Some events may be postponed or canceled. Contact the event host for updates.
December 1–Lexington.
Join the department of music for its annual "Holiday Pops" concert at 7pm in Wilson Concert Hall, located in the Lenfest Center for the Arts, 100 Glasgow Street. This longstanding event brings together the university's major ensembles: the University Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, University Orchestra, Cantatrici and Glee Club in a festive, family-friendly concert. Tickets are free, but required with non-perishable food or monetary donation to Campus Kitchen.
Website or 540-458-8000.
December 1-23–Staunton.
Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa Claus is coming to town on the “Santa Express”. It’s the most wonderful time of the year and we invite you and your family aboard the Santa Express train that will be stationed at 415 Bridge Street. Bask in the magic of sparkly Christmas trees, seasonal décor, tasty treats, holiday music, and best of all, a personal greeting from Santa.
Website or 866-440-8356.
December 2, 13–Broadway.
Join us for the following events: On the 2nd, the Hometown Holiday Event and Tree Lighting at Heritage Park, 145 Turner Avenue, from 6:30-7:30pm and on the 13th, the Fireman’s Parade from 2-3pm.
Website or 540-810-4110.
December 3–Buena Vista.
Our Annual Christmas events: Tree Lighting at 6:30pm, Parade 7pm on Magnolia Avenue, then head to Straws, 2047 Magnolia Avenue for a classic holiday film.
Website or 540-458-1872.
December 3–Lexington.
Lessons and Carols will be held at the University Chapel at W&L Campus, 100 Glasgow Street, starting 8pm. An annual tradition that dates back over 80 years, the Candlelight Service weaves together the narration of the Christmas story through music, readings and carols. No tickets are required.
Welcome or 540-458-8000.
December 3–Vinton.
Celebrate the holiday season with us at our annual Christmas Parade. Starting 7pm on W. Lee Street (J. Frank Hillyard Middle School) and ends at the Fire Department 117 N. Central Street downtown. Experience the festive spirit with marching bands and a special appearance by Santa Claus and more. Admission is free and parking is available throughout downtown.
Website or 540-343-1364.
December 3-6, 10-13, 17-20–Staunton.
Join the Frontier Culture Museum, 1290 Richmond Road for their Holiday Lantern Tours event from 5:30-8pm. The tour will begin at our Visitor Center. Visitors will walk by lantern light to visit our 17th century English farmhouse, 18th century Irish and German farmhouses and one of our 19th century Virginia farmhouses, all cozily decorated for the holidays. Instead of skits this year, our interpretive program will allow the visitor to experience holidays in history. Audience participation may be required Please remember that this is an outdoor walking tour, so plan to dress appropriately.
Website or 540-332-7850.
December 4–Dayton.
Join us for our Christmas Parade starting 6pm at the Municipal Building, left onto Eastview Street, right onto Thompson Street, left onto Main Street, left onto College Street and ends at Dove Park where the Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held. We will celebrate with Christmas carols, hot chocolates and a special visit from Santa
Websites or 540-879-2241.
December 4, 5, 10–Luray.
Join us for the following events:11th Annual Holiday Festival from 4-8pm is a free, family-friendly event. A $5.00 cash donation or canned food donation for photos with Santa with proceeds benefiting "Page One" and "Page Paws" on the 4th; Christmas tree lighting at the Performing Arts, 1 East Main Street starting 5:30pm on the 5th; Christmas Parade starting at 6pm on Main Street on the 10th.
Website or 540-743-3915.
December 4, 12–Grottoes.
Join us for our "Caroling in the Caverns" fundraising event that is held at Grand Caverns, 5 Caverns Drive. We will have different tour times and you can enjoy a concert deep inside the Grand Caverns.
Website or 540-249-5705.
December 4, 12-13–Woodstock.
Enjoy the following events: The “Light up Woodstock” event features a parade at 6:30pm, tree lighting at 6:45pm and more on the 4th and on the 12th-13th join us for our “Hometown Holidays” downtown at various locations starting 10am both days.
