The winter holidays are one of our favorite times of the year to get outside, see friends, go caroling, and of course, sip hot cocoa. Every year is a little different, but one thing remains the same– tree lighting, holiday lights and a good Christmas market always puts us in the Christmas spirit.
Shenandoah County knows how to celebrate the holidays, from drive-through lights to virtual tree lightings, Christmas is happening all across Shenandoah County, Virginia. You might even have a hard time picking which activities and events to partake in.
Don’t worry though, we are giving you a run down on everything to do this Christmas season, no matter how much time you have to explore.
Christmas in the Valley
The Shenandoah County Fairgrounds are offering festive lights, food and everything you need to pick up for loved ones on your Christmas list. November 25, through New Years Day 2023, you can drive through the one and half mile Christmas Lights Trail. Don’t be surprised if your kids are pressing their noses against the car window to see twinkling lights and holiday scenes from the comfort and safety of your toasty, warm car.
Every Friday and Saturday, from Thanksgiving through Christmas, the whole family can shop at the Christmas Crafts Village to pick up that special something for everyone on their list. Whether you need gifts, decor or just want to pick up a few treats while you sip hot cocoa and watch the carolers, you are sure to have a night full of fun.
Christmas Light Trails: Open Thursdays and Sundays, 5pm to 9pm, and Fridays and Saturdays, 5pm to 10pm.
Admission to the Christmas Lights Trail is $25 per car (up to 9 people per car), with free admission for all to the Christmas Village.
Christmas Village: It’s never too late to pick up locally made gifts, wreaths, decorated Christmas trees and baked goods. Handmade items from local craftsmen and women, as well as fresh roasted nuts and baked goods.
The Christmas Village is open from November 25 through December 17th every Friday from 5-9pm and Saturdays from 2-9pm, Thanksgiving to Christmas, so you have no excuse to not have your list complete, just remember to check it twice so no one is forgotten.
More Holiday Events in Shenandoah County, VA
Shenandoah County shops carry everything from Fair-Trade gifts, snacks, toys, memorabilia, locally made arts and crafts, plants and garden supplies, jewelry, antiques and pottery to locally roasted coffee, beer, wine and whiskey (gin and vodka too!). Everywhere you go, you will find a shop that fits your budget.
Check out the local boutiques along Main Street in towns throughout the county, the Flea Market in Edinburg, and even the On Second Thought, the largest consignment and thrift shop in the county, located in Woodstock.
Find more local shops in Shenandoah county on the Shopping page.
Events in Woodstock, VA
Light up Woodstock is held on the first Friday of December and features music, a parade, wagon rides, and visits with Santa on Court Square.
- 5:30 pm - Children’s choirs and tractor pulled wagon rides
- 6:00 pm - Cookies and hot cocoa in front of historic courthouse sponsored by Emmanuel Episcopal Church
- 6:30 pm - Holiday parade begins
- 6:45 pm - Lighting of the Tree with Mayor McCleary and special guest, Max, on Court Square
Shopping locally makes a positive impact on small towns. Support local businesses this holiday season and shop Woodstock for people on your shopping list. The town of Woodstock even made a holiday gift guide to help.
To really get into the holiday spirit, Woodstock is hosting a Deck the Halls Holiday Display Contest for the local businesses and even homeowners. When the lights go out, wander the town limits to find your favorite Christmas display. There will be a winner in six categories, and you can vote right here. Voters must be ages 7 and up, casting one ballot per category check the website for the dates as they may change each year.
Events in Strasburg, VA
Pop over to Strasburg, VA for their ‘Tis the Season Celebration’ in the Square on the first Saturday in December. The Mistletoe Market offers free cocoa samplings (while supplies last) to get you sugared up for some shopping.
The annual holiday parade starts at 4:30pm and runs along King Street. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be bringing up the rear as they head to the Square for the Tree Lighting Ceremony.
In addition to the Tis the Season festivities, there will be a Strasburg Home Decorating Contest! Maps are available digitally (check the website for dates), and all homes are marked with a yard sign and accompanying number. The community can view these festive homes from December 15th-December 31st - with the winners being announced after New Years Day!
Events in Edinburg, VA
Although Edinburgh is already dolled up for Christmas along Main Street, the holidays officially kick off on December 1st in this Shenandoah County town. The Christmas Parade begins at 6pm, and Santa’s helpers will be handing out gifts as they follow Santa down the parade route. Have questions, call 540-984-8521.
Events in New Market, VA
“Tis the Season” in New Market is an all-day celebration in downtown New Market. Pop into the tree lighting ceremony at Town Hall on the first Saturday in December that follows the holiday parade at 5pm.
What to expect throughout the day:
*Open Houses with participating downtown business
*Shop Local Passport Game
*Festive music while strolling downtown
*Fun activities to participate in
*Visit with Santa at the New Market Library (11a-1p)
*Winter Wonderland Parade
Say hello to Santa before you shop till you drop at the craft market and library book sale. Just don’t forget to pick up your hot chocolate and cookies while you enjoy some live holiday music.
How about a Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt for the kids?
Bundle up, grab a flashlight and come to the New Market Community Park on Saturday, December 10th for their Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt.
Kids will hunt for candy canes in the park, along with packages of hot chocolate and other fun items.
Cost: FREE but you must register in advance
Ages: 1-14
Hunt Times: Round 1 at 6:30, Round 2 at 7:00 and Round 3 at 7:30
(limited availability per each round)
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED! Limited Spots are available, and you must pick only one of the three time slot options.
Need more information? Call 540-740-3432.
Events in Basye, VA
If you are looking for a little holiday outdoor adventure this season, keep an eye on Bryce Resort, where the whole family can learn how to ski and snowboard. Tubing is also available, as well as ice skating.
Get the kids outside this year, where fresh air rules. There is no better time to hit the slopes than during the holidays.
Bryce Resort also offers a New Year's Eve celebration at their Copper Kettle Bar & Lounge for those 21 years of age and up. Featuring party favors, snacks, live music, a torchlight ski-down and a fireworks show.
There are still so many different events popping up daily in Shenandoah County to help us celebrate the season. Go to Shenandoah County’s EVENTS page to see what else is happening in the county. You’ll find plenty of live music, local shopping specials, fun and unique ways to enjoy time with friends and family throughout the holiday season.