From the Monday before Thanksgiving until New Year's Day, the Shenandoah Valley does Christmas in a way that's hard to find anywhere else in Virginia: night parades down 18th-century main streets, lantern-lit farmhouses, a free light show across 214 acres of Staunton parkland, carols sung underground in Luray Caverns, and choose-and-cut tree farms tucked into the hills. The trouble is that it's spread across dozens of towns, each announcing its own events on its own website. This guide brings it together. Every date and price below comes from the organizer's own page, linked on each card. If a 2026 date hasn't been announced yet, the card says so and shows last year's date, so you know roughly when to expect it.
At a glance
- Free, nightly lights: Gypsy Hill Park in Staunton, Nov 23, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027, 5–11 p.m.
- Night parades: Winchester and Staunton both on Mon., Nov 30 at 7 p.m.; Lexington Fri., Dec 4 at 6 p.m.; Harrisonburg Sat., Dec 5 at 7 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec 5 is the Valley's busiest holiday day: parades or tree lightings in Harrisonburg, Strasburg, Berryville, New Market and Bridgewater, plus Staunton's Holiday House Tour
- Caroling in the Caverns at Luray Caverns: Sat., Dec 12, 6–8 p.m., $30 (12 and under free)
- Santa Express train from Staunton: Nov 28 – Dec 23, from $50 per person
- Choose-and-cut trees: most farms open Black Friday weekend (Nov 27–29) and sell out before Christmas
The 2026 Christmas calendar at a glance
These are the holiday events with confirmed 2026 dates, in date order. Multi-week events (light displays, theater runs, candlelight series) are listed on their opening day. Times are local. Details for each event are in the sections below.
| Date | Event | Town | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fri, Nov 20 – Sun, Dec 20 | The Best Christmas Pageant Ever — Theatre Shenandoah | Edinburg | $18–$25 |
| Sat, Nov 21 – Sun, Jan 3 | Light Up the Park! (select nights) | Massanutten | From $12 child / $17 adult |
| Mon, Nov 23 – Fri, Jan 1 | Celebration of Holiday Lights, Gypsy Hill Park | Staunton | Free |
| Thu, Nov 26 | Generations Park ice rink opens for the season | Bridgewater | $7 + $4 skates (non-residents) |
| Fri, Nov 27 | Candlelight Processional & Tree Lighting, 5:30 p.m. | Lexington | Free |
| Fri, Nov 27 – Sat, Jan 2 | Walking in a Winter Wonderland, Clearbrook Park | Clear Brook (Winchester) | $8 online / $15 gate |
| Fri, Nov 27 – late Dec | Christmas in the Valley drive-through lights | Woodstock | $20–$25 per car |
| Sat, Nov 28 | Merry on Main, parade 4 p.m., tree lighting 5 p.m. | Mount Jackson | Free to watch |
| Sat, Nov 28 | Winterfest & Old-Fashioned Tree Lighting, 5:30 p.m. | Waynesboro | Tree lighting free |
| Sat, Nov 28 – Wed, Dec 23 | The Santa Express (Virginia Scenic Railway) | Staunton | $50–$75 |
| Mon, Nov 30 | Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting, 7 p.m. | Winchester | Free to watch |
| Mon, Nov 30 | Downtown Staunton Christmas Parade, 7 p.m. | Staunton | Free to watch |
| Tue, Dec 1 | W&L Holiday Pops, 7 p.m. | Lexington | Free ticket + food donation |
| Wed, Dec 2 | Hometown Holiday & Tree Lighting, 6:30 p.m. | Broadway | Free |
| Thu, Dec 3 | Edinburg Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting, 6 p.m. | Edinburg | — |
| Thu, Dec 3 | Tree Lighting & Caroling, then Christmas Parade, 6:30 p.m. | Buena Vista | — |
| Thu, Dec 3 | W&L Lessons & Carols, 8 p.m. | Lexington | No ticket needed |
| Thu, Dec 3 – Sun, Dec 20 | Holidays by Lantern Light (Thu–Sun) | Staunton | Ticketed |
| Fri, Dec 4 | Light Up Woodstock — parade 6:30 p.m. | Woodstock | — |
| Fri, Dec 4 | Downtown Lexington Christmas Parade, 6 p.m. | Lexington | Free to watch |
| Fri, Dec 4 – Sun, Dec 27 | A Christmas Carol — Blackfriars Playhouse | Staunton | Ticketed |
| Fri, Dec 4 – Wed, Dec 30 | Holiday tours & Christmas by Candlelight, Belle Grove | Middletown | Ticketed |
| Fri, Dec 4 – Sun, Dec 13 | A Christmas Story: The Musical — Wayne Theatre | Waynesboro | Ticketed |
| Sat, Dec 5 | Winter Wonderfest + Holiday Parade, 7 p.m. | Harrisonburg | Free |
| Sat, Dec 5 | Historic Staunton Holiday House Tour, noon–6 p.m. | Staunton | $45 |
| Sat, Dec 5 | Christmas Parade, Tree Lighting & Grinch screening, 4:30 p.m. | Strasburg | Free |
| Sat, Dec 5 | ’Tis the Season Celebration, parade 5 p.m. | New Market | — |
| Sat, Dec 5 | Clarke County Christmas Parade, 3 p.m. | Berryville | Free |
| Sat, Dec 5 | Christmas at the Museum & Bushong Farm | New Market | $6–$10 |
| Sat, Dec 5 | Bridgewater Christmas Parade (time TBA) | Bridgewater | — |
| Sat, Dec 5 | Waynesboro Symphony Holiday Pops, 3 p.m. | Waynesboro | Free |
| Sat–Sun, Dec 5–6 | Winchester Winter Village | Winchester | — |
| Sun, Dec 6 | Grottoes Christmas Parade, 5 p.m. | Grottoes | — |
| Fri, Dec 11 | Christmas at the Jacksons, 6–8 p.m. | Lexington | Canned-food donation |
| Sat, Dec 12 | Caroling in the Caverns, 6–8 p.m. | Luray | $30; 12 & under free |
| Sat, Dec 12 | Luminaries at Silver Lake, 4–6 p.m. | Dayton | Free |
| Sat, Dec 12 | Christmas Market by The Sassy Doxies, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. | Fishersville | Free |
| Sat, Dec 12 | Roanoke Symphony Holiday Brass, 7 p.m. | Lexington | $28 |
| Sat–Sun, Dec 12–13 | HolidayFest: Magic and Memories (JMU) | Harrisonburg | Ticketed |
| Fri, Dec 18 | Holiday Church Open House, 4–6 p.m. | Lexington | — |
| Sat, Dec 19 | The Nutcracker — Italia Performing Arts, 2 & 5 p.m. | Front Royal | $15–$40 |
| Sun, Dec 20 | Santa Brunch at CrossKeys Vineyards | Mount Crawford | Reservations |
| Mon, Dec 21 | Sing-a-long Caroling with Jimmy O, 6:30 p.m. | Waynesboro | Pay what you will |
Christmas light displays
The Valley has two very different kinds of light show: drive-through displays you see from your car, and walk-through trails with music and hot chocolate. Gypsy Hill Park in Staunton is the big free one. Clearbrook Park near Winchester and Massanutten are the best walking options. Most displays close on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but Gypsy Hill stays lit every night.
