05 Dec Holiday Magic for the Whole Family: Must-Visit Christmas Adventures in Southwest Virginia
Spending time with your family is one of the many things that make the holidays so very special. In Southwest Virginia, where family gatherings are near and dear to our hearts, there are always plenty of fun activities to enjoy together at Christmas.
Mountain Lake Lodge’s Magical Christmas Village and Marketplace
One of the most joyful places to create holiday memories is the Magical Christmas Village and Marketplace at Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke.
Nestled amidst the stunning mountain scenery of Southwest Virginia, families can explore a whimsical village and stroll through an enchanting Christmas market. This winter wonderland features shops offering handcrafted gifts and holiday delights. Additional family-friendly activities include ice skating, Pinecone Express train rides around the village, and making s’mores at the fire pits along Marshmallow Way.
As with any beloved holiday event, there are plenty of delicious treats and hot cocoa to enjoy. Visitors can also reserve seats for festive Christmas performances at the Holiday Mainstage.
Celebrate the magic of the Magical Christmas Village and Marketplace through January 10, 2025.
Rocky Mount’s Land of Lights
If you’re a light-loving bunch who likes to stay warm, the dazzling displays at Land of Lights in Rocky Mount should be on Santa’s list of must-see activities.
This drive-thru light show covers a half-mile and features over 50,000 holiday lights and displays, including a skating rink, the Grinch, and many other festive scenes kids will love. It’s an immersive experience filled with holiday wonder.
While this event is free, donations to support its operation are welcome and appreciated. The Land of Lights is open now through January 6, 2025.
Big Stone Gap: Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Big Stone Gap is the perfect destination to experience holiday magic with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. Whether you’re looking for a cozy visit with Santa or a festive brunch, there’s something special for the whole family.
- Santa Claus at the Big Stone Gap Visitors Center
Every Saturday in December, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., stop by the Big Stone Gap Visitors Center for a memorable evening with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Families can enjoy affordable photo packages starting at $5, write letters to Santa, and drop them in the special Santa Mailbox to ensure holiday wishes reach the North Pole.
Check the dates:- November 30
- December 7
- December 14
- December 21
- Brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus at 404 Café & Creamery
On Saturday, December 14th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a delightful brunch at the 404 Café & Creamery. This festive event includes delicious food, photo opportunities with Santa, and plenty of holiday cheer for the entire family. Mark your calendars for this special holiday experience!
Make Big Stone Gap a must-visit destination for unforgettable family fun this holiday season!
Pulaski County Christmas Tree Lighting
Kick off the season with the Pulaski County Christmas Tree Lighting at Randolph Park in Dublin on Saturday, December 7, 2024.
Celebrate the lighting of the very first Pulaski County Christmas Tree with an evening of festive fun! Enjoy live music, steaming cups of hot chocolate, delicious offerings from food trucks, and a warm community atmosphere. The tree lighting will begin right after Winterfest and will be followed by the dazzling DAKLights show, an unforgettable light display that will light up the night with holiday magic.
Festive Fun in Floyd, Virginia
Floyd is the place to be for whimsical, family-friendly holiday adventures. There’s something special happening almost every week in December:
- Whoville Saturdays at DJ’s Drive-In
Celebrate the season with a touch of playful mayhem during Whoville Saturdays on December 7th, 14th, and 21st from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Grinch himself will be making appearances throughout the day, bringing his mischievous antics to life. Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, this Whoville-themed celebration is a must-see! - S’mores with Santa at DJ’s Drive-In
On December 13th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., cozy up by the fire for an evening of holiday cheer at S’mores with Santa. Enjoy delicious s’mores, sip on cocoa, and share your holiday wishes with Santa Claus himself for a truly magical experience. - Santa Claus at the Floyd Farmers Market
Stop by the Floyd Farmers Market on December 14th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to meet Santa Claus. Bring the kids for a special photo op and enjoy a relaxing stroll through the market’s festive offerings.
St. Paul, Virginia: A Grinchy Holiday Celebration
For a heartwarming family outing, don’t miss the How the Grinch Stole Christmas Movie Fundraiser at The Lyric Theater in St. Paul on December 21st at 12 p.m..
This special screening is the perfect way to enjoy a beloved holiday classic while supporting a good cause. Gather the whole family and get ready to laugh, sing, and maybe even grow your heart a size or two!
For more details, visit the event page here.