Downtown Richmond's 2023 Holiday Calendar

From the floats and helium balloons at the Dominion Energy Christmas Parade to the holiday lights across Richmond’s skyline at RVA Illuminates; Downtown Richmond is full of things to do and see during the holidays!

Friday-Sunday, November 17-19, times vary

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Craft + Design, produced by the Visual Arts Center of Richmond, has garnered a reputation for showcasing the finest in contemporary arts and craft. Craft + Design kicks off the official holiday shopping season in downtown Richmond where shoppers spend the weekend browsing the works of artists from all over the country.

Tickets start at $10.

Sunday, November 19, times vary

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Grab your pets and head to the Arts District for a photo session with Beloved Pet & Equine Photography that benefits Fetch a Cure! After your photo session take your pet over to Dog House Cat (a few doors down from Quirk) for a scavenger hunt and see what prize they will sniff out in the store.

Time slots: $50.

Wednesdays-Fridays, 12-4 pm; Saturdays + Sundays,12-6 pm (through December 16)

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A collaboration brought to life by Jean and Cook & Lily Moon RVA, N. 8th is a 5 week holiday market that features two separate vintage shops with the same romantic hearts and love for beautiful, one of a kind pieces brought together into one space for the holiday season. Browse a curated selection of vintage clothing, housewares, apothecary and art - perfect for the gifting season, one for a friend, one for you.

Saturday, November 25-Sunday, December 24, 11 am-5 pm (open until 8pm on Thursdays)

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Help welcome Studio Two Three to Downtown Richmond by shopping at their annual Winter Market! From art to handmade treasures from local artisans, this market offers goods sure to please anyone on your Holiday gift list!

Free to attend, fees for shopping.

Saturday, November 25, 10 am-3 pm

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Shop and Support local RVA small businesses on a day dedicated to doing just that! 20+ vendors, live music, and hot coffee and cookies at OMG OCPs! It's a great opportunity to continue spending time with family and friends while checking off some of that holiday shopping with one-of-a-kind local handmades and goods! Free to attend, fees for shopping.

Saturday, November 25, 12-4 pm

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Artisan Makers Market x Hatch Local present: HATCHGIVING! In the spirit of giving & Small Business Saturday, Hatch will be hosting a market with local artisans’ art, jewelry, baked goods, home decor and more! Shop small, support local and enter a raffle with donations going toward local charities! Free to attend, fees for shopping.

Saturday, November 25

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Visit Downtown RVA and support the local shops and small businesses like Little Nomad, Verdalina, Maven Made, Shockoe Bottom Clay and more for Shop Small Saturday, a nationally celebrated shopping holiday that highlights local and small business owners!

Saturday-Sunday, November 25-26, 8:00 pm

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A Richmond holiday music tradition is back again on Thanksgiving weekend by popular demand! Celebrate the season alongside family and friends with the Richmond Symphony at the Carpenter Theatre. Carols, classics and sparkling holiday favorites! Conducted by Chia-Hsuan.

Tickets start at $10.

Saturday, November 25-Sunday, December 17

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Enhance your winter holiday with a visit to the historic John Marshall House. Set off on a 45-minute guided tour and see the Chief Justice’s 1790 home bedecked in period garnish and ornament. Themed youth scavenger hunts and coloring sheets will be available to take on tour, and special holiday gifts can be found in the Museum Shop.

Standard museum admission applies.

Friday, November 24-Saturday, December 30, 11 am-5 pm

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You’ll love Richmond holiday shopping in the Made in RVA Holiday Shop. It’s filled with local holiday gifts! Everything is handmade, from ceramics, jewelry, candles and soaps to paintings and photography of Richmond’s historical landmarks, the river and unforgettable city scenes.

Free to attend, fees for shopping.

Tuesday, November 28, 6:30-9:30 pm

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Hold onto your Santa hats because Shockoe Records is about to throw a Christmas party that'll leave you rockin' around the chaos! Get ready for A Shockoe Sessions Live! Christmas, where they’re cranking up the volume, tearing down the tinsel, and making this holiday season the wildest one yet with some of Richmond’s favorite artists.

Thursday, November 30, 5:30-6:30 pm

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A new holiday tradition starts at the American Civil War Museum with the first tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy a performance by Handbell Choir, The James River Ringers Richmond’s Premier Handbell Ensemble.

Free event.

