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Last updated: November 11, 2024

Excitement is building for the holidays in Charlottesville! Use our guide to discover all the festive fun. For Charlottesville natives and tourists alike, this guide is your key to the city's holiday magic.

Popular Events: Experience the city's enchantment at the Grand Illumination at the Downtown Mall, where twinkling lights and a vibrant atmosphere kick off the holiday season. Celebrating the spirit of history, the Holiday Tours at Monticello offer a unique glimpse into the holiday traditions of one of America’s founding fathers. And the Boar's Head Winter Wander Trail of Lights is something you definitely don't want to miss, as it transforms the landscape into a mesmerizing display of illuminated art. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!

Contact information and details below.

Charlottesville Holiday Light Displays

What to Expect:

Community tree lighting with 20,000 lights and various holiday activities.

Description:

The Grand Illumination at the Downtown Mall features a spectacular community tree lighting event with music, food, games, and special guests. The event includes a 20,000-light tree donated by a family in Fishersville, Virginia, and offers activities like bounce houses, face painting, and holiday market vendors.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Grand Illumination at the Downtown Mall

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What to Expect:

Illuminated lakeside stroll with multiple Instagram-worthy moments.

Description:

The Boar's Head Winter Wander Trail of Lights features a half-mile illuminated path around Heritage Lake, showcasing an extraordinary palette of colorful illuminations that blanket the natural surroundings. The trail includes multiple Instagram-worthy moments and various attractions such as the Welcome Tree, Dogwood Alley, and Serenity Way.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Boar's Head Winter Wander Trail of Lights

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What to Expect:

Holiday light display amidst vineyards and woodland.

Description:

Stroll through the illuminated woods and vineyards at Veritas Vineyard & Winery, featuring thousands of shimmering lights and elegantly lit vines. Enjoy a festive tasting area, warm fire pits, and a cozy fireplace in the tasting room. Chef Andy Shipman's farm-to-table winter menu is available, along with gourmet s’mores and hot chocolate.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Veritas Illuminated at Veritas Vineyard & Winery

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Charlottesville Holiday Markets and Shopping

What to Expect:

Local artisans selling handmade and seasonal items.

Description:

The Charlottesville Holiday Market at City Market offers a variety of handmade items, fresh produce, and local crafts. It is a great place to find unique gifts and seasonal items, showcasing the best of Charlottesville's artisans.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Holiday Market at City Market

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What to Expect:

Unique holiday shopping experience with local artisans.

Description:

At Trump Winery's Holiday Market, explore a delightful array of handmade treasures from local vendors, including jewelry, skincare products, artisanal candles, and beautifully embroidered items.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Trump Winery Holiday Market

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What to Expect:

Showcase of handmade crafts by local artisans.

Description:

Hazy Mountain Vendor Fair features a selection of homemade crafts from local artisans, offering a unique shopping experience with no entry fee.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Hazy Mountain Vendor Fair

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What to Expect:

Community tree lighting with music and special guests.

Description:

Downtown Charlottesville transforms into a vibrant holiday hub with music, food, games, and special guests. The event features a community tree lighting, holiday market vendors, and activities for all ages.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Magic on the Mall

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What to Expect:

Unique local art pieces for holiday shopping.

Description:

McGuffey Art Center's Holiday Show & Shop features a diverse array of local artists showcasing their unique works, including paintings, sculptures, and crafts. The event offers a chance to explore the creative talents of the community while discovering one-of-a-kind gifts.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Holiday Show & Shop at McGuffey Art Center

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Charlottesville Holiday Shows and Entertainment

What to Expect:

World-class ballet performance with live orchestra and elaborate sets.

Description:

The Nutcracker by Charlottesville Ballet features a 90-minute production blending tradition and innovation, following young Clara on her adventure through Lands of Snowflakes and Sweets. The performance includes a live orchestra conducted by Benjamin Rous of the Charlottesville Symphony and iconic characters like the Sugar Plum Fairy. Special events include Class Clara for children ages 3-8, held on stage after select performances.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Charlottesville Ballet’s The Nutcracker

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Charlottesville Other Holiday Activities

What to Expect:

Intimate look at holiday celebrations in historic rooms.

Description:

Explore Monticello after dark, decorated with holiday greenery from Jefferson's era. Journey through public and private rooms, including the iconic Dome Room, to see how all people on the mountaintop celebrated the holidays.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Holiday Tours at Monticello

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What to Expect:

Hands-on cookie decorating with professional guidance.

Description:

Join Three Notch'd Craft Kitchen & Brewery for a family-friendly Cookie Decoration Workshop. Learn tips and tricks from a professional baker as you create beautiful holiday-themed cookies. All supplies are provided.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Cookie Decoration Workshop at Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery

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What to Expect:

Cultural celebration of African American heritage through music and education.

Description:

The Kwanzaa Celebration at Jefferson School African American Heritage Center is a vibrant event honoring African American culture and heritage. It features traditional music, dance, and educational activities that highlight the principles of Kwanzaa.

Where: Charlottesville | More Info: Kwanzaa Celebration at Jefferson School African American Heritage Center

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Charlottesville Gift Guide

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Charlottesville Holiday News

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