Original Grand Slam from 5 a.m. to noon at participating locations.

Get a free Pulled Pork Sandwich at all locations nationwide.

Dog Haus: Get a free Haus Dog, redeemable for dine-in only.

Flavor Hive: 50% off every day for millitary and first responders.

Friendly’s: Get a free Veteran’s Burger with a beverage. Available in-restaurant only.

Harris Teeter: Get 11% off your purchases on Veteran’s Day.

IHOP: Vets get a Free Red, White & Blueberry Pancake Combo. Dine-in only.

Joe’s Crab Shack: 20% off meal when dining-in.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks: Enjoy a select half-priced entrée on Sunday, November 9, 2025..

PJ’s Coffee: Free 16oz Hot or Cold Brew Coffee.

Get a complimentary Red’s Big Tavern Burger and a bottomless side.

Smoothie King: Enjoy a free 20 oz smoothie from 12-3 pm and includes three patriotic picks: Strawberry X-Treme (red), Slim-N-Trim Vanilla (white), and Blueberry Heaven (blue).

Starbucks: Get a tall brewed coffee – hot or iced.

Taffer’s Tavern: Receive 50% off one plate, handheld, or salad November 10-16.

Yard House: Get a complimentary appetizer available for dine-in guests only.

Veteran Entrepreneurs Share Transition Strategies from Military Service to Business Success

Alexandria, VA — In honor of Veterans Day next week, veteran entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community partners will explore how the skills developed during military service can lead to business success. This dynamic panel discussion will take place Thursday, November 13, 10 am to 11:30 am, at the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus, 3625 Potomac Ave., 5th floor, in Alexandria. Sponsored by the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP) and the VA Tech Boeing Center for Veteran Transition and Military Families, the prog...

Alexandria, VA — In honor of Veterans Day next week, veteran entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community partners will explore how the skills developed during military service can lead to business success. This dynamic panel discussion will take place Thursday, November 13, 10 am to 11:30 am, at the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus, 3625 Potomac Ave., 5th floor, in Alexandria.

Sponsored by the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP) and the VA Tech Boeing Center for Veteran Transition and Military Families, the program will highlight local veterans who have successfully transformed the leadership, discipline, and adaptability learned in uniform into thriving business ventures. As the nation pauses to honor veterans next week, Alexandria continues to show that gratitude can extend beyond words by helping veterans build strong foundations for success in civilian life.

The workshop is open to veteran business owners, service providers, community leaders, and anyone interested in supporting veteran entrepreneurship. Participants will gain practical advice, hear inspiring stories, and develop a clearer understanding of how to navigate the complex yet rewarding world of business ownership.

AEDP Small Business and Entrepreneurship Manager Philomena Fitzgerald stated, “This topic is always relevant to our region, but it takes on special significance this Veterans Day amidst all the federal uncertainty. We have assembled a wonderful panel of individuals who have transitioned from military life to entrepreneurship. They will share their hard-won experiences and advice with attendees.”

The panel will be moderated by Patricia Frame, founder of Strategies for Human Resources. Other speakers include Laura Hatcher, founder of Laura Hatcher Photography; Kendra Pena-Collazo, owner of Movement in Science; and Brad Halsey, CEO and founder of Building Momentum. All panelists are local entrepreneurs who have transformed lessons learned from their military experiences into the foundation for their successful businesses. They will discuss how values such as teamwork, integrity, and mission focus have shaped their approaches to business ownership and innovation.

Panelists will not only share their personal success stories but also discuss the unique challenges that military entrepreneurs encounter when launching and growing their businesses. These challenges include navigating access to capital, and finding mentors and networks that understand the transition from service member to CEO. Veterans often face specific barriers and opportunities on their journey to entrepreneurship.

The various ecosystem partners will participate in the discussion to share strategies and resources to help veterans access capital. Representatives will explain how government programs, business development organizations, and community initiatives can support veteran-owned businesses in thriving.

