Celebrate the season with the many holiday events happening in Downtown Richmond! From the excitement of the Dominion Energy Christmas Parade, to the coziness of Richmond Ballet’s Nutcracker, to the anticipation of seeing Richmond’s skyline light up for RVA Illuminates, Downtown Richmond is full of events to enjoy, places to shop, and performances to see during the holidays.
Venture Richmond has compiled this chronological list of downtown holiday activities to help you make plans with your family and friends. Be sure to check their website for continued event updates throughout November and December.
Chronological List of Downtown Holiday Activities*:
Wine Quirks: Wines for the Holidays
The Lobby Bar at Quirk Hotel, 201 W. Broad Street
Sunday, November 16, 6-8 PM
Come to the Lobby Bar at Quirk Hotel for a festive evening discovering unique wines perfect for the holiday season. Led by Wine Director, Jazmin, this series encourages curiosity and connection through shared tastings. Come sip and enjoy the journey! Tickets start at $39. Find more information here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wine-quirks-wines-for-the-holidays-tickets-1574479633969
Tredegar Tree Lighting
American Civil War Museum, 490 Tredegar Street
Thursday, November 20, 5:30-7 PM
Bring your family to the Tredegar Tree Lighting, a free holiday event in Richmond featuring a 20-foot tree, live music by the Joe Sarver Trio, and festive offerings from Dogwood & Thistle Wine Company. Enjoy the beautifully decorated tree and kick off the holiday season! Free Event.
Find more information here: https://acwm.org/event/tredegar-tree-lighting-2/
Churchill & Roosevelt: The Christmas that Saved the World!
Libby S. Gottwald Playhouse at the Dominion Energy Center, 600 E. Grace Street
Friday-Sunday, November 21-23
A theatrical event by David Payne centered around the pivotal meeting between British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and President Franklin D. Roosevelt in December 1941, shortly after the Pearl Harbor attack. Engaging, thoughtful, and heartfelt, the play highlights the formation of a deep personal bond and shared vision between the two leaders, which influenced the course of World War II and shaped future peace efforts. Tickets start at $54.
Find more information here: https://www.dominionenergycenter.com/events/detail/churchill-roosevelt
Whilom Goods Holiday Pottery Workshops
Whilom Goods, 1 N. 2nd Street
Friday, November 21 – Sunday, December 14
Embrace the holiday spirit at Whilom Goods by designing your own hand-painted ceramic mug! Whether you’re making a meaningful gift or indulging yourself, it’s the ideal way to personalize your experience this festive season. Tickets start at $55.
Find more information here: https://www.whilomgoods.com/shop/p/holiday-pottery-workshops
The Visual Arts Center of Richmond’s Craft + Design
Main Street Station, 1500 E. Main Street
Friday, November 21 – Sunday, November 23
A renowned contemporary craft show attracting over 9,000 attendees and featuring over 170 artists. The event includes live artist demonstrations, family-friendly workshops, and local food and drink, making it a vibrant weekend celebration of craft and kickoff to the holiday shopping season in Downtown Richmond. General Admission tickets start at $17, Kids 12 and under are free.
Find more information here: https://craftanddesignrva.com/
Made in RVA Holiday Shop
Art Works, 320 Hull Street
Friday, November 28, 11 AM
The Made in RVA Holiday Shop offers a variety of handmade gifts crafted by local artisans, including candles, soaps, prints, jewelry, pottery, totes, cards and more. It’s an opportunity to find unique treasures that celebrate creativity and community, making your holiday shopping a memorable experience. Pay as you go.
Find more information here: https://artworksrva.com/november-december-2025-exhibits/
Winter Market at Studio Two Three
Studio Two Three, 109 W. 15th Street
Friday, November 28 – Tuesday, December 23, 11 AM-5 PM (open until 8PM on Thursdays)
Does searching for the perfect holiday gift get your tinsel in a tangle? Well, look no further than Studio Two Three and give the gift of local art! From clothing to handmade treasures from local artisans, this market offers goods sure to please anyone on your Holiday gift list! Pay as you go.
Find more information here: https://www.studiotwothree.org/community-events
A Christmas Carol
The Arenstein Stage at the November Theatre, 114 W. Broad Street
Friday, November 28 – Sunday, December 28
This holiday season, Virginia Repertory Theater invites you to a heartwarming musical adaptation of the classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge, highlighting themes of second chances and the transformative power of kindness and joy. Tickets start at $62, Children 13 and under start at $39.
Find more information here: https://va-rep.org/events/a-christmas-carol/
Shop Small Saturday
Downtown RVA
Saturday, November 29
Visit Downtown RVA and support the local shops and small businesses like Odd Bird, Verdalina, Jean + Cook, TXTUR, Shockoe Bottom Clay, Fountain Bookstore, and more for Shop Small Saturday, a nationally celebrated shopping holiday that highlights local and small business owners! Pay as you go.
