New Direction Childcare Metro Richmond Family Fun Guide

November–December 2026 | Richmond, Henrico, Chesterfield, Hanover & Surrounding Areas

Discover holiday celebrations, family-friendly festivals, educational adventures, and free activities happening throughout Metro Richmond!

HOLIDAY LIGHTS, SANTA & SEASONAL MAGIC

 

1. MAYMONT GARDEN GLOW

Date & Location: October 14–November 8, 2026 | Richmond, VA

Description: Enjoy a magical evening exploring illuminated garden trails, interactive light displays, and cozy fire pits at Maymont.

Admission: Paid admission; ticket prices vary.

Website: https://maymont.org/calendar/garden-glow/

 

2. DOMINION ENERGY GARDENFEST OF LIGHTS

Date & Location: November 20, 2026–January 3, 2027 | Henrico, VA

Description: Explore Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden transformed into a dazzling holiday wonderland with illuminated displays, botanical decorations, and seasonal family activities.

Admission: Paid admission; advance tickets recommended.

Website: https://www.lewisginter.org/visit/events/gardenfest-of-lights/

 

3. LIGHT UP THE TRACKS

Date & Location: November 21, 2026–January 1, 2027 | Ashland, VA

Description: Take a festive stroll through Downtown Ashland, where decorated storefronts, holiday lights, and seasonal activities bring the community together.

Admission: Free to explore; some activities may have fees.

Website: https://www.ashlandvirginia.com/

 

4. RVA ILLUMINATES

Date & Location: December 2026; exact date to confirm | Downtown Richmond, VA

Description: Celebrate the holiday season with Richmond's downtown illumination tradition, featuring festive lights and community entertainment.

Admission: Free.

Website: https://venturerichmond.com/holidays/

 

5. WEST BROAD VILLAGE TREE LIGHTING

Date & Location: Holiday season; date to confirm | Short Pump, VA

Description: Enjoy a festive community celebration with holiday entertainment, a beautifully decorated tree, and seasonal activities.

Admission: Typically free; confirm event details.

Website: https://westbroadvillage.shopkimco.com/

 

6. WINTERWORLD RVA

Date & Location: November 19, 2026–January 3, 2027 | CarMax Park, Richmond, VA

Description: Enjoy holiday lights, ice skating, a Ferris wheel, festive slides, and Santa's Workshop at this seasonal family attraction.

Admission: Paid admission; some activities cost extra.

Website: https://winterworldrva.com/plan-your-visit/

 

7. ILLUMINATE LIGHT SHOW

Date & Location: November 20, 2026–January 2, 2027 | Doswell, VA

Description: Drive through an impressive display of colorful Christmas lights synchronized to holiday music, all from the comfort of your vehicle.

Admission: Paid admission per vehicle.

Website: https://www.illuminatelightshow.com/

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8. LEGENDARY SANTA

Date & Location: Holiday season | Children's Museum of Richmond, VA

Description: Visit Richmond's beloved Legendary Santa and the Snow Queen for a memorable holiday experience and family photograph.

Admission: Paid reservations required.

Website: https://www.childrensmuseumofrichmond.org/legendary-santa/

 

9. SANTA PHOTOS AT SHORT PUMP TOWN CENTER

Date & Location: November 13–December 24, 2026 | Short Pump, VA

Description: Bring the children to meet Santa Claus and capture special holiday memories with professional photographs.

Admission: Photo packages available for purchase.

Website: https://www.shortpumpmall.com/

 

10. RICHMOND TACKY LIGHTS TOUR

Date & Location: December 2026 | Various Metro Richmond neighborhoods

Description: Take a family drive through Richmond neighborhoods known for their extravagant Christmas decorations and dazzling light displays.

Admission: Free for self-guided tours; organized tours may charge.

Website: https://www.visitrichmondva.com/groups/itineraries/holiday-lights/

 

11. JEFFERSON HOTEL HOLIDAY DECORATIONS

Date & Location: Holiday season | Downtown Richmond, VA

Description: Visit the historic Jefferson Hotel to admire its magnificent Christmas tree, elegant holiday decorations, and festive atmosphere.

Admission: Free to view public-area decorations.

Website: https://www.jeffersonhotel.com/

 

12. JAMES CENTER HOLIDAY LIGHTS

Date & Location: Holiday season | Downtown Richmond, VA

Description: Enjoy a festive downtown stroll featuring illuminated trees and seasonal decorations.