During the discussion, panelists will focus on how skills developed in the military—such as strategic thinking, adaptability, and teamwork—are essential for fostering innovation and sustainable growth. These traits, shaped through military service and enhanced by entrepreneurial experience, equip veterans with a valuable toolkit for success in today’s competitive economy.

This event aims to honor veteran entrepreneurs by fostering connections and enhancing the entire veteran business ecosystem. The organizers want attendees to leave feeling inspired and armed with practical strategies to help their businesses grow.After the panel discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to meet directly with resource leaders at a networking and resource fair. Representatives from the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSBFA), the AEDP, and the Virginia Tech Boeing Center for Veteran Transition and Military Families will be present. They will provide guidance, answer questions, and connect veterans with resources to help them take their next steps.By uniting entrepreneurs, ecosystem partners, and community advocates, this event highlights the crucial role that veterans play in the region’s economy and the collective dedication to supporting their success long after their military service ends.

Registration for the workshop is at the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership website.

9 VA, DC Hotels Awarded Highest Michelin Rating

The Michelin Guide, globally recognized for its restaurant ratings and star selections, has broadened its scope to include hotels and recently awarded nearly 2,500 a coveted Michelin Key.Similar to how Stars identify the world's best culinary experiences, the Michelin Keys spotlight exceptional stays from the guide's selection of over 7,500 hotels. Michelin Guide inspectors meticulously assess each hotel based on five universal criteria, evaluating the entire hospitality experience beyond individual amenities. This establishes a new a...

The Michelin Guide, globally recognized for its restaurant ratings and star selections, has broadened its scope to include hotels and recently awarded nearly 2,500 a coveted Michelin Key.

Similar to how Stars identify the world's best culinary experiences, the Michelin Keys spotlight exceptional stays from the guide's selection of over 7,500 hotels. Michelin Guide inspectors meticulously assess each hotel based on five universal criteria, evaluating the entire hospitality experience beyond individual amenities. This establishes a new and independent global benchmark for excellence in lodging, according to Michelin.

In Virginia and Washington, D.C., nine hotels received a Key rating.

“With the introduction of the Michelin Keys, the Guide establishes a new, global, and independent benchmark for outstanding hotel experiences,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of The Michelin Guide. “With their unique field expertise, Michelin Guide Inspectors have selected the finest properties from across the globe, reflecting the diversity and excellence of today’s hospitality landscape. Whether travelers seek iconic resorts, historic city hotels, or hidden gems off the beaten path, the Michelin Keys provide a trusted guide to discover, explore, and book truly memorable stays that inspire and delight.”

From over 7,000 hotels in the Michelin Guide selection, they have identified those that offer the most exceptional experiences.

One Michelin Key: a very special stay

This establishment is a true standout, offering a unique character and personality that sets it apart. It excels by breaking conventions, providing a distinct experience, or simply being a top-tier example of its kind. The service consistently goes above and beyond, delivering significantly more value than other similarly priced options.

Virginia/D.C. One Key Hotels:

Two Michelin Keys: an exceptional stay

A truly unique stay where every detail guarantees a memorable experience. This hotel boasts character, personality and charm, clearly operated with pride and considerable care. Its eye-catching design or architecture, coupled with a genuine sense of the locale, makes it an outstanding choice.

Virginia/D.C. Two Key Hotels:

Three Michelin Keys: an extraordinary stay

This extraordinary hotel offers the ultimate in comfort, service, style, and elegance, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience. It's a destination for a trip of a lifetime, where every element of exceptional hospitality comes together to create lasting memories for every traveler.

No Virginia or Washington, D.C. hotels received three Keys.