Drive-through lights · Free
Celebration of Holiday Lights at Gypsy Hill Park
600 Churchville Ave., Staunton
- 2026 dates
- Nov 23, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027
- Hours
- Every evening, 5–11 p.m.
- Cost
- Free
- Format
- Drive the park's loop road
- Its 21st year: displays are built by local businesses, clubs and families across the park's 214 acres
- The only big Valley display that's free and open every night, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Facts from celebrationoflights.org
Walking in a Winter Wonderland at Clearbrook Park
Walk-through lights · Frederick County Parks & Rec
Walking in a Winter Wonderland at Clearbrook Park
130 Poolside Dr., Clear Brook (north of Winchester)
- 2026 dates
- Nov 27, 2026 – Jan 2, 2027
- Closed
- Dec 24, Dec 25 and Dec 31
- Hours
- 5:30–9 p.m., timed 30-minute entry; lights off 9:30 p.m.
- Cost
- Ages 3+: $8 + fee online, $15 at the gate (card only); 0–2 free
- A half-mile paved path with hundreds of thousands of lights and a light show synchronized to music
- Vendor Village for gifts, and a warming stop for hot drinks and snacks
- Dec 18–22: ride the historic Winchester Trolley from 107 N. Kent St. (5 or 6 p.m. departures, admission included)
- Online sales close at 5 p.m. on the day — buy ahead to save $7
Facts from visitwinchesterva.com
Christmas in the Valley Drive-Through Lights
Drive-through lights · Shenandoah County Fair
Christmas in the Valley Drive-Through Lights
Shenandoah County Fairgrounds, Woodstock
- 2026 dates
- Fridays–Sundays, Nov 27 – Dec 27 (one line on the fair's page says Dec 28)
- Hours
- Fri & Sat 5–9 p.m.; Sun 5–8 p.m.; last car 15 min before close
- Cost
- $25 per car Fri & Sat; $20 Sun
- Closed
- Christmas Eve and Christmas night
- Combine it with the Christmas Village craft market on the same grounds (see Holiday markets below)
Facts from shencofair.com
Light Up the Park! at Massanutten
Walk-through lights · Massanutten Resort
Light Up the Park! at Massanutten
Outdoor WaterPark, 1200 Adventure Dr., Massanutten
- Dates
- Select nights, Nov 21 – Jan 3 (check the resort's nightly schedule)
- Standard nights
- Adults $17 advance / $22 at the door; ages 3–12 $12 / $17
- Holiday nights
- Adults $22 / $27; ages 3–12 $15 / $20; 2 and under free
- Booking
- Advance price needs purchase a day ahead; last check-in 30 min before close
- Lights and music around the waterpark, with a fire pit, s'mores, crafts and food for sale
- Santa visits on selected nights
Facts from massresort.com
Luminary walk · Virginia State Parks
Luminary Nights at Natural Bridge State Park
6477 S. Lee Hwy., Natural Bridge
- 2026 dates
- Not yet announced
- Last year
- Dec 12–14, 19–21 and 27, 2025, 5–9 p.m.
- 2025 cost
- Ages 13+ $9; 12 and under $6; carriage rides $25 (some nights, pre-registered)
- A lit walk along Cedar Creek to the 215-foot arch, washed in colored light from below
- Fires along the trail and visits with Mr. and Mrs. Claus
Facts from dcr.virginia.gov (2025 edition)
Drive-through lights · Buena Vista
Glen Maury Park Drive-Thru Holiday Lights
101 Maury Park Dr., Buena Vista
- 2026 dates
- Not yet announced
- Last year
- Dec 1, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026, nightly until 11 p.m.
Facts from lexingtonvirginia.com
Roadside lights · Rockbridge County
Rockbridge Baths Swinging Bridge Lights
Swinging bridge on Route 39, Rockbridge Baths
- 2026 dates
- Not yet announced
- Last year
- Nov 30, 2025 – Jan 6, 2026, 5–10 p.m.
- Format
- View from the road as you drive past — no lighting ceremony
Facts from lexingtonvirginia.com
Luminaries · Virginia Quilt Museum
Luminaries at Silver Lake
Silver Lake Mill, 2328 Silver Lake Rd., Dayton
- 2026 date
- Sat., Dec 12, 4–6 p.m.; luminaries lit at 5 p.m.
