Lake Ridge/Occoquan community events

» Today, 7:30 p.m., NOVA Novel Book Club will be discussing Marie Phillips' novel "Gods Behaving Badly" at the Chinn Park Regional Library. Join the discussion about how the ancient Greek gods adapt to life in a modern world. For more information, visit the library or call 703-792-4800.

» Today, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Fifth-grade musical at Antietam Elementary School.

» Wednesday through Dec. 12, Third Annual Collector's Showcase at the Lorton Workhouse, W-16, first and second floors. More than 100 works of art by Workhouse artists will be on display. Thirteen works will be chosen for the 2011 Workhouse Arts Center annual calendar. Of the 13 pieces, one will be selected "Best in Show" for the cover of the calendar at the Collectors Showcase Reception on Dec. 12.

» Thursday, 8:30 to 10 a.m., Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center will host its annual Thanksgiving Day group fitness extravaganza, Turkey Stomp Gravy Splash. The 10-year-old Prince William County fitness tradition is back by popular demand after a year's absence. Turkey Stomp features a whirlwind of Chinn's group fitness offerings. In the gym, participants can join an hour and a half mash up of strength-training, step, Zumba, kickboxing and yoga classes. Each mini class lasts about 15 minutes, taught by a specialized instructor. In the pool, an aqua aerobics class will blend high and low impact techniques with a variety of water accessories, such as noodles and paddles. The cost is $15 in advance, $18 at the door. The first 50 participants will receive t-shirts.

» Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Escape To Black Friday at the Lorton Workhouse. Hot Cider and cool Art is an alternative to the busy shopping malls on the day after Thanksgiving. There will be exclusive holiday gifts in all price ranges, created by the more than 100 Workhouse artists available for purchase. This all-day event will serve as the opening reception for the Workhouse Works: The Third Annual Small Works Exhibition, which will be held from Friday through Jan. 3.

» Saturday, noon, Santa arrives by boat to the town of Occoquan's dock. He will then proceed to the Occoquan Town Hall to meet with children.

» Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., 2009 Glaze Your Own Ornament Fundraiser at the Lorton Workhouse. Show your support for the Lorton Arts Foundation and the Workhouse Ceramics Program by attending this second annual event. This is a chance to create your own unique surface design and decoration on a pre-bisqued ornament. Ornaments are $22 each; all proceeds benefit the Lorton Arts Foundation and the Workhouse Ceramics Program.