It's the most wonderful time of the year here in Virginia. As we enjoy the crisp fall weather, we can't help but look ahead to the upcoming season of celebrating the holidays in Virginia with family, friends, and loved ones. Whether you're looking to take part in a classic Christmas celebration or experience something totally new, you'll want to plan a visit to Bedford, an enchanting Virginia Christmas town. You'll find that this picturesque mountain town is infused with the spirit of the holidays. From the glow of Christmas lights downtown to the dusting of snow up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, here's why a Bedford VA Christmas is one that belongs at the very top of your wish list.
1. Stop by the Bedford Area Welcome Center for the Festival of Trees.
Welcome to Bedford! To celebrate the holidays, the Welcome Center will be decked out in stunning lights and other seasonal decorations. This year will mark the 16th annual Festival of the Trees, which will run from November through January at the Bedford Area Welcome Center.
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2. Explore the Artisan Markets and take part in Small Business Saturday.
Meet some of Bedford's most talented artisans and local vendors at the Mistletoe Maker's Market. It's the perfect place to browse for gifts or one-of-a-kind items for your home. Small Business Saturday is also a great way to give back to the local community and let's face it, there are few things more fun than shopping local! You'll love admiring the fine art, jewelry, soaps and body products, woodworking, and many more items.
The festivities continue on December 2nd, 2024, with the annual Peaks of Otter Classic Christmas 5K. The race begins at Beale's and is welcome to runners and walkers alike. Enjoy the crisp morning air as you also admire the landmarks of Downtown Bedford.
The holiday parade will make its way through downtown Bedford. Old Saint Nick himself will be joining in on the fun, so don't miss your chance to wave and snap a photo! That evening, you can experience Christmas in Centertown and the annual lighting of the Christmas Tree. The event will include live music, dancers, and other festivities you won't want to miss.
Downtown Bedford is a treasure trove of unique shops and stores where you can find countless gifts for everyone on your list. Whether you're looking for homemade crafts, clothing, jewelry, or something else altogether, you're bound to find it in one of the friendly downtown shops. Who knew that holiday shopping could be such an enjoyable experience? This year, Something Else Boutique & BVA Mercantile have partnered together to create an unforgettable shopping event known as Sleigh All Day, which features unique items for sale as well as events for visitors.
No visit to Bedford would be complete without at least a little time spent in the mountains. Whether you're looking for a refreshing stroll or a hike through the mountains, you'll find plenty of opportunities to get your nature fix while you visit. Need some inspiration? Check out the nearby Peaks of Otter trail.
Beale's Brewery is a relatively new addition to Bedford's food and drink scene, and it's become a beloved staple of the community. Whether you're looking for a seasonal craft brew to enjoy or something to snack on, you'll love the community feel of this small-town brewpub.
8. Experience the Flames of Memory at the National D-Day Memorial.
Bedford, Virginia is home to the National D-Day Memorial, a tribute to the sacrifice and bravery exhibited by those involved in our country's WWII efforts. Beautiful any time of year, the monument is especially moving during the holidays. The Flames of Memory honors the 4,414 men killed on D-Day with thousands of luminarias. Those who attend on this day will experience WWII camp displays, Christmas crafts, and pictures with a G.I. Santa. During all three nights, Nomad Coffee will be on-site to provide warm beverages. If you are interested in learning more about the event, you can visit the official Flames of Memories or Christmas in Wartime website.
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9. Drive through the Elks Home Annual Light Display.
This year will mark nearly 80 years that the Elks Home has set up a mesmerizing light display for visitors and residents to enjoy. Drive through and you'll be delighted by the cheerful displays and animations that light up the night.
10. Stay the night at a cozy inn or bed & breakfast.
So much exploring warrants a good night's sleep, so why not stay at one of the local bed & breakfasts? Bedford Landings is one of many nearby accommodations that will make you feel like you've found a second home. This timber-framed inn is located near Smith Mountain Lake and promises to be the perfect landing spot for your trip. You can also check out these unique vacation rentals in Bedford VA.
Have you visited Bedford, Virginia during the holiday season before? If so, we'd love to hear about your favorite experiences there. For more information and additional trip recommendations, be sure to visit Destination Bedford, Virginia online.