Website or 540-459-3621.
December 4-21–Waynesboro.
The Wayne Theatre, 521 West Main Street will have the following events: A Christmas Story: The Musical on the 4th-6th and 11th-13th; Pearl Harbor (Film) and Pearl Harbor and WWII Presentation with Jim Belcher on the 7th; Love Actually (Film) Pay What You Will on the 14th; The Bishop's Wife (Film) Pay What You Will on the 21st.
Website or 540-943-9999.
December 5–Front Royal.
Join us at the Main Street Gazebo, 414 E Main Street, for our “Christmas On Main” event from noon-7pm. We will have a variety of activites/vendors and a paraide at 4pm.
Website or 540-635-5788.
December 5–Harrisonburg.
‘Tis the season to be downtown! The most magical day in Downtown Harrisonburg is back and bigger than ever. Join Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance on Saturday, 1-5:30pm for Winter Wonderfest. Enjoy carriage rides, photos with Santa, holiday shopping, performances, and more.
Website or 540-432.8922.
December 5–Front Royal.
The ClearHorizon Foundation will be hosting their 1st Annual Winter Wonderland Charity Ball at Reitano Vineyards, 137 Lee Burke Road. from 8pm-12am. Guests are encouraged to dress like royalty. The evening will be Cinderella-inspired. There will be a royal castle ice sculpture, fireworks display, a toy drive, ice cream/hot chocolate bar, entertainment and more. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to help make Christmas magical for local youth.This event helps advance the Foundation’s expanding access to supportive resources, and creating opportunities for youth and families to thrive and will help the Youth Christmas Drive, with gifts, necessities, for local children and families.
Website or 540-635-3185.
December 5–Strasburg.
Join our Christmas Celebrations at various locations. Parade downtown on King Street, rain or shine and then the tree lighting at Town Hall. The Holiday markets at Star in the Valley Winery (498 Amos Lane) and the Christian Church (165 High Street). Then join us for the "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" at approximately 6:15pm. The parade and festivities are free.
Website or 540-465-9197.
December 5-6–Winchester.
Bring your friends and family to the "Follow The Star", event and enjoy hearing about the reason GOD sent HIS Son JESUS to Earth, at the Fellowship Bible Church, 3217 Middle Road, from 5-8pm both days. Have you ever dreamed about the night when JESUS was Born? What would it be like to be visited by Angels like Mary and Joseph? The walking tour includes live animals, you’ll experience bread making, carpentry building and so much more. Free admission.
Website or 540-662-7743.
December 5-6–Timberville.
Join us for our Winter Festival at the American Legion Park, 325 American Legion Drive. This weekend is filled with a variety of vendors, food trucks, Santa, the Grinch and more.
Website or 540-896-7058.
December 5, 12–New Market.
Join us for the following events: On the 5th "Tis the Season Holiday Celebration Parade" at 5pm on Congress Street. Then stop by the Library, 160 E. Lee Street after the parade to see Santa and Mrs. Claus and pick up your goody bag (while supplies last). On the 12th a Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt for children 1-14 years, in the Community Park, 9670 Cadet Road. Come bundled up with a flashlight to see in the dark. There will be hot chocolate and other fun activities to participate in as well. Registration is required.
Website or 540-740-3432.
December 5, 12, 19–Staunton.
The Frontier Culture Museum will once again host their popular adult "Holiday Workshops", starting at 11am. These in-depth hands-on workshops immerse you in the spirit of the holidays, with different countries and time periods. Tickets are $25.00 per person and spaces are limited. Workshops are intended for 16 and up. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a paid adult.
Website or 540-332-7850.
December 5, 19, 20–Waynesboro.
Join us at the Stable Craft Brewing and Cidery, 375 Madrid Road, for the following events: "Classic Country Christmas"; on the 5th and "Krampus Fest" on the 19th; On the 20th "Santa in the Stables, Pints & Ponies" and "Hot Chocolate Bar with Santa". Free admission.
