Top Winter Events in Virginia: December Highlights You Can’t Miss
Top Winter Events in Virginia: December Highlights You Can’t Miss
Northern Virginia kicks off the holiday festivities with some of its most beloved traditions. The Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade is a spectacle that draws visitors from near and far, as boats adorned with twinkling lights cruise along the Potomac River, creating a magical glow on the water. The parade is accompanied by live music and food stalls, with a fireworks finale lighting up the night sky. Nearby in Vienna, Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights offers an enchanting outdoor experience where thousands of colorful lights illuminate garden paths, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere for visitors of all ages. For music lovers, the Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-Along brings together choirs, an orchestra, and audience members for a joyful community celebration of holiday carols.
The coastal regions of Virginia offer a unique take on the holiday season with events that combine the charm of the seaside with festive traditions. Colonial Williamsburg’s Grand Illumination is a historic celebration featuring candlelit windows, traditional decorations, and a dazzling fireworks display. This event offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the holiday season as it was celebrated in centuries past. Meanwhile, in Virginia Beach, the Holiday Lights at the Beach turn the famous boardwalk into a sparkling wonderland of themed light displays that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your car. This family-friendly event is a staple of the season and a must-visit for anyone in the area.
Richmond, the state’s capital, is a hub of holiday activity and creativity. The Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is one of the city’s highlights, featuring millions of lights and interactive exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. Richmond’s Tacky Light Tour is a unique and quirky tradition where residents decorate their homes with extravagant holiday displays, creating a festive and sometimes humorous atmosphere. Visitors can take guided tours or create their own route to explore these over-the-top decorations, making it a fun way to experience the city’s holiday spirit.
For those seeking tranquility and natural beauty, the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains provide an idyllic escape. Luray Caverns hosts a luminary event where glowing lights illuminate the cavern’s stunning formations, creating a serene and otherworldly atmosphere. In Charlottesville, the Holiday Market offers a cozy shopping experience where visitors can browse handmade crafts and sample local treats while enjoying the festive ambiance of this charming mountain town.
Southwest Virginia brings a touch of small-town charm to its winter celebrations. Roanoke’s Dickens of a Christmas transforms the downtown area into a Victorian street fair complete with horse-drawn carriages, costumed vendors, and live entertainment. This event captures the nostalgia of the season and offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Similarly, Bristol’s Christmas Parade is a heartwarming tradition that showcases marching bands, creative floats, and holiday cheer, making it a favorite for families and visitors alike.
Virginia’s holiday season is also a shopper’s paradise, with festive markets and craft shows that provide unique gift options. Reston’s Christkindlmarkt channels the spirit of European Christmas markets, offering handcrafted gifts, traditional German foods, and live music. Harrisonburg’s Holiday Craft Show is another must-visit destination, featuring local artisans and their creations, from intricate woodwork to hand-knitted scarves, ensuring visitors can find one-of-a-kind items for their loved ones.
Holiday lights are a central feature of Virginia’s December festivities, and the state offers some of the best displays in the country. The Illuminate Light Show in Doswell is a dazzling drive-through experience where millions of LED lights dance to holiday music, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages. The Bull Run Festival of Lights in Centreville offers a similar experience with a 2.5-mile trail of vibrant and whimsical displays, perfect for making memories with family and friends.
Families visiting Virginia during December will find plenty of activities designed to create cherished holiday memories. The Children’s Museum of Richmond hosts a Santa Brunch, where kids can meet Santa Claus, enjoy delicious treats, and participate in festive crafts. Another highlight is the Polar Express Train Ride, which brings the beloved holiday story to life with hot cocoa, storytelling, and a visit from Santa, all aboard a decorated train that captures the magic of the season.
For those who enjoy the performing arts, Virginia’s holiday offerings include a variety of concerts and shows. The Nutcracker Ballet, performed by the Virginia Opera, is a timeless holiday tradition that delights audiences with its enchanting story and beautiful choreography. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra also brings its high-energy holiday rock concerts to the state, offering a modern twist on classic holiday music.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of Virginia’s scenic beauty and winter activities during December. Massanutten Resort’s ice-skating rink provides a fun and festive way to enjoy the crisp mountain air, while Wintergreen Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and cozy fireside relaxation, making it an ideal destination for winter sports lovers.
For a dose of history and tradition, visitors can explore Virginia’s rich past through holiday-themed tours and events. Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s historic home, offers holiday tours that highlight 18th-century Christmas customs, providing a glimpse into how the founding fathers celebrated the season. At Jamestown Settlement, interactive exhibits and reenactments bring early American holiday traditions to life, offering a unique perspective on the origins of holiday celebrations in the United States.
Virginia’s December events embody the magic and diversity of the holiday season. From dazzling lights and historic festivities to unique markets and outdoor adventures, the state offers a wide range of experiences that cater to all interests. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning an extended holiday getaway, Virginia’s winter events are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss your chance to experience the festive charm of the Old Dominion this December.
