One of Virginia’s sweetest holiday destinations is Luray and Page County. Warm and welcoming, the area is bursting with spirit each weekend in December. In fact, there’s no reason your jolly holidays shouldn’t include a visit to Luray, Virginia.
December 3-5
A festive photo (or a few!) are required this season. Whether it’s the twinkle in Santa’s eye or the twinkling of the Luray community tree, December 3 offers opportunities to delight the kid in all of us and capture it for posterity. Indulge in s’mores and cookies when you shop the craft vendors and visit with Santa at the annual Chamber Holiday Festival at the Visitor’s Center from 3 to 8 p.m. Then it’s on to the Tree Lighting Ceremony at Performing Arts Luray at 7:30 p.m. Stay toasty with free hot chocolate, courtesy of Baby Moons.
Meet the horses of Fort Valley Ranch on December 4 and 11 for their Cocoa and Sweets Rides, one-hour guided horseback rides that includes hot cocoa and homemade treats. Advance registration is required and participants will also take home a Fort Valley Ranch ornament.
The Town of Stanley will host their own Christmas parade and tree lighting on December 4, where Santa will make another appearance for photos.
December 10-11
The weekend of December 10 and 11 brings more festive fun. Shop local and shop late in both Luray and the Town of Shenandoah on Friday with small businesses keeping their doors open until 8 p.m. to help you beat the holiday rush.
Luray’s annual Christmas Parade is Saturday, December 10 at 6 p.m. with the theme “All I Want for Christmas Is …” Will there be a “two front teeth” entry? There must be! Following the parade, participating homes in the Town of Luray are illuminated for Light Up Luray. Enjoy a self-guided drive to enjoy the light displays through Christmas Day.
The Town of Shenandoah will light their Christmas Tree at Big Gem Park on December 11 at 6 p.m. with Santa making an appearance. Be sure to get a cookie or candy cane for your sweet tooth.
December 18
The last weekend before Christmas features a special event at Luray Caverns: Shriners Caroling in the Caverns from 6 to 9 p.m. The event benefits Shriners Children’s Hospital and includes performances by local choirs and musical ensembles. Children 12 and under are free; adults are $15 each.
Rest & Relax
Put up your feet after shopping and touring the lights. After all, Luray isn’t called the Cabin Capital of Virginia for nothing. Start here to find a cozy cabin, bed and breakfast, or hotel.
Should you find yourself in Luray and Page County on Christmas Eve, know that Christmas Eve Dinner will be ready for you at Mimslyn Inn. Make a reservation to save your seat. Their other restaurants – The Speakeasy and Circa ’31 – are open 5 to 9 p.m. in December.
There’s more to explore and love in Luray and Page County, Virginia. Get a jump on your next trip by perusing VisitLurayPage.com.
Header image courtesy of Town of Luray.