I may be biased, but there's no place like Virginia, and wintertime is no exception. With seasonal weather and enchanting festivities to enjoy, there's just no shortage of ways to embrace our beautiful state. Whether you're in the mood for an invigorating hike through the woods or a cozy fireplace in a historic tavern, there's a little something for everyone this time of year. So, if you're looking for ways to make the most of these chilly months, here's a list of incredible places to visit in Virginia in winter. Take it from me, you’re in for the best cold-weather fun that our state has to offer. Bundle up folks, the weather might be chilly for these outdoor adventures, but that makes it more fun!
First up on our list of places to visit in Virginia in winter is a perfect spot for families. Moreover, this scenic resort is a place for all seasons. Come wintertime, though, visitors are enchanted by the gorgeous natural surroundings. While skiing is a popular activity here, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy yourself here. In fact, there's even an indoor swimming pool that's been voted among the very best in the country! Learn more about why you'll want to plan a trip to Massanutten Resort in Virginia.
We've said it many times before — Virginia's state parks are gorgeous year-round. And this next destination is something of a hidden gem. The beautiful Caledon State Park is considered a National Natural Landmark. Visitors often come to this part of the state to spot bald eagles. During the winter, this place becomes simply breathtaking.
It comes as no surprise that Mabry Mill is one of the most photographed spots along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Fewer people venture out to this pristine site during the winter. If you do, however, your reward will be great. There's also a nearby lodge where you can warm up and grab a tasty bite to eat. Before you visit, be sure to check to make sure the Blue Ridge Parkway is open. Sometimes it closes due to winter weather.
4. Mount Vernon
There's something about wintertime that makes George Washington's Mount Vernon all the more impressive. When it comes to a picturesque snowy lawn, this place takes first prize. Enjoy a grand tour of this beautiful state overlooking the Potomac River. While you're there, be sure to check out the one-of-a-kind 16-sided barn. It's one of the most underrated attractions in Virginia!
Visiting outdoor gardens during the wintertime may not seem like the best idea. However, you'd be remiss to pass up a chance to visit Meadowlark in Northern Virginia. The Korean Bell Garden at Meadowlark is a sight to behold, especially during winter. It's this time of year that the ornate architecture truly stands out. Visitors will also enjoy strolling these beautiful grounds. Plus, their Christmas lights walk is a must!
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6. Shields Tavern (Williamsburg)
While outdoor sites certainly have their appeal, there's something to be said for cozying up indoors with a delicious meal. And there's no place cozier than the historic Shields Tavern in Williamsburg. This 18th-century tavern features fiddle players, southern fare, and an inviting atmosphere. A trip to Shields Tavern is one of the many reasons to visit Colonial Williamsburg.
A trip to southwest Virginia will bring you some of the most beautiful, uninterrupted landscapes in the entire state. These 400 acres once were part of Daniel Boone’s great exploration, and the road connected the coast to the western part of the country. During winter, incredible views of Cumberland Mountain create a dramatic and striking vision. Due to its remote location, Wilderness Road State Park is one of the least-visited parks in Virginia, so it's definitely a hidden gem!
Just like Meadowlark Gardens, Lewis Ginter is another botanical garden that truly transforms this time of year. When evening falls, the garden blooms into all sorts of light and spectacles. Learn more about how you can see millions of glowing lights at this beloved holiday light walk in Virginia. Keep in mind that tickets are required.
9. Old Town Alexandria
Alexandria isn't exactly a small town, but there's something about a stroll through Old Town that is truly charming. From the beautiful buildings to the decorated storefronts, this historic area simply transforms in the winter. In fact, Alexandria might just be Virginia's most walkable town -- even in the winter!
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10. Great Falls Park (McLean)
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If you've never explored a national park during the winter, you'll want to give Great Falls Park a visit this season. Icicles and waterfalls alike adorn the landscape in a scene reminiscent of a fairytale. There are plenty of nearby trails for an invigorating stroll through the woods. There's a lot to love about Great Falls Park in Virginia, wouldn't you agree?
What are some of your favorite places to visit in Virginia in winter? We'd love to hear about your experience or any other sites you'd recommend this time of year. For more beautiful winter scenery, be sure to check out these gorgeous frozen waterfalls in Virginia that need to be seen to be believed. And while you're at it, check out these attractions in Virginia that are even more stunning in the wintertime.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
