Peggy Sijswerda

Nov 20, 2024 | virginialiving.com | Peggy Sijswerda |Madeline Mayhood |Amy White

Wood smoke rises on street corners as fires blaze in cressets—an early form of street lighting and reminiscent of super-sized torches. A heavenly cinnamon-apple scent wafts by—it’s hot cider and just what you need to warm your bones on a cold December night. Soon the Fife and Drum Corps march into view, drummers keeping a steady rat-a-tat as staccato bursts of fifing—like excited birdsong—add joy. A group of carolers in period clothing sing “Silent Night.” Fireworks explode in the night sky.

Nov 18, 2024 | virginialiving.com | Peggy Sijswerda |Heather Bien |Madeline Mayhood |Amy White

If you like your holidays with a dash of razzmatazz, check out Charlottesville’s Christmas events. The Grand Illumination takes place at Ting Pavilion on the Downtown Mall on Dec. 6. The merriment commences just as evening falls and features vendors selling holiday crafts, tasty treats, and beverages, as well as a kid-friendly wonderland with bounce houses, face painting, games, and photo-ops. Exciting musical acts perform your favorite holiday tunes on stage throughout the evening.

Nov 15, 2024 | virginialiving.com | Peggy Sijswerda |Heather Bien |Madeline Mayhood |Amy White

If you are a bagpipe fan like I am, Alexandria invites you to their unique Christmas celebration: Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (Dec. 7). Dozens of Scottish clans dressed in colorful tartans march through the streets of Old Town, joined by pipe and drum bands, as well as terriers and hounds, community groups, and more. What’s the connection to Scotland? Alexandria was founded in 1749 by Scottish merchants, and the city pays homage to its heritage with this annual event.

Nov 8, 2024 | virginialiving.com | Peggy Sijswerda |Heather Bien |Richard Ernsberger Jr. |Eric Wallace

Big red bows adorn lantern-style street lights. Pine-bough garlands, twinkling lights, and decorated storefronts add to the festive factor. Soon, carolers approach, wearing 18th-century garb, singing “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.” Bob Cratchett waves. No, wait. This isn’t a Dickens novel. It’s Main Street in downtown Lexington. It’s time to shop, and Lexington merchants want to help you cross items off your Christmas list.

Sep 3, 2024 | boomermagazine.com | Rick Steves |Emma Patch |Peggy Sijswerda |Annie Tobey

Intriguing Dresden, Germany, winds up on far fewer American itineraries than it deserves to. Don’t make that mistake. Since its horrific firebombing in World War II, the city has transitioned to a thriving cultural center that’s well worth a visit. Even with only a day to spare, historic Dresden is a doable side trip from bigger attractions like Berlin or Prague.