There's a festival in the works for Friday, August 9th through Sunday, August 11th and it's centered around everyone's favorite camping activity: stargazing. The Night Sky Festival in Shenandoah National Park is a magic-filled weekend of all things astronomy: telescope viewing, expert-led discussions about the night sky as an important resource, Junior Ranger programs, and of course, good old fashioned star gazing.
If you've never experienced the night sky over Shenandoah National Park, you've been missing out on a truly captivating experience. The park's high elevation and protection from urban areas offer a unique setting for appreciating the magical night sky.
While visitors are encouraged to stargaze in the park any time of year, there's an annual event that celebrates all things celestial: the Night Sky Festival.
The festival will include a series of presentations by astronomy experts who will emphasize in various ways just how important the night sky is as a resource to the park.
There will also be guided constellation tours so visitors can have a map of the stars overhead. Plan to be amazed as you look at the night sky through advanced telescopes.
The activities will take place in a variety of locations throughout the park. Those that are planning to attend can find lodging at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51), Skyland (mile 41.7 & 42.5), or Lewis Mountain (mile 57.5). Camping is also a fun option!
So whether you consider yourself a stargazing expert or are enthusiastic to learn more about the constellations, you'll find your experience of the Night Sky Festival to be rewarding on every level.
What are your thoughts on this incredible annual stargazing festival? We'd love to hear from you! For more information, you can follow along on Facebook or visit the Night Sky Festival information page by clicking here.
I just adore Christmas in Virginia. From beautifully decorated Main Streets to elaborate window displays, the holidays are alive and well here in the Old Dominion. And while Virginians do a lot of things well, there's one thing we do especially well this time of year ... LIGHTS. So, in the interest of keeping the holiday spirit going strong, we've looked around to find some of the best Christmas lights in Virginia, from drive-through Christmas lights in Virginia to walk-thru displays. If you've asked yourself lately, "Where are there Christmas lights near me," we've got the answer - 11 of the best Christmas light displays in Virginia.
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From traditional to non-traditional, LED to laser, these holiday lights are truly works of art (and I'm guessing a lot of patience). You're going to want to make at least a few of these part of your holiday traditions from now on - assuming you haven't already.
Celebration in Lights was Virginia’s first drive-through lights display and after more than two decades, it is still going strong. Join in on the fun at Newport News Park with more than one million shimmering lights, 350 animated displays, and more than 50 arches. You definitely don't want to miss this beloved Christmas event in Virginia.
Every year, the beach comes alive with hundreds of thousands of lights as the Virginia Beach boardwalk is transformed into a nautical winter wonderland. Featuring dozens of light displays, a 40-foot Christmas tree, and, of course, Santa and his elves, the "Fanta-Sea" of lights draws more than 25,000 visitors every year and has been named one of the Southeast Tourism Society’s "Top 20 November Events." It's one of the best Christmas light displays in Virginia and it belongs on your holiday bucket list. Stop by Visit Virginia Beach to learn more.
3. Bull Run Festival of Lights, Centreville
The Bull Run Festival of Lights is an annual event featuring thousands and thousands of lights, animated displays, and Christmas decorations stretching over 2.5 miles at Bull Run Regional Park. The popular Christmas event in Virginia is a full-on holiday spectacular with a Holiday Village offering bonfires, s’mores, activities for the kids, and holiday shopping, plus a Christmas Carnival. For a complete list of activities, dates, and times, visit Bull Run Festival of Lights.
4. Illuminate Light Show and Santa’s Village at The Meadow Event Park, Doswell
After you see hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights perfectly synchronized to music from your car radio, an 80-foot tunnel, and 50-foot Christmas trees, you’re going to want to make Illuminate part of your holiday traditions for sure. With dancing snowmen, singing trees, Santas galore, and much more, Illuminate is worth the trip. After the lights, visit Santa’s village for pictures with St. Nick himself. Visit Illuminate Light Show to plan your visit.
5. Natural Tunnel Holiday Lighting of the Tunnel, Duffield
Natural Tunnels is one of Virginia’s natural wonders any time of the year. But with holiday lights? It just doesn’t get much better. Ride the chairlift past thousands of sparkling lights, animated displays, and holiday decorations. Then enjoy music, hot chocolate, and Santa visits, as well as historic re-enactments of a 1775 Frontier Christmas at the nearby Carter Cabin. This is one Christmas event in Virginia you don't want to miss. Learn more at Natural Tunnel State Park.
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6. Dominion Festival of Lights at Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, Richmond
Lewis Ginter lights up the nights with millions of twinkling lights, botanical decorations, model trains, holiday dinners, a fire pit, s’mores, family activities, and so much more. Add even more magic to your visit with a behind-the-scenes tour on select days. Visit Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens to learn more.
Everything you love about Busch Gardens becomes that much more thrilling when wrapped in lights. This is one of those Christmas lights in Virginia everyone has to experience at least once. Featuring more than 10 million lights, Christmas Town is Busch Garden’s annual holiday extravaganza. The event includes rides, holiday shows, Christmas traditions from around the world, and, of course, Santa's workshop. You can even do a bit of Christmas shopping during your visit. Visit Busch Gardens Christmas Town to learn more.
8. Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna
Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights is a breathtaking display of twinkling lights alongside countless family-friendly events and activities. Bundle up for this walk-through Christmas lights display in Virginia that boasts a ton of photo opportunities, hot chocolate and holiday goodies, and souvenirs galore. To see a complete list of upcoming events and to buy tickets online, visit Winter Walk of Lights.
9. Danville Community Light Show, Danville
Featuring displays created exclusively by members of the Danville community, from private residents to local businesses, the Danville Community Lights Show offers an exciting display of holiday lights and decorations. In 2014, the show’s inaugural year, more than 3,500 visitors came through, raising $4,200 for local non-profits and organizations. Located at Ballou Park, the popular Christmas event in Virginia raised $19,500 in 2020. Visit the Community Holiday Light Show website for dates, times, and more information.
10. Garden of Lights at Norfolk Botanical Garden, Norfolk
Join the Norfolk Botanical Garden for their annual Million Bulb Walk this Christmas season. This spectacular walk-through display covers more than two miles and features millions of sparkling lights. The 2014 display was voted #8 in the nation by USA Today and "10 Best." Visit Norfolk Botanical Garden for times and pricing.
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11. Holiday Magic Laser Light Show at the Virginia Living Museum’s Abbit Planetarium, Newport News
The Abitt Planetarium at The Virginia Living Museum features a Christmas lights spectacular with a dazzling display of laser lights accompanied by 15 of your favorite holiday songs - Joy To The World, Jingle Bell Rock, and Linus and Lucy, for example. Visit The Virginia Living Museum for more information, including dates, times, and admission costs.
If you've asked yourself, "Where can I find magical Christmas lights near me," you can now plan a visit to some or all of the best Christmas lights in Virginia. Where will you start? If you've been to one - or more - of these amazing holiday lights extravaganzas, we would love to hear about your experience. Or maybe there's a good one we've left off the list? Let us know about the best Christmas light displays in Virginia in the comments below! If you're up for a bit of exploring this holiday season, plan a visit to these enchanting Christmas towns in Virginia. Still most interested in the lights? Check out this road trip of Christmas lights in Virginia. And don't forget to bring your coziest winter jacket with you. Oh, what fun!
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...