Find more information here: https://venturerichmond.com/explore-downtown/shopping/
Visit with Soul Santa
Black History Museum, 122 W. Leigh Street
Saturdays, November 29, December 6, December 13, 11 AM-3 PM
BHMVA invites the community to its annual Soul Santa event, where children and families can meet Soul Santa, enjoy Christmas stories, participate in arts and crafts, and receive a special treat. Families will also have the chance to take a photo with Soul Santa. Free Event; Registration required.
Find more information here: https://blackhistorymuseum.org/event/breakfast-photo-with-soul-santa-11-25-12-2-12-9-12-16/
Let it Snow! Richmond Symphony Concert
Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center, 600 E. Grace Street
Saturday, November 29, 2 PM & 7 PM
A Richmond holiday music tradition is back again on Thanksgiving weekend by popular demand! Celebrate the season alongside family and friends with the Richmond Symphony. Carols, classics, and sparkling holiday favorites! Conducted by Hae Lee. Tickets start at $15.
Find more information here: https://www.richmondsymphony.com/event/let-it-snow-15/
Champagne & Beyond: The World of Traditional Sparkling Wine
Echelon Wine Bar, 1209 E. Cary Street
Saturday, November 29, 4-5 PM
This event offers a guided tasting of six traditional-method sparkling wines. Experience exceptional sparkling wines like Crémant, Cava, and Franciacorta and how they demonstrate how different regions, grapes, and techniques influence each wine’s unique character. Tickets start at $41.
Find more information here: https://www.exploretock.com/echelonwinebarrichmond/event/578318/champagne-beyond-the-world-of-traditional-sparkling-wine
Holiday Tea Experience
The Queen’s Library Tea Room, 221 E. Clay Street
Tuesday, December 2 – Tuesday, December 23
Enjoy a unique Old English Tea Flight with exclusive blends from The Queen’s Library and Fortnum & Mason, featuring unlimited tea. Savor a Festive Delights Tea Tower filled with sweet and savory British holiday classics. The experience also includes a reading of “A Christmas Carol,” highlighting love and hope for the season. Tickets start at $75.
Find more information here: https://www.queenslibrarytearoom.com/achristmascarol
A Shockoe Session Live! Christmas with Shockoe Records
The Hippodrome Theatre, 528 N. 2nd Street
Tuesday, December 2, 7:30 PM
A Shockoe Sessions Live! Christmas is a festive celebration featuring a diverse lineup of music genres, including rock, jazz, and techno, aiming to spread holiday cheer. The event will support Richmond Triangle Players, a leading performing arts company focused on LGBTQ+ experiences and queer artistry. Join for a night of great music and a good cause! Advanced tickets start at $25.
Find more information here: https://www.shockoerecords.com/sslxmas
RVA Krampusnacht 13th Annual Yuletide Monsters Group Art Show
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall Street
Friday, December 5, 5-11 PM
Krampus, a mythical creature from Central European folklore, serves as Santa’s dark counterpart, tasked with scaring naughty children during the holiday season. The event themed “Winter Spirits,” will feature vendors, performances, and music, and submitted visual art related themes such as Krampus, Winter Folklore, and Creepy Christmas. Free Event, Donations Encouraged.
Find more information here: http://www.rvakrampus.com/
RVA Illuminates
Kanawha Plaza, 701 E. Canal Street
Friday, December 5, Countdown starts at 5:59 PM
Countdown with ABC8 for the annual tree lighting and illumination of the Downtown Richmond skyline, when all the lights come ON! Enjoy live performances, food trucks and a little extra sparkle from holiday lights in Richmond. Free Event.
Find more information here: https://venturerichmond.com/event/rva-illuminates-2025/1173/
RVA First Friday
Downtown’s Arts District
Friday, December 5, 5-11 PM
Head to Downtown Richmond’s Arts District and get into the holiday spirit when you explore the many galleries, shops, restaurants and more small, locally owned businesses! There are options for all so don’t forget your Holiday shopping list! Pay as you go.
Find more information here: https://calendar.richmondcultureworks.org/event/first_fridays_art_walk
Dominion Energy Christmas Parade
Starts at the Science Museum of Virginia and travels east along Broad Street, ending at 10th Street
Saturday, December 6, 10:15 AM
The 42nd annual Christmas Parade features colorful floats, helium balloons, marching bands, and special guests, including Santa! Can’t make it in person? Tune into its live broadcast on WTVR CBS6. Free event.
Find more information here: https://www.richmondparade.org/
Holidaze Market
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall Street
Saturday, December 6, 11 AM-4 PM
Join RVA Krampus for an evening of festive shopping, featuring unique, handcrafted creations from talented local crafters and artisans. Bring new unwrapped toys to donate to the Toys for Tots Toy Drive. Pay as you go.
