As Virginia’s capital, Richmond is immersed in history, from the walkable downtown historic districts to the suburbs and beyond, and offers a wide variety of winter holiday events that capture the holiday spirit.
You will want to take time out of your schedule to visit some of the classy Richmond Christmas lights, as well as their famous tacky light displays, which perfectly showcase the city’s love for holiday lights.
Whether you spend the night surrounded by the marvelous Christmas décor at the Jefferson Hotel or take a stroll through Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s GardenFest of Lights, you will surely add a little magic to your winter this holiday season.
No matter if you enjoy artistic professional light displays, good old-fashioned lit homes, want to get up and go on a bike ride, or simply sit on the train, Richmond’s Christmas events will help kick off your holiday entertainment.
Start your holiday with some new or old family traditions from our list. Many of the events are free and occur each year.
Ashland Theatre Light Up the Tracks
- Address: 205 England St, Ashland, VA 23005
- Date: November 23, 2024 to January 1, 2025
- Website
Experience the charm of small-town holiday cheer at Light Up the Tracks in Ashland, Virginia. Known as “the Center of the Universe,” Ashland transforms its historic downtown into a magical wonderland along the railroad tracks. Marvel at the dazzling holiday Christmas lights and festive decor that illuminate the town, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Enjoy live music, holiday markets, and seasonal treats as the community gathers to celebrate this holiday season. Whether you’re strolling under the twinkling lights or enjoying the passing trains, Light Up the Tracks embodies the holiday spirit in a truly unique way.
Richmond Tacky Light Tours
- Address: 10101 West Broad Street, Glen Allen, Virginia 23060
- Dates: December 1st, 2024 thru December 31st, 2024
Experience the best Tacky Lights Tour in Richmond, a festive tradition that brings holiday magic to life. Known for its over-the-top, quirky charm, this event highlights the city’s most extravagantly decorated homes. Each stop on the Tacky Lights Tour features dazzling displays of thousands of twinkling holiday lights, from glowing inflatables to colorful rooftops, creating a cheerful spectacle that’s perfect for all ages. Whether you’re riding with family, friends, or your special someone, this tour offers a cozy and luxurious limousine ride that takes the stress out of driving, so you can focus on the festive fun.
Richmond’s Tacky Lights Tour isn’t just a ride—it’s an immersive holiday experience. From marveling at the creativity of local homeowners to sipping cocoa and listening to Christmas music as you cruise, it’s the perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit. You’ll get an up-close view of the city’s most iconic light displays while creating unforgettable memories. For a truly magical night this holiday season, book your spot on the best Tacky Lights Tour and see why this cherished tradition continues to shine bright year after year. Tacky light fun awaits you!
Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights
- Address: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, 1800 Lakeside Ave, Richmond, VA 23228
- Dates:
- Member Preview: November 15-17
- Open to Public: November 18-early January
- Website
The GardenFest of Lights, hosted annually at Dominion Energy, is a must-see Richmond tradition that celebrates the holiday season with 500,000 vibrant holiday lights. This year’s theme, “Stories in Lights,” brings to life classic folklore and fairy tales from various cultures, creating a magical journey that ignites the imagination and brings everyone together in the spirit of joy.
The twinkling lights against the night sky set the perfect atmosphere for this outdoor adventure, making it a highlight of the Richmond holiday experience.
At Dominion Energy GardenFest, the fun extends beyond the lights. Families can enjoy a variety of activities, from hand-crafted decorations to indoor holiday dinners, and even a bit of shopping for unique gifts.
Don’t forget to visit the Children’s Garden, where the model train chugs along, delighting little ones. Before heading home, take time to warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and nibble on a s’more by the fire pits.
Be sure to put on comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather as you stroll through the stunning light displays, creating lasting memories of the holiday season.
Ghosts of Christmas Past
- Address: Red Vein Escape, 108 Robinson Street, Ashland, VA 23005
- Dates: December 6-28 (Fridays and Saturdays only)
- Website
Hit the streets of Ashland, VA on the private guided “Ghosts of Christmas Past” walking tour. Learn about 19th-century traditions through local Christmas ghost stories as you walk through downtown Ashland. The Victorian dressed guide will lead you through the cold nights on a 60-minute tour, so come dressed for the weather.
Current rates are as follows:
- Adult (ages 10+) – $18
- Children (ages 9 and under) – $10
- Private Tour (up to 10 people) – $160
Basket and Bike’s Bike the Lights
- Address: 1301 E Cary St. Richmond, VA 23219
- Date: starts November 30
- Website
Take a seasonal ride with Basket and Bike on their Bike the Lights Tour of Downtown. For two and a half hours, you will peddle along the riverfront before heading into the historic Shockoe Slip area to see all the beautiful Richmond VA Christmas lights.
Those who do not wish to peddle their bike can enjoy an evening adventure on a Wheels Pedego Electric Bike. On this 2 ½ hour trip, you will head to the hills before making your way to the Shockoe Slip to enjoy a drink of choice at the Urban Farmhouse.
Each rider will get a unique holiday ornament to take home to commemorate their trip.
Illuminated Light Show
- Address: Meadow Event Park, 13191 Dawn Blvd., Doswell, VA 23047
- Dates: November 22 – December 31, 2024 nightly from 5:30pm- 10:30pm
- Website
The Illuminated Light Show in Doswell is the largest drive-through Christmas light show in Central Virginia.
This fun drive features a synchronized light display featuring more than a million lights and some of your favorite holiday songs. Enjoy the falling snowflakes, dancing snowmen, the twinkling 50-foot Christmas tree, and the 80-foot tunnel of lights as you sing along to the songs on your radio.
The drive-through will take you roughly 30 minutes.
Holidays at The Jefferson Hotel
- Address: 101 West Franklin St. Richmond, Virginia 23220
- Dates: Through January 9, 2025
- Book your stay
Secure a reservation at The Jefferson Hotel to see it decked out in its holiday finest. Stepping into the hotel, poinsettias, wreaths, garland and twinkling lights will greet every visitor. The 30-foot Christmas tree features giant ornaments, sparkling lights and bows. As you ascend the Grand Staircase, take in the signature displays.
You must have either a room reservation, an Afternoon Tea, Salon Vivace, or a Lemaire reservation to view the decorations.
Unfortunately, visitors with no reservation cannot visit with current social distancing restrictions.
Need more holiday fun? Wander over to see the best Norfolk events!
Kings Dominion’s WinterFest
- Address: 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, VA 23047
- Dates: November 29-January 4
- Website
Experience the magic of WinterFest at Kings Dominion, where the park is transformed into a winter wonderland filled with millions of sparkling holiday lights and festive decorations. From ice skating to seasonal shows, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Take a stroll through the park’s themed areas, each beautifully decorated with twinkling lights, and enjoy the charm of the holiday season with all your favorite winter activities.
WinterFest at Kings Dominion offers more than just lights—it’s a full holiday season experience. Enjoy heartwarming treats like hot cocoa and s’mores, cozy up to a festive fire pit, and marvel at the holiday displays. With themed attractions, live performances, and festive shopping, it’s the perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit and make lasting memories with friends and family. Don’t miss out on this enchanting event that lights up the night sky and fills your heart with holiday cheer.
Legendary Santa
- Address: Children’s Museum of Richmond, 2626 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
- Website
The Legendary Santa will be visiting the Children’s Museum of Richmond, where kids can slide down the chimney at Santa Land, see the Snow Queen before heading over to say hi to Santa. Take your group photo sitting on a bench in front of Santa.
While in the Lobby, view the Holiday Village and take part in the I-Spy experience while you wait for your chance to talk with Santa. Before you leave, drop your letter to Santa off in the mailbox.
Need to get out this winter? Check out our favorite Shenandoah Waterfalls!
Light up the Tracks
- Address: Downtown Ashland
- Date: November 23, 2024 to January 1, 2025
Take time to stroll through Downtown Ashland where the local businesses, Randolph Macon College and homes are festive with holiday decorations, lights and music along a one-mile stretch of road.
Come and experience an old-fashion Christmas in this small town where you can also browse the little shops and the historic Main Street Train Station along the way.
Throughout the month, Santa will visit, there will be family activities and crafts, plus dance and musical performances. The kids will love exploring the Gingerbread Trail, so make sure you plan enough time for your visit.
The Richmond Ballet’s the Nutcracker
- Dates: December 7 – 23
- Website
Experience the magic of The Nutcracker with the Richmond Symphony at Dominion Energy Center, a beloved holiday tradition choreographed by Stoner Winslett. For over four decades, this stunning production has captivated audiences with its breathtaking choreography, lavish sets and costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. A perfect way to embrace the holiday season, this performance promises to enchant audiences of all ages. Tickets start at $25.
Soul Santa
- Address: Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, 122 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23220
- Date: November 30
- Website
Join Soul Santa and his elf for his 20th visit to the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia! This special holiday event includes a heartwarming Christmas story time, a fun holiday craft project, and a chance for registered children to receive a personalized letter from Santa. It’s a memorable experience that celebrates the holiday season with a unique twist, perfect for families looking to make festive memories together. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience the joy of the season with Soul Santa at this cherished Virginia institution!
Still need a tree? Check out the best Christmas Tree Farms in Virginia!
Keep it Tacky with Richmond Tacky Lights
Join in one of the traditional Richmond Christmas light events by traveling around the area, visiting some of the roughly 50 houses with at least 40,000 lights that qualify them to be on the Keep it Tacky list. Some favorites when we want to see a million twinkling lights in the tacky lights tour, are:
Book a guided tour of the Richmond Tacky Lights
The Thompson’s
- Address: 9716 Wendhurst Drive, Glen Allen, VA 23060
In 2016, the Thompson’s won ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight when their house featured more than 170,000 lights.
Woodside Lights
- Address: 13389 Slayden Circle, Ashland, VA 23005
Tune into 93.9 FM and enjoy the holiday light show that will run through December 25. Come back after Christmas through the new year and watch the non-holiday display. This house features 106,000 lights, new exhibits and a brand new song line up.
Do you have a favorite holiday song? Check out woodsidelights.org and request your favorite.
- Address: 5613 Charter Oak Drive, Chesterfield, VA 23832
- Dates: through the first weekend in January
With 50,000 white lights, this house is brightly lit from top to bottom, along with the yard and porch. There are a variety of handmade decorations that include reindeer, sleigh, snowmen and Christmas trees.
- Address: 3631 Kiefer Road, Chester, VA 23831
- Dates: Lit through January 5, 2021
For those who need to feel the LOVE this holiday season, this house shouts it from the rooftop. It is also a great place to see all the cute inflatables.
More Richmond Christmas Lights and Events You Might Like
- James Center Lights | Downtown Richmond
- James River Parade of Lights | Various viewing points throughout the region
- Court End Christmas | Richmond’s Court End Neighborhood
- Capital City Kwanzaa Festival | Richmond downtown
- RVA Illuminates | Richmond’s Kanawha Plaza
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