’Tis the season to explore
Staunton
ART FOR GIFTS
Nov. 15–Dec. 31: For a full seven weeks, the Staunton Augusta Art Center transforms its galleries into a holiday shopping heaven. Local and regional artists and makers alike gather at this extensive marketplace to present their most giftable wares and artworks. SAArtCenter.org
Pembroke
MAGICAL CHRISTMAS VILLAGE & MARKETPLACE
Nov. 23–Jan. 4: Mountain Lake Lodge lights up the holiday season with its charming winter village, complete with Pinecone Express train rides and Marshmallow Way, for s’more making and hot cocoa sipping. Even a Scrooge couldn’t resist this cozy Christmas atmosphere. MtnLakeLodge.com
Virginia Beach
VIRGINIA BEACH CHRISTMAS MARKET
Nov. 29–Dec. 1
Seasonal cheer is in high supply at this market in Virginia Beach’s convention center, with 175 fine arts and crafts vendors from more than 20 states attending. Wander through the wide variety of goods, and snag a photo with Santa on Sunday, Dec. 1. EMGShows.com
Woodstock
CHRISTMAS IN THE VALLEY CRAFTERS’ VILLAGE
Nov. 29–Dec. 14
The Shenandoah County Fairgrounds sparkle with holiday cheer, glowing in festive lights all December. Guests can drive through dazzling LED displays, and for three magical weekends, a cozy crafters’ village awaits with holiday treats and goodies. ShenCoFair.com
Fredericksburg
MISTLETOE MARKET
Nov. 30: This “Small Business Saturday” market takes a seasonal lean, made over into a holiday craft fair for Christmas décor, supplies, and gifts, open 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Harkump Park becomes a must-shop stop in the area, alight with local spirit and creativity. FredericksburgVa.gov
Norton
NORTON HOLIDAY MARKET
Dec. 7: Is it Norton or the North Pole? Norton Expo Center transforms into a winter wonderland with artisanal wares and seasonal spirit, vendors selling from 4–7 p.m. And don’t miss the annual Christmas tree lighting at 6 p.m. in the Norton municipal parking lot. NortonVa.gov
Leesburg
HOLIDAY FINE ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW
Dec. 7–8: In your search for unique, personal gifts for loved ones, check out Leesburg’s holiday market on the Town Green. Local and regional makers line up for your shopping pleasure. It’s made all the merrier with the town tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 7. LeesburgVa.gov
Yorktown
CHRISTMAS MARKET ON MAIN
Dec. 7–8: It’s a weekend of winter wonderland festivities and shopping finds on
Yorktown’s Main Street. Close to 100 vendors fill the historic town from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. with cheer and handmade, local products. Fifes, drums, and fire trucks add to the charm. VisitWilliamsburg.com
Herndon
HERNDON “WINTERMARKT”
Dec. 14: This German-style Christmas market features more than 90 arts and crafts vendors, appearances by the American Santa Claus and European St. Nicholas, and traditional German baked treats. The German embassy has given it a glowing review, so you know it’s worthwhile. HerndonWinterMarkt.com
This article originally appeared in our December 2024 issue.