- Cost
- Free, including museum admission; optional $5 luminary dedication (due Dec 5)
- Luminaries around the lake at the restored mill, with homemade peppermint ice cream
Facts from vaquiltmuseum.org
Christmas parades & tree lightings, town by town
Almost every Valley town holds a Christmas parade, and many hold theirs after dark. Watching is free everywhere. Main streets close an hour or two before the start, so arrive early and park a few blocks away. Parades go ahead in light rain but can be postponed for snow or ice. Lexington's 2025 parade was cancelled for winter weather, and it has a Dec 8 backup date this year.
| Town | Event | 2026 date & time | Where to watch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winchester | Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting | Mon, Nov 30, 7 p.m. | Piccadilly, Braddock & Cork Sts.; tree lighting follows in Old Town |
| Staunton | Downtown Christmas Parade — “Winter Magic” | Mon, Nov 30, 7 p.m. | Downtown incl. Beverley St.; closures from 5 p.m. |
| Lexington | Candlelight Processional & Tree Lighting | Fri, Nov 27, 5:30 p.m. (lineup 5:15) | Oak Grove Cemetery's Main St. entrance → Hopkins Green |
| Lexington | Christmas Parade — “The Magic of Christmas” | Fri, Dec 4, 6 p.m. (backup Dec 8) | Main Street |
| Harrisonburg | Holiday Parade — “Festival of Lights” | Sat, Dec 5, 7 p.m. | Main St. from Gay St. to City Hall; tree lighting in Court Square after |
| Strasburg | Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting | Sat, Dec 5, 4:30 p.m. | King St.; tree lighting at Town Hall, outdoor Grinch screening ~6:15 p.m. |
| Woodstock | Light Up Woodstock | Fri, Dec 4: choirs 5:30, parade 6:30, tree 6:45 p.m. | Main St. (Kingree Dr. to Spring St.); courthouse steps |
| Mount Jackson | Merry on Main | Sat, Nov 28: parade 4 p.m., tree 5 p.m. | Main St.; market & Santa noon–4 p.m. |
| New Market | ’Tis the Season Celebration & Parade | Sat, Dec 5: parade 5 p.m. | Congress St. heading south; Santa at the library after |
| Edinburg | Parade, Tree Lighting & Children's Party | Thu, Dec 3, 6 p.m. | Route to be announced by the town |
| Berryville | Clarke County Christmas Parade | Sat, Dec 5, 3 p.m. | Main Street (no parking on Main) |
| Front Royal | Christmas on Main / Christmas Fest & Parade | 2026 date not yet published (last year: Dec 6, parade 4 p.m.) | Main & Chester Sts. gazebo |
| Middletown | Christmas Parade & Cookies with Santa | Not yet announced (last year: Sun, Dec 7, 2 p.m.) | Main Street; sensory-friendly area on Church St. last year |
| Luray | Chamber Holiday Open House & Tree Lighting | Sat, Dec 5, 4–8 p.m. (venue TBD) | — |
| Shenandoah (Page Co.) | Tree Lighting at Big Gem Park | Not yet announced (last year: Dec 13, 6 p.m.) | 736 Fourth St. |
| Bridgewater | Christmas Parade | Sat, Dec 5, time TBA | Downtown |
| Bridgewater | Tree Lighting at Generations Park | Not yet announced (usually the Sunday after Thanksgiving) | Generations Park |
| Broadway | Hometown Holiday & Tree Lighting | Wed, Dec 2, 6:30 p.m. | Heritage Park, 145 Turner Ave. |
| Grottoes | Christmas Parade — “Stars, Stripes & Christmas Lights” | Sun, Dec 6, 5 p.m. | Route to be announced |
| Elkton | Old Town Christmas & Tree Lighting | Not yet announced (last year: Dec 6, 5–8 p.m.) | Town Hall, 173 W. Spotswood Ave. |
| Waynesboro | Old-Fashioned Tree Lighting | Sat, Nov 28, 5:30 p.m. | Constitution Park, 215 W. Main St. |
| Waynesboro | Christmas Parade | Date not yet posted (weather date Dec 8, 6 p.m.) | Downtown |
| Buena Vista | Tree Lighting & Caroling, then Parade | Thu, Dec 3: 6:30 p.m. tree, 7 p.m. parade | Magnolia Ave. / Magnolia Square |
Night parade · Old Town Winchester
Winchester Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting
Piccadilly, Braddock & Cork Sts., Winchester
- 2026
- Mon., Nov 30, 7 p.m.
- Cost
- Free to watch; regular parking charges apply
- A nighttime parade of bands, lighted floats and local groups, followed by the tree lighting in Old Town
- Come back Dec 5–6 for the Winchester Winter Village market on the walking mall
Facts from visitwinchesterva.com
Candlelight walk · 31st year
Lexington Candlelight Processional & Community Tree Lighting
Main St., Lexington — Oak Grove Cemetery to Hopkins Green
- 2026
- Fri., Nov 27 — lineup 5:15 p.m., processional 5:30 p.m.
- Cost
- Free; candles and songbooks handed out
- Santa and Mrs. Claus lead the walk in a horse-drawn carriage, and everyone sings carols at the tree
Facts from lexingtonvirginia.com
Tree lighting + night parade
Buena Vista Tree Lighting & Christmas Parade
Magnolia Ave., Buena Vista
- 2026
- Thu., Dec 3 — tree lighting & SVU singers 6:30 p.m., parade 7–8:30 p.m.
Facts from mainstreetbuenavista.org
Historic Christmas: candlelight tours & living history
This is where the Valley really stands out. Its museums and historic houses show how Christmas was kept in the 1700s and 1800s, with costumed interpreters, period decorations and candlelight. Most of these events run only a few evenings, so book early.
Holidays by Lantern Light
Living history after dark
Holidays by Lantern Light
Frontier Culture Museum, 1290 Richmond Rd., Staunton
- 2026 dates
- Dec 3–6, 10–13 and 17–20 (Thu–Sun)
- Hours
- 5:30–8 p.m.
