Norfolk Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Norfolk and surrounding areas
Norfolk welcomes the holiday season with Christmas lights sparkling along the waterfront and in the Ghent neighborhood for Christmas 2025, offering many things to do. The 38th Annual Grand Illumination Parade and Winterfest on The Wisconsin are marquee events that bring parades, seasonal performances, and family activities to downtown and Waterside Marina. Explore historic Freemason District and Town Point Park for holiday attractions, festive markets, and neighborhood light displays that make evenings glow.
Find the best Norfolk Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Lights
16 eventsVirginia's largest Christmas event with over 10 million lights.
Christmas Markets
14 eventsOver 175 artisans in a top-rated US craft show.
Christmas Shows
8 eventsHoliday magic spectacular with dazzling illusions
Christmas Activities
28 eventsAnnual Grand Illumination Parade with skyline illumination
Editor's Picks (6)
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Busch Gardens Christmas Town
(Williamsburg)
Virginia's largest Christmas event with over 10 million lights.
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38th Annual Grand Illumination Parade
Annual Grand Illumination Parade with skyline illumination
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Winterfest on The Wisconsin
Millions of lights on a historic battleship and a Snow Queen kingdom.
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Celebration in Lights
(Newport News)
Two miles of holiday scenes with over one million lights
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Virginia Beach Christmas Market
(Virginia Beach)
Over 175 artisans in a top-rated US craft show.
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Hampton Holly Days Holiday Series Events
(Hampton)
Community holiday series with parade, boat show, and light walk.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Parties Near Norfolk
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Norfolk.
Last Night on the Town New Year's Eve 2025
Ring in the New Year at Virginia Beach's premier event, Last Night on...
View full details →Norfolk Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Norfolk
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Norfolk!
Norfolk Christmas FAQ
The Grand Illumination Parade is one of Norfolk’s largest annual Christmas events, held the Saturday before Thanksgiving. WinterFest on the Wisconsin and the Dominion Energy Garden of Lights are also major seasonal attractions drawing large crowds.
Norfolk’s holiday traditions include the illuminated riverfront celebrations and the immersive Kingdom of the Snow Queen experience at WinterFest. The city also embraces nautical-themed holiday displays reflecting its coastal heritage.
Beloved neighborhood favorites for Christmas lights include residential areas near downtown and around the Norfolk Botanical Garden. These neighborhoods often feature coordinated displays and festive decorations that attract visitors.
Christmas markets and local artisan vendors can be found in downtown Norfolk, community centers, and seasonal pop-up markets throughout the city. These venues showcase handmade crafts, gifts, and holiday foods from local makers.
Free or budget-friendly activities include exploring the WinterFest Riverwalk, visiting neighborhood light displays, and attending free holiday concerts or community events. Many public spaces are decorated for the season, offering festive experiences at no cost.
Families can enjoy WinterFest’s Kingdom of the Snow Queen, interactive light trails, and holiday performances aboard the Battleship Wisconsin. Additionally, the Garden of Lights offers a magical experience suitable for children and adults alike.