This time of year is magical in the Shenandoah Valley, and we’ve rounded up the coolest Christmas experiences we’re sure your family will enjoy. From intimate moments to celebrations of the season, these are the cream of the crop for memory making. Enjoy!
Lexington’s Horse-Drawn Carriages
A beloved attraction in one of the Valley’s most beautiful historic downtowns, Lexington Carriage Company has brought joy to so many since their founding in 1985. Teams of horses pull carriages along the streets of Lexington for narrated history tours from April 1 through October 31, but the holiday season adds special delight with Christmas Light Rides. Book your spot for a ride between December 19 and 22, 2023.
Lexington Carriage Company
Santa’s Scenic Railway in Staunton
All aboard for cookies, cocoa, and fun with Santa! The Santa’s Scenic Railway train pulls out every day of the week except Mondays from November 25 through December 22 (Santa must get back to the North Pole, of course). Each family will have a chance to visit with Santa during the 50-minute train ride. Reserve your tickets before they’re gone!
Santa’s Scenic Railway
Lantern Tours at Frontier Culture Museum
If you’ve ever considered what Christmas may have been like in another place and time, take a walk and get a glimpse. Join in the Frontier Culture Museum’s Lantern Tours for a peek at 1661 England, 1778 Ireland, 1765 Germany, 1820 Shenandoah Valley, and 1851 Staunton. The tours are offered December 15-17 and 20-23. You won’t want to skip this special event; secure your tickets now.
Frontier Culture Museum
Elf, The Musical
Wayne Theatre in Waynsboro offers Arts Education Programming, which means you can enjoy the Christmas classic, Elf, which includes kids in grades K through 12 as part of the cast. It’s going to be a fantastic rendition of Buddy the Elf’s New York City adventure to find his father and rekindle the Christmas spirit. And since it’s a musical, “the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loudly for all to hear.” Get your tickets for a show between December 8 and 10.
View this post on Instagram
Winchester’s Old World Christmas
It feels like an Old World European holiday market during Winchester Old Town Winter Village days. From December 8 through 10, the pedestrian mall exudes even more charm than usual with traditional European foods and beverages, artisans, caroling, carriage rides, and even visits from both Santa Claus and The Grinch. Winter Village is a free event. [Winter Village Map]
View this post on Instagram
A Christmas Carol at Blackfriars Playhouse
The American Shakespeare Center never lets us down. Each year they put on A Christmas Carol, and this year is no different. Meet Ebenezer Scrooge, Jacob Marley, and of course, Tiny Tim in this beloved tale by Charles Dickens. Get your tickets now for a show before December 30.
Ben Lambert and Molly Martinez-Collins star in A Christmas Carol at American Shakespeare Center Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, VA. Photo by October Grace Media.
Caroling in the Caverns
What are the acoustics like in a cavern? Find out when you join in the merriment of Caroling in Luray Caverns with The Shriners. It’s a benefit for Shriners Hospital for Children and it’s held December 9. Musical guests will fill the great space while candlelight adds a festive touch to the special occasion.
View this post on Instagram
Make it an epic experience in the Shenandoah Valley this season.
Header image: Virginia Scenic Railway