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Virginia transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, offering a blend of festive charm, historic sites, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re exploring the capital city of Richmond or enjoying the picturesque mountain views of the Shenandoah Valley, there are endless ways to celebrate the holiday season in the Old Dominion. Below, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Virginia during Christmas to help you plan an unforgettable holiday experience.
Best Things to Do in Virginia for Christmas: Top Holiday Activities & Events
1. Celebrate the Holidays at Busch Gardens Williamsburg
One of Virginia’s top holiday attractions, Busch Gardens Williamsburg transforms into a magical Christmas village each year. The park is adorned with millions of twinkling lights and festive decorations, offering a stunning setting for holiday celebrations. Enjoy thrilling rides, watch spectacular live performances, and don’t miss the Christmas Town, where you can meet Santa and explore holiday-themed shops. It’s an unforgettable experience for families looking to enjoy Christmas events in Virginia.
2. Explore the Richmond Tacky Light Tour
Richmond, Virginia, is known for its extravagant holiday light displays, and the Tacky Light Tour is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. This popular tradition allows you to drive through neighborhoods where residents go all out with their festive decorations. From over-the-top lights to whimsical displays, the Tacky Light Tour is a fun and free way to experience the holiday spirit in Virginia. Be sure to bring your camera for some memorable photos!
3. Take a Stroll Through the Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Annual Holiday Lights
Norfolk Botanical Garden is one of the best places to experience holiday magic in Virginia. Each year, the garden hosts its Holiday Lights event, featuring millions of dazzling lights. The garden’s winding paths are illuminated with seasonal displays, and visitors can take a relaxing tram ride to enjoy the beautiful scenery. The Holiday Lights at Norfolk Botanical Garden is a peaceful and picturesque way to embrace the season with your loved ones.
4. Attend the Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade
If you’re in the Northern Virginia area, don’t miss the Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. Held in Old Town Alexandria, this parade is a unique celebration of Scottish heritage with a holiday twist. Watch as pipe bands march through the streets, followed by Scottish clans, Santa, and festive floats. The historic district of Alexandria is also perfect for holiday shopping in Virginia, with charming boutiques and cozy cafes to visit after the parade.
5. Visit the Virginia Christmas Markets
For those looking to get into the Christmas shopping spirit, Virginia’s Christmas markets offer plenty of opportunities to find unique gifts. The Charlottesville City Market and Fredericksburg Christmas Market are popular destinations, offering handcrafted goods, local products, and festive treats. Whether you’re seeking artisan jewelry, seasonal decorations, or delicious food, these markets are perfect for supporting local artisans and finding special gifts for loved ones.
6. Experience the Grand Illumination at Colonial Williamsburg
Step back in time and experience a colonial Christmas at Colonial Williamsburg. The historic district is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and the Grand Illumination event is a highlight of the season. On select nights in December, visitors can enjoy live music, festive performances, and a spectacular fireworks show that lights up the historic streets. This enchanting celebration is a perfect blend of history and holiday cheer, making it one of the most unique Christmas activities in Virginia.
7. Tour the Mount Vernon Estate Holiday Decorations
George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate is a must-visit destination during the holidays. The estate is decorated with beautiful holiday wreaths, garlands, and Christmas trees, offering a charming glimpse into the 18th century. The Christmas at Mount Vernon event also features special programs, such as performances of holiday music and colonial-era cooking demonstrations. Touring this historic estate during the Christmas season is an unforgettable way to celebrate the holidays.
8. Go Ice Skating at the Reston Town Center
Reston Town Center in Northern Virginia offers a classic ice skating experience during the winter months. The outdoor rink is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and it’s the perfect place to glide around with friends and family. After skating, enjoy a warm drink from one of the nearby cafes, or do some holiday shopping at the center’s shops. This family-friendly activity is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy Christmas in Virginia.
9. See the Holiday Lights at Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach may be known for its summer vibes, but it also shines bright during the Christmas season. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is transformed with festive lights and displays that stretch for miles. The Holiday Lights at the Beach event offers a breathtaking walk along the beach with lighted displays, perfect for families looking to enjoy a scenic Christmas evening. After your walk, check out the local shops and restaurants for some festive treats and warm beverages.
10. Enjoy the Christmas at the Omni Homestead Resort
For a luxurious holiday experience, visit the Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia. This historic resort is known for its stunning holiday decorations and festive activities, including ice skating, holiday dinners, and even a visit from Santa. The resort’s cozy atmosphere and breathtaking mountain views make it an ideal spot for a romantic getaway or a family vacation during Christmas.
Conclusion
Virginia offers a diverse range of Christmas activities, from historic sites and charming markets to dazzling light displays and festive events. Whether you’re in the mountains, near the coast, or in one of the state’s vibrant cities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season. Embrace the magic of Christmas in Virginia and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.
FAQs: Best Things to Do in Virginia During Christmas
1. What are the best Christmas light displays in Virginia?
Some of the best Christmas light displays in Virginia include the Tacky Light Tour in Richmond, the Holiday Lights at Norfolk Botanical Garden, and the Holiday Lights at the Beach in Virginia Beach. These displays offer breathtaking views of thousands of twinkling lights and festive decorations.