- Tickets
- Advance tickets through the museum
- Walk by lantern light between the English, Irish, German and early-Virginia farmhouses, where costumed interpreters show each culture's holiday customs
- The museum also runs an adult Holiday Workshop Series (one confirmed session Sat., Dec 19, 11 a.m.) and a Holiday Traditions toddler time on Dec 5
Facts from frontiermuseum.org
Belle Grove: Holiday Tours & Christmas by Candlelight
Historic house · Holiday decorations
Belle Grove: Holiday Tours & Christmas by Candlelight
336 Belle Grove Rd., Middletown
- Decorated
- Dec 4–30, 2026
- Candlelight evenings
- Dec 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 & 26, 6–8 p.m.; Sun., Dec 13, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
- Day tours
- Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun 1–5 p.m. (check holiday closures)
- Cost
- Paid admission; members free
- Local garden clubs decorate each room around a “Favorite Christmas Memories” theme, with a 12-foot tree in the parlor
- Every candlelight evening has live music — guitar, banjo, a carol sing-along, and “Civil War Santa” on Dec 11
- Fri., Dec 4, 5–6 p.m.: a free candle-lighting honoring the people enslaved at Belle Grove
Facts from bellegrove.org
Historic Staunton Foundation Holiday House Tour
Historic homes tour · 51st year
Historic Staunton Foundation Holiday House Tour
Church St., Staunton
- 2026
- Sat., Dec 5, noon–6 p.m.
- Cost
- $45 online
- Stops
- 16, 18, 25, 103, 108 & 207 Church St., plus Trinity Episcopal Church
- A self-paced walk through the decorated interiors of six private historic homes that are only open to the public on this day
Facts from historicstaunton.org
Christmas at the Jacksons
Candlelit living history
Christmas at the Jacksons
Jackson House Museum, 8 E. Washington St., Lexington
- 2026
- Fri., Dec 11, 6–8 p.m. (last tour 7:40 p.m.)
- Admission
- Canned food for people or pets, for the Rockbridge Area Relief Association
- Costumed interpreters prepare for an 1859 Christmas — visitors sing carols, churn butter and help pick outfits for dinner
Facts from vmi.edu
Christmas at the Museum & Bushong Farm
Living history · New Market Battlefield
Christmas at the Museum & Bushong Farm
Virginia Museum of the Civil War, New Market
- 2026
- Sat., Dec 5, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Cost
- $10 ages 13+, $6 ages 6–12, 5 and under free; bring four nonperishable items for one free admission
- Crafts, treats and a Christmas film in the museum; living historians at the Bushong farmhouse prepare for Christmas 1859
Facts from vmi.edu
Holiday Church Open House
Historic churches · Downtown Lexington
Holiday Church Open House
Participating downtown churches, Lexington
- 2026
- Fri., Dec 18, 4–6 p.m.
- Decorated sanctuaries, holiday music, refreshments and building history
Facts from lexingtonvirginia.com
Abram's Delight Candlelight Tour
Historic house · Candlelight
Abram's Delight Candlelight Tour
1340 S. Pleasant Valley Rd., Winchester
- 2026
- Not yet announced
- Last year
- Dec 5, 2025, 6–8 p.m. and Dec 6, 3–7 p.m. — free
- The historic house decorated for the holidays by local garden clubs
Facts from visitwinchesterva.com
Long Branch Christmas Gala — “Christmas Around the World”
Historic house fundraiser
Long Branch Christmas Gala — “Christmas Around the World”
830 Long Branch Ln., Millwood (Clarke County)
- 2026
- Sat., Dec 5, 5–11 p.m.
- Cost
- $150 by check, $156 by card
- Garden-club decorations themed to countries around the world, with cocktails, food and music. Long Branch also hosts Christmas teas — check its site for the confirmed dates
Facts from visitlongbranch.org
Holiday shows, concerts & caroling
From a Dickens classic in the world's only re-creation of Shakespeare's indoor theater to carols in a cave, the Valley's holiday stage season is busy. College ensembles at JMU, W&L and Bridgewater put on some of the best-value concerts, and several are free.
A Christmas Carol — American Shakespeare Center
Theater
A Christmas Carol — American Shakespeare Center
Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton
- 2026 run
- Dec 4–27
- Tickets
- Times and prices vary by performance — book through ASC
- Dickens's story of Scrooge and the three spirits, in the candlelit-style intimacy of the Blackfriars
Facts from americanshakespearecenter.com
Caroling in the Caverns
Underground concert · Charity
Caroling in the Caverns
Luray Caverns, 101 Cave Hill Rd., Luray
- 2026
- Sat., Dec 12, 6–8 p.m. (line opens 5:30 p.m.)
- Cost
- $30 per person; children 12 and under free; separate from regular cavern tickets
- Groups enter about every 10 minutes for an hour-long walk past live holiday music in the caverns
- All proceeds go to Shriners Children's Hospital
Facts from luraycaverns.com
A Christmas Story: The Musical
Musical theater
A Christmas Story: The Musical
Wayne Theatre, 521 W. Main St., Waynesboro
- 2026
- Dec 4 & 11, 7 p.m.; Dec 5 & 12, 2 & 7 p.m.; Dec 6 & 13, 2 p.m.
- Tickets
- Ticket price includes $3 preservation and $3 handling fees
- Ralphie's quest for a Red Ryder BB gun, live on stage
- Also at the Wayne: Sing-a-long Caroling with Jimmy O (Mon., Dec 21, 6:30 p.m., pay what you will) before a 7 p.m. screening of The Bishop's Wife
Facts from waynetheatre.org
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever & A Theatre Shenandoah Christmas
Community theater
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever & A Theatre Shenandoah Christmas
Theatre Shenandoah, 107 Center St., Edinburg
- 2026 run
- Nov 20 – Dec 20; Fri & Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m.
- Cost
- $25 front row, $22 general, $18 students & 65+
Facts from theatreshenandoah.org
A Sherlock Carol
Theater
A Sherlock Carol
Silver Line Theatre Exchange, 211 N. Lewis St., Staunton
- 2026
- Select December dates, e.g. Fri., Dec 11, 7:30 p.m.
Facts from silverlinetheatre.org
HolidayFest: Magic and Memories (JMU)
Choral & wind symphony concert
HolidayFest: Magic and Memories (JMU)
Forbes Center Concert Hall, 147 Warsaw Ave., Harrisonburg
- 2026
- Sat., Dec 12, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Dec 13, 2 p.m.
