The holiday season means parties, food, decorations, cards, and of course shopping!! Black Friday has passed peacefully without trampling incidents, and now it is time to really find those treasures.  If you aren’t looking for the discount on the 42″ plasma or a bargain on three for one on video games, where would you go to really find those special gifts?  Northern Virginia and the greater DC area host some very special and unique shopping.  Many of these neighborhood shoppping districts boast local owners with an interest in the community.  So, if you don’t want to give your credit card to someone with a smock on…. try some of these areas….

 Downtown Fredericksburg  – Shopping in historic Fredericksburg spans three centuries. Literally unique among shopping districts, every shop in downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia is a small, one-of-a-kind, owner-operated boutique. Fredericksburg’s specialty antique shops draw keepsakes from rural and urban estates throughout the Southeast

Historic Occoquan  This peaceful, riverfront community is the perfect tonic for a busy, metro-area lifestyle. Come and experience Occoquan’s rich history and beauty. Shop and dine in over 100 businesses and restaurant.

Old Town AlexandriaNationally recognized for its early-American architecture, variety of hotels, unique boutiques, award-winning  and inexpensive historic attractions, as well as quick and easy access to the many free Washington D.C. sites, Alexandria is the perfect getaway to shop, dine and celebrate. 

Leesburg -Stroll through Leesburg’s historic district and you’ll discover quaint shops situated in stately buildings. Home furnishings and fashion clothing stores, art and antique galleries, gourmet food and wine boutiques, and more are waiting to be explored.