Light Up the Night
The celebration features an annual holiday road parade traveling through the city to Ashford Civic Plaza. Following the parade, city officials and a guest from the North Pole lead the grand illumination ceremony. Visitors can also enjoy a downtown winter festival offering mini train rides, a petting zoo, craft activities, and visits with Santa.
What to Expect
Hopewell's holiday celebration featuring a parade, illumination ceremony, and winter festival.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Hopewell
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Hopewell, Virginia
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and community-centered
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Visit with Santa: FREE. No general event admission price is stated.
- Hours: Road closures begin around 2:30-3 pm; parade starts at 4:00 p.m.; grand illumination ceremony starts immediately following the conclusion of the parade; downtown winter festival is 6-8 PM.
- Parking: Any public sidewalk or parking area may be used as a parade viewing location. Roads will begin closing around 2:30–3 pm.
- Accessibility: An elevator is available to reach the mezzanine level of the Hopewell Public Library for visits with Santa.
Tips & Advice
- Get to the route before roads start closing in the mid-afternoon, because drivers near the parade route should expect significant delays.
- Stay on the sidewalk the whole time, since crossing the street is not allowed once the parade begins.
- Bring your phone or camera to the free Santa visit at the library, because you take your own pictures and the wait can be long.
- Pack a face covering for indoor activities like the library craft, since organizers recommend them for anything held inside.
- Dress warmly, since the parade, illumination and downtown festival keep you outdoors into the December evening.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch the parade?
From any public sidewalk or parking area along the route. The parade runs from Cavalier Square Shopping Center along 15th Street, City Point Road and Main Street to Ashford Civic Plaza.
What happens at the grand illumination?
Right after the parade, City officials give brief remarks at Ashford Civic Plaza. Then a special guest from the North Pole helps light things up.
What is there to do at the winter festival?
There are mini train rides on Library Street and a craft activity in the library. You'll also find a petting zoo in the Cawson Street Lot and vendors on East Broadway.
Where do kids visit Santa?
Santa is on the mezzanine of the Hopewell Public Library. The visit is free and you take your own pictures. Expect a long wait.
How do I enter a unit in the parade?
The 2026 guidelines and application are coming soon. You'll need a point of contact and a detailed description of your entry. If you use a vehicle, you'll also need driver information, including a driver's license number. A three-sentence narrative is required too.
More Christmas Events Near Hopewell
More Christmas Events near Hopewell
Always check the official website for the most current information.
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