If you ever wanted to step into a Hallmark Christmas movie, just take a trip to downtown Lexington. No, there isn’t soft, powdery snow right now, but the streets are adorned with wreaths, storefronts are beautifully decorated, and there is a warm sense of cheer that seems to come from nowhere and everywhere all at once. Lexington loves Christmas!
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The tree has already been lit for the season. You’ll find it tucked into the corner of Hopkins Green, a tiny wrought iron-wrapped sanctuary featuring a large white arbor, small statues, and benches. Visit, snap photos, or enjoy watching passersby for a bit. Or, find the large “Letters to Santa” box and drop your last minute wish list and note.
Shopping
Shopping is so much fun in downtown Lexington with cheerful clerks and magical windows to admire. Sugar Maple Trading Company has the largest window on Main Street, which means there are great expectations for what they roll out next. They never disappoint, and they have great stocking stuffers and hard-to-find vintage glass.
Shop late this season! Participating stores are extending their hours December 9 and roaming Dickens carolers will add extra joy to the evening. If you happen to shop on December 17, you can stop in to The Gin Hotel between 2 and 5 p.m. for free gift wrapping.
Pro Tip: Sugar Maple is a hot spot for Lexington souvenir gifts, as is Downtown Books.
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Dining
There are seasonal flavors and smells all around. Enjoy a Christmas cocktail at TAPS or Haywood’s Piano Bar; dinner at Southern Inn or Red Hen; lunch at Bistro on Main or Pure Eats; and breakfast at Pronto Gelato or Blue Sky Bakery. Don’t forget a donut at Pure Eats!
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Lodging
Stay the night to appreciate the beauty of the lights and the calm of a charming downtown. The Georges, a Travel + Leisure touted World’s Best Hotel, recently expanded into Lawyer’s Row behind the historic Main Street courthouse as well as the former Sheridan Livery. Occupying such spaces offers the opportunity to personalize and customize every room and suite, which they do.
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Entertainment
- Holiday Pops at Lenfest Center for the Performing Arts (December 5 and 6)
- Luminary Nights at Natural Bridge State Park (December 9-11 and 16-18)
- Historic Churches of Lexington Open House (December 16)
- Charles Billingsley in Concert at Natural Bridge Hotel (December 22)
- Live music can be found at Lexington breweries, wineries, and some restaurants most weekends
- Calendar of Events
Enjoy the holiday season in quaint and Christmasy Lexington!
Header image by Steve Shires and courtesy of Lexington & Rockbridge Area Tourism.