Olde Towne Holiday Lights
holiday_light_displays

Artistic rendering โ€“ Event may differ

Olde Towne Holiday Lights

Progressive holiday lights celebration with Santa's fire truck arrival.

About

Experience the magic of Olde Towne Holiday Lights, a progressive celebration that illuminates the city. Festivities kick off with music, face painting, and holiday characters. Witness the official tree lighting ceremony, complete with falling snow and a dazzling pyrotechnic display. Follow bagpipers to discover more festive stops, including Santa's grand arrival by fire truck. Enjoy free hot cocoa and cider, and explore open shops.

Our Take

Family Friendly

๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive and magical

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

High

Special Events & Promotions

  • First 100 commemorative photos are free (one per family).
  • Free hot cocoa and hot cider sponsored by Cure Coffeehouse.
  • Music and light refreshments in some open shops.

Tags

holiday light displaystree lightingSanta visitsfamily friendlyfestive foodcommunity celebrationholiday traditionfree eventanimated displaysfireworks

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Location

206 High Street
Portsmouth, VA
23704

Event Details

Pricing

FREE

Duration

4 hours

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Olde Towne

Timed Entry

No

Featured Performers

  • Children's Chorus
  • Carolers of Christmas Past
  • Snow Queen
  • Sugar Plum Fairy
  • Bagpipers
  • Don Comer

Organizer

Olde Towne Business Association

Practical Information

Pet Policy

Service animals welcome

Food & Drink

Free hot cocoa and hot cider, food truck, and refreshments in some shops.

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot for the tree lighting and Santa's arrival, as crowds are expected.
  • Follow the bagpipers to discover each new stop in the progressive lighting event.
  • Bring your camera for complimentary photos with holiday characters and at the tree, sponsored by the Olde Towne Farmers Market.
  • Check out the Nativity Scene at Monumental Methodist Church between 5 PM and 7:30 PM for a traditional display.
  • Many Olde Towne shops will be open, offering a chance for holiday shopping and potentially finding music and light refreshments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the event officially kick off?

The official kickoff begins at 6 PM with a welcome from the Mayor, followed by greetings from Father Christmas and a performance by the Carolers of Christmas Past.

Are there activities for children?

Yes, there is face painting, make-and-take activities, and holiday-themed characters walking around.

Where can I get photos taken?

You can get printed family photos at the tree or with holiday characters, sponsored by the Olde Towne Farmers Market and Mobile Photo Lab. Digital copies are also available.

Is there food and drink available?

Yes, Cure Coffeehouse is sponsoring free hot cocoa and hot cider, and there will be a food truck at Post Secondary.

Is there a cost to attend?

Admission to the Olde Towne Holiday Lights event is free.

Nearby Places (10 total)

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 23, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The ChristmasLocal.com editorial team

Follow us for updates and more events!