As the holiday season approaches, Virginia transforms into a haven of spiritual and romantic celebrations. In this historic state steeped in tradition, residents and visitors alike embark on a journey that combines genuine southern charm with an invigorating embrace of nature. From religious observances to whimsical festivities, Virginia offers a tapestry of events that cater to all tastes.
One cannot discuss the holiday season in Virginia without mentioning Colonial Williamsburg (101 Visitor Center Dr E, Williamsburg). With its cobblestone streets adorned with wreaths and flickering lanterns, this living history museum transports visitors back to the 18th century. During December, it becomes particularly magical as residents don period costumes and reenact colonial traditions like Yule Log ceremonies (a nod to England's pagan roots) and candlelight tours through historic homes.
For those seeking spiritual enrichment during this time of year, Richmond's St. Paul's Episcopal Church (815 E Grace St., Richmond) holds its beautiful Lessons and Carols service. Inspired by the famous ceremony at King's College Chapel in Cambridge, England, attendees are treated to readings from scripture interspersed with hymns sung by talented choirsa truly transcendent experience.
In Norfolk's Ghent neighborhood (Norfolk), locals immerse themselves in whimsy during Dickens' Christmas Towne event held at Nauticus National Maritime Center (1 Waterside Dr., Norfolk). This immersive celebration pays homage to the beloved author Charles Dickens who penned A Christmas Carol. Visitors can encounter characters from his novels while perusing Victorian-themed market stalls or taking part in interactive performances that transport them straight into one of Dickens' tales.
Moving towards the Blue Ridge Mountains lies Floyd County - home to an unconventional yet bewitching New Years Eve celebration called FloydFest Winter Bursts Into Spring! Festivalgoers gather underneath starlit skies at the Floyd Event Center (1650 Franklin Pike SE, Floyd) to engage in music, dancing and artistic revelry. As midnight approaches, a magnificent bonfire is lit, symbolizing hope and renewal for the new year.
To round off our journey through Virginia's holiday spirit with a splash of romance, Fredericksburg's Riverside Dinner Theater (95 Riverside Pkwy., Fredericksburg) stages its annual production of A Very Merry Murder Mystery. Combining dinner and live theater, this unique experience invites diners to solve a murder mystery while enjoying festive cuisinea delightful blend of humor and intrigue.
Virginia truly shines during the holiday season as it merges deep spiritual callings with light-hearted festivities. Whether you find solace in religious observances or seek joy through whimsical celebrations inspired by literary classics, Virginia embraces all who venture within its borders. So come join us and discover how history meets merriment in this remarkable state.
Websites:
- Colonial Williamsburg: www.colonialwilliamsburg.com
- St. Paul's Episcopal Church: www.stpaulsrva.org
- Dickens' Christmas Towne: www.dickenschristmastowne.com
- FloydFest Winter Bursts Into Spring!: www.floydfest.com/winterbursts
- Riverside Dinner Theater: www.riversidedt.com
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101 Visitor Center Dr E
Williamsburg, VA
United States
A Nod To England'S Pagan
Roots, VA
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815 E Grace St.
Richmond, VA
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Norfolk, VA
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1 Waterside Dr.
Norfolk, VA
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1650 Franklin Pike Se
Floyd, VA
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95 Riverside Pkwy.
Fredericksburg, VA
United States