1. Elves in Cville

November 15th - January 11th

Santa's elves are lost in Downtown Charlottesville and he needs your help finding them! There are several businesses participating in this free Elf on a Shelf scavenger hunt. You can pick up your North Pole Passes and stamps at J Fenton Too, Magpie Knits, or download the pass online. Once you're done, turn in your completed booklet to J Fenton Too or Magpie Knits to claim your Winter Friend prize!

2. Grand Illumination

Admission is free and parking is complimentary at Market and Water Street garages from 5-9PM.

Friday, December 5th, 5-8PM

This spectacular community tree lighting event features live music, food, games, prizes, special guests, and plenty of holiday fun for all ages. Two dozen holiday market vendors will be showcasing their goods, and Charlottesville Ale Trail will have a variety of beverages for purchase. Meanwhile, the kids zone features bounce houses, face painting, giveaways, and so much more! The tree features 20,000 LED lights and will be lit at approximately 7:30PM. Check this website for more info!

3. Selfies with Santa & Classics on the Big Screen

Saturday, November 29th, 10AM-2PM

Santa is coming to the Paramount Theater for free photos! Bring your family downtown to share your wish list with Santa, snap a photo for your holiday card, and catch a few beloved holiday classics on the big screen.

4. Charlottesville Holiday Market

Each Saturday from November 29th - December 20th, 9AM-1PM at 100 E. Water St.

Charlottesville's Holiday Market features great opportunities for artisans to sell their wares in Downtown Charlottesville during the greatest time of the year! Shop local and find one-of-kind, handmade items that will make the ideal gift of loved ones.

5. Downtown Holiday Express

Saturdays, 10AM-2PM

The Downtown Holiday Express will be available for free rides down the mall every Saturday during the holiday season. Come enjoy the magic Downtown!

6. Pose for a Picture with the <3CVILLE sign

Back again after popular demand! The <3CVILLE sign will be out on the Downtown Mall again this winter for all your selfie needs starting on 11/14. Stop by and grab a photo in front of this Insta-worthy light display before it's gone!

7. Santa Fun Run

Credit: https://themaxmandu.com/

Saturday, December 6th

Have you ever wanted to be one of hundreds of happy Santas walking or running through Charlottesville’s most festive streets?? Then you've got to participate in the Arc of the Piedmont's annual Santa Fun Run! This cherished community event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season! The run takes place along a one-mile route on the downtown mall. Registration includes a Santa suit or elf ears, light refreshments before the race, and photo ops with The Arc’s very own Santa. Register here!

8. Book Your Stay

The winter season is a great time to visit the Charlottesville area with increased availability and lower rates on accommodations. It also means more intimate experiences at local wineries, restaurants, events, and other points of interest -- there's plenty of memories to be made in Charlottesville and Albemarle County!

Need some recommendations? Check out our top ten reasons to visit in the winter, visit one of our mobile visitor centers during your trip, or speak with one of our knowledgeable travel specialists! We look forward to welcoming you this winter!

Places to Stay Charlottesville and Albemarle County offer visitors a wide variety of places to stay, including resorts, hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, cabins, and vacation rentals. Learn More
Mobile Visitor Centers Our Visitor Centers are mobile and operate Wednesday-Sunday at set locations throughout Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Stop by a MVC to speak with a travel specialist and browse a selection of free maps and guides of the area. Learn More

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