Three Key hotels located in the United States include:

Arizona (Tucson): California (Beverly Hills): California (Big Sur): California (Healdsburg): California (Los Angeles): California (Rutherford): California (St. Helena): California (Woodside): Canyon Ranch WoodsideFlorida (Little Torch Key): Hawaii (Kailua Kona): Montana (Pray): New York (NYC): New York (NYC): New York (NYC): New York (NYC): Utah (Canyon Point): Amangiri

'Tis the Season: Can't-Miss Holiday Events in Northern Virginia

Ready for a fun day watching the Scottish Christmas Walk? Or going to see "A Christmas Carol" at the Little Theatre of Alexandria?The holiday season can be hectic, but with a little planning, you and your friends and family are sure to enjoy the magic of the season. Here's a look at some of the events coming up in Alexandria and the surrounding area to add to your calendar. Click on the links for dates, times and more information.Northern Virginia Christmas Market (Nov. 7-9, Chantilly): Held at the Du...

Ready for a fun day watching the Scottish Christmas Walk? Or going to see "A Christmas Carol" at the Little Theatre of Alexandria?

The holiday season can be hectic, but with a little planning, you and your friends and family are sure to enjoy the magic of the season. Here's a look at some of the events coming up in Alexandria and the surrounding area to add to your calendar. Click on the links for dates, times and more information.

Northern Virginia Christmas Market (Nov. 7-9, Chantilly): Held at the Dulles Expo Center, this large market features over 300 artisans selling fine arts, crafts, and holiday collectibles.

Fifth Annual St. Nicholas Market (Dec. 7, Alexandria) The Market is held mostly outdoors and will feature over 40 local Catholic artists and makers selling their creations for the Christmas season at Saint Rita Catholic Church.

(Dec. 5-21; first three weekends in December, Alexandria) The 30th annual market offers unique handmade fine arts and fine crafts from local artists.

McLean Holiday Art & Crafts Festival (Dec. 5-7, McLean): This three-day indoor show at the McLean Community Center features regional artisans selling a variety of handmade items, including pottery, jewelry, and holiday decor.

Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show (Dec. 13, Alexandria): This large holiday market at John Carlyle Square features local artisans, holiday music, and seasonal food and drinks.

Mosaic Holiday Village (Nov. 22-23; Dec. 13-14, Fairfax): Enjoy shopping at the Holiday Market, which features local artisans, and participate in other festivities in the Mosaic District.

Farmer John's Holiday Market (Dec. 6-7, Leesburg): Get into the spirit at this festive market with Christmas trees, wreaths, handmade crafts, and hot cider.

Holiday Shopping Village at The Barn (Nov. 14, Ashburn): Part of the annual Festival of Trees, this village offers a special holiday shopping experience.

54th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (Dec. 6, Old Town Alexandria): For more than 50 years, Campagna Center has celebrated Alexandria’s Scottish heritage during the holiday season with both the Taste of Scotland and the annual Scottish Christmas Walk parade.

Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run (Begins Nov. 15, Alexandria): Ice & Lights provides a fun, outdoor family experience to explore new, dazzling light displays, take family pictures or selfies with a variety of festive scenes, enjoy a hot beverage and snack, and take a spin on the ice rink under the stars.

Bull Run Festival of Lights (Begins Nov. 14, Centreville): Drive through this popular park to see a spectacular festival of lights.

Christmas Illuminations (Dec. 20-21, Mount Vernon): George Washington's Mount Vernon hosts an evening with fireworks over the Potomac, a historic winter encampment, and tours of the illuminated mansion.

Meadowlark's Winter Walk of Lights (Begins Nov. 7, Vienna): This popular seasonal event features a half-mile walk through decorated gardens.

Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (Dec. 6, Alexandria): Watch decorated boats light up the waterfront in the 25th annual parade.

Greater Manassas Christmas Parade (Manassas): A long-running tradition held on the first Saturday in December, featuring floats and performers.

Santa Lights Manassas (Dec. 5, Dec. 6 Manassas): On the first Friday of December, join the annual tree lighting ceremony to welcome Santa to Historic Manassas. The 79th annual parade takes place the next day.

39th Annual Santa's Wonderland Parade and Winter Festival (Dec. 6, Colonial Beach): A winter festival kicks off with a parade of decorated floats and vehicles.

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