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Holiday Happenings Across Hampton Roads - 2025 Snapshot

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/09 .. ppenings-across-hampton-roads-2025-snapshot.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, December 9th 2025 at 17:36 GMT by Daily Press

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Holiday Happenings Across Hampton Roads – A 2025 Snapshot

If you’re looking to soak up the sparkle of the season in the Hampton Roads area, the Daily Press’ comprehensive “Holiday Events in Hampton Roads 2025” roundup is a handy roadmap. The article, published on December 9, 2025, catalogs a veritable calendar of lights, parades, markets, concerts, and family‑friendly attractions that stretch from Chesapeake’s waterfront to Newport News’ historic district. Below is a concise yet thorough summary of the key happenings, with a few extra details that may help you plan your winter outings.

1. Lights & Illuminations

Chesapeake – Lights of Chesapeake The city’s iconic waterfront illumination begins on December 1 and runs through January 2. The “Lights of Chesapeake” includes a multi‑level light show, live music, and a “Carriage Ride” across the harbor. Tickets can be purchased online via the Chesapeake Parks & Recreation site (link provided in the original article). The downtown area hosts a “Light‑Up” carnival, complete with LED installations and themed photo booths.

Virginia Beach – Holiday Parade & Boardwalk Lights Virginia Beach kicks off its holiday season on December 4 with a festive parade that features marching bands, Santa’s sleigh, and elaborate floats. After the parade, the Boardwalk is transformed into a shimmering promenade. Visitors can stroll the 3‑mile stretch, enjoy seasonal treats from food vendors, and watch the nightly “Light Fest” display. The article links to the Boardwalk’s official holiday schedule for exact times.

Portsmouth – Holiday Lights & Market Portsmouth’s “Lights & Laughter” event runs from December 6–18, centered around the City Hall Square. It includes interactive light art installations and a holiday market selling handmade crafts. Ticket details are posted on Portsmouth’s official tourism page.

Williamsburg – Governor’s Palace Holiday Lights The historic Governor’s Palace in Williamsburg will host a nightly “Holiday Light Experience” from December 8–24. Visitors can stroll through the palace’s gardens, which will feature 2.5 million LED lights, while enjoying live classical music. Reservations are required; the palace’s website offers an online booking link.

2. Parades & Floats

Norfolk – Holiday Parade of Lights Norfolk’s annual parade, scheduled for December 12, is a staple of the community. The article highlights the parade’s route, which takes it through downtown Norfolk, past the Convention Center, and down to the waterfront. The parade is free, but the event page includes a PDF of the program for those interested in the float lineup.

Chesapeake – Christmas Parade Chesapeake’s Christmas Parade on December 13 features local high school bands, a marching dragon, and a “Santa’s Workshop” float. Participants can sign up for float sponsorships via the Chesapeake community portal, a link cited in the article.

Newport News – Holiday Parade & Ice Skating Newport News is hosting its “Winter Wonderland” on December 19, featuring a parade of floats, an ice skating rink on the waterfront, and a community sing‑along. The article links to the Newport News event page where attendees can view the map and buy ice‑skating passes.

3. Markets & Festive Crafts

Chesapeake – Holiday Market The Chesapeake Holiday Market takes place every Saturday from December 5–19 in the downtown area. Stalls sell local crafts, gourmet food, and holiday décor. A “Kids’ Corner” offers paper‑making workshops. Tickets are free; the article provides the exact coordinates of the market via a Google Maps link.

Portsmouth – Holiday Market & Food Festival Portsmouth’s market, running from December 6–20, hosts food trucks, artisan vendors, and live cooking demos. The article mentions a “Holiday Foodie Challenge” where visitors can taste and score different treats. Food vendors’ menus can be previewed on the Portsmouth Food Festival page.

Williamsburg – Holiday Craft Fair Williamsburg’s craft fair on December 9–23 offers a mix of handmade jewelry, wreaths, and holiday cards. The article links to a PDF of vendor lists, useful for shoppers looking for unique gifts.

4. Concerts & Cultural Experiences

Norfolk – Holiday Concert at the Virginia Opera The Virginia Opera in Norfolk presents “Christmas Serenade” on December 11 and December 18, featuring carols, orchestral pieces, and a short film about holiday traditions. Tickets can be reserved through the Opera’s online box office link included in the article.

Chesapeake – Holiday Concert at the Chesapeake Symphony Chesapeake Symphony’s “Holiday Harmonies” will play on December 15 and 22 at the Chesapeake City Hall. The article provides a free‑to‑listen‑online stream for those who can’t attend in person.

Newport News – Holiday Jazz Brunch Newport News’ “Jazz & Jingle” brunch takes place on December 14 at the Newport News Arts Center. Jazz musicians perform holiday classics while guests enjoy a curated brunch menu. The brunch is ticketed; reservations can be made via the Newport News Arts Center event page.

5. Family‑Friendly Activities

Virginia Beach – Santa’s Grotto & Gingerbread Workshop Virginia Beach’s “Santa’s Grotto” on December 5 offers kids a chance to meet Santa, plus a gingerbread house workshop for ages 4–10. The article links to the event page where parents can sign up for the workshop.

Chesapeake – Interactive Light Maze The “Light Maze” in downtown Chesapeake is a 3‑meter‑high LED labyrinth open to families on December 8–10. The article mentions that the maze is free and includes a photo opportunity with a Christmas tree backdrop.

Norfolk – Holiday Storytime at the Library The Norfolk Public Library hosts a holiday storytime series on Wednesdays in December. Children can attend story sessions, craft activities, and holiday cookie tastings. Library event details are found via the article’s link to the library calendar.

6. How to Make the Most of the Calendar

The Daily Press article includes several useful “How‑To” tips:

1. Book Early – Many events, especially concerts and themed markets, sell out quickly. The article links to ticketing sites and offers a QR code for expedited booking.

2. Check Weather Forecasts – Outdoor events like the Boardwalk lights or the ice skating rink can be dampened by the winter chill. The article recommends checking the NOAA forecast before heading out.

3. Plan Your Route – With so many events spread across the Hampton Roads region, the article suggests grouping by city to minimize travel time. A custom Google Maps route is available through a link provided in the article.

4. Carry Cash – Some smaller vendors, especially at markets, may not accept credit cards. The article advises carrying small bills for convenience.

Bottom Line

The Daily Press “Holiday Events in Hampton Roads 2025” article serves as a one‑stop guide to the region’s most popular seasonal activities. Whether you’re after dazzling light displays, heart‑warming parades, artisanal markets, or cultural performances, there’s an event scheduled for every interest and age group. By following the embedded links for tickets, maps, and event schedules, you can easily weave these celebrations into your holiday itinerary and enjoy the warmth of community spirit amid the winter chill. Happy holidays!