The Most Wonderful
Time of theYear in
Coastal Virginia 
Experience the magic of the holiday season in Coastal Virginia, where festive traditions come alive from November through the beginning of January. Whether you’re marveling at dazzling holiday tree lightings, enjoying the charm of lighted boat parades, or singing along to timeless carols, there’s something for everyone. Embrace the joy and warmth of the season with a variety of events that are sure to fill your heart with holiday cheer. Coastal Virginia is your ultimate destination for unforgettable holiday experiences.
HOLIDAY LIGHTS
All is merry and bright in Coastal Virginia, where the holiday magic begins as early as November 15! Kick off the season with spectacular holiday lights at Winterfest on the Wisconsin, in Norfolk where thousands of twinkling lights transform this historic battleship into an extraordinary holiday experience. For even more festive cheer, head to Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town in Williamsburg, where you’ll be immersed in a dazzling display of lights, joyful holiday music, and cozy up with a cup of hot cocoa. And on November 22, Hampton comes alive with the Whimsical Winter Wonderland at the Coliseum, turning the space into a magical winter paradise with fun for the entire family.
For a more traditional holiday light experience, head to Chesapeake for a free, mesmerizing drive-thru laser light show Deck the Hall and Fa La La Land at Chesapeake City Hall. Or, immerse yourself in the glowing beauty of Dominion Energy Garden Lights at Norfolk Botanical Garden, offering two different light shows to choose from. If you’re craving a coastal holiday adventure, take a drive down the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and enjoy the annual Holiday Lights at the Beach, where thousands of holiday lights and festive music create a magical atmosphere. For something truly unique, don’t miss the Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade on December 6, where boats adorned in twinkling lights glide along the sparkling York River. And for a touch of history, visit Colonial Williamsburg’s Grand Illumination on select Saturdays in December, a breathtaking celebration that lights up the historic streets with holiday charm.
There are numerous other holiday festivals and light displays in Coastal Virginia. Visit here for a complete list of events, times, and all the information you need!
HOLIDAY SHOWS
Celebrate the magic of the season in Coastal Virginia with a variety of festive events! Start by catching A Merry Little Christmas Carol at the Wells Theatre in Norfolk, then head to the Grand Illumination Parade in Norfolk for a joyful evening of holiday cheer. In Old Towne Portsmouth, the Holiday Music Festival fills the streets with music, shopping, and delicious dining. Don’t miss the classic performance of A Christmas Carol in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, a Dickens favorite that will warm your heart. For a charming escape, venture to the Eastern Shore for Festive Fridays, where horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday movies, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus create a magical holiday experience.
PARADES
Celebrate the holiday season with Coastal Virginia’s festive parades! On Dec. 6, enjoy the Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade as a fleet of decorated boats sparkles along the York River. Hampton brings two weekends of cheer with the Holly Days Parade and the Lighted Boat Parade at Hampton Harbor. Head to Virginia Beach December 6 for the Holiday Parade at the Beach, featuring balloons, marching bands, and lighted floats. Downtown Smithfield’s Christmas Parade, themed “A Country Christmas,” delights on the second Saturday of December. Suffolk’s Holiday Parade on Dec. 13 showcases floats and equestrian units, while Norfolk’s Grand Illumination Parade kicks off the season the first Saturday before Thanksgiving.
NEW YEAR’S EVE AND FIRST DAY
Ring in the New Year with unforgettable celebrations in Coastal Virginia. Experience the excitement of Last Night on the Town, a vibrant free event in Virginia Beach featuring live music and delicious food trucks, perfect for families and kicking off at 6 PM on New Year’s Eve. For daytime fun, head to the Noon New Year’s Eve for the Kids at Children’s Museum Mall for a family-friendly celebration at noon, filled with engaging activities for kids. Don’t miss the charming Old Towne Scottish Walk, a festive event inspired by Scotland’s Hogmanay Festival, where community spirit shines as townspeople gather to honor their heritage. And after the festivities, enjoy a delightful New Year’s Day brunch at one of the local eateries, making it a perfect start to a year of adventure and togetherness.