Website or 540-490-2609.
December 6–Middletown.
Enjoy a visit with Santa at Richard's Fruit Market, 6410 Middle Road, from 11am-1pm. Bring your own camera to take a family picture (with your animals too!). We will have food for sale. Free Admission.
Website or 540-869-1455.
December 11–Lexington.
Join the Jackson House Museum for their “Christmas at the Jacksons” event from 6-8pm. Visitors will step back in time and experience an 1859 Christmas while interacting with costumed interpreters. Those who attend will also have an opportunity to be a part of the “preparations” by singing Christmas carols, churning butter in the kitchen, and helping our 1859 visitors pick the proper outfit for dinner. Last tour will be at 7:40pm. Admission for the event is canned food for humans and/or pets to benefit the Rockbridge Area Relief Association Food Pantry. Help us give back to our local community and come out for an evening of candlelit magic.
Website or 540-464-7704.
December 11–Buena Vista.
Join the Maury River Pickers and Singers for a program of traditional holiday music on Friday 11th at Noon. This longstanding group of local musicians playing a wide variety of instruments will surely add to your cheerful holiday spirit. Show up with a smile and a heart open to experiencing joy at Maury River Senior Services, 2137 Magnolia Avenue, Buena Vista. Need more information or want to join the Pickers and Singers?
Website or 540-261-7474.
December 11–Natural Bridge.
Experience Natural Bridge State Park, 6477 South Lee Highway, like never before with festive lighting, roaring fires, carriage rides and Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be here. Enjoy an after dark stroll along the illuminated Cedar Creek Trail and under the Natural Bridge, lit up to show the crags and clefts of the arch in festive colors. Event admission is $9.00 for those 13 and up, $6.00 for those 12 and younger. Please dress for the cold.
Website or 540-291-1326.
December 11–Front Royal.
Celebrate the New Year and have fun with it at "Casino Royale: New Year’s Eve" event that will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Front Royal Blue Ridge Shadows, 111 Hospitality Drive, from8pm-12:30am. This is a benefit for the Warren Heritage Society. Featuring casino-style gaming, a DJ, dancing, and a midnight champagne toast. Also Pick an era, 1970s Glam Rock, Colonial America, Medieval Knight, Roaring ’20s, Neon ’80s and Dress the part.
Website or 540-636-1446.
December 11–Winchester.
Celebrate New Year's Eve with an unforgettable evening, featuring a concert by the "Babys" band at the George Washington Hotel, 103 E. Piccadilly Street, starting 8:30pm. Your evening includes dancing, chef-inspired hors d'oeuvres, decadent desserts, a cash bar, festive party favors, and opportunities for exclusive up-close access with the band. After the concert, continue the celebration in the Half Note Lounge with live music by "Rob Talton" and "Nick Nerangis" from 10pm to midnight, followed by a complimentary champagne toast, as we welcome the New Year.
Website or 833-942-2500.
December 12–Fishersville.
The Annual Christmas Market will be held at Augusta Expo, 277 Expo Road from 9am-3pm. Featuring a variety of vendors selling clothing, candles, food, health/body, home décor, arts and crafts, household items and accessories, jewelry and a lot more. Free admission.
Website or 540-246-8681.
December 18-20–Afton.
We hope you will join us at the Bethlehem Village at Hebron Baptist Church, 66 Tanbark Drive at The Village of Bethlehem for a full-fledged modern day reprisal of the first century village of Bethlehem. Complete with the reenactment of Christ’s birth, singing angels, roman guards, an olive press, basket makers, carpenters, blacksmiths, scribe shops, and yes…even live camels and more. Please leave all pets at home, ADA animals are the exception and the event is for anyone handicapped. There is no admission fee to visit the village, but donations are gladly accepted.
Website or 540-456-6863.
Events listed as they become available. Updated 11/4/26
