Portsmouth Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Portsmouth and surrounding areas
Portsmouth kicks off the holiday season near its historic downtown and riverfront with sparkling Christmas lights and a lineup of seasonal activities. Events like Portsmouth Heights Winterfest, Holidays at Shawnee Lodge, and Small Business Saturday in Downtown Portsmouth bring Christmas markets, performances, and festive events to life. Explore local markets, attend tree lightings, and enjoy family-friendly things to do including Santa visits, riverfront strolls, and community concerts that make the festive season feel both vibrant and intimate.
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Editor's Picks (6)
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Portsmouth Heights Winterfest
Hallmark Hometown Christmas Town celebration
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Holidays at Shawnee Lodge
(West Portsmouth)
Lodge transformed into a magical winter escape by local garden clubs.
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The Huntington Nutcracker Tea Party
(Huntington)
Tea party supporting dance scholarships
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Chillicothe Tree Lighting Ceremony
(Chillicothe)
Annual tree lighting ceremony in Yoctangee Park
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Pioneer Center Craft Bazaar
(Chillicothe)
Over 60 vendors and food trucks
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Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
(Huntington)
Candlelit concert of Christmas carols
This Week / Coming Up (3)
Christmas Lights Near Portsmouth
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Portsmouth.
The Christmas Cave
Step into a magical underground world at The Christmas Cave, a beloved annual...
View full details →Winter Wonderland of Lights
Ashland's Central Park and downtown district transform into a magical Winter Wonderland of...
View full details →Gallipolis In Lights
Gallipolis In Lights transforms Gallipolis City Park into a magical holiday escape with...
View full details →Christmas Parties Near Portsmouth
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Portsmouth.
The Huntington Nutcracker Tea Party
Join the Huntington Dance Theatre for their annual Nutcracker Tea Party, a charming...
View full details →Huntington's Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl
Get ready for a night of festive fun at Huntington's Ugly Sweater Pub...
View full details →Christmas Shows Near Portsmouth
Christmas shows, theater performances, and holiday entertainment in Portsmouth.
Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season with Candlelight: Christmas Carols...
View full details →Other Christmas Activities Near Portsmouth
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Portsmouth.
Holidays at Shawnee Lodge
Shawnee Lodge invites guests to "Come Home for the Holidays" with a magical...
View full details →Chillicothe Christmas Tour of Homes
Step into a festive wonderland with the Chillicothe Christmas Tour of Homes. This...
View full details →Chillicothe Tree Lighting Ceremony
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Chillicothe Tree Lighting Ceremony....
View full details →View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Portsmouth
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Portsmouth Christmas FAQ
Portsmouth often sees major events centered around Southsea, including large Christmas markets and festive light switch-ons. Keep an eye on local listings for specific dates and details each year.
While specific unique traditions can be hard to pinpoint, Portsmouth embraces the general festive spirit with community gatherings, festive lights, and local markets that reflect its coastal charm.
Residential areas like Southsea and Eastney are known for their enthusiastic decorators, offering fantastic displays of Christmas lights that residents create.
You can often find Christmas markets and local makers in central Portsmouth locations, particularly around Southsea, featuring artisan crafts and seasonal goods.
Enjoying the neighborhood Christmas lights, attending free carol services, and exploring the festive atmosphere in areas like Southsea are great budget-friendly options.
Families often enjoy visiting the festive lights, looking for Santa meet-and-greets at local venues, and exploring the various Christmas markets for unique gifts and treats.