The holidays are right around the corner, and Central Virginia is ready to shine! There are so many great holiday events happening around Central Virginia. Whether you’re searching for sparkling light displays, festive markets, cozy concerts, or hands-on family fun, the Charlottesville region has no shortage of ways to celebrate the season.
We rounded up this year’s can’t miss holiday events around Central Virginia to include Albemarle, Louisa, Fluvanna, and Greene counties to experience the most magical time of the year. Bundle up, bring your favorite people, and get ready to explore the joyful traditions happening all month long! Click on the event title to learn more about it!
Charlottesville & Albemarle County Holiday Events & Activities
Winter Wander Trail of Lights (Boar’s Head Resort)
Photo Credit: Boar’s Head Resort
Returning for its fifth year, Winter Wander transforms Boar’s Head Resort into a glowing wonderland. Enjoy an illuminated lakeside stroll where rolling hills, trees, and water views are lit with a dazzling palette of color. This event is perfect for all ages. Winter Wander runs through January 3rd this year on select dates. Perfect for planning a magical single-night visit or a cozy overnight getaway.
Charlottesville Holiday Market
Browse local artisans, handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and festive décor at this annual open-air market. The Holiday Market runs Saturdays from November 29 through December 20, 2025—an easy way to shop local and soak up holiday cheer.
Charlottesville’s Grand Illumination
On Friday, December 5 from 5–8 PM, head to the Ting Pavilion for Charlottesville’s big tree-lighting celebration. Enjoy live music, performances, games, prizes, delicious food, special guests, and seasonal fun for all ages. Admission is free, and parking is complimentary at the Market and Water Street garages from 5–10 PM.
Magic on the Mall (Downtown Charlottesville)
Celebrate the season with Magic on the Mall, a series of free holiday happenings throughout Downtown Charlottesville. Kids can send a letter to Santa and get one back (Nov 15–Dec 15), join the festive “Elves in Cville” scavenger hunt (Nov 15–Jan 11), and enjoy a ride on the Downtown Holiday Express every Saturday from 10 AM–2 PM.
Charlottesville Band Holiday Concert (The Paramount Theater)
On Sunday, December 7, settle in for a free family-friendly holiday performance featuring classic favorites, a cheerful sing-along, and even a visit from Santa. A perfect indoor option when the weather turns chilly!
Louisa County Holiday Events & Activities
Mineral Farmer’s Market Holiday Market
Visit Mineral, VA on the first and third Saturdays of December for festive holiday markets featuring local crafts, artisanal gifts, baked goods, and handmade treats—an ideal stop for thoughtful, locally made presents.
Southern Revere Cellars Holiday Events
Enjoy seasonal celebrations at Southern Revere Cellars, ranging from holiday-themed gatherings to “caroling karaoke” and cozy wine-country evenings. A festive adults-night-out option in the Louisa/Lake Anna area.
Louisa County Library December Programing
The Louisa County Library has festive fun for all ages. There’s a family-friendly Starry Night Ornament Decorating on December 13 and more advanced 16+ Beaded Star Ornament Workshop on December 9. For the full schedule and registration details, visit the JMRL December events calendar.
Fluvanna County Holiday Events & Activities
Lake Monticello Festival of Trees
Held December 6–7 at the Ashlawn Clubhouse, this community-favorite event features beautifully decorated trees, music, story time with Mrs. Claus, photos with Santa, tree raffles, and fundraising for local charities. It’s a warm, community-minded way to celebrate the season.
Fruit Hill Holiday Season Opening
Photo Credit: Fruit Hill Orchard
Fruit Hill kicked off their Christmas season offering fresh-cut trees, beautiful wreaths, warm apple cider, and more. Their holiday season will culminate with two visits with Santa’s on December 6 and 13 from 4–6 PM!
Art in the Park Holiday Market (Pleasant Grove Park, Palmyra)
On December 13, 2025, enjoy local vendors, handmade crafts, food trucks, and a cozy holiday atmosphere at this outdoor market—perfect for last-minute shopping and supporting local makers.
Fluvanna Library December Workshops
Throughout December, the Fluvanna Public Library offers free events for all ages, including a family-friendly screening of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever on December 19 and a Gingerbread House Workshop plus a Hot Cocoa & Paint Party on December 23. For full details and registration, visit the library’s online event calendar.
Greene County Holiday Events & Activities
Lights on Main Street (Downtown Stanardsville)
On Saturday, December 6 from 4–8 PM, Main Street transforms into a festive celebration featuring a parade, tree lighting, Santa’s workshop, local music, and that signature small-town holiday charm.
2025 William Monroe High School Maker Market
On December 13 (10 AM–2 PM), support student and community artisans at the annual Maker Market. Shop handmade gifts, enjoy baked treats, sip warm cider, and discover unique, creative finds.
Winter Family Storytime with Marshmallow Snowman (Greene County Library)
On December 22 (6–7:30 PM), bring the whole family for a cozy reading of The Bake Shop Ghost followed by a make-your-own marshmallow snowman activity. No registration required.
Gingerbread House Contest (Greene County Parks & Recreation)
On December 19 (6–9 PM), join this festive gingerbread house competition at the RES Cafeteria. Registration is required by December 14. Categories span all ages, with milk carton houses for younger kids and full-assembly gingerbread creations for teens and adults. Fee: $15.
Happy Holidays from Monticello Pest Solutions
We hope you’ll check out one of these holiday events this season! There’s a festive event, cozy workshop, or magical light display waiting to make your season brighter. We hope this guide helps you plan memorable outings, support local, and enjoy the moments that make the holidays special. Wishing you a warm, joyful, and pest-free holiday season from our family to yours!
