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*:
Made in RVA Holiday Shop
Art Works, 320 Hull Street
Saturday, November 14-Wednesday, December 30, 11 AM-5 PM
Offering 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/made-in-rva-holiday-shop
Festive Pairings: Wines to Celebrate Thanksgiving
Echelon Wine Bar, 1209 East Cary Street
Saturday, November 14, 4-5 PM
Learn how to balance wine acidity and flavor, and which wines pair with turkey, autumn sides, and desserts, at Echelon’s Thanksgiving Festive Pairings class and wine tasting. Tickets start at $35. Find more information here: https://www.echelonwinebarrva.com/classes/thanksgiving-wine
The Jingle Bell Market
Coalescence Coffee Company, 23 W. Broad Street
Sunday, November 15, 3-5 PM
Bring the family to the 1st annual Jingle Bell Market at Coalescence Coffee Company on Broad Street. Shop for holiday gifts from local vendors while enjoying Coalescence Coffee and hot chocolate. Free event. Find more information here: https://www.instagram.com/thegood.newsva/
A Thankful Cocktail Class
Quirk Hotel, 201 W. Broad Street
Wednesday, November 18, 6-9 PM
Learn to shake, stir, and build two seasonal cocktails with a bartender at Quirk Cafe! Guests take turns using bar tools, mats, and glassware. Tickets start at $44.52. Find more information here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/thankful-cocktail-making-class-tickets-2004030011712
Love Actually in Concert
Dominion Energy Center for the Performing Arts, 600 E. Grace Street
Wednesday, November 18, 7:30 PM
See the Christmas classic Love Actually like never before. Enjoy the film accompanied by a live orchestra performing the soundtrack! Tickets start at $72.10. Find more information here: https://www.dominionenergycenter.com/events/detail/love-actually-in-concert
Whilom Goods Holiday Pottery Workshops
Whilom Goods, 1 N. 2nd Street
Wednesday, November 18-Wednesday, December 16
Embrace the holiday spirit by designing your own hand-painted pottery! 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 $70. Find more information here: https://www.whilomgoods.com/shop/p/holiday-pottery-workshop-tickets
Tredegar Tree Lighting
American Civil War Museum, 490 Tredegar Street
Thursday, November 19, 5 -7 PM
Kick off the holiday season at this free holiday event featuring the lighting of a 20-foot, traditionally decorated tree! Free event. Find more information here: https://acwm.org/event/tredegar-tree-lighting/
A Christmas Carol
The Arenstein Stage at the November Theatre, 114 W. Broad Street
Thursday, November 19-Sunday, December 27
This holiday season, witness 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 $39. Find more information here: https://va-rep.org/events/a-christmas-carol-2026/
The Visual Arts Center of Richmond’s Craft + Design Show
Main Street Station, 1500 E. Main Street
Friday, November 20-Sunday, November 22, 11 AM-5 PM
A renowned contemporary craft show attracting over 9,000 attendees and featuring over 170 artists. Since its start in 1964, the event has evolved to include live artist demonstrations, family-friendly workshops, and local food and drink, making it a vibrant weekend celebration of craft and a kickoff to the holiday shopping season. General admission tickets start at $16.80; kids 12 and under are free. Find more information here: https://craftanddesignrva.com/
Thanksgiving Buffet at Quirk
Quirk Hotel, 201 W. Broad Street
Thursday, November 26, 3-9 PM
Relax with loved ones and enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner buffet at the Quirk Hotel complete with turkey, ham, and traditional sides. Reservations are limited to two hours. Tickets start at $70/ adult, $40/children over 6. Find more information here: https://www.thelobbybar-rva.com/happenings/thanksgiving-buffet
Winter Market at Studio Two Three
Studio Two Three, 109 W. 15th Street
Friday, November 27-Wednesday, December 23, Daily, 11 AM- 5 PM
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! 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
Shop Small Saturday
Downtown RVA
Saturday, November 28
Venture downtown and support local shops and small businesses like Odd Bird, Jean + Cook, Mattie’s, Rewind Vintage, TXTUR, Shockoe Bottom Clay, Fountain Bookstore, and more for Shop Small Saturday. This nationally celebrated shopping holiday 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 of History and Culture, 122 W. Leigh Street
Saturday, November 28, Saturday, December 5, Saturday, December 12, 11 AM-3 PM
Join the BHM for their annual 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/soul-santa-november-28/
Let it Snow! Richmond Symphony Concert
Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center, 600 E. Grace Street
Saturday, November 28, 2 PM and 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! Featuring guest vocalist Shannon Schilstra and guest musical group, the James River Ringers. General Admission starts at $20. Find more information here: https://www.richmondsymphony.com/event/let-it-snow-26-2026-11-29/
Susan Greenbaum: A Thanksgiving Christmas | Legends on Grace
Dominion Energy Center for the Performing Arts, 600 E. Grace Street
Saturday, November 28, 8 PM
Take the family to a concert by the Susan Greenbaum Band over Thanksgiving weekend, featuring holiday favorites and year-round songs, including singalongs. Tickets start at $48.10. Find more information here: https://www.dominionenergycenter.com/events/detail/susan-greenbaum
A Shockoe Session Live! Christmas- Shockoe Records
The Hippodrome Theatre, 528 N. 2nd Street
Tuesday, December 1, 7:30 PM
