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.
Recent Stories
[Matheus Bertelli via Pexels]At its Dec. 10 meeting, the Manassas City Public Schools (MCPS) Board approved the school year calendars for the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years, opting for earlier…
The Stafford County School Board is evaluating five scenarios for redistricting its high schools, aiming to address overcrowding, transportation inefficiencies, and community concerns.
After serving in the Navy for 10 years and working in corporate America building data centers, Dan Umpa has launched USA Ninja Challenge Stafford, an indoor obstacle course training program that combines basic skill sets from gymnastics, climbing, cross training, and track and field.
At its December 10, 2024, meeting, the Manassas City School Board approved the FY 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which outlines significant facility and resource investments to improve the district’s educational environment.
Travel to French soil and celebrate with us for an unforgettable evening of delicious food, wine and music.
What better way to celebrate the end of the 2024 wine harvest in style than at the Embassy of France at DC’s only official celebration?
This is the Wine Event Of The Year!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by current events, family responsibilities, or the demands of work? If stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion are weighing you down, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face it alone. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable, and we’re here to help.
We offer in person and virtual appointments. Our in person office is located in Kingstowne Virginia.
Our team offers compassionate support and practical tools tailored to help you navigate life’s complexities with greater ease and confidence. Whether you’re struggling with personal issues, managing family stress, or dealing with professional pressures, we are committed to helping you find peace and clarity.