Find more information here: http://www.rvakrampus.com/
HoliSlay Drag Brunch
The Black Olive Pizzeria, 13 W. Broad Street
Saturday, December 6, 12-3PM
Get ready for the HoliSlay Drag Brunch, hosted by Jasmen and Amber! Enjoy fierce performances, festive looks, and delicious brunch bites with signature cocktails. Tickets start at $26.
Find more information here: https://www.facebook.com/events/861340676245874
Petty Markets Christmas Market
Benchtop Brewing, 434 Hull Street
Saturday, December 6, 12-5 PM
Shop local vendors, enjoy local food and drink, and live music while you cross the remaining few off your holiday gift list. And don’t forget to bring an unopened toy for the Toy Drive! Pay as you go.
Find more information here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1880211436263806
7th Annual Holiday Cheers with RVA Makers Market
Richmond Makers Market at Basic City Beer Co., 212 W. 6th Street
Saturday, December 6, 12-6 PM
This Richmond holiday market features more than 35 local makers with products ranging from candles, clothing, jewelry and works of art. To celebrate the holiday season, this monthly market is adding a festive twist to the event. Head to Manchester’s Basic City Beer Co., a dog-friendly brewery, for an afternoon of shopping and supporting local RVA makers. Pay as you go.
Find more information here: https://www.facebook.com/events/2116071375548870
Kadencia Orchestra: Tropical Christmas 2
Richmond Music Hall, 619 E. Main Street
Saturday, December 6, 8 PM
Come dance the night away to a concert from Richmond’s own Kadencia Afro-Puerto Rican salsa band! Their Christmas show, Kadencia Orchestra: Tropical Christmas 2, is a great way to liven up your holiday season! Tickets start at $21.
Find more information here: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/41241783/kadencia-orchestratropical-christmas-2-richmond-richmond-music-hall
Krampus Ball
FalloutRVA, 117 N. 18th Street
Saturday, December 6, 8 PM
Join RVA Krampus after the Yuletide Monsters Parade for an afterparty at Fallout RVA! Hosted by Markstercon and DC Creators.
Find more information here: http://www.rvakrampus.com/
Richmond Ballet: The Nutcracker
Dominion Energy Center for Performing Arts, 600 E. Grace Street
Saturday, December 6 – Tuesday, December 23
The Richmond Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker, accompanied by the Richmond Symphony, features Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. It’s a cozy holiday tradition that highlights the enchantment of the winter season. Tickets start at $32.
Find more information here: https://richmondballet.com/event/the-nutcracker-2/2025-12-06/
Holiday Wine Market & Tasting
Echelon Wine Bar, 1209 E. Cary Street
Sunday, December 7, 7-8 PM
Celebrate the season with a tasting of six sparkling wines, including Champagne, Cava, Crémant, and New World bubbles. Discover how different regions and methods affect their style and flavor, making them perfect for toasts and festive occasions. Tickets start at $36.
Find more information here: https://www.echelonwinebarrva.com/events/holiday-wine-market
Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
John Marshall Ballrooms, 101 N. 5th Street
Thursday, December 11 & Friday, December 19, 6:30 & 8:45 PM
Performed by string quartet Listeso, the famous Candlelight concerts return for a Christmas performance at the beautiful John Marshall Ballrooms. Selections include beloved Christmas classics. General Admission starts at $44.
Find more information here: https://feverup.com/m/428935
Hand/ Thrown Holiday Market
ICA at VCU, 601 W. Broad Street
Friday, December 12 – Sunday, December 14, 10 AM-5 PM
Featuring handmade ceramics by local artists and food from the Abby Moore Café, Hand/Thrown, aims to promote ceramic arts through community engagement, education, and partnerships, offering programs and opportunities for artists to teach and share their craft. Pay as you go.
Find more information here: https://icavcu.org/events/hand-thrown-holiday-market/
Annie
Libby S. Gottwald Playhouse at the Dominion Energy Center, 600 E. Grace Street
Friday, December 12 – Sunday, December 21
Bring your family to experience one of the most famous American musicals that has been beloved for decades. Tickets start at $61.
Find more information here: https://www.dominionenergycenter.com/events/detail/annie
Holiday Villages hosted by Richmond Night Market
17th Street Market, 100 N. 17th Street
Saturday, December 13, 5-9 PM
Richmond Night Market’s Holiday Villages is a multicultural holiday market shopping experience featuring local goods, art, food, music and the best of Richmond culture. This market features a family-friendly experience filled with independent artists and vendors. After shopping you can support the Shockoe Bottom restaurants too! Pay as you go.