A Shockoe Sessions Live! Christmas features a diverse lineup of local musicians and genres, including rock, jazz, and techno, all aiming to spread holiday cheer. Support Music Orchard Richmond, an organization that advocates for increased access to high-quality, inclusive music education for K-12 youth. Advanced tickets start at $39.19. Find more information here: https://www.shockoerecords.com/sslxmas
Winter Arts Exhibit
Richmond Public Library Main Branch, 101 E. Franklin Street
Friday, December 4, 4:30-8:30 PM
The Richmond Public Library Main Branch will host a Winter Arts Exhibition on First Friday in December, Featuring Richmond artists Zoe Brzezinsk, Marty McMahon, and David Bowen. Free event. Find more information here: https://rvalibrary.libcal.com/event/16847105
RVA First Friday
Downtown Richmond Arts District
Friday, December 4, 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://www.instagram.com/rvafirstfridays/
RVA Krampusnacht 14th Annual Yuletide Monsters Group Art Show
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall Street
Friday, December 4, 5-11 PM
As a part of December’s First Friday, the Krampus kick-off event will feature vendors, performances, and music, along with submitted visual art related to themes such as Krampus, Winter Folklore, and Creepy Christmas. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots. Free event – donations encouraged. Find more information here: https://www.facebook.com/events/28723167034019031
RVA Illuminates
Kanawha Plaza, 701 E. Canal Street
Friday, December 4, event starts at 5 PM, countdown to light the skyline is at 5:58 PM
Countdown with Richmond Mayor Danny Avula, RVA Department of Parks and Recreation, 8 News, and K95 for the annual tree lighting and illumination of the Downtown Richmond skyline, when all the lights come ON and bring a warm holiday glow to our city! Enjoy live performances, food trucks, and a little extra sparkle from the holiday lights Downtown. Free event. Find more information here: https://venturerichmond.com/event/rva-illuminates/1173/
Dominion Energy Christmas Parade
Starting at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond, heading west on Broad Street, ending at Allen Ave.
Saturday, December 5, 10:15 AM
This year’s 43rd annual parade features a new route, starting downtown at the Children’s Hospital on Broad Street and heads westward. The annual parade features colorful floats, helium balloons, marching bands, and special guests, including Santa! Can’t make it in person? Tune in to the live broadcast on WTVR CBS6. Free event. Find more information here: https://www.richmondparade.org/
Holiday Wine Market & Tasting
Echelon Wine Bar, 1209 E. Cary Street
Saturday, December 5, 11 AM-2 PM, Reservations every 15 Minutes
Celebrate the season at Echelon Wine Bar with a tasting of fifteen wines, curated by the bar’s wine director. Find the perfect wines for your holiday parties, whether for your table or host gifts. Tickets start at $20.
Find more information here: https://www.echelonwinebarrva.com/events/holiday-wine-market
Holidaze Market
Gallery5 Arts, 200 W. Marshall Street
Saturday, December 5, 11 AM- 4 PM
Shop handcrafted gifts from local artists and makers “who specialize in the spookier side of Yuletide” at the Holidaze Market, presented by RVA Krampusnacht and Gallery5 Arts. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots. Pay as you go. Find more information here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1124501976642630
Richmond Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Dominion Energy Center for Performing Arts, 600 E. Grace Street
Saturday, December 5 – Wednesday, December 23
Richmond Ballet’s beloved production of The Nutcracker returns to delight audiences of all ages with stunning choreography, lavish sets and costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score played live by the Richmond Symphony. Join Clara on her magical journey to the Kingdom of Sweets in this cherished
annual tradition. Tickets start at $33.60. Find more information here: https://richmondballet.com/event/the-nutcracker-2/2026-12-05/
Holiday Villages hosted by Richmond Night Market
Main Street Station, 1500 E. Main Street
Sunday, December 6, 12-5 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. Before or after shopping, be sure to support Shockoe Bottom restaurants! Pay as you go. Find more information here: https://www.richmondnightmarketva.com/#holiday-villages
Gingerbread Village
Richmond Public Library Main Branch, 101 E. Franklin Street
Tuesday, December 8, 3-5 PM
Make a gingerbread house at the Richmond Public Library! Build and decorate gingerbread houses with recycled materials. Choose to take your creation home or add it to the library’s gingerbread village! Free event. Find more information here: https://rvalibrary.libcal.com/event/16847105
Candlelight: Christmas Classics
Bolling Haxall House, 211 East Franklin Street
Friday, December 11 and Friday, December 18, 6:30 PM and 8:45 PM
Performed by string quartet Listeso, Candlelight Concerts Christmas Classics features holiday songs from across the centuries at the beautiful Bolling Haxall House. General Admission starts at $30. Find more information here: https://feverup.com/m/618615
Matilda: The Musical
Dominion Energy Center for the Performing Arts, 600 E. Grace Street
Friday, December 11-Sunday, December 20
Matilda The Musical, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, follows an extraordinary young girl who uses her intelligence, courage, and imagination to change her own destiny. Performed by Cadence Theatre. Tickets start at $64.10. Find more information here: https://www.cadencetheatre.org/matilda
Petty Markets Christmas Time Market at Benchtop Brewing
Benchtop Brewing, 434 Hull Street
Saturday, December 12, 1-5 PM
A cozy Christmas market to shop local vendors, enjoy local food and drink, and listen to live music while you cross the last items off your holiday gift list. Pay as you go.
