Every city has its own way of celebrating the holidays, but Richmond’s traditions are something special. Growing up in Richmond, some of my favorite childhood memories are rooted in holiday traditions – from watching the Richmond Grand Illumination (now RVA Illuminates) and driving around town on a tacky light tour to visiting the Snow Queen and Snow Bear at Legendary Santa.
Generations of locals have bundled up to watch the Dominion Energy Christmas Parade, marveled at Lewis Ginter’s glowing GardenFest of Lights, and piled into cars for tacky light tours. Add in holiday markets, pop-up bars, and festive performances, and you’ve got all the makings of a magical weekend right here at home. Whether you’re looking for festive weekend plans with the family or want to show out-of-town guests the magic of our city, here’s how to soak up the most wonderful time of the year in RVA.
Friday
Stroll Through GardenFest of Lights
Once the sun sets, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden becomes nothing short of magical. The Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights transforms the Gardens into a glowing wonderland with more than a million twinkling lights creating enchanting displays. Kids will love wandering through tunnels of color and seeing displays with whimsical characters, while adults can enjoy hot chocolate and roast s’mores by the warming fire.
Catch a Holiday Film at The Byrd
There’s something nostalgic about seeing a holiday movie on the big screen, and nowhere does it better than Carytown’s historic Byrd Theatre. Built in 1928, the theater feels like taking a step back in time, with its gilded décor and Wurlitzer organ. November and December weekends often feature classics like It’s a Wonderful Life or Elf, making it an easy, fun holiday activity for the whole family.
Grab a Drink at a Holiday Pop-Up Bar
This one’s for the grownups looking to end the night with a cup of cheer. Richmond’s cocktail scene takes on a whole new life during November and December. Regular spots you may know and love transform into holiday-themed popup bars with festive decorations and limitededition drinks. The Jasper becomes Miracle on Cary with over-the-top décor, Birdie’s downtown changes to The Evergreen with drinks served in holiday-themed mugs, and The Emerald Lounge in Church Hill rebrands as Sippin’ Santa with wall-to-wall tinsel. Be sure to make reservations in advance, because spots fill up fast.
Saturday
Watch a Parade
The Dominion Energy Christmas Parade has been a long-standing holiday tradition in Richmond since the 1980s. Giant balloons, glittering floats, and marching bands fill the morning with excitement, drawing in thousands of viewers to partake in the celebration. You can also bundle up to see the Richmond Boat Parade of Lights along the James River, where festively decorated vessels cruise by.
Shop for Holiday Gifts
It wouldn’t be the holiday season without a little shopping. Head to Carytown to wander through boutiques and quirky shops, where you’ll find everything from vintage treasures to handmade jewelry. For a more curated holiday market experience, don’t miss Stony Point Fashion Park’s Holiday Makers Market with RVA Black Farmer’s Market’s artisans. Another favorite is the Studio Two Three Winter Market, known for highlighting Richmond’s vibrant arts community. No matter where you go, shopping local makes gift-giving feel even more meaningful.
Enjoy Ice Skating
If you’re feeling adventurous, lace up your skates for some classic winter fun. Outdoor options like the rink at Stony Point Fashion Park bring extra magic with twinkle lights, music, and crisp winter air. Or you can head indoors to SkateNation Plus or Richmond Ice Zone.
Go on a Tacky Light Tour
Richmond’s famous tacky light tours are one of the city’s most beloved and delightfully over-the-top holiday traditions. Pile into the car (or hire a limo driver if you’re feeling fancy), queue up your favorite holiday playlist, and drive through neighborhoods to see homes covered in lights, inflatables, and themed displays. Some houses have even been featured nationally for their one-of-a-kind displays.
Sunday
Enjoy a Festive Brunch
The weekend isn’t complete without a holiday themed brunch at one of Richmond’s local eateries. SB’s Love Shack is known for its creative specials every week, but especially so during the holidays with dishes like their Silver Bells Benny, Candy Cane Forest French Toast, and Tin Soldiers Frittata. Helen’s, Hotel Greene, and Dot’s Back Inn are other local spots where you can grab a tasty breakfast with a side of festive décor.
See a Holiday Performance
Richmond’s performing arts scene pulls out all the stops during the holidays, so you’ll want to make sure to catch a show (or two). Virginia Repertory Theatre brings Dickens to life with its run of the beloved A Christmas Carol, while the Richmond Ballet enchants audiences with The Nutcracker. The Richmond Symphony also delights with its lively Let It Snow! concert at the Altria Theater. With so many choices, there’s something for everyone throughout the season.
Visit The Jefferson Hotel
Whether you’re enjoying dinner at the Hotel’s Lemaire restaurant or taking a family photo in front of the iconic 30-foot Christmas tree, a trip to The Jefferson will end your holiday weekend on a high note. The hotel is adorned with hundreds of poinsettias, garlands, and twinkling lights, turning the already stunning historic hotel into a scene fit for a Hallmark movie. Don’t forget to stop by the annual gingerbread display to enjoy the smells of freshly baked gingerbread and marvel at the impeccable details.
No matter which traditions you choose to add to your calendar, Richmond offers countless ways to make memories this season. From time-honored classics to new holiday pop-ups, there’s something for everyone. So, bundle up, gather your loved ones, and head out to experience the magic – because there’s truly no better place to spend the holidays than right here in RVA.