Select Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in December

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This December, The Queen's Library Tea Room invites you to a Holiday Tea Experience like no other. Their cozy tea room, nestled in a historic 100-year-old building, is adorned with antique furniture that whispers tales of Virginia's past.

Friday, December 1, 4-7 pm

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Countdown with ABC8 for the tree lighting and illumination of the Downtown Richmond skyline at 5:59 PM when all the lights come ON! Enjoy live performances, food trucks and a little extra sparkle from holiday lights in Richmond, VA.

Free event. Rain or shine.

Friday, December 1, 7-9 pm

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Join the famous green miser at Kanawha Plaza for The Grinch (2018) movie night under the city lights. The outdoor plaza will be lit up with holiday lights and surrounded by a backdrop of the festive city skyline. Food vendors will be present. Bring a blanket or chair to sit comfortably on the lawn. Seating is first come, first serve.

Free event.

Movie sponsored by Venture Richmond.

Friday, December 1, 5-11 pm

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Head to Downtown Richmond’s Arts District and get into the holiday spirit when you explore the many galleries, shops, restaurants and more! Don’t forget your Holiday shopping list - small businesses have options for all.

Free to attend, fees for shopping.

Friday, December 1, 5 pm

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Join Quirk on First Friday for the lighting of their signature pink tree and be among the first to see the lobby decked out for the holidays! The Gallery will be open late and there will even be a pop-up hot chocolate bar in the lobby.

Saturday, December 2, 12-8 pm

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Richmond Night Market’s Holiday Villages is a multicultural holiday market shopping experience featuring local goods, art, food, music and the best of Richmond culture. This market features a family-friendly experience filled with music, programming and independent artists and vendors. After shopping you can support the Shockoe Bottom restaurants too!

Free to attend.

Saturday, December 2, 10 am

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The Dominion Energy Christmas Parade has become a staple of Richmond’s holiday calendar. The parade starts at the Science Museum of Virginia and travels along Broad Street, ending at 7th Street downtown. Watch as larger than life balloons, marching bands, festive floats and costume characters make their way down the street as holiday music plays. Santa himself makes an appearance on his own float.

Free event.

Saturday, December 2, 11 am-4 pm

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RVA Krampusnacht is bringing the Holidaze Market back for its 11th year. Gallery5 is ringing in the holidays with local vendors selling handmade crafts and art. Get a drink at the bar (if you are over 21 and have a valid ID) as you browse the vendors’ stalls. Gallery5 encourages attendees to bring unwrapped toys to be donated to Red Vein Army’s Scares that Care Toy Drive.

Free to attend, fees for shopping.

Saturday, December 2, 12:30 PM

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Join Richmond Music Hall and the Three Scrooges for a live reading of ‘A Christmas Carol’ on Saturday, December 2nd at 12:30 pm! Doors will open at 11 am and holiday beers, hot chocolate and glühwein, a hot, mulled wine spiced with fresh oranges, orange zest, cinnamon, star anise, and cloves will be available. Come after the Dominion Christmas Parade, get brunch, and cozy for this special event! This event is free to the public, but be sure to make your reservation to secure your spot!

Saturday, December 2, 12-5 pm

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This Richmond holiday market features more than 35 local makers with products ranging from candles, clothing, jewelry and works of art. To celebrate the holiday season, this monthly market is adding a festive twist to the event. Head to Manchester’s Basic City Beer Co., a dog-friendly brewery, for an afternoon of shopping and supporting local RVA makers.

Free to attend, fees for shopping.

Saturday, December 2, 9, and 16, times vary

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The jolliest man in the world is making a stop at the Black History Museum! Kids will enjoy meeting and taking pictures with Soul Santa. Stick around the museum for more holiday cheer for kids. Reserve a timeslot in advance online for free.

Free event.

Saturday, December 2, 8-10 pm

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You better watch out, you better not cry, because “The Queens of Christmas” are coming to Richmond with a brand new edition of the internationally acclaimed The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show!

Another holiday season brings another year of fabulous spectacle, whip-smart comedy, brand new songs, and annual favorites. Join the sugary DeLa and spicy Jinkx for an evening the New York Times says is “sure to lift your spirits and make you howl with laughter.”

Sunday, December 3, 12-5 PM

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Mark you calendars for Tiger's Eye Hair Studio's 2nd Vintage Market! Just in time for the Holidays, shop all things vintage from vendors like No Dice Vintage, Kitty Lou's Vintage, Silly Cowgirl Vintage and more! Free to attend, fees for shopping.

