It’s easy to get caught up in comparison when it comes to the holidays – the gifts, the decorations, the activities…it can be overwhelming. I’m here to tell you that what works for one family may not work for yours, and that is okay. When my kids were toddlers, I simply did not have the energy nor desire to take them on long or expensive outings around the holidays.
My kids (and I!) thrive on routine, so skipping naps multiple days in a row wouldn’t work for us. Not to mention, I did not want to spend lots of money on an activity that could go awry at any minute. As we know, when you’ve got toddlers in tow, making an immediate exit can happen at any time! So, instead of trying to do all the expensive or lengthy outings, I opted for these simple and fun ways to enjoy the season with my littles, while keeping my sanity in tact!
Hot Chocolate at Quirk
While I enjoy a tearoom as much as the next Bridgerton-enthusiast, I just could not rationalize bringing my rambunctious, albeit adorable toddlers to a fancy tearoom. So, instead we opted for hot chocolate in the lobby of Quirk Hotel.
The pink Christmas tree is always a highlight, as is the delicious hot chocolate. Spending about $25 for our entire family to enjoy a fun morning out is much more affordable than a holiday tea experience. Plus, no reservations are required, and you can be on your own schedule, staying as long or short as you like.
Free Santa Visits
Don’t get me wrong, I love the magic of Christmas. I just don’t like spending a fortune for it, which is why we love the free Santa experiences at Tom Leonard’s Farmer’s Market, Cabela’s/Bass Pro Shops and Westchester Commons (select days, visit their websites for the schedule).
When your kids are very young, they may not even want to visit with Santa, so there’s no reason to spend lots of money or fight for a reservation. Save yourself the stress and money by going to Tom Leonard’s, Westchester Commons, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, or another free Santa visit event. Walk-ins are welcome at Cabela’s/Bass Pro Shops, but make a reservation to be sure you don’t have a long wait with your littles.
Be sure to check out the RFM Calendar for more Santa sighting opportunities!
Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights
This is a paid activity, but hear me out. With toddlers, I’d much rather have them walking or in a stroller than in the car. I love being able to see the joy on their faces while they experience the lights. Plus, walking through the lights tires them out more than sitting in the car, so you may get a later wake up in the morning! And bonus! – tickets for children under 4 are free for Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights.
Model Trains at Great Big Greenhouse
While there are several holiday train rides (and we’ve done one with bigger kids!), I do not recommend these for toddlers. Instead, take your child to Great Big Greenhouse where there is a large train display by River City 3 Railers. My son loves to see the trains and is completely mesmerized by the detail. If you plan your visit on a weekend, you just may see Santa, too!
DIY Tacky Light Tour
For some easy holiday fun, string some battery-powered Christmas lights inside the car, pass out candy canes and hot cocoa in travel cups, turn on the holiday music, and make your own tacky light route. We recommend going during the week, so you can drive by without a ton of foot and vehicular traffic in the way of your great view from the cozy car. Some of our favorite houses are:
- 9716 Wendhurst Drive in Glen Allen, winner of ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight and featuring over 2,300 handmade items. The Thompsons have announced that it’s their last year, so be sure to catch it!
- 9604 Asbury Court near Regency. The Phifers are another The Great Christmas Light Fight winner and longtime Tacky Light Tour participants.
- 7396 Kelshire Terrace in Mechanicsville, home of the Satterwhite Family’s Hadley’s Wonderland. RFM featured the Phifers and the Satterwhites in this past feature story.
- The Walton Park neighborhood in Midlothian, home of the Carmax Tacky Light Run.
- The James Center — a drive by this downtown winter wonderland is a feast for the eyes, featuring lots of lighted reindeer and twinkling lights. And as a bonus, you’ll see the tall city buildings all trimmed in holiday lights.
Hopefully, with these ideas in mind, you can plan some fun activities for your young family. And, remember, do what works for you and your family! You’ve got this!