Find more information here: https://benchtopbrewing.com/events/
Winter Wander 2026
The Valentine, 1015 E. Clay Street
Sunday, December 13, 12-4 PM
Bring the whole family to The Valentine’s winter celebration! Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, refreshments, family crafts, live performances, 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-2026/
Winter Black Market at Fallout
Fallout RVA, 117 N. 18th Street
Sunday, December 13 and Sunday, December 20, 5-9 PM
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 you almost certainly won’t find anywhere else. Ages 18+, no membership required. Pay as you go. Find more information here: https://www.facebook.com/share/19teSLc7u5/ and https://www.facebook.com/share/19HJZiRQ8D/
Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
Bolling Haxall House, 211 E. Franklin Street
Thursday, December 17 and Friday, December 18, 6:30 and 8:45 PM
Performed by string quartet Listeso, the famous Candlelight concerts return for a Christmas performance at the historic Bolling Haxall House. Tickets start at $31. Find more information here: https://feverup.com/m/255459
Santa Visiting Tredegar!
American Civil War Museum, 480 Tredegar Street
Saturday, December 19, 10:00 AM-1:30 PM
Celebrate the season with cheerful festivities and a visit from Santa! Start by meeting Santa, then head inside for holiday activities for the kids and mimosas for the parents. Fun for the whole family awaits! Tickets are $5/person. Find more information here: https://acwm.org/event/santa-at-tredegar/
Richmond Moon Market
Triple Crossing Beer- Fulton, 5203 Hatcher Street
Saturday, December 20 and Sunday, December 21, 12-5 PM
Shop this “enchanted” Richmond market with a wintry twist! Browse through vendors’ collections of wellness products, candles, crystals, and more. Enjoy live music and treats from food vendors and find the perfect holiday gift for your loved ones! Pay as you go. Find more information here: https://www.rvamoonmarket.com/
Christmas Morning Brunch
Quirk Hotel, 201 W. Broad Street
Friday, December 25, 10:30 AM-1:30 PM
Enjoy a Christmas morning buffet with brunch favorites, carved meats, charcuterie, and holiday sides, surrounded by Quirk’s beautiful holiday decor. Tickets start at $65/ adult, $40/children over 6. Find more information here: https://www.quirkhotels.com/happenings/holidays
Capital City Kwanzaa Festival
Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 N. 3rd Street
Sunday, 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 Lighting of the Mishumaa Saba, live performances, workshops, food from around the African Diaspora, activities for children, and a Ujamaa market. Ticket information to follow. Find more information here: https://efsinc.org/
Liberty or Death Holiday Reenactment
St. John’s Historic Church, 2401 E. Broad Street
December 27, 1:30-2:30 PM
Go back in time to witness the Second Virginia Convention of March 1775, including Patrick Henry’s ‘Give me liberty or give me death!’ speech. Professional actors set the scene with historical reenactments. Tickets start at $15. Find more information here: https://www.historicstjohnschurch.org/events/dec-27-reenactment
*PLEASE NOTE: Venture Richmond has compiled this chronological list of downtown holiday activities, but they are not produced by Venture Richmond. For more information about individual events, please contact the event producer directly at the link provided.
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 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. Venture Richmond oversees the management and maintenance of Brown’s Island, the Canal Walk, Tredegar Green, 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 annually from April through November.
Both Venture Richmond Events, LLC, and Riverfront Canal Cruises, LLC, are subsidiaries of Venture Richmond, Inc. For more information visit VentureRichmond.com.