Saturday, December 9, 12-5pm

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Find the perfect holiday gift at this small business holiday market. Browse through stalls of vendors’ handcrafted goods and socialize with friends. There will be something perfect for everyone on your list! Free to attend, pay as you shop.

Friday, December 8, 6-9pm

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It’s that time of year again for Capitol Vintage’s annual holiday party. Enjoy snacks and other refreshments, music, and gift shopping. Capitol VIntage will be selling a wide array of vintage goods perfect for gifts. Free to attend, pay as you shop.

Friday, December 8-Sunday, December 23, times vary

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Celebrate the magic of Christmas with this classic ballet production, now running for its 17th performance. Featuring the first revival of the choreography by Stoner Winslett and accompanied by the Richmond Symphony, it’s a show you won’t want to miss. Tickets can be bought online or at the box office.

Tickets start at $25.

Saturday, December 9 and 16, 9 am-12 pm

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Enjoy a buffet breakfast with Soul Santa along with holiday fun and activities in Soul Santa’s workshop! Each child will receive a special gift from Soul Santa himself.

Tickets: $25. 5 years old & younger, Free event

Saturday, December 9, 3-5 pm

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It’d be hard to find a better combination than Santa and Ironclad coffee. Visit Ironclad Coffee Roasters for a free visit with Santa for adults and children alike. Take photos, sip some holiday coffee, and enjoy a live jazz performance. No reservations are required. Free event.

Saturday, December 9, 5 pm

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Each year, owners decorate their boats and converge on the James River for a parade that lights up the water with color. Grab the family and gather along downtown’s riverfront from the Intermediate Terminal to Rockett’s Landing to see the boats and enjoy holiday entertainment on the river. Rain or shine.

Free event.

Saturday, December 9, 5-10 pm

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Nothing says Christmas like Bad Bunny, margaritas and ugly sweaters. Juan’s Rooftop and Cantina is kicking off the holiday season with a rooftop party featuring the music of Bad Bunny. Come ready to dance and in your best ugly sweater and enjoy $1 margaritas, festive decor and bottomless tacos. Kids are welcome if accompanied by an adult. Purchase tickets online.

Tickets start at $20.

Saturday, December 9, 9:30pm-1:30am

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Celebrate the holiday season with a dance party featuring the music of Beyonce and Mariah Carey. Kabana Rooftop encourages attendees to wear their best holiday attire. Santa hats will be available for guests with either Team Beyonce or Team Mariah written on them. Sip on holiday themed cocktails as you dance on the fully heated dance floor. Tickets start at $12.

Sunday, December 10, 10 am-4 pm

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Quirk Days of Christmas are here again and they've teamed up with Common House to present a Richmond holiday market event in Downtown Richmond’s Arts District! Join Quirk and Common House at both locations for an incredible line up of talent, music and creative libations at their annual Holiday Market.

Free event.

Sunday, December 10, 12-4 pm

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Join The Valentine for some winter cheer on their picturesque block of East Clay Street in Downtown Richmond. Hot beverages, family crafts and games and live music are all in store. You can also take a self-guided tour of the historic Court End neighborhood and hop on a shuttle to visit nearby cultural sites for open houses and other activities.

Free event.

Sunday, December 10, 12-4 pm

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Richmond Night Market’s Holiday Villages is a multicultural holiday market shopping experience featuring local goods, art, food, music and the best of Richmond culture. This market features a family-friendly experience filled with music, programming and independent artists and vendors. Free event, pay as you shop.

Sunday, December 10, 11am-5pm

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Experience a festive flea market in the historic Main Street Station, hosted by Swapmeet RVA. Sip on holiday-themed drinks as you browse through stalls of handcrafted items such as candles and jewelry. There will also be a wide selection of vintage clothing and accessories. Find the perfect gift for your loved ones here!

$5 entry fee, $10 early access.

Wednesdays, December 13 + 20 and Thursday, December 21, times vary

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Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to the awe-inspiring Bolling Haxall House. Get your tickets now to discover Holiday inspired music under the gentle glow of candlelight!

Saturday, December 16, 3-6pm

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Visit the Commodore for a festive celebration of small businesses. This market will feature crafts, food, jewelry, decor, and much more. There is something for everyone on your list. Free to attend.

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Free event, pay as you shop.