2. Where can I go ice skating in Virginia during Christmas?
You can enjoy ice skating at several locations in Virginia, including the Reston Town Center, where an outdoor rink is available, and Busch Gardens Williamsburg, which offers ice skating as part of its Christmas Town celebration. Both venues provide a festive atmosphere perfect for skating with family and friends.
3. What are some family-friendly Christmas events in Virginia?
Virginia offers plenty of family-friendly events, such as the Christmas at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, the Tacky Light Tour in Richmond, and the Grand Illumination at Colonial Williamsburg. These events feature lights, live performances, and holiday activities for all ages.
4. Where can I shop for Christmas gifts in Virginia?
Virginia is home to several Christmas markets, including the Charlottesville City Market and the Fredericksburg Christmas Market. These markets offer unique, handmade gifts from local artisans. Additionally, towns like Old Town Alexandria provide charming boutique shops perfect for holiday shopping.
5. What historic sites can I visit in Virginia during Christmas?
Virginia’s historic sites are beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Don’t miss Colonial Williamsburg, which hosts the Grand Illumination, or George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate, which is decorated with wreaths and trees. These locations offer a chance to celebrate Christmas while learning about Virginia’s rich history.
6. Are there any Christmas festivals in Virginia?
Yes! Virginia hosts several Christmas festivals, including the Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade, where you can watch pipe bands and festive floats, and the Christmas in Salem festival, where you can enjoy historic home tours and carolers.
7. Can I visit Santa in Virginia?
Yes, Santa can be found at several Virginia locations during the Christmas season. Visit Busch Gardens Williamsburg for a magical meeting with Santa in Christmas Town, or head to The Omni Homestead Resort for a festive visit with Santa during their holiday events.
8. What outdoor Christmas activities are there in Virginia?
If you enjoy outdoor activities, Virginia offers options like ice skating at the Reston Town Center and Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Holiday Lights walk. You can also take part in horse-drawn sleigh rides at Old Sturbridge Village or enjoy scenic views of Christmas lights at Virginia Beach.
9. Where can I see Christmas fireworks in Virginia?
You can experience Christmas fireworks at Colonial Williamsburg during their Grand Illumination event. The fireworks are part of a grand celebration, including live music, tree lighting, and festive performances.
10. Are there any free Christmas events in Virginia?
Many of Virginia’s Christmas events are free, such as the Tacky Light Tour in Richmond and the Holiday Lights at Virginia Beach. Additionally, many outdoor displays and festivals, such as Christmas in Alexandria and Christmas at Mount Vernon, offer free admission to certain events or activities.
Explore Christmas in Massachusetts: If you’re looking for more festive activities, Massachusetts offers plenty of holiday magic. From the Boston Common Lights to the Christmas Stroll in Nantucket, Massachusetts transforms into a winter wonderland every year. You can explore other unique holiday experiences by visiting our post on best things to do in Massachusetts for Christmas.
Celebrate Christmas in Georgia: For those seeking a warm and festive holiday season, Georgia has a variety of seasonal activities, such as the Atlanta Christmas Market and the famous Savannah Christmas lights. Check out our article on Christmas in Georgia for more exciting ideas.
Holiday Fun in Ohio: Ohio is home to several unique Christmas celebrations, including the Cincinnati Zoo’s Festival of Lights and the magical Cleveland Winterfest. Find out more about Ohio’s top Christmas attractions in our latest blog post!
Christmas in Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania’s historic charm shines during Christmas, with events like Hersheypark Christmas Candylane and the Christmas Village in Philadelphia. Visit our blog post for more on the best Christmas activities in Pennsylvania.
Alaska’s Winter Wonderland: Alaska offers breathtaking winter landscapes and festive events like Anchorage’s Fur Rendezvous Festival and the Fairbanks Christmas Lights. Explore more of what Alaska has to offer by reading our post about Christmas in Alaska.
Celebrate the Holidays in Hawaii: While Christmas in Hawaii is a unique experience, it’s filled with tropical beauty and festive events like the Honolulu City Lights. Discover more about Hawaii’s holiday celebrations in our dedicated blog.
Christmas Traditions in Indiana: Indiana comes alive with festive cheer through events like Indianapolis’ Winterlights at Newfields and the Holiday Laser Light Show in Columbus. To learn more about Christmas events in Indiana, visit our Indiana Christmas blog post.
Florida’s Magical Christmas: Florida brings holiday cheer with events like Walt Disney World’s Christmas celebrations and The Holiday Boat Parade in Fort Lauderdale. Explore more of Florida’s festive activities by reading our post on Florida’s Christmas celebrations.
Celebrate Christmas in Texas: From the famous San Antonio River Walk holiday lights to the Dallas Arboretum’s Christmas displays, Texas is filled with holiday cheer. Discover more Christmas events and traditions in our blog on Texas Christmas celebrations.
Experience Christmas in California: California’s Christmas celebrations include the Hollywood Christmas Parade, Christmas in the Park in San Jose, and the San Francisco Ice Skating Rink. Check out our article on California’s best Christmas activities for more ideas.