- Tickets
- Reserved seats through the Forbes Center box office
- JMU's choirs and Wind Symphony, including music by John Rutter and an audience sing-along
Facts from jmuforbescenter.com
Washington and Lee holiday concerts
University concerts · Lexington
Washington and Lee holiday concerts
Lenfest Center, 100 Glasgow St. & University Chapel, Lexington
- Holiday Pops
- Tue., Dec 1, 7 p.m. — free ticket with a food or cash donation; reservations open Nov 9
- Lessons & Carols
- Thu., Dec 3, 8 p.m., University Chapel — no tickets needed
- RSO Holiday Brass
- Sat., Dec 12, 7 p.m. — $28
Facts from my.wlu.edu
The Nutcracker — Italia Performing Arts
Ballet
The Nutcracker — Italia Performing Arts
Warren County High School, 155 Westminster Dr., Front Royal
- 2026
- Sat., Dec 19, 2 & 5 p.m.
- Cost
- $15–$40; under 3 free on a lap
Facts from Organizer's ticket page
Waynesboro Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops
Free concert
Waynesboro Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops
W. 11th St. & S. Wayne Ave., Waynesboro
- 2026
- Sat., Dec 5, 3–4 p.m. — free
Facts from visitwaynesboro.com
Santa visits, trains & family fun
The Santa Express — Virginia Scenic Railway
Holiday train ride · ~60 minutes
The Santa Express — Virginia Scenic Railway
Departs 415 Bridge St., Staunton
- 2026 dates
- Selected departures Nov 28 – Dec 23
- Prices
- Coach $50, upper dome $60, table seating $65 per person (confirm the total at checkout)
- Holiday Spirits (21+)
- $75 per person; alcoholic drinks extra
- Santa visits every car; tickets include hot chocolate, cookies and soft drinks
- The railway says this is a holiday ride, not a scenic excursion
Facts from virginiascenicrailway.com
Christmas at the Celebration
Indoor Christmas displays · Santa
Christmas at the Celebration
American Celebration on Parade, 397 Caverns Rd., Quicksburg
- 2026 dates
- Dec 4–6, 11–13, 18–20 and 26–27, noon–5 p.m.
- Tickets
- Paid; on sale from Nov 1
- Christmas displays among giant historic parade floats, Santa's Workshop, letters to Santa and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Facts from americancelebrationonparade.com
Santa Brunch at CrossKeys Vineyards
Brunch with Santa
Santa Brunch at CrossKeys Vineyards
CrossKeys Vineyards, Mount Crawford
- 2026
- Sun., Dec 20, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Booking
- Reservations through the winery (OpenTable)
- Photos with Santa and a holiday brunch menu; mulled wine and mimosas for the adults
Facts from crosskeysvineyards.com
Free Santa visits
- Waynesboro — Sat., Nov 28: photos with Santa (kids or dogs) at the Russell Museum, 518 W. Main St., 11 a.m.–1 p.m., then story time at Stone Soup Books, 1:30 p.m. Free.
- Mount Jackson — Sat., Nov 28: Santa and Mrs. Claus at the community library, 1–3 p.m., during Merry on Main.
- Stuarts Draft — Wed., Dec 2: Visit with Santa at the Stuarts Draft Library Station (Broadmoor Plaza), 3:30–4:30 p.m., with crafts and snacks. No registration.
- Stuarts Draft — Sat., Dec 5: Santa & the Grinch photos at Rockingham Cooperative Ace Hardware, 2589 Stuarts Draft Hwy., 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Free, with a digital photo.
- Harrisonburg — Sat., Dec 5: Santa photos during Winter Wonderfest downtown (1–5:30 p.m.), along with free carriage rides and a gingerbread competition.
- New Market — Sat., Dec 5: Santa and Mrs. Claus at the library after the 5 p.m. parade, with goody bags while they last. Then Sat., Dec 12: a Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt for ages 1–14 at New Market Community Park, 6–8 p.m.
- Staunton — Sat. & Sun., Dec 5–6: Family Weekend at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, 230 E. Frederick St., 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Kids 17 and under free, adults pay what they wish.
Holiday markets & Christmas shopping
The Valley's holiday markets lean handmade and local: pottery, woodwork, quilts, wreaths, Valley-made food gifts and mulled cider. Downtown Staunton, Old Town Winchester, Harrisonburg, Lexington and Luray are all good for a gift-shopping stroll between events.
Winchester Winter Village
European-style holiday market
Winchester Winter Village
Loudoun Street Mall, 1 N. Loudoun St., Winchester
- 2026
- Sat.–Sun., Dec 5–6 (schedule to be posted)
- Food and craft vendors on the pedestrian mall, horse-drawn wagon rides (Saturday), caroling and seasonal refreshments
Facts from visitwinchesterva.com
Harrisonburg Farmers Market Holiday Markets
Holiday market
Harrisonburg Farmers Market Holiday Markets
Turner Pavilion, 228 S. Liberty St., Harrisonburg
- 2026
- First three Saturdays of December — Dec 5, 12 & 19, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
- After that
- Winter Market on Sat., Dec 26
- Local artisans join the producer-only market's farmers and food makers
Facts from harrisonburgfarmersmarket.com
Christmas Village at the Shenandoah County Fairgrounds
Craft market
Christmas Village at the Shenandoah County Fairgrounds
Shenandoah County Fairgrounds, Woodstock
- 2026 dates
- Nov 27–28, Dec 5–6, Dec 11–13
- Hours
- Fri 5–9 p.m., Sat 3–9 p.m., Sun 3–8 p.m.
- Handmade gifts, food products, jewelry and baskets, on the same grounds as the drive-through lights
Facts from shencofair.com
Christmas Market by The Sassy Doxies
Arts & crafts market
Christmas Market by The Sassy Doxies
Augusta Expo Main Hall, 277 Expo Rd., Fishersville
- 2026
- Sat., Dec 12, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Cost
- Free admission and parking
Facts from thesassydoxies.com
Waynesboro Winterfest
Downtown festival
Waynesboro Winterfest
Downtown Waynesboro; info booth at 503 W. Main St.