Thursday, December 14, 5-7pm

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Rushing Blooms Floral Studio will be bringing their craftsmanship to Quirk Gallery and invite you to participate. Join them for a wreath making workshop, where you will make your own festive wreath out of locally grown dried flowers and fresh Christmas greenery. All tools and materials will be provided and no experience is necessary. Tickets $80.

Saturday, December 16, 12-2pm

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Celebrate the holidays by getting permanent jewelry with your loved ones. Interlinked will be setting up a pop-up shop in Hatch Local Food Hall on Saturday. After you get your jewelry, choose from Hatch Local Food Hall’s wide selection of food vendors.

Saturday-Sunday, December 16-17, 12-5 pm

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Experience this “enchanted” Richmond market with a wintery twist! Browse through vendors’ collections of wellness products, candles, crystals and more. Live music will be played and food vendors will be present. Find the perfect Christmas gift for your loved ones here!

Free event.

Saturday, December 16, 10am-12pm

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Richmond’s spookiest museum is taking a festive turn for the holidays. Visit the courtyard for family-fun crafts such as ornament and bookmark making. Adele Gardner and Phil Hilliker lead enchanting storytime and programming. There is something fun and festive in store for everyone in the family. Free event.

Sunday, December 17, 11:30 am-2 pm

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A new holiday tradition starts at Tredegar with a visit from Santa. Visit the American Civil War Museum for a day of jolly festivities. Start by meeting with Santa in Tredegar’s lobby, then venture inside for kids’ crafts, all-day showings of A Charlie Brown Christmas and hot cocoa. Parents can enjoy mimosas from The Tredegar Society with valid ID required.

Free event.

Thursday, December 21, 6-9 pm

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Join Richbrau for their last and biggest market of the year! Grab gifts and beer for you and your loved ones. Free to attend, pay as you shop.

Friday, December 22,12-4 pm

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Expect treats, drink and shopping from jean + cook and Whilom Goods! All Whilom goods will be 20% off.

Saturday, December 23, 11 am-4 pm

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IIt's a miracle in Manchester! Local makers will offer their wares for one last day of Christmas shopping at Hatch Local, Benchtop Brewing, and all the steps in between. Enjoy festive music, food, and drinks while you find the perfect gifts for your friends and family -- and that one neighbor who got you a gift and so now you should get them something too...

Free event, fees for shopping.

Saturday, December 23, 1-4 pm

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Moxy Richmond Downtown has all the holiday procrastinators covered with their last minute popup market. Shop till you drop and discover unique handcrafted goodies for those on your list and yourself. Free to attend, pay as you shop.

Saturday, December 23, 9 pm-2 am

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Enjoy the sounds of Shanel The DJ and Original Players at the Vagabond IYKYK Holiday Party.

Saturday, December 30, 1-7 pm

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Celebrate the season with Elegba Folklore Society at one of the largest annual Kwanzaa events on the East Coast! Come to enjoy a cultural ceremony, performances, workshops, engagement for children and an African market.

Tickets start at $5.

Sunday, December 31, 8pm-2am

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Celebrate the start of a new year at Ember Music Hall. The event features two large screens to watch the ball drop, live dancers, complimentary appetizers, a DJ, and more! Put on your best formalwear and get ready to dance all night. For an elevated experience, VIP packages will be available.

Tickets start at $39.95.

Sunday, December 31, 9pm-2am

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Ring in the New Year at Richmond’s tallest rooftop bar. Put on your best formal wear and dance the night away with music by a live DJ. The rooftop bar provides a beautiful view of Richmond’s skyline lit up at night and New Year’s fireworks. Enjoy complimentary appetizers from 9:30 to 10:30 pm and a midnight champagne toast. Tickets also include festive party favors.

Early bird tickets start at $50.

Sunday, December 31, Dinner from 5-10 pm

Live music in clubroom from 9 pm-1:30 am

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Ring in the New Year at Richmond’s iconic restaurant and club. Start the night with an upscale dinner then go downstairs for dancing and live music. There will be cocktails and VIP packages available for a wide variety of experiences. Reserve dining reservations and tables/VIP experiences online.

Sunday, December 31, 9 pm-1 am

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Get ready to blast off into the New Year! The creatives behind Wear RVA are excited to bring you an unforgettable experience filled with out of this world music and entertainment. iamdjduffy and live performers will keep you dancing all night long to the hottest beats from across the galaxy. As you dance the night away, indulge in hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails inspired by the cosmos. Tickets start at $125. 21+ only.

Drop us a line with your event details and we'll add it to our list.