The holiday season is here! If you live in Virginia’s Northern Neck region, you’re in for a treat: there are plenty of things to do in eastern Virginia this winter, including attending unique holiday festivals and events in the area. If you’re a senior, exploring local events is a lovely way to get in the spirit of the season on your own or spend some quality time with loved ones. The best part? You can help to support small businesses and nonprofits in the process. Here’s a roundup of events that you won’t want to miss this year.
November 25–December 21: Steamboat Era Museum Holiday Marketplace
Each weekend from Thanksgiving through the first three weeks in December, you can find the perfect gift for that hard-to-shop-for person in your life at the Steamboat Era Museum’s Annual Holiday Marketplace in Irvington. Discover one-of-a-kind items like jewelry, maps, books, oyster art, and more, all in the knowledge that your purchases help to support this cherished educational nonprofit.
Late November–Christmas: Christmas Tree Farms
Once your Thanksgiving feast is over, gather your loved ones to search for the perfect fresh-cut fir at local Christmas tree farms in Virginia. There are plenty to choose from, but the closest in the Northern Neck are Tall Trees Farm in Lancaster and Macey’s Tree Farm in Hartfield.
November 30: Allure Art Center Open House
Support local entrepreneurs and artists on Small Business Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm at the Allure Center Open House in White Stone. Get handcrafted holiday inspiration from artist showcases of paintings, woodwork, metalwork, and more. Energize your experience with festive coffee, treats, and music as you shop.
December 1: Christmas Fashion Show and Luncheon
Celebrate sartorial vogue this holiday season with the Chesapeake Inn fashion show in Urbanna. Take in the artful stylings from local boutique shops and get inspired! Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.
December 1–31: Deltaville Christmas Lights
Nothing gets holiday lovers in a joyful mood like a good Christmas light show. Bundle the family into the car, head to Deltaville, and experience the spectacle of 130,000 lights and a computer-controlled light show that “dances” to Christmas music every evening this December.
December 6–7: Kilmarnock Trolley Express
Grab the grandkids (or family adults who are kids at heart) and ride through a winter wonderland on the magical Kilmarnock Trolley Express from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Entry is $15 for adults and $10 for children under the age of 10.
December 7: Urbanna Harbour Christmas House Tour
Need some Christmas decorating inspiration? From 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, embark on the Urbanna Harbour Christmas House Tour to see six homes on Urbanna Harbour, each decorated for the holiday season. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 the day of.
December 8: Kilmarnock Lighted Christmas Parade
If you love to watch the annual Thanksgiving Day parade each year, you’ll love the 44th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade in Kilmarnock, the oldest of its kind in Virginia. The magic starts on Main Street at 5:30 pm and keeps marching until 8:00 pm.
December 9: A Traditional Carol Sing: “The Holly & The Ivy”
If you’re longing for the pastimes of years gone by, you can enjoy traditional Christmas songs at Historic Christ Church in Weems on December 9th from 3:30–5:30 pm. Carols and music are performed by the Chesapeake Chorale and the Christchurch School Cantorion.
December 15–16: The Urbanna Polar Express
Can’t get enough of Christmas train magic? Enjoy the storybook classic “The Polar Express” on board the Urbanna trolley. Purchase your Golden Ticket and get ready for a journey to the North Pole with magical stops and the chance to meet your favorite characters along the way. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be waiting at the North Pole for all believers! The Polar Express will run two magical nights with three runs each night.
So, mark your calendars, form your plans, and make this holiday season one to remember! Whether it’s savoring local flavors, shopping for unique gifts, or basking in the glow of twinkling lights, there’s something for every senior and their loved ones to enjoy.
Enjoy Virginia Holiday Events at Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury
Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury is a continuing care community (also known as a life plan community) providing the highest quality living experience for discerning senior adults. Situated on 165 beautiful acres outside the village of Irvington in Virginia’s Northern Neck, RWC residents choose to live here for the independent and worry-free lifestyle afforded in a tranquil setting — as well as access to popular seasonal festivals and events.
At RWC, you’re only a ten-minute drive from the Chesapeake Bay or the Rappahannock River as well as a variety of creeks, estuaries, and other rivers. You’ll have access to all that our local freshwater and saltwater destinations have to offer, from outdoor recreation to dining on fresh local catches to boutique shopping.
Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury Inc. is a Virginia nonprofit corporation affiliated with the Episcopal and Presbyterian churches. All religions are welcome. Read about our residence options and living our lifestyle!