Find more information here: https://www.richmondnightmarketva.com/#holiday-villages
Winter Wander 2025
The Valentine Museum, 1015 E. Clay Street
Sunday, December 14, 12-4 PM
Bring the whole family to enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, refreshments, family crafts, a live performance, and a tour of the historic Court End neighborhood. Plus, catch a free trolley to nearby cultural sites for open houses and activities. Everyone is welcome! Free Event.
Find more information here: https://thevalentine.org/event/winter-wander-2025/
Winter Black Market at Fallout
Fallout RVA, 117 N. 18th Street
Sunday, December 14 & Sunday, December 21, 5- 9 PM
Come shop ghoulish goods and creep-tastic creations for the holidays (or any occasion) from Richmond’s own sellers and makers at Fallout RVA. Discover unique, handcrafted gifts that you almost certainly won’t be able to find anywhere else. Ages 18+, no membership required. Pay as you go.
Find more information here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1249371286948194 and https://www.facebook.com/events/1235965234959726
Holiday Cocktail Making Class: Wine Quirks: A Sparkling Farewell
The Lobby Bar at Quirk Hotel, 201 W. Broad Street
Sunday, December 14, 6-8 PM
An enjoyable evening celebrating bubbly wines as we say goodbye to the warm weather season. Experience a variety of sparkling wines from around the world, learn about perfect pairings, and discover the best glassware to enhance your experience, just in time for hosting your holiday parties. Led by Wine Director, Jazmin, who aims to make wine approachable and fun for everyone. Come sip, explore, and connect with fellow wine lovers! Tickets start at $39.
Find more information here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wine-quirks-a-sparkling-farewell-tickets-1722527689689
Santa Visiting Tredegar!
American Civil War Museum, 480 Tredegar Street
Saturday, December 20, 10:30 AM-2 PM
Celebrate the season with a day of cheerful festivities and a visit from Santa! Start by meeting Santa in Tredegar’s lobby, then head inside for holiday activities for the kids and mimosas for the parents. Fun for the whole family awaits! Tickets are $5.
Find more information here: https://acwm.org/event/santa-visiting-tredegar/
Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl
Various Bars in Downtown Richmond
Saturday, December 20, 2-9 PM
Join Richmond’s Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl for a night of festive fun, drink specials, and dancing! Wear your ugliest sweater and visit venues like Liquid 2.0 Nightclub, Margarita’s Cantina, and more. The official bar list will be emailed to ticketholders the week of the event. Tickets start at $20.
Find more information here: https://www.barcrawllive.com/crawls/richmond-ugly-sweater-bar-crawl
Richmond Moon Market
Stone Brewing, 4300 Williamsburg Avenue
Saturday, December 20 & Sunday, December 21, 12-5 PM
Experience this “enchanted” Richmond market with a wintery twist! Browse through vendors’ collections of wellness products, candles, crystals and more. Enjoy live music and treats from food vendors. Find the perfect holiday gift for your loved ones here! Pay as you go.
Find more information here: https://www.rvamoonmarket.com/
R4ND4ZZO BIGB4ND Holiday Special
Ember Music Hall, 309 E. Broad Street
Sunday, December 21, 6 PM & 8 PM
A Big Band Tribute to Vince Guaraldi, an American jazz pianist best known for composing the music for “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” General Admission starts at $20.
Find more information here: https://embermusichall.com/event/r4nd4zzo-bigb4nd-holiday-special-3/ember-music-hall/richmond-virginia/
Capital City Kwanzaa Festival
Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 N. 3rd Street
Saturday, December 27, 1-7 PM
Celebrate the season with the Elegba Folklore Society at one of the East Coast’s largest annual Kwanzaa celebrations! Enjoy a rich cultural experience featuring a traditional ceremony, live performances, workshops, activities for children, and an African market.
Find more information here: https://efsinc.org/events/festivals/kwanzaa-festival/
* The events listed here are not Venture Richmond Events. They are a list of some holiday events happening in Downtown Richmond. To find more information about each individual event, please click on the link provided for that event.
Visit Venture Richmond’s holiday website for ongoing updates through November and December.
Venture Richmond, Inc., is a non-profit organization formed to engage business and community leaders in partnering with the City to enhance the vitality of the community, particularly Downtown, through economic development, marketing, promotion, advocacy, and events. Venture Richmond provides enhanced property management services for Downtown, Manchester and the Riverfront including the Clean & Safe program, beautification and landscaping projects and management and maintenance of Brown’s Island, the Canal Walk and the Belle Isle parking lot.
Venture Richmond Events, LLC, produces Friday Cheers, the 2nd Street Festival, the Richmond Folk Festival, and partners with Sports Backers to produce Dominion Energy Riverrock.
Riverfront Canal Cruises, LLC, operates historically narrated boat tours and private charters of the James River and Kanawha Canal.
Both Venture Richmond Events, LLC, and Riverfront Canal Cruises, LLC, are subsidiaries of Venture Richmond, Inc. For more information visit www.venturerichmond.com.
