Walk Through One Million Holiday Lights At The Lewis Ginter GardenFest Of Lights In Virginia

What are some of the best Christmas events in Virginia?

• Natural Tunnel State Park (Duffield): Thousands of twinkling lights await visitors at this charming annual event. The Christmas Lighting of the Tunnel is free for those who bring two or more non-perishable food items that go to a local food bank. The magical ride takes you down on the chairlift as the tunnel surrounds you with thousands of Christmas lights and animated Christmas displays. Stand by the warm fire with some hot chocolate and Christmas carols. The best part comes from the folks of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association who will be dressed in period clothing telling stories of Christmas from 1775 in the Carter Cabin, one of Scott County's historic buildings.

• Omni Homestead Resort (Hot Springs): Did you know that since 1766, the Homestead Resort has hosted travelers and residents to its magnificent, sprawling space? The gorgeous mountains provide the athletes in the group with snowboarding, skiing, and snowmobiling, but there is no more magical time than during the holidays. Starting with the foyer, the Great Hall Tree is beautifully decorated and sits on display from Thanksgiving until New Year's. And the season adds lots of old-fashioned fun from s’mores by the fire to holiday cookie decorating, Bedtime Stories with Santa’s Elves, and the Homestead Holiday Express Hayride.

• Williamsburg: The decorated historic homes here are just a tiny piece of what you'll find in this historic town at Christmastime.  The Williamsburg Christmas Market is a free event with unique vendors and visits with Santa, offering live music, and a fire pit for warming off the chill. Walk around and explore other boutique shops providing the best holiday gifts and have at least one specially prepared meal here, such as the Shrimp & Grits from Honey Butter’s Kitchen at the Candle Factory.