By Nancy Dunham
Ever feel like you're on holiday overload with the carols, the lights, the presents, the Santas, and everything else that encompasses the winter holidays?
It's especially easy to feel like a Grinch during holiday travel when wait times are longer than usual for everything from seating in restaurants to going through highway tollbooths. The great news is that you can still enjoy the season while taking a break from the full-on winter holiday events.
Consider Historic Occoquan, which is a year-round highlight of the area. The colonial-style community features charming small shops, many owned by artisans, waterfront restaurants and friendly neighbors. What that means is you can duck into a shop for a quick stocking stuffer or one-of-a-kind gift, rest your weary feet while sipping hot cocoa or coffee, or just sit on a bench and listen to the carolers that are often in the area.
Now here's the twist – you can also take a ghost tour during the holiday season.
Those that know the Prince William County, Virginia, area know that there are many reports of paranormal activities. But even if you don't subscribe to the ghost hunters' beliefs, you'll still enjoy a host of historic tidbits about the area and its residents during the one-hour walking tour sponsored by the Historic Occoquan Merchants' Association.
All you need is a pair of comfortable shoes, warm attire, and an advance reservation for the tour.
Whether you want to enjoy everything Occoquan has to offer or just take a spirited tour, Occoquan definitely is designed to make your holiday bright.
What: Walking Ghost Tours
When: 7 p.m. most Fridays and Saturdays (call for availability)
Where: Salt and Pepper Books, 125 Mill Street, Occoquan, Va.
Cost: $10 Adults; $5 kids 12 and under; reservations required
Details and Reservations: 703-491-4411 or 571-334-7357