- 2026
- Sat., Nov 28 (Small Business Saturday)
- Wassail Trail
- $5, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. (the Cookie Trail is sold out)
- Ends with the free Old-Fashioned Tree Lighting in Constitution Park at 5:30 p.m.
Facts from visitwaynesboro.com
Markets that haven't posted 2026 dates yet
- Wade's Mill Christmas Market, Raphine — German-style market; Sat., Nov 29 and Dec 6 last year.
- Weihnachtsmarkt at Bluestone Vineyard, Bridgewater — Glühwein and regional artisans; Dec 6 last year, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Christmas Market at Brix & Columns Vineyards, McGaheysville — Dec 6–7 last year, with Santa on Saturday.
- Holiday Market at Sage Bird Ciderworks and Cinnamon & Clove Holiday Market at The Frame Factory, Harrisonburg — both on Small Business Saturday last year.
- Rockingham County Fairgrounds Christmas Craft Show (free, Dec 6 last year) and Christmas Village at the Fair (Dec 19–20 last year).
- Timberville Winter Festival at American Legion Park — usually the first weekend in December, with vendors, food trucks, Santa and the Grinch.
Bluestone Vineyard
Bluestone Vineyard
Bridgewater · Home of the Weihnachtsmarkt.
Sage Bird Ciderworks
Sage Bird Ciderworks
Harrisonburg · Small Business Saturday holiday market and mulled cider.
The Mimslyn Inn
The Mimslyn Inn
Luray · Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas Day brunch and a New Year's Eve gala (check the inn for 2026 details).
Choose-and-cut Christmas tree farms
Valley tree farms are small family operations. Most open Black Friday weekend, sell only on weekends, and close when they run out, which often happens by mid-December. The farms below have their own visitor information. Several hadn't posted 2026 dates yet, so call or check the farm's page before you drive out. Bring gloves and boots; most farms provide saws and will shake and bale your tree.
| Farm | Town | Type | 2026 status | Published price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haven Wood Farm | Berryville | Choose & cut (appointment) | Confirmed: Nov 27–29, Dec 5–6, 12–13 | $149 any size |
| Every Soul Acres | Keezletown | Choose & cut + pre-cut | Confirmed: opens Fri., Nov 27 | — |
| Moose Apple Christmas Tree Farm | Berryville | Reserved cutting + pre-cut | Cutting Nov 21–Dec 13 (year not printed) | — |
| Caritas Tree Farm | Mount Solon | Choose & cut | Nov 27–29 & Dec 5–6 posted (year not printed) | From $100 (up to 8 ft) |
| Valley Star Farm | Luray | Choose & cut + pre-cut | Not yet posted (2025: Fri–Sun, Nov 28–Dec 21) | $66 choose & cut |
| Ratliff Tree Farm | Timberville | Choose & cut + pre-cut | Not yet posted (2025: Nov 28–Dec 24, daily) | 2025: $50 cut / $60 pre-cut |
| Charlie Town Farms | Port Republic | Choose & cut | Not yet posted (2025: weekends from Nov 28) | 2025: $12/ft |
| Clouse's Pine Hill Farm | Winchester | Choose & cut + pre-cut | Not yet posted (2025: opened Nov 28) | — |
| Sherwood Pines | Cross Junction | Choose & cut | Thanksgiving weekend, then call | — |
| Chilly Hollow | Berryville | Choose & cut or staff-cut | Not yet posted | — |
| Cater Coffman Tree Farm | Fort Defiance | Choose & cut + pre-cut Fraser | Usually from the Friday after Thanksgiving | — |
| Francisco Farms | Staunton | Choose & cut + pre-cut Fraser | Not yet posted | — |
Haven Wood Farm
Christmas tree farm
Haven Wood Farm
3369 Shepherds Mill Rd., Berryville
- 2026 dates
- Nov 27–29, Dec 5–6, Dec 12–13, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. — appointment required
- Price
- $149, any size; 10% off for veterans, military and first responders
- Trees
- Douglas, Canaan and concolor fir; Black Hills and Norway spruce
- Christmas shop in a bank barn; saws, sleds, shaking and baling provided
- Leashed dogs welcome; no chainsaws
Facts from havenwoodfarm.com
Every Soul Acres
Christmas tree farm
Every Soul Acres
2411 Flook Ln., Keezletown
- 2026 opening
- Fri., Nov 27, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
- Hours
- Fri–Sun 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Mon–Thu 3–5:30 p.m.
