To introduce the addition of baking chocolate to the store we're making some decadent hot chocolate and topping it with our homemade marshmallows.

To introduce the addition of baking chocolate to the store we're making some decadent hot chocolate and topping it with our homemade marshmallows.

Celebrate the official opening of the holiday season in the City of Alexandria at the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7 p.m. at Market Square, 301 King Street. Activities include the lighting of the City's official holiday tree, community caroling, Frosty's Follies dance performance, and a visit from Santa Claus. For information, call the Events Hotline at 703.746.5592 or the Office of Special Events at 703.746.5418.

Celebrate the official opening of the holiday season in the City of Alexandria at the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7 p.m. at Market Square, 301 King Street. Activities include the lighting of the City's official holiday tree, community caroling, Frosty's Follies dance performance, and a visit from Santa Claus. For information, call the Events Hotline at 703.746.5592 or the Office of Special Events at 703.746.5418.

Join us for this “play within a play” written by Michael Frayn. This hilarious backstage farce follows an acting troupe as they stumble from calamitous dress rehearsal to disastrous closing night. An LTA favorite that always leaves audiences hysterical with laughter. (No performance on Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 24, 2011)

Children of all ages are invited to meet author Debbie Reece and the debut of her new book at the Christmas Attic titled, "The Christmas Pumpkin". About the book: James wants to show everyone what a green pumpkin can do for Christmas. Follow him while he dreams of ways to decorate his pumpkin for Christmas. Many people will laugh at this idea. Will he get a chance to turn his green pumpkin into something special before Christmas Eve? The story helps readers understand that if you believe in something, you can make it happen. It sweetly conveys the significance of some holiday traditions through the eyes of a child. The event will include a reading, signing, and special green pumpkin coloring activity. Reading and coloring activity are free. Books available for sale.

"Where is it you’ve always wanted to go-who is it you’ve always wanted to be?." -Pan American Airlines Wednesday, November 2 at 6:30 p.m., you'll want to be with us! Join us for a private party with Elli Benchimol, Beverage Director of Chef Geoff's Lia's. She'll be sharing her recipes on authentic 1960's cocktails, Pan Am style! Tickets are $35 person and can be purchased in store or over the phone. Best of all, all purchases are 15% off that evening! The Hour | 1015 King St Alexandria Va 22314. 703-224-4687 www.TheHourShop.com

The Alexandria Commission for the Arts and the Office of the Arts present the 5th annual Alexandria Film Festival. The Festival brings high-quality short and feature length films, documentaries, filmmaker panels, and arts presentations to Alexandria, Virginia.The festival is an intimate four-day celebration of film in historic Old Town Alexandria and highlights the talents of local, national, and international filmmakers.

Jackson 20 and Kimpton's Hotel Monaco Alexandria will host their annual Doggie Happy Howl-o-ween Costume Contest to benefit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA).  Local pets and their human companions can model their Halloween finest while competing for prizes in a contest in the outdoor courtyard. The event is open to the public with a $10 registration fee for all participants, and a $10 suggested door donation for non-participants. Registration fees and door donations will benefit the AWLA.Prizes will be awarded for: The Most Glamorous Get-Up. Prize: Overnight stay at a Kimpton New York property. The Best Dressed Couple (pet/owner costume combo). Prize: Overnight stay the Hotel Palomar Philadelphia. The "Top Dog" Award (best overall costume). Prize: Overnight pet package stay and dinner at the Hotel Monaco Alexandria and Jackson 20 Restaurant. During the evening's festivities, guests can purchase Halloween-themed cocktails and light bites from Jackson 20 restaurant, while complimentary doggie treats and fresh water bowls will be available for all canine friends. **This year, the costume contest will be limited to 50 entrants. Once this limit is reached, registration will be closed. Registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Spectators are welcome. Contest registration is from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Contest begins promptly at 6:00 p.m. and winners are announced at approximately 7 to 8 p.m.Jackson 20 Restaurant and Hotel Monaco Alexandria are located at 480 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. * Event will be held in the restaurant's courtyard; please use the Royal Street entrance.