Local Tidewater Holiday Events

This is a big one! There is so much going on to help celebrate the season - get out and have some fun!

COMMUNITY EVENTS/FESTIVALS

Now-Dec 4 - McDonald’s Holiday Lights at the Beach, Wed/Thu 5:30 - 10:00 pm, Fri-Dec 4 4:30 - 11:00 pm, Virginia Beach Oceanfront, enter at 2nd Street.

Now-Dec 21 - Free Carriage Rides! City Center at Oyster Point, Fri and Sat, 6 - 8:00 pm, Sun 12 - 3:00 pm, City Center at Oyster Point, Newport News. Come celebrate the enchanting holiday season at City Center! Shop for your perfect holiday gifts in the unique and elegant stores while enjoying the holiday sounds of outdoor performances from carolers and musicians on Market Stage. Looking for a shopping break? Enjoy a magical Carriage Ride around the fountain complete with cookies and hot chocolate from Aromas to satisfy your sweet tooth! Carriage rides, cookies & cocoa, music at Market Stage and parking all free! Carriage Rides and Cookies & Cocoa from Aromas.

Now-Dec 23 - Polar Express at Illumination Station, Mon-Thu 4:30 & 5:15 pm, the Norfolk Botanical Gardens, Azalea Garden Rd, Norfolk. Bring your family and friends to Norfolk Botanical Garden’s most popular holiday event! Guests of all ages will enjoy exploring Illumination Station inside the Visitor’s Center where they can enjoy hot chocolate, create a keepsake holiday craft, listen to a beloved children’s story, and explore the festive decor for picture perfect photo ops or holiday shopping in the gift shop before boarding the Polar Express for a tram ride through the Dominion Garden of Lights display. This event is a holiday tradition for many families, so book early before it sells out! Ticket Prices (ages 24 months+) : $12 per person/$10 for NBG Members* Limit 6 tickets at membership rate per NBG member.

Now-Dec 31 - Winter Wonderland at Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, Fri/Sat 9:00 am - 8:00 pm, Sun 11:00 am - 5:00 pm, Corner of High & Court St, Portsmouth. Join us for the 10th season of Winter Wonderland at the Portsmouth Art and Cultural Center, with holiday displays from the popular Coleman Nursery Collection that became a tradition for families from across the region. Open special holiday hours. Save up to $4 with a Holiday Pass - $12 gets you one admission to each of the Portsmouth Museums: the Children’s Museum of Virginia, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum. 393-8543

Now-Dec 31 - Dominion Garden of Lights, Norfolk Botanical Gardens, 5:30 - 10:00 pm nightly. Don’t miss Hampton Road’s favorite holiday tradition. Bring your family and friends to our 20th annual light show extravaganza for a magical holiday experience. During this event, our garden is transformed into a winter wonderland where you can enjoy a 2-mile drive through a million sparkling lights bringing the four seasons to life. $20 Per Car (Friday, Saturday & Sunday), BEST VALUE: $15 Per Car (Monday - Thursday) /http://norfolkbotanicalgarden.org/events/dominion-garden-lights-2014-2014-11-27/

Now-Jan 1 - Newport News Celebration in Lights, Newport News Park, 13560 Jefferson Avenue, Newport News. Virginia’s first drive-through holiday light event, Newport News Park will be transformed by over 800,000 individual lights creating animated holiday and fanciful scenes. This year’s event will feature more “light tubes” which create the effect of falling snow, more lighted arches, and the refurbishment of displays with energy efficient LED bulbs. The event will be open each evening, 5:30 - 10:00 p.m. through New Year’s.

Now- Jan 4 - A Colonial Christmas, Yorktown Victory Center, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, 200 Water Street, Yorktown. Holiday traditions of 17th- and 18th-century Virginia are recalled through special interpretive programs and, from December 26 through 31, musical entertainment of the period. At the Yorktown Victory Center, hear accounts of Christmas and winter in Revolutionary War encampments and glimpse holiday preparations on a 1780s farm. $. Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Call 757.253.4838

Now-Jan 19 - MacArthur on Ice: Outdoor Ice Skating In Downtown Norfolk. There’s only one place to skate outdoors during the holidays at MacArthur Center, where you’ll always find something special. Bring the family, bring your friends and enjoy the best skating extravaganza Norfolk’s ever seen. The outdoor ice rink is located at the corner of Monticello Avenue and Freemason Street, across the street from The Norva.http://www.shopmacarthur.com/maconice

Now-Jan 20 - Winter Extravaganza Carnival, MacArthur Center, Downtown Norfolk. Enjoy our outdoor Winter Carnival featuring nine family-friendly rides. Located outside next to MacArthur On Ice, the Winter Carnival will be open Thursday through Sunday until the kids are out of school, at which time it will be open seven days a week. The cost is $1.25 for a single ticket, $25 for 25 tickets or $40 for 50 tickets. Rides include: 55-foot-tall, LED-lit Ferris Wheel, 20-foot-tall Fun Slide, Tilt-a-Whirl, Spinning Monkeys, Helicopters, Red Baron Airplanes, Rio Grande Train, Spinning Tea Cups, Ocean Rage.

Now-Feb 2 - Oceanfront Ice Park, Rudee Loop, Virginia Beach. Ice skate at the Oceanfront to holiday tunes and a sea breeze. The Ice Park will provide a full array of events and activities highlighted by special demonstrations and a holiday themed carnival area for the kids! Admission to the Ice Park is $12 for individuals and $45 for families (up to 5 people) and includes rental skates and unlimited skating for the evening. Skating is open to everyone age 4 and up! Military discount tickets are available at all local base Information, Ticket & Tour Offices (ITT).

Tue-Sun - ‘Christmas in Yorktown’ Exhibit at the Gallery at York Hall, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Sun 1 to 4:00 pm, 301 Main Street, Yorktown. Come and enjoy the best of the best of local artist around our area. There will be a mix of local and Christmas holiday art pieces at the Gallery at York Hall. You can relish in our revolving exhibit of fine art in all media by local artists for display and sale.

Wed-Sat - Bruce Munro: Light at the Hermitage, 4 - 9:00 pm, The Hermitage Museum and Gardens, 7637 North Shore Road, Norfolk. Munro conveys his love of experimentation through flickering fluorescent tubes, LED-lit water bottles, Fresnel lenses reminiscent of owl’s eyes, and an inventive reuse of materials. During the exhibit, visitors will wander the Hermitage forest, gardens, boardwalk, and the shoreline of the Lafayette River as they are guided by Munro’s interactive displays. The museum will also house two pieces, a prototype of a building Munro hopes to create and a permanent suspended artwork in the front foyer. $15 Non-Members, $12 Members, Children (6-12), and Active-Duty Military.

All Week - 'Holt Family Lights', Mon-Thu & Sun: 5:15 - 10:00 pm; Fri & Sat: 5:15 - 10:30 pm, 900 Teakwood Court, Chesapeake. Enjoy this annual Christmas display at the home of Allen and Cattina Holt. Featuring new lights, new characters, new elements, and new surprises. With more than 35,000 lights, 40 inflatables, 5 wireframes, 9 controllers, and 144 channels, this display is sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Open rain or snow if possible. Come see Elmo, Santa, Buddy the Elf and Frosty the Snowman.https://www.facebook.com/pages/Holt-Family-Lights/163705990330762?sk=timeline

Thu, Dec 4 - Holiday Yule Log Bonfire, Town Point Park, 4 - 7:00 pm, Downtown Norfolk. Norfolk Festevents presents an evening of holiday traditions at Town Point Park on the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront on December 4, 2014 from 4pm-7pm near the new Holiday Homecoming Tree. The park transforms into a festive wonderland to feature a massive Yule Log bonfire, Christmas caroling and a visit from Santa. During the festivities, hot chocolate, ciders, seasonal craft beer, mulled wine and other holiday treats will be available for purchase. Bring the family, friends, and loved ones to a fun evening of holiday celebrations and unique traditions. The event is pet friendly, free and open to the public.

Thu, Dec 4 - First Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, Tidewater Community College Chesapeake Student Center, 4:00 pm, 1428 Cedar Road, Chesapeake. Join us for our very first of many of our annual tree lighting ceremony, Christmas cookies with Santa and craft ornament decorating at the Tidewater Community College Chesapeake Student Center. 822-5268 Contact: Jill Hartney

Thu, Dec 4 - Isle of Wight County Annual Wreath Hanging and Tree Lighting, 5:00 pm, on the front lawn of the Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex. The public is welcome to join the celebration which will include holiday music and refreshments. This year’s program is in remembrance of Pat Conley who provided the music for many years. This program is presented by the Isle of Wight County Events Committee and supported by many generous community organizations. For further information call (757) 357-3191

Thu, Dec 4 - Grand Illumination, Cape Henry Lighthouse, 5:30 - 6:30 pm, 583 Atlantic Ave., Virginia Beach. $5 rec’d donation, 804 648 1889

Thu, Dec 4 - Ladies Night Out, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, 6 - 8:00 pm, Corner of High & Court St., Portsmouth. Enjoy a festive evening with “the ladies” where you will design and decorate a gingerbread house with “GINGERBLING”. Attendees will create a masterpiece to take home and enjoy throughout the holiday season. Hors d’oeuvres will be served and the Gallery Shop will be open for holiday shopping. Ladies Night Out is being hosted by the Portsmouth Museum Foundation. The registration fee is $35

Thu-Sat, Dec 4-6 - Annual Holiday Open House, The Shops at Hilltop, 1544 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach. Lots of great sales, events, live entertainment, refreshments, carriage rides, Santa Claus and much more! Including: Convenient store-front parking, Festive horse-drawn carriage rides, Visits with Santa, and Hometown holiday carolers.

Fri, Dec 5 - Kwanzaa Marketplace, Hampton University Museum, 10:00 am - 7:00 pm, 120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton. Purchase your holiday and Kwanzaa gifts from the museum shop, specializing in African, African-American, and other multicultural items. Select vendors will be available with hand crafted items including jewelry, soaps, candles and art. Enjoy music from Armstrong elementary and Bethel high choirs, storytelling and art activities, 5:30-7 pm.

Fri, Dec 5 - Phoebus Illumination, 4 - 8:00 pm, Downtown Phoebus, Mellen St., Hampton. Join us for Shopping, Vendor Fair, Music, Dining, Doggie Costume Parade, Santa & Elves. Please bring donations for Virginia Peninsula Foodbank.

Fri, Dec 5 - 11th Annual Hollydazzle, City Center at Oyster Point, 6 - 9:00 pm, 700 Town Center Drive, Newport News. This unique holiday event combines fireworks, special effects and music in a spectacular show presented “in the round” on the Fountain Plaza. Free admission and free parking in City Center Parking Garages and satellite parking. Food and beverage for sale. 757-926-1400

Fri, Dec 5 - d’ARTini Night Holiday Open House, d’Art Center, 6 - 9:00 pm, Selden Arcade, 208 East Main Street, Downtown Norfolk. Get a jump on holiday shopping in d’ART’s 28 Artists Studios, d’ART’s Holiday Gift Shop and the Selden Handmade Fair. 10% OFF d’ART Holiday Gift Shop! FREE Admission, Cash Bar.

Fri, Dec 5 - 16th Annual Jingle Ball, Chesapeake Conference Center, 6:00 pm - Midnight, 700 Conference Center Drive, Chesapeake. Enjoy a full dinner buffet, cash bar and this year’s 70s holiday theme party with music by Right On Band! If you’ve never attended Jingle Ball, then here’s the scoop! For the past 15 years, Jingle Ball has been geared toward small businesses, organizations and associations that may have limited holiday party options due to their size. Jingle Ball has been called the Biggest Little Office Party Around as it offers a large festive experience without having to devote the time to plan or pay for the entire event. Who has that king of time these days, right? So we take care of the entertainment, the food and the clean-up too! All you have to do is buy a ticket and show up! While you and your group enjoy a fun-filled evening together celebrating the season. This is a great way to save the hassle of planning your holiday gathering and we guarantee a great time! Leave the planning to us and we’ll leave the partying to you at the 16th Annual Jingle Ball! Admission: Tables of 10 - $400; Individual tickets available after Oct 1 - $45. Contact: Jackie Hopkins (757) 382-2500

Fri, Dec 5 - Ghent Holiday Tree Lighting & Caroling, Blair middle School, 6:30 pm, Colley Avenue, Norfolk. Ghent’s Holiday Open House Weekend starts with the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 5 at 6:30pm in front of Blair Middle School on Colley Avenue. Join your friends from the Ghent Business Association for a family friendly event to help spread the holiday spirit throughout Ghent. Enjoy music and caroling from area school groups including Blair Middle School, Norfolk Collegiate, St. Patrick’s Catholic School, and The Williams School. Warm up with hot chocolate and cookies provided by Farm Fresh. And, there will be a special appearance by Santa Claus as he helps light the tree. Don’t miss the fun! To kick off the season of giving, bring a new, unwrapped toy to benefit the girls and boys of ForKids. Or, take a tag off of the tree that night and return your gift to the ForKids Holiday Shop located at Good Mojo, 2411 Granby Street. Donations can be dropped off Monday-Saturday, 10am-6pm and Sunday, 12-5pm, December 5-13. Come early or stay late and make a reservation to dine with friends or family at one of Ghent’s delectable restaurants afterwards for a complete evening of festive fun.

Fri, Dec 5 - Christmas Tree Lighting, Riverwalk Landing, 7:30 pm, 331 Water Street, Yorktown. A tradition that began in 1945 continues with the Yorktown Christmas Tree Lighting. Evening highlights include a 7 pm performance by The Fifes and Drums of York Town at the Victory Monument, festive music at Riverwalk Landing, the procession of lights through the historic village, and the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus. Free. 757.890.3500

Fri/Sat, Dec 5/6 - Selden Handmade Fair, Selden Arcade, Fri 12 - 9:00 pm, Sat 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, 208 East Main Street, Norfolk. A juried event inside the Selden Arcade showcasing the work of regional, contemporary, indie-craft artists. 757-664-6880

Fri/Sat, Dec 5/6 - Snow Wonders! Snow and Light Shows at the Children’s Museum of Virginia, 5:30 - 7:30 pm, 221 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth. Bring the kids down to the Children’s Museum of Virginia and stay for a musical light show accompanied by snow! Shows run every half hour from 5:30 to 7:30 pm Friday and Saturday evenings. Let it Snow! Planetarium show - Noon, 3 PM, 6 PM and 7PM - This show features a new variety of festive classics from Sinatra and Chuck Berry to Burl Ives and Brenda Lee. There is a stunning multi-media finale by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

Fri-Sun, Dec 5-7 - Winter Wonderland Weekend activities, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, Corner of High & Court St, Portsmouth. Face Painting, Airbrush Holiday Cards, Cookie Decorating, Candle Making, and Arctic Express: A Magical Train Tour of Winter Festivals Around the World. See the web site for days and times:http://www.portsvaevents.com/december_2014.html

Fri-Sun, Dec 5-7 - Dickens’s Christmas Towne, Half Moone Celebration Center (lower level), Fri/Sat 10:00 am - 8:00 pm, Sun Noon - 6:00 pm. Nauticus and the Virginia Stage Company have joined together to create a new, unique holiday tradition for families throughout the region. DICKENS’ CHRISTMAS TOWNE is an interactive holiday experience on the Downtown Norfolk waterfront. Cobblestone paths and candlelit windows, the smell of freshly-baked treats and the sound of carolers. Just as visitors in Williamsburg encounter colonial townspeople, guests strolling down London’s Drury Lane will bump into Bob Cratchit, his young son Tiny Tim, and other characters from the play. A “prize turkey” hangs in the window of the Poulterer’s on the corner. In the Town Square, visitors perch on crates, drink hot chocolate, and enjoy actors performing Victorian street scenes every hour. We’ll watch Ebenezer Scrooge learn the true meaning of Christmas. Meanwhile, London shop owners sell cider and scones, ornaments, children’s books, toy trains and teddy bears. An amazing model train display will wind through 20-foot-high set pieces. Children will actually be encouraged to “play in the streets” as they look for hidden clues and learn more about holiday traditions. And as the journey through this Victorian Christmas comes to an end, children have the opportunity to get their picture taken with Father Christmas, clad in period clothing. $5 Adults, $4 Children ( 4-12 ), Ages 3 & under FREE.

Fri-Sun, Dec 5-7 - Olde Towne Santa at Winter Wonderland, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, Fri 5 - 8:00 pm, Sat 3 - 8:00 pm, Sun 1 - 5:00 pm, Corner of High & Court St, Portsmouth.

Sat, Dec 6 - St. Matthew’s School Holly Craft Show, 8:00 am, 3316 Sandra Lane, Virginia Beach. 420-2455

Sat, Dec 6 - Breakfast with Santa, Windsor Ruritan Building, 8 - 10:00 am, 14 Community Drive, Windsor. The Friends of the Windsor Library would like to invite you to a breakfast with Santa. Breakfast is $3.00 per person and includes pancakes, sausage, and a drink, a visit and photo with Santa and a free book to keep as your gift! The Woman’s Club of Windsor will have the Santa Shop ready for little ones to choose a Free gift to take home for someone special!

Sat, Dec 6 - 3rd Annual Chick-Fil-A Christmas Parade, Chesapeake Square, 8:30 am, Ring Road (interior road), Chesapeake Square Mall. Join Chesapeake Square for the 3rd Annual Chick-Fil-A Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6 beginning at 8:30 AM inside Ring Road at Chesapeake Square Mall. This Christmas Parade is sure to put you in the holiday spirit with beautiful floats, local high school bands, dance teams, community law enforcement, and of course Santa himself! Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and blankets.

Sat, Dec 6 - Williamsburg Christmas Parade, 8:30 - 11:00 am, Outdoors in Merchants Square, 402 W. Duke of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg. Brought to you by the Williamsburg Chamber and Tourism Alliance, the theme of this year’s parade is A Storybook Christmas. The parade runs right down Duke of Gloucester Street through Merchants Square.

Sat, Dec 6 - Christmas Craft Show, St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm, 3396 Stoneshore Road, Virginia Beach. 498-1902

Sat, Dec 6 - Western Branch High School Holiday Craft Show, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, Western Branch High School, 1968 Bruin Place, Chesapeake. Western Branch High School will be having a holiday craft show on Saturday December 6 to get ready for the holiday season. Come and join us for some awesome fun! For more information, please contact Dr. Thomas Whitley at Thomas.whitley@cpschools.com

Sat, Dec 6 - Traditional Swedish St. Lucia Celebration and Christmas Market, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, 1489 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach. Traditional Swedish decorations, books, gifts, baked goods, and Glogg & Cafe. 663-2744

Sat, Dec 6 - 54th Annual Williamsburg Christmas Homes Tour, 9:30 am - 5:30 pm. Presented by the Green Spring Garden Club, Inc. Tour six houses in Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s Revolutionary City and in downtown Williamsburg near Merchants Square. Tickets: $30, All proceeds fund scholarships and local horticultural projects. More Info: http://www.green-spring-garden-club.org

Sat, Dec 6 - Toys for Tots 14th Annual Community Christmas Party, Charlie Daniels Racing, 10:00 am, 10218 IWIP Road, Smithfield. Car Show entry fee for show cars $20.00 Spectators can bring toys for free entry. Live music all day. Children’s activities, vendors and great food. Santa is scheduled to arrive by Nightingale Helicopter at noon! Beginning on November 1 and through December 10, local businesses throughout the area will be collecting toys for Toys for Tots. For further information call (757) 880-7191

Sat, Dec 6 - Family Gingerbread House Workshop, Children’s Museum of Virginia, 10-11:30 am, 12:30 - 2:00 pm, 221 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth. Get everyone in the holiday spirit and bring your family and imagination to a gingerbread workshop, sponsored by the Portsmouth Museum Foundation. Leave all the hassle and mess to us, while you relax and enjoy creating this holiday treat with your family. Each workshop will last approximately one hour and a half. Families will be given all the materials needed to make their own one of a kind holiday creation. Workshop Fee: $20.00 member families; $45 non-member families (nonmember price includes admission to the Children’s Museum for 4 people). Families may purchase additional houses for $15.

Sat, Dec 6 - Battle of Great Bridge, Battlefield Park, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, 120 Reservation Road, Chesapeake. This one-day event is held the first Saturday of December at the Great Bridge “Bridge,” which is the original site of the Battle of Great Bridge fought on Dec. 9, 1775. Step back in time with us. The event features re-enactments of two pivotal Revolutionary War battles: the Battle at Kemps Landing and the Battle of Great Bridge. The event also features Revolutionary War encampments, demonstrations, character portrayals, camp life, historical displays and lectures, skilled artisans demonstrating early American trades, and children’s crafts and activities. Event is free to the public. Concessions available for purchase. Free. Inclement weather date - December 7, 2014. (757) 382-6411

Sat, Dec 6 - Decking The Halls, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Downtown Portsmouth. Celebrate the season by going back in time and delving into its history at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum. Come on down and make your own historically inclined ornaments and fun festoons to liven up your dwelling. Also discover the history and traditions behind holiday decoration and why we “deck the halls.”

Sat, Dec 6 - 3rd Annual Artisan Gift Fair at the Pavilion, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Suffolk Visitor Center Pavilion, 524 North Main Street, Suffolk. Kick off your holiday shopping with handcrafted gifts at the 3rd Annual Artisan Gift Fair at the Suffolk Visitor Center’s open-air Pavilion. Enjoy festive music, light refreshments and arts and crafts. Free & open to the public. 757.514.4130

Sat, Dec 6 - Christmas Tree & Wreath Sale, Nimmo United Methodist Church, 10:00 am - 8:00 pm, 2200 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach. All proceeds benefit programs at the church. 427-1765

Sat, Dec 6 - Annual Downtown Suffolk Holiday Open House, 10:00 am - 11:00 pm, Downtown Restaurants, Shops, Galleries, Museums and Venues. Sponsored by the Downtown Suffolk Hospitality Association & Suffolk Tourism. Downtown Suffolk is kicking off the holiday season with its 4th Annual Holiday Open House, featuring live entertainment, refreshments, great discounts and deals, open houses and more. Free and open to the public. 757.514.4130

Sat, Dec 6 - Watermen’s Museum Oyster Roast, 12 - 3:00 pm, Watermen’s Museum, 309 Water Street, Yorktown. Come out and enjoy some great food at this annual oyster roast event at the Watermen’s Museum. Enjoy raw and roasted oysters and sides; alternative entrees available for non- seafood eaters. Call for more information 757.887.2641

Sat, Dec 6 - Tidewater Arts Outreach Holiday Happening, Mermaid Winery, 1 - 4:00 pm, 330 W. 22nd Street, Norfolk. TAO’s annual holiday open house is at Mermaid Winery, where we’ll have mulled cider, cocoa, cookies and space for music and art-making! come create a holiday greeting card, connect with friends, jingle a bell and sing a song or two. For all ages; children most definitely are welcomed. Free; donations are always welcome.

Sat, Dec 6 - Holiday and Kwanzaa jazz brunch and marketplace, Hampton University Museum, 1 - 4:00 pm, 120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton. Enjoy a day at the museum including browsing the galleries, shopping, heavy hor d’oeurves and light beverages, entertainment by HU music and dance students, and art activities for children 3-10 years old.

Sat, Dec 6 - Annual Holiday Open House, Peninsula Town Center, 1 - 6:00 pm, Hampton. Please join Animare Salon and Spa on Saturday December 6, 2014 from 1pm-6pm for our Annual Holiday Open House Event. Our Gifts of Joy for you this day include: Free Holiday Makeup Consultations and Touchups, Free Hair Consultations, Free Stress Fix Body Lotion Samples (while supplies last), Spa Rituals, Pure Privilege Double Points, Exclusive savings on Holiday Gift Sets and Refreshments.

Sat, Dec 6 - Mingle & Jingle Open House, The Old Coast Guard Station, 2 - 5:00 pm, 24th St & The Boardwalk, Virginia Beach. Join us for Wine & Cheese, Hot Cider and Music as we celebrate the Holidays. Meet and greet the staff, and take a picture with our Mascot “Lookout”. 10% off everything in the museum store. 422-1587

Sat, Dec 6 - Pony Rides at the Children’s Museum, 2 - 5:00 pm, Children’s Museum of Virginia, 221 High Street, Olde Towne Portsmouth. Free pony rides for those who have purchased a Holiday Pass, Winter Wonderland admission or admission to the Children’s Museum of Virginia. $5 for all others.

Sat, Dec 6 - Town of Windsor Christmas Parade, 4 - 5:00 pm. The Town of Windsor will hold its annual Christmas Parade. The theme this year is “The Gifts of Christmas”. Line up at 3pm and the parade starts at 4pm

Sat, Dec 6 - Holiday Parade at the Beach, Atlantic Avenue, Parade steps off at 5:30 pm, between 15th and 25th Streets, Virginia Beach. Officially ushering in the holiday season at the Virginia Beach oceanfront, the Holiday Parade at the Beach features giant balloons, marching bands from area schools and the community, lighted floats, equestrian units, fire trucks, performing dance groups, motorcycles, and more to present a dazzling and entertaining night of fun for all ages! And best of all, Santa Claus himself makes a grand appearance to greet all his loyal fans as the parade makes its way down Atlantic Avenue. Parking is conveniently located in municipal parking lots and garages. - See more at:http://www.beachstreetusa.com/festivals/holiday-parade-beach#sthash.SaG6LYC7.dpuf

Sat, Dec 6 - Chesapeake Rotary Christmas Parade, 6 - 8:00 pm, Mt. Pleasant Rd., Battlefield Blvd., Cedar Rd., Chesapeake. Annual Christmas parade produced by the City of Chesapeake and the Chesapeake Rotary Club.http://www.visitchesapeake.com/events/index.cfm?action=displayDetail&EventID=1307

Sat, Dec 6 - CHKD Moonlight & Mistletoe Gala, Norfolk Waterside Marriott, 6:00 pm - Midnight, Main St. Norfolk. This year’s Holiday Gala event to benefit Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters will be held at Norfolk Waterside Marriott in downtown Norfolk, on Saturday, December 6, 2014. This elegant fun, high energy black tie event sold out last year and attracts multiple age groups / demographics in Hampton Roads. This event will be attended by approximately 500 of the echelons of the community, the “who’s who” event of Hampton Roads! The night, begins with cocktails and networking, followed by dinner and dancing and a unique silent and live auction of luxury packages. Your sponsorship of Moonlight & Mistletoe 2014 will help us support Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters in providing care to victims of child abuse as well as children coping with injuries, birth defects, acute illnesses and chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer. As well as supporting a variety of services from neonatal and pediatric intensive care, inpatient and outpatient surgery and community outreach services - to name a few. This legacy of support lives on because people like you share our passion to help the children of our community.

Sat, Dec 6 - Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade, 7 - 10:00 pm, Water Street, Yorktown. Festively decorated sail and power boats compete for “Best in Show.” The Yorktown waterfront is bedazzled with holiday sights and sounds, including a spectacular floating parade of lights, caroling around a roaring beach bonfire, musical performances and complimentary hot cider. Free. 757.890.4970

Sat, Dec 6 - 26th Annual Lighted Boat Parade, Downtown Hampton waterfront, 7:15 - 9:00 pm. Cruise into the spirit of the holiday season at the 26th Annual Downtown Hampton Lighted Boat Parade. More than 20 boats are expected to participate. This highly anticipated parade of illuminated power and sail boats will be visible from anywhere along the Hampton River, however spectators wanting to hear the narration will want to find a spot near the Hampton Maritime Center.

Sat/Sun, Dec 6/7 - 13th Annual Fair Trade Festival, O’Connor Brewing Co., Sat Noon - 8:00 pm, Sun Noon - 5:00 pm, 211 W. 24th Street, Norfolk. The thirteenth annual Fair Trade Festival is officially moving back to Norfolk, thanks to our generous new hosts, O’Connor Brewing! Sponsored by Norfolk Department of Development, 757 Makerspace, Aesop Technologies, Launch Hampton Roads, Elliot’s Fair Grounds, and NFTCO, this year’s festival is full of Fair Trade-themed fun including: Fabulous Fair Trade vendors, Excellent eco-friendly local vendors including Eco Trends VB, Eco Maniac Company, Norfolk Fair Trade Company, and more! A Fair Trade showcase, Live local entertainment, Spoken word poetry from Parks and Wrecks, Godchild The-omen, Beautiful Dizaster, and Marco Mercado, Beautiful belly dancers, Delicious Norfolk food trucks, Outstanding O’Connor’s beer, If you’re interested in being a vendor, volunteer, or event sponsor, please visit us online athttp://www.fairtradefestivalva.org/ for more information.

Sat/Sun, Dec 6/7 - Father Christmas, Merchant’s Square, Sat 2:30 - 6:00 pm, Sat 3:30 - 6:30 PM, Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg. Greet Father Christmas in the Square on weekends throughout the season. Find him at the Christmas tree outside from the Precious Gem.

Sat/Sun, Dec 6/7 - Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society Candlelight Tour, Riverview: Tradition with a New Twist, 1 - 5:00 pm. Tickets required. The tour is the quintessential event of the holiday season! This is the Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society’s annual holiday tradition of touring some of Suffolk’s most historic and interesting homes in a variety of architectural styles and period. This year’s Candlelight Tour will feature homes in the Riverview area, all decorated to welcome the holidays. Tickets are available in advance for $20 each at the Suffolk Visitor Center (524 N. Main Street), Seaboard Station Railroad Museum (326 N. Main Street), A. Dodson’s (2948 Bridge Road), or for $25 on tour days at each site. For more information about the SNHS 38th Annual Candlelight Tour, please contact Sandra Councill (252.207.9936) or Nita Bagnell (757.539.3558). Sponsorships are available.

Sat/Sun, Dec 6/7 - The Sugarplum Tea, Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 1:30 pm, 110 West Finney Avenue, Suffolk. Before the Nutcracker Performance, join us for a delightful afternoon with friends and family at the Sugarplum Tea. Meet The Nutcracker cast and enjoy delicious treats. Children can walk through the Enchanted Forest and create a holiday keepsake. $15. 757.923.2900 / www.SuffolkCenter.org

Sun, Dec 7 - MOCA Holiday Craft Sale, Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, 2200 Parks Avenue, Virginia Beach. Local artists present the coolest gifts for everyone on your list. Find unique and affordable artwork, accessories and jewelry from more than 30 artists in MOCA’s Atrium and Pavilion while sipping a delicious beverage from our hot chocolate bar or Three Ships Coffee pop-up cafe. Hashi Food Truck and Bodacious Pizza will also serve up great tasting dishes using fresh, local and best quality ingredients. Join us to create festive winter themed Origami at Family Fest in MOCA’s studios, and stop by the North Pole to get your family’s photo taken with Frosty. MOCA is proud to have local and regional artists participating in the Holiday Craft Sale, offering handmade gifts for everyone on your list.http://www.virginiamoca.org/holiday-craft-sale-2014

Sun, Dec 7 - Cookies with Santa, York Hall, 1 - 4:00 pm, 301 Main Street, Yorktown. Christmas is alive at York Hall where children and parents can visit with Santa Claus, enjoy some tasty treats, and shop for holiday gifts in the Gallery at York Hall. Cameras are encouraged. Free. 757.890.4490

Sun, Dec 7 - Pearl Harbor Day Memorial Ceremony, Virginia War Museum, 4:00 pm, 9285 Warwick Boulevard in Huntington Park, Newport News. This annual event features a wreath-laying ceremony at the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association monument on the grounds adjacent to the museum. Free. 757-247-8523

Sun, Dec 7 - Colonial Williamsburg’s Grand Illumination, 5:00 - 8:00 pm. Enjoy musical performances from multiple stages in Colonial Williamsburg and delight in the fireworks displays from three different locations. More Info:http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/holidays/grand-illumination/

Mon, Dec 8-31 - Antebellum Holidays, Lee Hall Mansion, 163 Yorktown Road, Newport News. Guests step back in time to enjoy the elegance of a mid-nineteenth century Christmas. Period decorations enhance the historic interiors and illustrate how Richard Lee and his family celebrated the holidays in the years before the Civil War. Guided tours are offered. Regular hours and admission rates apply. 757-888-3371

Mon, Dec 8-31 - Christmas at Endview Plantation, 362 Yorktown Road, Newport News. Greenery and period decorations brighten the house for the 1861 holidays. Learn about the families and local history that surround this historic plantation home. Included with regular admission. 757-887-1862

LOCAL THEATER/CONCERTS

Now-Dec 19 - Holiday in the City: Strolling Musicians, Downtown Norfolk, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm, Granby Street and Tazwell Street. Schedule: Dec 3 - Holiday Brass, Dec 4 - Doorway Singers, Dec 5 - Santa Band, Dec 8 - Holiday Brass, Dec 9 - Santa Band, Dec 10 - Holiday Brass, Dec 11 - Santa Band, Dec 12 - Doorway Singers, Dec 15 - Doorway Singers, Dec 16 - Holiday Brass, Dec 17 - Santa Band, Dec 18 - Holiday Brass, Dec 19 - Doorway Singers

Wed, Dec 3 - All the Way LIVE! Series, The American Theater, 7:30 pm, 125 E Mellen St, Hampton. All the Way LIVE! features two amateur competitions - a contest for adults and a separate category for children. Talent will be selected from auditions, and competitors will compete for cash prizes. Produced by SEEDAHOPE Productions. This monthly variety show features amateur and experienced talent, adults and kids, and is a fun high energy evening out. A house band backs up all performers, and each event will be hosted by a local celebrity. $10

Wed, Dec 3 - Mark O’Connor’s ‘An Appalachian Christmas’, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:30 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. Mark O’Connor’s “An Appalachian Christmas” album (2011) made the top 15 on Billboard’s Classical Album, Crossover and Bluegrass Album charts. It was hailed by critics from The Wall Street Journal and Los Angeles Times as the top album of the holiday season. O’Connor is a Grammy-winning composer and violinist who tackles Christmas classics creating a wondrous mixture of Christmas carols, fiddling, bluegrass and other American music. Concert goers are treated to fresh takes on traditional songs in what feels like an “off-the-cuff performance for family and friends.” His renditions are playful and joyous, but can be strikingly earnest too.

Wed, Dec 3 - Virginia Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah, Regent University, 8:00 pm, 1000 Regent University Dr (Off Indian River Rd & Centerville Tpk), Virginia Beach. It is the greatest story ever told and the most majestic music ever conceived. This is THE Messiah of the season. Featuring the voices of the Virginia Symphony Chorus and vocal soloists, celebrate this special holiday with YOUR Virginia Symphony Orchestra.

Wed-Sun, Dec 3-7 - Wicked, The Musical, Chrysler Hall, Wed-Sat, 8:00 pm, Thu & Sat 2:00 pm, Sun 1:00 and 6:30 pm, Tue-Sat 8:00 pm, Thu & Sat 2:00 pm, Downtown Norfolk. Long before Dorothy drops in, two other girls meet in the Land of Oz. One - born with emerald green skin - is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. WICKED tells the story of their remarkable odyssey, how these two unlikely friends grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.

Thu, Dec 4 - Citizen Artist Norfolk The Documentary, Smartmouth Brewing Company, 5:30 pm, 1309 Raleigh Ave, Chelsea, Norfolk. Documentary created as part of the public art community project Citizen Artist Norfolk by Knox Garvin & Nicole Harp for Norfolk Visual Arts Week.

Thu, Dec 4 - Phoebus Film Club Series: Miracle On 34th Street, The American Theater, 7:30 pm, 125 E Mellen St, Hampton. Join us for this holiday classic with a star studded cast and an ending loved by many. In the spirit of the movie, the American Theatre’s own holiday window will be revealed. Classic holiday food and drink will be provided as we prepare for the Phoebus Grand Illumination, taking place the following evening on Mellen Street.

Thu, Dec 4 - Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour 2014, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:30 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. While jolly ol’ St. Nick is busy making his list and checking it twice, Santa Koz is coming to town. Multi-Grammy nominee and saxophonist extraordinaire Dave Koz has become synonymous with the season, thanks to his high-energy holiday tour, which celebrates its 17th anniversary this year. “Dave Koz = Christmas,” said the El Paso Times, and Examiner.com assured readers, “There really is a . Santa Koz,” calling the Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour “a must-see show.”

Thu, Dec 4 - Virginia Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah, Crosswalk Community Church, 8:00 pm, 7575 Richmond Rd, Williamsburg. It is the greatest story ever told and the most majestic music ever conceived. This is THE Messiah of the season. Featuring the voices of the Virginia Symphony Chorus and vocal soloists, celebrate this special holiday with YOUR Virginia Symphony Orchestra.

Thu/Fri, Dec 4/5 - Free Holiday Concert by US Air Force Heritage Band, TCC Roper Performing Arts Center, 8:30 pm, 340 Granby Street, Norfolk. The United States Air Force Heritage of America Band will present “Through Children’s Eyes,” a free concert featuring a family-friendly program of holiday music. With traditional and new music performed by several of the Heritage of America Band’s ensembles, the concerts will present familiar favorites and music inspired by or written especially for children including selections from Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Ballet,” the television program “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and a brand new children’s story entitled “Robbie the Raptor.” FREE 757-822-1450

Thu-Sun, Dec 4-7 - Ah, Wilderness! by Eugene O’Neill, Regent University Theater, Thu-Sat 7:30 pm, Sat 2:30 pm, Sun 2:30 pm, Studio Theater, Performing Arts Center, 1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach. Directed by Mark Paladini. Return to idyllic small-town America in this coming-of-age comedy about young love and the endless possibilities of youth. Chicago Sun-Times declares it a “.beguiling (comedy) in its mix of the tart and the sweet.” Adults: $17 - Discount*: $14 - Regent students: $9 757.352.4245

Fri, Dec 5 - An Evening with Colonial Williamsburg’s Patrick Henry, Traditions at Chesapeake Golf Club, 6:30 pm, 1201 Club House Drive, Chesapeake. The Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways History Foundation invites you to spend a special evening with Colonial Williamsburg’s Patrick Henry. 6:30 - 7:15 pm VIP Reception, 7:15 pm Doors Open to General Admission, 7:15 - 8:00 pm Cocktails and Hors d’ oeuvres, 8:00 - 9:00 pm Presentation, 9:00 9:45 pm Dessert & Coffee/Tea. VIP - $75 per person; General Admission - $50 per person. (757) 482-4480

Fri, Dec 5 - Hurrah for the Holidays, Kimball Theater, 7:00 pm, 428 W. Duke of Gloucester St., Williamsburg. The excitement of Radio City Music Hall comes to Williamsburg in a festive experience for the entire family. This lively musical revue features precision kick line dancers and holiday favorites from yesterday and today. You’ll take home some special memories from this evening with the Hurrah Players, Virginia’s leading family theater company.

Fri, Dec 5 - Virginia Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah, Harrison Opera House, 8:00 pm, 160 East Virginia Beach Boulevard, Norfolk. It is the greatest story ever told and the most majestic music ever conceived. This is THE Messiah of the season. Featuring the voices of the Virginia Symphony Chorus and vocal soloists, celebrate this special holiday with YOUR Virginia Symphony Orchestra.

Fri, Dec 5 - The Concise Dickens’ Christmas Carol, The American Theater, 8:00 pm, 125 E Mellen St, Hampton. Local treasure, D. D. Delaney, stars in this highly intelligent adaptation of the beloved Dickens’ tale that gets straight to the heart of the story - how learning to give can be a redemptive act, even for the ultimate miser, Mr. Scrooge. Delaney, who portrays 22 characters in his one-man show, is a true master of the stage and has shown this to be true for the past eight years as he delighted Hampton Roads audiences.

Fri/Sat, Dec 5/6 - Hedspeth Family Toys for Tots Benefit Concert, Spring Branch Community Church, 7:00 pm, 1500 N. Great Neck Rd, Virginia Beach. Please bring one unwrapped toy per guest. 333-7222

Fri/Sat, Dec 5/6 - Monster Jam, Hampton Coliseum, Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 1:00 and 7:30 pm, 1000 Coliseum Drive, Hampton. Monster Jam is blasting into 2015 with a new 10-city arena based, points-paying Monster Jam endurance showcase, featuring the biggest and best lineup of Monster Jam trucks highlighted by more of what the fans want to see.more racing, more freestyle, more donuts, more wheelies, more trucks, more action.#MoreMonsterJam!. These select markets will also be treated to new competition vehicles such as extreme Monster Jam Speedsters and Monster Jam ATVs as they rip through the arenas during combative racing action. Headlining the tour will be eight of the best Monster Jam trucks and eight of the fiercest athletes competing against one another and against each Monster Jam branded trio of vehicles, to earn valuable points during each new event discipline. These athletes will be competing for a bid to the prestigious Monster Jam World Finals held at Las Vegas’ Sam Boyd Stadium on March 26-28.

Fri-Sun, Dec 5-7 - A Christmas Carol Street Theater, Merchant Square, Fri 5:00 pm, Sat 12:30 3:30 & 5:00 pm, Sun 12:30 2:00 & 3:30 pm, Williamsburg. Enjoy a hilarious 30 minute street theater production of the Christmas classic from the Virginia Theatre Machine. Back for a 7th year!

Fri-Sun, Dec 5-7 - “A TUNA Christmas”, Peninsula Community Theater, Fri-Sat 8:00 pm, Sun 2:30 pm, 10251 Warwick Blvd., Newport News. In this hilarious sequel to “Greater Tuna”, it’s Christmas in the third smallest town in Texas, where two men perform all 30-plus characters in this quick-change hilarious yuletide romp. $18 adults, $17 students/military/seniors,http://pctlive.org/

Fri-Sun, Dec 5-7 - “The Light in the Piazza”, a musical, the Little Theatre of Virginia Beach, Fri/Sat 8:00 pm, Sun 2:30 pm, Virginia Beach. The Light in the Piazza, Music and lyrics by Adam Guettel; Book by Craig Lucas; Directed by Brandon Monahan. This Tony award-winning musical takes place in Italy in the Summer of 1953. Margaret Johnson, the wife of an American businessman, is in Florence with her daughter, Clara. A gust of wind seizes Clara’s hat and lands in the hands of Fabrizio Naccarelli, a handsome young Florentine. The romance between these two causes Margaret to question her own values and deal with Clara’s maturation.

Fri-Sun, Dec 5-7 - Virginia Musical Theatre: A Christmas Carol, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Fri 8:00 pm, Sat 2:00 and 8:00 pm, Sun 2:00 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. A festive tradition returns to Virginia Musical Theatre as a big, bold musical, with a contemporary Broadway score by local composer Chip Gallagher and lyricist Jeff Meredith, that captures both the spirit of the holidays and Dickens’ classic novel. With more than 30 singers, a full orchestra and elaborate scenery, this timely, uplifting and exhilarating tale will be a treat for the entire family.www.broadwayatthecenter.com/shows.php

Sat, Dec 6 - Wren Chapel Historic Organ Concert, 10:00 am, Wren Building on the College of William & Mary Campus, Williamsburg. Bruton Parish’s Music Director, Rebecca Davy, oversees a series of weekly concerts on the 18th-century organ in the Wren Chapel, located in the Sir Christopher Wren Building on the College of William & Mary campus. These half-hour concerts are held each Saturday at 10 a.m. and are free and open to the public.

Sat, Dec 6 - Williamsburg Choral Guild — Carols and Holiday Songs, 1 - 3:00 pm, Merchant’s Square, 402 W Duke of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg. Sing carols and holiday songs with members of the Williamsburg Choral Guild, accompanied by a brass quartet and under the direction of Artistic Director/Conductor Jay BeVille. Bring family and friends to Merchants Square, Williamsburg’s bustling center of festive events, where they will join Guild singers in a delightful musical welcome of the season.

Sat, Dec 6 - Children’s Theater of Hampton Roads Presents: “Uncle Wiggly’s Christmas Carol”, 11:00 am & 2:00 pm, Peninsula Community Theater, 10251 Warwick Blvd., Newport News. Celebrate the season with Uncle Wiggly and his forest friends in the adaptation of Charles Dickens classic tale. A charming and original play that is great for the entire family.

Sat, Dec 6 - U.S. Army TRADOC Band Christmas Concert, Regent University Performing Arts Center, 7:00 pm, Main Stage, 1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach. Strike up the band! Celebrate the Holidays Concert Series with The U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command Band.

Sat, Dec 6 - Virginia Children’s Chorus presents “A Ceremony of Carols”, St. Luke’s Church, 7:30 pm, 560 West Olney Road, Norfolk. Join the Virginia Children’s Chorus for this traditional Christmas masterpiece! The Concert Choir will be directed by Carol Thomas Downing with harp accompaniment by Barbara Chapman, principal harpist for the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. The Virginia Children’s Chorus Chamber Singers, directed by Paul Putnam, will open the concert with beautiful holiday music. Our newest CD will also be released at these concerts. “A Ceremony of Carols & Christmas Music for Flute & Harp” features our 2012 concert recording and beautiful selections by Debra Wendells Cross, flute & Barbara Chapman, harp. (757) 440-9100

Sat, Dec 6 - Paula Poundstone, Attucks Theater, 8:00 pm, Church St., Norfolk. While there is no doubt that Poundstone is funny, the thing that probably separates her from the pack of comics working today and that has made her a legend among comics and audiences alike is her ability to be spontaneous with a crowd. Poundstone says: “No two shows I do are the same. It’s not that I don’t repeat material. I do. My shows, when they’re good, and I like to think they often are, are like a cocktail party. When you first get there, you talk about how badly you got lost and how hard it was to find parking. Then you tell a story about your kids or what you just saw on the news. You meet some new people and ask them about themselves. Then, someone says, “Tell that story you used to tell,” and then someone on the other side of the room spills a drink, and you mock them. No one ever applauds me when I leave a party, though. I think they high five.”

Sat, Dec 6 - Virginia Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah, First Baptist Church, 8:00 pm, 12716 Warwick Blvd, Newport News. It is the greatest story ever told and the most majestic music ever conceived. This is THE Messiah of the season. Featuring the voices of the Virginia Symphony Chorus and vocal soloists, celebrate this special holiday with YOUR Virginia Symphony Orchestra.

Sat, Dec 6 - The Concise Dickens’ Christmas Carol & Corrupted Christmas Carols, The American Theater, 8:00 pm, 125 E Mellen St, Hampton. Local treasure, D. D. Delaney, portrays 22 characters in his one-man show and gets straight to the heart of the story - how learning to give can be a redemptive act, even for the ultimate miser, Mr. Scrooge. Delaney, who, is a true master of the stage shares the evening with the cast of ‘Corrupted Christmas Carols’, a delightful short musical about a disgruntled couple who gets the Christmas spirit and fresh sparks of romance while corrupting Christmas carols.

Sat/Sun, Dec 6/7 - Williamsburg Symphonia Holiday Pops, Kimball Theatre, 1:30 & 3:00 pm, 428 West Duke of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg. Sat. & Sun., December 6 & 7, 2014, The Williamsburg Symphonia presents Holiday Pops, all your favorite music of this festive season. Guest artist Susan Greenbaum returns! The Symphonia is conducted by Music Director Janna Hymes, in her 11th season on the podium. At the Kimball Theatre in Merchants Square, Williamsburg; parking nearby. Performances daily at 1:30 & 3:00 p.m. Ticket sales online after October 1, 2014, at www.colonialwilliamsburg.com. For details, visit www.williamsburgsymphonia.org or call 757-229-9857

Sat/Sun, Dec 6/7 - The Nutcracker Suite by Ballet Virginia, Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 3:00 pm, 110 West Finney Avenue, Suffolk. Surrender to the grand sweep of Tchaikovsky’s score and the wonders of childhood. Enjoy Ballet Virginia International’s Performing Company and guest artists as they dance their way through this classic fantastical journey. See young Clara’s dream come to life! Witness Dr. Drosselmyer’s magical snow transform Clara and her beloved Nutcracker into a beautiful princess and a handsome prince. Join the royal couple as they travel to exotic and enchanted lands. Waltzing flowers, tiny mice and Mother Ginger’s lively brood will stay with you forever and put the entire family in a warm holiday mood. The Nutcracker Suite is a combination of theatrical narration and classical ballet-the perfect length for children of all ages. $25. 757.923.2900 / www.SuffolkCenter.org

Sun, Dec 7 - Children’s Theater of Hampton Roads Presents: “The Elf and the Reindeer”, Meyera E Oberndorf Central Library Theater, 2:00 pm, Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach. When your one job is to watch the reindeer, and that doesn’t go well, then it can prove to be a problem for the holidays. Enjoy this story of two misfits who become friends and save Christmas! Great for all ages.

Sun, Dec 7 - Songs, Dance and Stories with Via Goode, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, 2 & 3:00 pm, Corner of High & Court St, Portsmouth. Via Goode, of Goode Stories, presents holiday talks through songs, dance and stories.

Sun, Dec 7 - Barbershop Harmony Holiday Show, Bayside Church of Christ, 3:00 pm, 5025 Shell Road, Virginia Beach. Featuring the Commodores, Barbershop quartets, and Gentlemen Guest Singers. 215-1602

Sun, Dec 7 - Fort Monroe Holly Days Concert and Tree Lighting, Ft. Monroe Theater, 4 - 6:00 pm, Ft Monroe, Hampton. The lighting of the Fort’s largest holly tree will be preceded by a concert given by the Hampton Roads Philharmonic Orchestra performing “Gloria”, the Nutcracker Suite and Christmas favorites.

Sun, Dec 7 - Handel’s Messiah Sing-A-Long, Ogden Hall, Hampton University, 4 - 7:00 pm, Hampton University, Hampton. Celebrate the season with a “Sing-A-Long” to George Frederic Handel’s holiday classic. This timeless classic has become a traditional event in the Hampton Roads community. HU’s Department of Music, University Choirs and Orchestra invite audiences to join along with featured guest soloist.

Sun, Dec 7 - First Sunday Evenings, The American Theater, 7:30 pm, 125 E Mellen St, Hampton. The Venue on 35th, a small storefront performing arts space dedicated to showcasing local artists from many genres, will bring to The American Theatre a slice of local urban art every First Sunday Evening of the month. Since The Venue is the home of the Virginia Playwrights Forum, many of the First Sunday Evenings will be showcasing the Forum’s new play development program. Presented will be staged readings of scripts with talk-back sessions, workshops, and full productions of new full-lengths, one-acts and ten-minute plays written by VPF members. The Forum will also reserve some time to read and critique scripts from The American Theatre’s Mentor Program for high school students who want to write for the stage. This event is FREE and open to the public.