- Trees
- Concolor, Canaan and Douglas fir; blue and Norway spruce; white pine; pre-cut Fraser
- Christmas shop with wreaths, roping and centerpieces; cider and treats
- Free admission; petting zoo and pony rides on special-event days
Facts from everysoulacres.com
Moose Apple Christmas Tree Farm
Christmas tree farm
Moose Apple Christmas Tree Farm
2425 Wickliffe Rd., Berryville
- Cutting dates
- Nov 21–22, 27–29; Dec 3–6, 10–13 (the farm doesn't print the year — confirm)
- How it works
- Reserve to cut; pre-cut trees need no reservation
- Trees
- Canaan and concolor fir, Norway spruce; pre-cut Fraser and concolor
- Order ahead for 9–12-foot trees
- Gift and decor shop
Facts from mooseapplechristmastreefarm.com
Caritas Tree Farm
Christmas tree farm
Caritas Tree Farm
309 George Waltons Rd., Mount Solon
- Posted dates
- Nov 27–29 & Dec 5–6: Fri 9–5, Sat 10–5, Sun noon–5 (year not printed)
- Price
- From $100 for trees up to 8 ft
- Trees
- Canaan, Fraser and concolor fir; white pine
- Free hot chocolate, cider and holiday treats; wreaths, stands and bows for sale
Facts from caritastreefarm.com
Valley Star Farm
Christmas tree farm
Valley Star Farm
1104 Springfield Rd., Luray
- 2026
- Not yet posted — 2025 was Fri–Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Nov 28 – Dec 21
- Price
- Choose & cut $66, any variety or size, tax included; shaking & wrapping included
- Trees
- White pine, Norway spruce, Canaan, concolor and Douglas fir
- Wreaths, swags and custom greenery; Visa and Mastercard accepted
Facts from valleystarfarm.com
Ratliff Tree Farm
Christmas tree farm
Ratliff Tree Farm
19233 Ratliff Ln., Timberville (Christmas tree entrance)
- 2026
- Not yet posted — 2025 ran Nov 28 – Dec 24, Mon–Thu noon–5, Fri–Sun 9 a.m.–dark
- 2025 prices
- $50 cut your own; $60 pre-cut
- All trees are now sold at the farm, not at the old Harrisonburg lot
Facts from ratlifftreefarm.weebly.com
Charlie Town Farms
Christmas tree farm
Charlie Town Farms
7374 Charlie Town Rd., Port Republic
- 2026
- Not yet posted — 2025 opened Nov 28, weekends 10 a.m.–4 p.m. until sold out
- 2025 price
- $12/ft with shaking and baling; cash price includes tax, cards +5.5%, no checks
- Trees
- Norway spruce, Scotch pine, eastern white pine
- No public restrooms
Facts from sites.google.com
Clouse's Pine Hill Farm
Christmas tree farm
Clouse's Pine Hill Farm
2696 Green Spring Rd., Winchester
- 2026
- Not yet posted — opened Nov 28 last year; self-serve pre-cut trees at the entrance after choose-and-cut closed
- Trees
- White pine, Norway spruce, Canaan fir
- Wreaths for sale
Facts from clousespinehillfarm.com
The Virginia Christmas Tree Growers Association also lists Sherwood Pines (Cross Junction, 540-888-3597), Chilly Hollow (Berryville), Cater Coffman (Fort Defiance) and Francisco Farms (Staunton). Their listings are older, so call before you go.
Ice skating & winter outings
Generations Park Ice Rink
Outdoor ice skating · Town of Bridgewater
Generations Park Ice Rink
412 N. Main St., Bridgewater
- 2026–27 season
- Opens Thanksgiving Day, Nov 26; runs into early March
- Hours
- Mon & Wed 6–9:30 p.m.; Tue, Thu & Fri 4–9:30 p.m.; Sat & Sun noon–9:30 p.m. (90-minute sessions)
- Cost
- $7 per session + $4 skates; free for town residents with a B-Rec card
- Reserve online; limited walk-up tickets. Check for holiday schedule changes
Facts from bridgewater.town
The Rink at Massanutten
Outdoor ice skating · Massanutten Resort
The Rink at Massanutten
Fitness & Rec Club, 4160 Del Webb Dr., Massanutten
- Season
- Weather-dependent; check live session availability
- Cost
- $13 weekday / $15 weekend / $16 holiday; 5 and under $6.50–$8; skates $4, helmet $4
Facts from massresort.com
Holiday Wreath Workshops at Blandy Experimental Farm
Workshop · State Arboretum of Virginia
Holiday Wreath Workshops at Blandy Experimental Farm
400 Blandy Farm Ln., Boyce
- 2026
- Dec 5–7, sessions at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
- Cost
- $60 for a 12-inch wreath, $75 for a 20-inch wreath
- Registration
- Opens to the public Nov 11; classes capped at 20
Facts from blandy.virginia.edu
Decorated trees · Indoors
Festival of Trees at Natural Bridge State Park
Visitor center, 6477 S. Lee Hwy., Natural Bridge
- 2026
- Not yet announced
- Last year
- Daily during visitor-center hours through Dec 31, 2025; closed Christmas Day; free to view
- Community-decorated trees; you vote by donating items or buying ballots for local charities
Facts from dcr.virginia.gov (2025 edition)
Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & New Year's Eve
Plan around closures. Clearbrook's Winter Wonderland is closed Dec 24, 25 and 31, the Woodstock drive-through lights close Christmas Eve and Christmas night, and most museums and shops close on Christmas Day. Gypsy Hill Park's lights in Staunton stay on every night through Jan 1, so it's the easy choice on Christmas night.
- The Mimslyn Inn in Luray lists Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas Day brunch and a New Year's Eve gala among its December offerings. Last year's gala was $195 per person, but 2026 prices and times weren't posted yet.
- The Omni Homestead in Hot Springs (Bath County, west of the Valley) holds a long-running Great Hall tree arrival the week of Thanksgiving, plus holiday weekends with Breakfast with Santa and a Christmas-week program. Some activities are for resort guests only, and 2026 dates weren't posted yet.
- New Year's Eve in Winchester: last year Old Town held a free evening of street performers, a laser show and a midnight apple drop (6 p.m.–midnight), and the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley hosted First Night family activities during the day. Neither had posted 2026 details yet.
- New Year's at Noon at the Explore More Discovery Museum in Harrisonburg (10 a.m.–2 p.m. last year) is the family-friendly countdown. Check the museum for this year's date and reservations.
Three Christmas day trips
Staunton by lantern and lights (Thu–Sun, Dec 3–20)
- Afternoon: shop downtown Staunton's Beverley Street and look for the storefront holiday windows (last year the downtown association ran an eight-window holiday walk).
- 5:30 p.m.: Holidays by Lantern Light at the Frontier Culture Museum on Richmond Road.
- Evening: drive the Celebration of Holiday Lights at Gypsy Hill Park (free, until 11 p.m.). On Fri.–Sun., Dec 4–27, you could swap in A Christmas Carol at the Blackfriars Playhouse.
Winchester and the northern Valley (Dec 4–6, 11–13 or 18–19)
- Afternoon: a decorated-house tour at Belle Grove in Middletown (Sundays 1–5 p.m.; other days 10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Evening: a Christmas by Candlelight evening at Belle Grove (6–8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays listed above), or the Winter Village on the Old Town mall on Dec 5–6.
