Blog > Richmond Holiday Happenings: November and December Events to Light Up the Season
Richmond Holiday Happenings: November and December Events to Light Up the Season
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Richmond Holiday Happenings: November and December Events to Light Up the Season
The holiday season in Richmond does not wait for December to get festive. As soon as November hits, the city starts buzzing with tree lightings, markets, and seasonal celebrations that bring neighbors together across the region. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, there is no better time to explore the charm, culture, and creativity Richmond offers during the holidays. Here's your local guide to what’s going on.
November Highlights in Richmond
Firehouse Theatre: “The Thanksgiving Play”
Location: 1609 W Broad Street, Richmond
Dates: November 7–30, 2025
This timely comedy takes a satirical look at how well-meaning people can miss the mark while trying to honor history. Catch a performance at one of Richmond’s most beloved local theaters.
Details and Tickets
Hardywood's Gingerbread Stout Release Party
Location: Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
Dates: November 8–9, 2025
Richmond's seasonal craft beer tradition returns. With live music, food trucks, and early gift vendors, this event always draws a lively crowd.
Richmond Folk Festival Encore Series
Location: Various venues
Dates: Select Fridays in November
Missed the October festival? Enjoy encore performances and community workshops that celebrate diverse music traditions.
Friendsgiving on the James
Location: Rocketts Landing
Date: November 21, 2025
Local chefs and food trucks bring warmth to the riverfront in a walk-around tasting event. Cozy fire pits, waterfront views, and local vendors make this a unique kickoff to the holiday season.
Lights, Music, and Holiday Cheer: December Events
Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights
Location: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Dates: November 22, 2025 – January 7, 2026
This can’t-miss tradition features over a million lights, botanical themes, model trains, and cozy fire pits. Timed entry tickets are recommended.
Visit Site
RVA Illuminates
Location: Kanawha Plaza
Date: December 6, 2025
Watch downtown Richmond light up for the holidays. Enjoy live music, food vendors, and family-friendly fun.
Richmond Christmas Parade
Location: Broad Street, starting at Arthur Ashe Boulevard
Date: December 6, 2025, 10:15 a.m.
This parade features giant balloons, bands, and floats. Arrive early for the best views.
Parade Route
Shop Local at Richmond's Holiday Markets
Carytown Holiday Artisan Market
Location: Cary Street
Dates: Sundays, November 17 – December 22
Shop handmade gifts and enjoy the festive atmosphere in one of Richmond’s most iconic neighborhoods.
Richmond Night Market – Holiday Edition
Location: 17th Street Market
Date: December 14, 2025
Live music, handmade goods, and holiday cheer.
More Info
Bizarre Bazaar Christmas Collection
Location: Richmond Raceway Complex
Dates: November 28 – December 1, 2025
Over 500 vendors offering holiday decor, gifts, and gourmet food.
Event Site
Community and Cultural Events You’ll Love
Libbie Mill Tree Lighting and Cocoa Crawl
Location: Libbie Mill Midtown
Date: December 12, 2025
Live music, holiday treats, and a cheerful neighborhood vibe.
Holiday Villages at Stony Point
Location: Stony Point Fashion Park
Dates: Weekends in December
Seasonal photo ops, skating, and pop-up shopping events in a festive setting.
Agecroft Hall's Tudor Christmas Tours
Location: Windsor Farms
Dates: Weekends in December
Step into the 16th century with immersive candlelight tours and historic décor.
Learn More
Maymont Candlelight Walks
Location: Maymont Mansion
Dates: December 19–22, 2025
Tour the estate with seasonal decorations and stories of Gilded Age holiday traditions.
Event Details
Make the Most of the Holidays in Richmond
From historic tours to pop-up markets and light shows, Richmond offers countless ways to celebrate the season. It is a wonderful time to explore the neighborhoods, soak in the culture, and experience firsthand what makes this city so full of character.
If you are visiting or thinking of moving to the area, these events provide a perfect snapshot of Richmond’s energy and warmth. Want to know which communities offer walkable access to markets or the most decorated streets in December? Let’s chat.
Let’s Find the Neighborhood That Feels Like Home
Thinking about buying a home near the city’s most festive neighborhoods? Let’s connect. I can help you find a space that fits your lifestyle all year round—whether you are drawn to downtown living or quiet communities with twinkling lights. Reach out today to schedule a personalized neighborhood tour.
