Last updated: November 11, 2024
Plan your perfect holiday season in Suffolk with our comprehensive guide. For those born and raised in Suffolk and those just discovering it, our guide is your festive companion.
One highlight of the holiday season is the Bull Run Festival of Lights, showcasing a dazzling display of festive lights that transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland. Unique to the season, the Elf Door Discovery engages families by leading them on a whimsical scavenger hunt through the city. And the Snowglobe Spectacular is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering interactive experiences that capture the magic of the season. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Suffolk Holiday Light Displays
Winter Wonderland – The Coleman Nursery Collection
- What to Expect
- Animated holiday scenes with over 50 years of tradition.
- Description
- Winter Wonderland – The Coleman Nursery Collection offers a nostalgic holiday-themed visual treat featuring animated scenes of Christmas trees, lights, ice skaters, children sledding, and more. The display includes a Victorian chalet and caroling villagers, providing a festive atmosphere for all ages.
- Where
- Portsmouth | More Info : Winter Wonderland – The Coleman Nursery Collection
Holiday Lights at the Beach
- What to Expect
- Spectacular 40-foot dancing-light Christmas tree and largest curved LED Light Tunnel in the U.S.
- Description
- The BayPort Credit Union Holiday Lights at the Beach features over 25 new light displays, a 600 ft. LED tunnel, and festive characters like jumping fish, musical crabs, and lively elves. Enjoy a Surfing Santa, color-changing archways, and a 40-foot dancing-light Christmas tree against the moonlit Atlantic Ocean backdrop.
- Where
- Virginia Beach | More Info : Holiday Lights at the Beach
Holiday Wonder Walk
- What to Expect
- Dazzling lighted displays and themed props along a scenic water trail.
- Description
- The Holiday Wonder Walk at Coliseum Central in Hampton, VA, features a one-mile illuminated path along the Water Walk Trail with lighted displays, themed props, and seasonal decorations. Each night includes food and drink vendors, holiday crafters, and special surprises.
- Where
- Hampton | More Info : Holiday Wonder Walk
Deck the Hall
- What to Expect
- Interactive drive-through light display with baby goats in holiday sweaters.
- Description
- Drive through a spectacular holiday light display featuring over 50,000 lights at Chesapeake City Hall, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for the season.
- Where
- Chesapeake | More Info : Deck the Hall
Suffolk Festival of Lights
- What to Expect
- Illuminated paths and local performances create a lively atmosphere during the holiday season.
- Description
- This festive event transforms downtown Suffolk into a stunning display of light and colour. Families can stroll through beautifully illuminated paths while enjoying seasonal decorations. Various activities, food vendors, and local entertainment contribute to a vibrant atmosphere that highlights community spirit throughout the holiday season.
- Where
- Suffolk | More Info : Suffolk Festival of Lights
Suffolk Holiday Markets and Shopping
Bridgeport Holiday Market
- What to Expect
- Showcases local artisans and live entertainment in a community-focused setting.
- Description
- A vibrant gathering featuring local artisans, unique crafts, and seasonal delicacies. Attendees can explore a diverse array of handmade goods, from gourmet food items to decorative crafts, ensuring a delightful shopping experience. Live entertainment throughout the event adds to the lively atmosphere, perfect for all ages.
- Where
- Suffolk | More Info : Bridgeport Holiday Market
Suffolk Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Snowglobe Spectacular
- What to Expect
- Live performances inside life-size snow globes.
- Description
- Snowglobe Spectacular at Town Center features life-size snow globes with artistic scenes, live performances by ballerinas, elves, and musicians, and a visit with Santa in a Covid-safe environment. The event includes a Holiday Fountain Plaza Tree with a mesmerizing dancing light display and giant sparkling holiday ornaments.
- Where
- Virginia Beach | More Info : Snowglobe Spectacular
Suffolk Other Holiday Activities
Elf Door Discovery
- What to Expect
- Seasonal scavenger hunt for tiny, colorful elf doors.
- Description
- In Downtown Norfolk, 50 tiny, colorful elf doors have been installed around theaters, restaurants, and parks. This seasonal scavenger hunt takes you on a fun journey to find these hidden entrances, which are not lit, so it's best to explore during the day. Discover Downtown Norfolk's holiday activities while searching for the elf doors.
- Where
- Norfolk | More Info : Elf Door Discovery
Snow Wonders
- What to Expect
- Snowfall and music in a festive setting.
- Description
- Snow Wonders is a free seasonal event featuring snowfall and music at the Middle Street Mall outside the Children's Museum of Virginia. It brings nostalgic memories of the past with its holiday atmosphere.
- Where
- Portsmouth | More Info : Snow Wonders