- After dark: Walking in a Winter Wonderland at Clearbrook Park (entry until 9 p.m.). Buy tickets online by 5 p.m.
Lexington and Natural Bridge
- Fri., Nov 27: the Candlelight Processional down Main Street at 5:30 p.m. is the best way to start the season.
- Fri., Dec 4: Lexington's Christmas Parade at 6 p.m., or Thu., Dec 3: Buena Vista's tree lighting and parade, then W&L's Lessons & Carols at 8 p.m.
- Fri., Dec 11: Christmas at the Jacksons, 6–8 p.m. — bring canned food for admission.
- Dec 12–27: watch for Natural Bridge State Park's 2026 Luminary Nights dates, which ran on mid- to late-December weekends last year.
Frequently asked
When are the Gypsy Hill Park Christmas lights in Staunton?
The Celebration of Holiday Lights runs nightly from Monday, November 23, 2026 through January 1, 2027, 5–11 p.m. Entry is free, and you drive the park's loop road. It's open every night, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
What is the biggest Christmas parade in the Shenandoah Valley?
Winchester's and Staunton's night parades both start at 7 p.m. on Monday, November 30, 2026. Harrisonburg's Holiday Parade is part of Winter Wonderfest on Saturday, December 5 at 7 p.m., with a tree lighting in Court Square afterward. Lexington's parade is Friday, December 4 at 6 p.m.
Is there a Christmas train in the Shenandoah Valley?
Yes. Virginia Scenic Railway runs The Santa Express from 415 Bridge Street in Staunton on selected dates from November 28 to December 23, 2026. Rides last about an hour and cost $50–$65 per person depending on seating, or $75 for the adults-only Holiday Spirits ride. Santa, hot chocolate and cookies are included.
Where can I cut my own Christmas tree in the Shenandoah Valley?
Haven Wood Farm in Berryville (appointment, $149 any size) and Every Soul Acres in Keezletown have confirmed opening Black Friday weekend 2026. Moose Apple (Berryville), Caritas (Mount Solon), Valley Star (Luray), Ratliff (Timberville), Charlie Town (Port Republic) and Clouse's Pine Hill (Winchester) also sell choose-and-cut trees. Check each farm's page for this year's dates — most close once they sell out.
Are there free Christmas events in the Shenandoah Valley?
Plenty. Gypsy Hill Park's lights, every town parade and tree lighting, Lexington's Candlelight Processional, Luminaries at Silver Lake in Dayton (Dec 12), the Waynesboro Symphony Holiday Pops (Dec 5), W&L's Lessons & Carols (Dec 3), and Santa visits in Waynesboro, Stuarts Draft and New Market are all free. Christmas at the Jacksons in Lexington costs a canned-food donation.
What is Caroling in the Caverns?
Luray Caverns hosts Caroling in the Caverns on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 6–8 p.m. Small groups walk through the cavern past live holiday musicians for about an hour. Tickets are $30, children 12 and under are free, and all proceeds go to Shriners Children's Hospital. Regular cavern tickets don't cover it.
What's open on Christmas Day in the Shenandoah Valley?
Gypsy Hill Park's drive-through lights in Staunton are on every night, including Christmas Day. Clearbrook Park's Winter Wonderland and the Woodstock drive-through lights are closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, as are most museums and shops. Some inns, including the Mimslyn in Luray, advertise Christmas Day dining. Book ahead and confirm hours.
Where is the best walk-through Christmas light display near Winchester?
Walking in a Winter Wonderland at Clearbrook Park, just north of Winchester. It runs November 27, 2026 to January 2, 2027 (closed Dec 24, 25 and 31) on a half-mile paved path with a light show set to music. Entry is $8 online or $15 at the gate for ages 3 and up.
Sources
Facts in this guide were checked against these official pages on November 2, 2026. Rates, dates and rules change — confirm with the campground before you go.
- Celebration of Holiday Lights (Gypsy Hill Park)
- Visit Winchester — Walking in a Winter Wonderland
- Visit Winchester — Old Town Winchester events
- Visit Winchester — Christmas lights guide
- Downtown Staunton — Christmas Parade 2026
- City of Harrisonburg — Holiday Parade
- Downtown Harrisonburg — Winter Wonderfest
- Town of Strasburg — Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting
- Town of Woodstock — Light Up Woodstock
- Town of Mount Jackson — Merry on Main
- Town of New Market — December 2026 calendar
- Town of Edinburg
- Berryville Main Street — Christmas Parade
- Front Royal Chamber — Christmas Fest & Parade
- Lexington & Rockbridge Tourism — holiday events
- Main Street Lexington — events
- Main Street Buena Vista — Christmas Parade
- Visit Waynesboro — Old-Fashioned Tree Lighting
- Visit Rockingham — family holiday events
- Town of Grottoes — 2026 Christmas Parade
- Town of Broadway — Heritage Park events
- Shenandoah County Fair — Christmas in the Valley
- Massanutten Resort — Light Up the Park!
- Virginia DCR — Natural Bridge holiday events (2025)
- Frontier Culture Museum — Holidays by Lantern Light
- Belle Grove — Holiday Tours
- Historic Staunton Foundation
- Jackson House Museum — events
- Virginia Museum of the Civil War — events
- American Shakespeare Center — A Christmas Carol 2026
- Luray Caverns — Caroling in the Caverns
- Wayne Theatre — A Christmas Story: The Musical
- Theatre Shenandoah — The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
- JMU Forbes Center — HolidayFest
- W&L Lenfest Center — Holiday Pops
- W&L Lenfest Center — Lessons & Carols
- Virginia Scenic Railway — The Santa Express
- American Celebration on Parade — events
- Virginia Quilt Museum — Luminaries at Silver Lake
- Town of Bridgewater — Generations Park
- Blandy Experimental Farm — Holiday Wreath Workshops
- Virginia Christmas Tree Growers Association
- Mimslyn Inn — December at the Mimslyn
- Omni Homestead — holidays
