When it comes to Christmas in Virginia, it really is all about the lights. Whether it's the twinkling star atop our tree, the gentle candles glowing in the window, or, in the case of Celebration in Lights, the grand total of 1 million festive twinkle lights. This spectacular ensemble can be enjoyed in a convenient drive through that's set up in Newport News Park. Take a look at what's in store:
Visitors of all ages will feel the magic of Newport News' Celebration in Lights, now celebrating its 25th anniversary.
This spectacular seasonal event dazzles Newport News Park in over one million Christmas lights of all shapes in sizes.
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And the best part of all? You can experience it all from the warmth of your car. Celebration in Lights is Virginia's first drive through holiday lights event, and each year keeps getting brighter.
In addition to the whimsical lights and animated displays, this year's event will also feature two LED screens with festive holiday scenes.
As you meander down the two-mile drive, you'll want to take your time to admire the detail and artful design of each display. It's truly magnificent.
After having driven through 43 archways and admiring nearly 300 individual displays, you'll feel enchanted by the spirit of the season.
Celebration in Lights takes place form November 23rd, 2017 - January 1st, 2018 from 5:30PM - 10PM.
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Newport News Park is located at 13560 Jefferson Avenue, Newport News, VA 23603. For more information about the 2017-2018 Celebration of Lights, you can visit the official website here. Have you taken part in this annual tradition? We'd love to hear about your experience!
Walk Through One Million Holiday Lights at the Lewis Ginter GardenFest of Lights in Virginia
Discover the Christmas magic of the Dominion Lewis Ginter GardenFest of Lights in Virginia, featuring one million lights and family-friendly fun. Book your tickets now!
What is your favorite thing to do during the holiday season? Besides spending time with my family, I absolutely love seeing all the dazzling light displays. And if I can combine the two, that would be the ultimate Christmas gift for me. Fortunately for us, there are tons of family-friendly holiday events in Virginia. One of our favorites being the annual Dominion Lewis Ginter GardenFest of Lights in Virginia. Each holiday season, the beautiful Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden near Richmond in Henrico is positively transformed into a magical spectacle of glowing displays, trees, and other festive exhibits. Sip on hot cocoa and enjoy the magic of the season with your friends and loved ones at the best holiday lights in VA.
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If you've yet to experience the Dominion Lewis Ginter GardenFest of Lights in Virginia, this is your year as the dazzling display has been voted the "Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights Show” in the United States.
Beautiful any time of the year, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is positively radiant under the glow of one million dazzling lights. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the opportunity to walk through the garden and admire how the trees and plants have contributed to one of the best light displays in Virginia, all wrapped in colorful lights.
This year's theme "Homes & Habitats: A Celebration of Connection" allows us to enjoy the garden's glow while immersed in nature and celebrate the “beauty and importance of interconnected environments.” I truly love this theme as it will show how the rhythmic seasons of life connect us all. Those visiting these holiday lights in Virginia also have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus himself in the Conservatory.
One of our favorite parts of the whole event is appreciating the uniqueness in each and every light display and feeling the love emanating forth at this celebration of Christmas in Virginia. A returning family favorite is a freshly cut, live tree in the Conservatory, all decked out in a botanical theme.
Whether you're going with a romantic interest, family, or friends, you're bound to feel spellbound by the Dominion Lewis Ginter GardenFest of Lights in Virginia holiday walk-thru event.
Address: 1800 Lakeside Ave, Henrico, VA 23228
For more information, visit the Lewis Ginter GardenFest of Lights in Virginia website, where visitors are required to book their timed tickets in advance. For those who have visited these lovely holiday lights in Virginia, we hope to see you there this year. And while you're staying near Richmond, be sure to reserve a nice hotel from Booking.com.
It is perhaps the greatest hallmark of summer in the United States: the Fourth of July. And, if you're like most Americans, you're probably wondering "where to watch fireworks near me." Well, you've certainly come to the right place! The following list includes firework displays in Virginia that are worth checking out, so continue reading to find the best one for you this year.
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1. Chesterfield Fireworks Show — Chesterfield
On July 4th, head to the Chesterfield County Fairground for this free and fun family event. The gates will open at 5:00 p.m. with a spectacular show planned for dusk. Be sure to bring your own picnic blanket. There's limited parking, and you'll want to be sure to enter the parking areas from the Krause Road entrance. There will also be live music at this year's Chesterfield Fireworks Show.
2. Fireworks At The Diamond — Richmond
Wondering where to watch fireworks near Richmond, VA? Head to the Diamond, because nothing pairs with fireworks quite like baseball. The Diamond Stadium in Richmond really does celebrate Independence Day in style. It's an annual tradition to end the game with a brilliant display of fireworks -- you won't want to miss it!
3. July 4th Cruise-In — Wytheville
Wondering about the best fireworks displays in Southwest Virginia? Head to the July 4th Celebration Cruise-in, which includes all kinds of family fun, from a Touch-A-Truck event to a Patriotic Kids Parade. In addition to over 6 local band performances, there will of course be an unforgettable fireworks display. Don't miss it!
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4. Independence Day Celebration At Poplar Forest — Bedford
Looking for an authentic Independence Day celebration? Look no further than Thomas Jefferson's Popular Forest in Bedford, which is hosting a Fourth of July extravaganza. This Founding Father cited the 4th of July as the only birthday worth commemorating. Guests can look forward to demonstrations by colonial artisans, kid-friendly games, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and more. Learn more about attending the Independence Day Celebration at Poplar Forest.
5. Independence Fireworks At Mount Vernon — Alexandria
One of the state's most patriotic events this summer, An American Celebration is an event steeped in history and celebration. Watch fireworks soar over the Potomac River and participate in historic games. Other not-to-be-missed events include naturalization ceremonies for new American citizens as well as Revolutionary Army military drills.
6. July 4th At Bluemont Vineyard — Bluemont
For an unforgettable 4th of July toast, head to Bluemont Vineyard. The tasting room will be open from 10:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. and during twilight, you'll have a beautiful view of a handful of different fireworks displays throughout Loudoun Valley. Festive drinks include seasonal sangria, wine slushies, and seasonal bomb pop sparklers. Please note that reservations are required. Learn more on the Bluemont Vineyard website.
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7. Fourth Of July Downtown Get Down — Luray
One of the liveliest places to celebrate July 4th in the Shenandoah Valley, Luray hosts an annual Downtown Get Down. This year's event will include live music, shopping specials, food trucks, and a duck race. The evening will conclude with an unforgettable fireworks show launched from the fairgrounds.
Of course, these are just a handful of fireworks displays that will be taking place around Virginia this summer. Where are you planning to celebrate? Share with us! And, if you're looking for more summer fun in Virginia, check out our guide below: