Ho-Ho-Holiday Lights: A Family Guide to Christmas Cheer in Virginia Beach
Welcome, festive families! Are you ready to immerse yourself in the joyous glow of Christmas lights in Virginia Beach, Virginia? Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this merry guide is your North Star to navigating the twinkling displays and yuletide events that will make your holidays as bright as Rudolph’s nose!
Why Virginia Beach Shines Bright During the Holidays
Virginia Beach, known for its stunning oceanfront, also turns into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. With a chilly sea breeze and the warmth of a million lights, it offers a unique holiday experience that’s both beachy and traditional. Now, let’s light up your itinerary with the best spots and tips!
1. The Boardwalk Lights Up
First stop on our light-tastic tour is the iconic Virginia Beach Boardwalk. Every year, the boardwalk becomes a canvas for the Holiday Lights Merry Mile, a drive-through light display that dazzles visitors from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. You’ll see festive fish, surfing Santas, and nautical-themed wonders, all with the beautiful Atlantic Ocean as the perfect backdrop. Don’t forget to snap a family selfie with the towering Christmas tree!
2. Neighborhood Nooks and Crannies
If you’re wondering where to find those hidden gems of Christmas cheer, Virginia Beach’s neighborhoods are twinkling with secrets! Places like the Bay Colony and Thalia dress up in their holiday best and invite visitors to be swept away by residential creativity. Follow the glow and you’ll find holiday spirit shining right from the heart of our community.
3. Mount Trashmore Gets Merry
Yep, you read that correctly! Mount Trashmore Park, which is not what it might sound to the uninitiated, is actually an environmental triumph and a local hotspot for recreation. Come December, it transforms into a beacon of merriment. You won’t find trash, but you will find treasure—a beautifully lit tree and reflections glistening off Lake Trashmore. Take a stroll or a drive around the area and bask in its charming luminosity.
Tips for a Dazzling Visit
Catching the sparkle is all fun and games, but here are some tips to ensure your Virginia Beach Christmas lights adventure is as smooth as a sleigh ride:
- Timing is Everything: Evenings after sunset are prime viewing times but can be busy. If you’re keen on avoiding the crowds, consider a mid-week excursion.
- Bundle Up: The coastal winter air is brisk, so dress warmly, especially if you plan on walking around!
- Driving Through Merry Mile: The speed limit is slow, allowing for plenty of gazing time, but patience is key during peak hours. Consider coming earlier in the season or on a weekday.
- Safety First: If you’re walking, be aware of your surroundings, stick to paths, and watch for cars. Safety is the best gift you can give your family.
Wondering about parking or the ideal route for your Christmas lights tour? No worries! We’ve got you covered there, too, as well as suggestions for cozy post-tour hot chocolate spots. Just keep reading, because there’s more glistening info on the way.
So, grab your hats and gloves, pack up some holiday cheer, and get ready to make unforgettable memories with your loved ones under the starry lights of Virginia Beach. There’s nothing more magical than experiencing the glow and festivities with the ones you love.
Stay tuned, we’re just getting started! The next part of our guide will take you through the heartwarming and spectacular light shows, the can’t-miss festive events, and the hotspots for the best Christmas goodies in town. Until then, may your days (and nights) be merry and bright in Virginia Beach.
5 Things Parents Should Know When Preparing for Virginia Beach Christmas Lights
Parents, this part of our guide is crafted just for you. Prepping for a visit to see the Christmas lights in Virginia Beach with little ones in tow? Here’s what you need to know:
1. Plan for Potty Breaks
Young children and long outings mean potty breaks are inevitable. Make sure to know where public restrooms are available along your route. The Boardwalk area and Mount Trashmore Park are good to go, with facilities that stay open during holiday events. Portable restrooms are also typically available at outdoor events like the Holiday Lights Merry Mile.
2. Keep Little Hands Warm and Busy
Pack some hand warmers to fend off the cold on your light-seeing journey. To keep kids engaged, bring along a scavenger hunt list of holiday items they might see in the lights. Who can spot the first snowman, reindeer, or elf? This turns the viewing experience into an interactive adventure!
3. Have a Festive Playlist Ready
To really set the mood, create a car ride playlist of your family’s favorite holiday tunes. Singing along to festive music can enhance the magical atmosphere as you drive or walk through the light displays. Bonus: it’s a surefire way to keep spirits high even in traffic.
4. Snacks and Sips on Hand
You never know when hunger will strike, especially with kids. Pack some light, non-messy snacks and thermoses with warm beverages. Not only does a warm drink keep hands toasty, but it can also help ward off any grumpiness from the backseat or stroller!
5. Consider a Late Nap
If you’re planning an evening excursion, you might want to adjust your little one’s nap schedule. A later or longer afternoon nap could mean they’re bright-eyed and eager to take in the shimmering lights come evening time.
With these proactive tips, you’re all set to enjoy Virginia Beach’s holiday lights to the fullest!
Navigating the Glow: Routes, Parking, and Stops
When it comes to optimizing your light-seeing experience, a little foresight goes a long way. You’ll want to plan your route, consider parking, and think about where you might stop along the way.
Mapping the Magic
A well-planned route can save you time and keep the night flowing smoothly. Use a GPS app to set waypoints for each location you intend to visit. Our top picks include a cruise along the Boardwalk, a drive around Bay Colony, and a visit to Mount Trashmore. You might also want to include some of the professionally organized light shows in neighboring communities, which are generally worth the short drive.
Where to Park your Sleigh
You’ll find ample parking at the oceanfront lots during the holiday season, but it’s always smart to have an idea of where you’re heading. If you’re stopping at a particular event, look up parking info on the event’s website ahead of time.
Warm-Up Stops
Virginia Beach has plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can take a break from the chilly night. Warm-up with a cup of hot cocoa or a festive treat at local favorites like The Bee & The Biscuit or Taste. These places are great for keeping everyone’s spirits up and bellies full!
There’s a special kind of joy in seeing the holiday season through the eyes of your children, and Virginia Beach’s luminous festivities provide the perfect backdrop. By following these tips and immersing yourselves in the glow of the city’s Christmas lights, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. As you wrap up in the sparkle of the season, let the wonder of Virginia Beach’s holiday lights fill your family’s hearts with cheer.
See more great Things to Do with Kids in Virginia here. For more information see here
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