Grand Illumination and the Arrival of Santa
Visitors welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus to Town Center and gather for the annual holiday tree lighting ceremony. Santa's elves hand out holiday treats and hot chocolate from local restaurants while supplies last.
Sat, Nov 28, 2026 All ages Free; open to the public.
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Plan Your Visit
Hours
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM.
Neighborhood
Town Center
Food & Drink
Santa's elves hand out free hot chocolate and holiday treats, including goodies from Town Center restaurants, while supplies last.
Parking
Parking is free in Town Center.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Follow the organizer’s Facebook or Instagram before heading out, as outdoor events can be postponed, rescheduled or canceled for hazardous weather.
- Arrive prepared to gather outdoors for the tree lighting and Santa’s arrival.
- Get hot chocolate and treats from the elves while supplies last.
- Keep the separate Snow Globe Spectacular in mind if you want to see its displays or visit Santa there afterward.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free admission for the public.
- Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive for the event.
Links & Contact
Run by Central Business District Association (CBDA)
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at the Grand Illumination?
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive, and visitors gather for the annual lighting of the Town Center holiday tree.
Are there treats and drinks?
Santa’s elves hand out hot chocolate and goodies from Town Center restaurants while supplies last.
Is the event open to the public?
Yes, it is free and open to the public.
Is parking available nearby?
Parking in Town Center is free.
What if outdoor conditions affect the event?
Outdoor events may be postponed, rescheduled or canceled due to hazardous weather. Check the organizer’s Facebook or Instagram for updates.
Browse Christmas in Virginia Beach
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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.