Get in the holiday spirit with these 11 events across Virginia

Celebrate the holidays in Virginia with this guide to festive events, from Christmas markets and Hanukkah celebrations to family-friendly New Year’s Eve parties.

As the holiday season approaches, Virginia offers a variety of festive events for families and friends to enjoy. From enchanting Christmas markets to lively New Year’s Eve celebrations, the commonwealth is brimming with activities that capture the spirit of the season. These events provide perfect opportunities to shop for unique gifts, partake in seasonal traditions, and ring in the New Year with excitement.

Whether you’re looking for local crafts, festive music, or vibrant parties, Virginia’s holiday lineup has something for everyone.

Christmas parades

Dominion Energy Christmas Parade

Date: Saturday, Dec. 7 at 10 a.m.

Location: 2500 West Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220

Richmond’s beloved holiday tradition returns for its 41st year, bringing festive cheer to Broad Street. Spectators can expect a spectacular show of colorful floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and an appearance by Legendary Santa. The parade begins at the Science Museum of Virginia and travels eastbound to 7th Street.

This Richmond tradition has delighted families for generations, drawing more than 50,000 spectators annually. Those unable to attend can catch the live broadcast on WTVR-CBS6, with an encore presentation on Christmas Day.

Virginia Beach Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

Date: Saturday, Dec. 7 

Location: 2143 Vista Cir., Virginia Beach, VA 23451

This dazzling nautical display supports the Virginia Beach Rescue Squad Foundation. It features boats decorated with holiday lights and festive themes. An exclusive VIP viewing party will be held at Chick’s Oyster Bar, and limited public tickets may be available after sponsor allocations are secured.

The parade benefits the city’s volunteer rescue squads, which respond to almost 46,000 calls annually and have a 97% customer satisfaction rating. These dedicated volunteers, supported by 50 career paramedics and supervisors, operate 37 ambulances, three squad trucks, and six boats, providing over $22 million worth of service to the community each year—all without charging patients for services.

Reston Holiday Parade

Date: Friday, Nov. 29 at 11 a.m.

Location: 11900 Market St. Reston, VA 20190

Celebrating its 32nd year, the nationally-ranked Reston Holiday Parade brings seasonal magic to Market Street. This one-hour, half-mile parade has been a cherished day-after-Thanksgiving tradition since 1992, rain or shine. The highlight includes Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving in a horse-drawn carriage.

The festivities continue throughout the day with train rides, carriage rides, and ice skating, culminating in a tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. Ranked among USA Today’s top ten holiday parades, this beloved community event offers a full day of celebration and holiday cheer.

Holiday markets

43rd Annual Virginia Beach Christmas Market

Date: Friday, Nov. 29-Sunday, Dec. 1 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Location: 1000 19th St., Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Ranked #21 in Sunshine Artist Magazine’s “200 Best Classic and Contemporary Craft Shows in the United States,” this celebrated market features 175 fine artisans and crafters from more than 20 states. Visitors can explore a vast selection of fine arts, pottery, jewelry, stained glass, wood crafts, toys, photography, fiber arts, and thousands of Christmas collectibles. Santa will be available for photos daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The market offers free parking and second-day return admission, making it perfect for those seeking unique holiday gifts or festive home décor.

Christmas Market on Main

Date: Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Location: 301 Main St., Yorktown, VA 23690

The Christmas Market on Main in Yorktown returns in early December, featuring nearly 100 vendors along Main Street with handcrafted goods, local art, and seasonal decorations. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, highlighted by a ceremonial ringing from the Town Crier, a performance from the Fifes and Drums of York Town, and a special arrival of Santa Claus on York County’s first fire truck. Live musical entertainment will add to the festive atmosphere, while the free Yorktown Trolley will operate from 11 a.m. to facilitate easy access.

This annual market not only supports local artisans but also fosters community spirit during the holiday season.

Photo courtesy of Visit Yorktown.

Herndon WinterMarkt 

Date: Saturday, Dec. 14, from 12-7 p.m.

Location: 779 Center St., Herndon, VA 20170

Bringing old-world European charm to Northern Virginia, the Herndon WinterMarkt celebrates the centuries-old tradition of German Christmas markets. After drawing over 7,000 visitors in its debut, this family-focused event showcases the DC Metro area’s diverse community through holiday foods, drinks, gifts, and decorations.

Visitors can expect hand-crafted Christmas decorations, woodworking, artwork, and textiles, all presented in the lovely historic town of Herndon. The market brings together neighbors, civic organizations, and local businesses to create a new holiday tradition with a distinctly European flair.

Photo courtesy of Herndon WinterMarkt.

Hanukkah

Hanukkah Celebration

Date: Wednesday, Dec. 18, from 6-8 p.m.

Location: 5100 Cleveland St., Virginia Beach, VA 23462

Get into the Hanukkah spirit with a fun and interactive cookie decorating class. This two-hour session will teach you how to make festive Hanukkah-inspired cookies that are perfect for gifting or sharing with family and friends. The tuition fee includes all supplies, and participants will take home their beautifully decorated creations.

Chanukah on Ice

Date: Sunday, Dec. 29 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Location: 4350 Pouncey Tract Rd., Glen Allen, VA 23060

Chanukah on Ice, hosted by Chabad of Virginia and Friendship Circle of Virginia, allows participants the opportunity to recognize the fifth night of Hanukkah with a little fun. The event will feature community candle lighting, ice skating, laser tag, music, crafts, and a sensory-friendly area.

Friendship Circle families will receive complimentary access to ice skating, laser tag, and crafts. Additional costs apply for arcade games and food. Skate assists, headphones, and wheelchair access are available to ensure a welcoming experience for everyone.

New Year’s Eve

Last Night on the Town

Date: Tuesday, Dec. 31, from 6 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

Location: 222 Central Park Ave., Virginia Beach, VA 23462

Ring in 2024 at Virginia Beach’s largest New Year’s Eve celebration, Last Night on the Town. Headlined by platinum-selling artist Hunter Hayes, with additional performances from Anthony Rosano & The Conqueroos and DJ Mista Cham, this family-friendly event is free to the public. The celebration kicks off with a live DJ at 7 p.m., along with stilt walkers, jugglers, and a kids’ dance-off contest for ages under 12.

For those looking for an elevated experience, VIP tickets grant access to an exclusive viewing area with party favors, complimentary beer and wine, a champagne toast at midnight, and a best-dressed couple contest. VIPs will also enjoy access to delicious bites and desserts provided by Cantina Laredo and a balcony view of the ball drop.

New Year’s Eve Party 2024

Date: Tuesday, Dec. 31 at 9 p.m.

Location: TBD

New Year’s Eve Party 2024 allows those in Virginia Beach the opportunity to celebrate the last day of the year on the South End Trifecta Strip with access to three venues: Waterman’s, The Shack on 8th, and Chix on the Beach. A ticket includes five drinks (shots not included), free snacks, and a midnight toast. Live entertainment will feature DJs CanRock, Welldone, Scott Free, and AETGY & K/SLICE. Attendees can also enjoy casino games and live performances.

Tickets are required, and the event is for guests aged 21 and older.

New Year’s Eve at WinterFest

Date: Tuesday, Dec. 31, from 5 p.m.-1 a.m.

Location: 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, VA 23047

Celebrate New Year’s Eve surrounded by millions of lights and lavish holiday decor at WinterFest at Kings Dominion. This family-friendly event includes a DJ spinning tunes under the Eiffel Tower at the Grande Bandstand, along with a special countdown just for kids. At midnight, enjoy a dazzling fireworks display to ring in the new year.

Guests will receive free party hats and horns while supplies last.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.