Sun, Dec 7 - Virginia Symphony Holiday Brass, Phi Beta Kappa Hall, 7:00 pm, 601 Jamestown Road, Williamsburg. The bold sounds of the Virginia Symphony Brass section ring in the holidays with a blast! Experience a full-length concert filled with wit, virtuosity, and the glorious music of the holidays, featuring nearly twenty players from the VSO brass and percussion sections and conducted by Dr. Paul Bhasin, Assistant Professor (Conducting), Director of Bands at the William and Mary School of Music. With music from a variety of styles - classical to contemporary - you’ll delight in the joyous sounds of the season!

Tue, Dec 9 - A Chowan Christmas - A Holiday Variety Show, Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 7:30 pm, 110 West Finney Avenue, Suffolk. Free holiday variety show! 757.923.2900 / www.SuffolkCenter.org

Tue, Dec 9 - The Tallis Scholars, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:30 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. The Tallis Scholars were founded in 1973 by their director, Peter Phillips. Through their recordings and concert performances (Royal Albert Hall, Lincoln Center, the Sistine Chapel) they have established themselves as the leading exponents of Renaissance sacred music throughout the world. Phillips has worked with the ensemble to create, through good tuning and blend, the purity and clarity of sound which he feels best serve the Renaissance repertoire, allowing every detail of the musical lines to be heard. It is the resulting beauty of sound for which The Tallis Scholars have become so widely renowned, earning wide acclaim for their supple clarity and tone of their vocal lines.

Wed, Dec 10 - Norfolk Joins Cities Around the World to Host Unsilent Night, 5:30 pm, MacArthur Square, Downtown Norfolk. Join in the inaugural Norfolk Unsilent Night, an outdoor boombox parade that brings together art, music, and people during the holidays. All you need to do is show up at MacArthur Square with a musical device and some holiday cheer! After we gather, the crowd will walk through Downtown and the Arts District, holding aloft boomboxes and speakers playing Phil Kline’s electronic musical masterpiece. The music creates a layered, beautiful sound that emanates throughout as you walk through the city streets twinkling with Holiday lights. The promenade begins at 5:45 pm. Norfolk route information: 1 MacArthur Square, 2 Freemason Abbey Restaurant (209 W Freemason Street), 3 401-499 W Freemason Street, 4 Chrysler Museum of Art (1 Memorial Place), 5 600-718 Yarmouth Street, 6 The Plot, 756 Granby Street, The Parlor, across the street will be hosting more holiday fun.

Wed, Dec 10-24 - Virginia Stage Company: A Christmas Carol, Wells Theater, Wed-Sat 8:00 pm, Sat 4:00 pm, Sun 2:00 pm, Tue 7:00 pm, 110 East Tazewell Street, Norfolk. Our favorite tradition returns with a special holiday schedule. Don’t miss this heartwarming classic for the whole family!

FARMERS’ MARKETS

Sat, Dec 6 - Smithfield Christmas Craft & Food Market, at the Bank of Southside Virginia parking lot, 9:00 am-1:00 pm, Downtown Smithfield. Named one of the “101 Best Farmers Markets in America” by the DailyMeal.com, Smithfield’s Farmers Market is held every Saturday morning from April 5 through October 25. Now in its 14th season, each market features “Virginia Grown” - locally grown produce and items such as: beef, pork, chicken, eggs, peanuts, plants, herbs, baked goods, coffee, cheese, honey, barbecue, wood-fired pizza, ham sandwiches, handcrafted items and live music each week!

Sat, Dec 6 - Olde Towne Holiday Farmers’ Market, hours from Nov 1 to Dec 20 are 10:00 am - 1:00 pm, Downtown Portsmouth Historic district. Market with locally and organically grown veggies, fruits, nut, herbs, beef, chicken, eggs, seafood, artisanal breads, scones, pastries, cakes, pies, jams, jellies, salsas, fresh, dried and silk flowers, soaps, lotions, pottery, arts/crafts. Just outside the Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center courtyard at Court and High Streets.

Sat, Dec 6 - Christmas Market on Main, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, Main Street, Yorktown. Whether you are searching for a holiday gift for family, friends, or as a treat to yourself, you’re sure to find it at the Christmas Market on Main. The market features arts and crafts vendors, strolling musical entertainment, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Free. 757.877.2933

Sat, Dec 6 - Suffolk Artisan Gift Fair at the Pavilion, 10:00 am-5:00 pm, 524 N. Main St., Suffolk. Kick off your holiday shopping with handcrafted gifts at the 3rd Annual Artisan Gift Fair at the Suffolk Visitor Center’s open-air Pavilion. Enjoy festive music, light refreshments and arts and crafts. For info contact the Suffolk Visitor Center at 757.514.4130

Fri, Dec 12 - Smithfield Evening Christmas Craft & Food Market, at the Bank of Southside Virginia parking lot, 5:00 - 9:00 pm, Downtown Smithfield. A Magical evening with Christmas lights, music and adult beverages, food and more. Performances by school and community choirs, and live music by Alec Edmonds, and concert by Bria Kelly. Ugly Sweater contest, and a visit by Santa. plus over a 100 of vendors with handcrafts and gift items.

Sat, Dec 13 - Yorktown Market Days: Holiday Market/Toyland Parade, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Riverwalk Landing, 425 Water Street, Yorktown. In addition to the usual array of fresh produce, meat and seafood, baked goods, specialty cut flowers, quality art, and entertainment, there will be hayrides, a pumpkin patch and Children’s Hay Maze, Face Painting, and Children’s Activities. Riverwalk Landing. Free. 757.890.3500.

Sat, Dec 20 - Old Beach Farmers’ Market, Croc’s 19th Street Bistro, 9:00 am-12:00 pm, on the corner of 19th Street and Cypress Ave, Virginia Beach. We feature seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables, meats (pork, bison, beef, chicken, turkey, sausages, charcuterie), eggs, seafood, cheeses, a wide assortment of baked goods (biscuits, pies, cakes, brownies and cookies), artisanal breads, and savory foods from local chefs (pasta, sauces, salsas, salads, tamales), soap, and flowers. Founded in 2008, Old Beach Farmers Market is run entirely by volunteers as an independent 501(c)6 organization. We support local family farms, watermen, and Virginia wineries. Old Beach Farmers Market is a certified Virginia Green market, encouraging eco-friendly practices. Walk over or ride a bike. Bring a reusable shopping bag. Come discover the taste of fresh, seasonal fare. Beginning November 2014 and running through May 2015 your market will be open every third Saturday, 9:00 am to Noon.

Sat, Dec 20 - Smithfield Christmas Craft & Food Market, at the Bank of Southside Virginia parking lot, 9:00 am-1:00 pm, Downtown Smithfield. Named one of the “101 Best Farmers Markets in America” by the DailyMeal.com, Smithfield’s Farmers Market is held every Saturday morning from April 5 through October 25. Now in its 14th season, each market features “Virginia Grown” - locally grown produce and items such as: beef, pork, chicken, eggs, peanuts, plants, herbs, baked goods, coffee, cheese, honey, barbecue, wood-fired pizza, ham sandwiches, handcrafted items and live music each week!