Thanksgiving weekend kicks of the Christmas holiday season, and we all know about the big events such as the Million Bulb Walk at Norfolk Botanical Gardens and Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. But we wanted to highlight some of Coastal Virginia’s the lesser known holiday offerings, which are just as inspiring–and let’s face it, a little less crowded.
The Sandbridge Christmas Tree Decorating: Sandbridge
This event is the highlight of the downtown Sandbridge Holiday Season. Join all the beach locals steps from the ocean at the Sandbridge Fire and Rescue Department to help decorate the village’s Christmas tree. Afterwards, stick around for a seafood meal and drinks at the Sandbridge Raw Bar or one of the other nearby hangouts.
When: Saturday November 26, 1-5 PM
Where: Sandbridge Fire Station #17
305 Sandbridge Rd, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23456
Admission: Free
Web site
Candlelight Christmas Tour at the Whalehead Club: Corolla, NC
Set on 39 pristine acres along the Currituck Sound in Historic Corolla, the Whalehead Club is a beautifully restored 1920s-era Art Nouveau-style mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Each year, the Club offers candlelight tours with musical performances on Whalehead’s original Steinway piano, caroling, refreshments, and an exclusive preview of the new Starkey Room exhibit and new acquisitions. This is one not to be missed if you’re an OBX fan.
When: Friday and Saturday nights from November 25 though December 17
Where: Whalehead in Historic Corolla
1100 Club Rd, Corolla, North Carolina 27927
Admission: $20 per person, advance reservations required by calling 252-453-9040
Web site
Festive Fridays: Cape Charles
Experience Cape Charles’ Christmas charm with free family-friendly festivities with live local music, horse-drawn carriage rides, luminaries, Santa & Mrs. Claus, kids’ activities, caroling, and classic Christmas movies at the Historic Palace Theater. Restuarnt spcials and shopping in the town’s quanit waterfront downtown round out the event.
When: Friday nights from November 25 though December 23
Where: Downtown Cape Charles
Admission: Free
Web site
Friday Night Concerts at Liberty’s Ice Pavilion: Williamsburg
We love to hang out in Merchant’s Square during the holidays, and now there are eight more great reasons to do just that! Each Friday evening, the Liberty Ice Pavilion is the setting for live music from local and regional favorites like Each Friday night from 7PM – 9PM we’ll have live concerts featuring the very best local talent like Liana Dagmar, Billy Joe Daniel, the BJ Griffin Duo, and Dave Crumpler & Michael Glass.
When: Friday nights from November 25 though December 30, 7-10 PM
Where: Merchants Square=
134 N Henry St, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185
Admission: Free
Web site
Home Alone Movie Viewing with Live Orchestra
Here’s one of the most unique holiday offerings this weekend. A true holiday favorite, this beloved comedy classic features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to picture by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra with the Governor’s School for the Arts Orchestra. Macaulay Culkin stars as Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy who’s accidentally left behind when his family leaves for Christmas vacation, and who must defend his home against two bungling thieves. Hilarious and heart-warming, Home Alone is holiday fun for the entire family.
When: Friday nights from November 25 though December 30, 7-10 PM
Where: Chrysler Hall
201 E Brambleton Ave, Norfolk, Virginia 23510
Admission: Tickets $20-$70 and available online or at the door.
Web site
