Press release:
Virginia State Parks invites visitors of all ages to experience the magic of the holidays with various festive events across the state. From historic educational programs to enchanting light displays, many parks offer unique ways to create memories and celebrate the holidays amidst Virginia’s breathtaking natural landscapes.
Here’s a glimpse of what guests can look forward to this holiday season:
Holiday lights
- Southwest Virginia Museum: Festival of Trees, Nov. 10-Dec. 31
- Natural Bridge: Festival of Trees, Nov. 22-Dec. 31, and Luminary Nights, Dec. 13-15 and Dec. 20-22
- Wilderness Road: Karlan Christmas: Parade of Trees, Nov. 29-Dec. 1, Dec. 6-8, Dec. 13-15 and Dec. 20-22
- Bear Creek: Lights at the Lake, Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13-14
- Staunton River Battlefield: Lighting of the Bridge, Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13-15
- Natural Tunnel: Christmas Lighting of the Tunnel, Nov. 29-30, Dec. 6-7, Dec. 13-14 and Dec. 20-21
- Caledon: Night Before Christmas Wagon Ride: Dec. 6, Dec. 8, Dec. 13-15, Dec. 20-22
Educational programs
- Mason Neck: Ranger at the Refuge: Tundra Swans, Dec. 7, Dec. 8, Dec. 21 and Dec. 22
- Machicomoco: Christmas at Timberneck, Dec. 14
- Powhatan: Winter Birding, Dec. 14
- Southwest Virginia Museum: Birding in the Gap, Dec. 14
- Wilderness Road: A Frontier Christmas, Dec. 14
- Sweet Run: Christmas Bird Count, Dec. 15
- High Bridge: Christmas in the Camps, Dec. 21
- Sailor’s Creek Battlefield: The Science Behind the Star of Bethlehem, Nov. 30 and Dec. 21
Crafts
- Pocahontas: Winter Wreath Workshop, Nov. 30, Dec. 1 and Dec. 7, and Handmade Holidays, Dec. 1, Dec. 8, Dec. 15, Dec. 22 and Dec. 29
- Widewater: Deck the Halls, Dec. 1, Dec. 8, Dec. 15, Dec. 22 and Dec. 29
Claytor Lake: Holiday Cheer Celebration, Dec. 7- False Cape: Tree Cookies and Cocoa Ornament Workshop, Dec. 7
Guided walks/hikes
- First Landing: Season’s Greetings Nature Walk, Nov. 23
- Sky Meadows: A Winter Tree-mendous Hike, Dec. 7
- Belle Isle: A Walk on the Wild Side: Nature in Winter, Dec. 12
- Pocahontas: Winter Solstice Rambles, Dec. 21
Some events are free with standard park admission, while others may require pre-registration or additional fees. Learn more and find other upcoming events at virginiastateparks.gov/events.
Depending on the park, overnight accommodations, including cabins, family lodges or campsites may still be available. Go to reservevaparks.com for more information.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
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