Admission: Free.

Website: https://www.visitrichmondva.com/groups/itineraries/holiday-lights/

 

13. STONY POINT TREE LIGHTING

Date & Location: November 21, 2026 | Richmond, VA

Description: Celebrate the arrival of the holiday season with a community tree lighting and festive activities.

Admission: Free.

Website: https://www.shopstonypoint.com/

 

HOLIDAY SHOWS, PARADES & CULTURAL TRADITIONS

 

14. A CHRISTMAS CAROL — VIRGINIA REPERTORY THEATRE

Date & Location: Holiday season; 2026 production schedule to confirm | Richmond, VA

Description: Experience the timeless Christmas story of Ebenezer Scrooge, generosity, and the spirit of the holiday season.

Admission: Paid tickets, if scheduled.

Website: https://va-rep.org/

 

15. A CHRISTMAS STORY — THE MUSICAL

Date & Location: November 27–29, 2026 | Richmond, VA

Description: Enjoy a musical adaptation of the beloved holiday story featuring Ralphie and his unforgettable Christmas wish.

Admission: Paid tickets.

Website: https://www.altriatheater.com/

 

16. THE NUTCRACKER — RICHMOND BALLET

Date & Location: December 2026 | Richmond, VA

Description: Introduce your family to the magic of ballet through this beautiful holiday production filled with music, dancing, and imagination.

Admission: Paid tickets.

Website: https://richmondballet.com/

 

17. DOMINION ENERGY CHRISTMAS PARADE

Date & Location: December 2026; date to confirm | Downtown Richmond, VA

Description: Watch festive floats, marching bands, holiday characters, and giant balloons travel through downtown Richmond.

Admission: Free public viewing.

Website: https://venturerichmond.com/holidays/

 

18. MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS AT METRO RICHMOND ZOO

Date & Location: December 20–22, 2026 | Moseley, VA

Description: Experience a live outdoor nativity presentation featuring animals, music, and the Christmas story.

Admission: Free admission and parking.

Website: https://metrorichmondzoo.com/moc/

 

19. YULETIDES AT AGECROFT HALL

Date & Location: December 13, 2026 | Richmond, VA

Description: Discover Christmas traditions from different centuries through historical characters, music, crafts, and a visit from Father Christmas.

Admission: Free.

Website: https://www.agecrofthall.org/events/yuletides-2026

 

20. COURT END CHRISTMAS

Date & Location: December 2026; date to confirm | Richmond, VA

Description: Explore Richmond's historic Court End neighborhood through seasonal tours, music, and educational holiday activities.

Admission: Traditionally free; confirm participation and admission.

Website: https://www.visitrichmondva.com/

 

21. HISTORIC CHRISTMAS AT HANOVER TAVERN

Date & Location: December 2026; date to confirm | Hanover, VA

Description: Explore historical holiday traditions, seasonal decorations, and family-friendly activities at Hanover Tavern.

Admission: Fees vary by program.

Website: https://hanovertavern.org/

 

22. JAMES RIVER PARADE OF LIGHTS

Date & Location: December 2026; date to confirm | Richmond and Chesterfield, VA

Description: Watch boats decorated with colorful Christmas lights travel along the James River during this festive nighttime tradition.

Admission: Free public viewing.

Website: https://www.visitrichmondva.com/

 

23. COLONIAL HEIGHTS CHRISTMAS PARADE

Date & Location: December 2026; date to confirm | Colonial Heights, VA

Description: Enjoy an evening parade featuring decorated floats, holiday lights, marching bands, and community groups.

Admission: Free.

Website: https://www.colonialheightsva.gov/

 

24. CAPITAL CITY KWANZAA FESTIVAL

Date & Location: December 27, 2026 | Richmond, VA

Description: Celebrate African American culture and community with performances, workshops, children's activities, and an African marketplace.

Admission: Confirm current admission information.

Website: https://www.efsinc.org/

 

25. CHRISTMAS THROUGH THE CENTURIES

Date & Location: Holiday season; date to confirm | Henricus Historical Park, Chester, VA

Description: Discover how Christmas was celebrated throughout history through interactive demonstrations and living-history experiences.

Admission: Fees vary.

Website: https://henricus.org/

 

FESTIVALS, HOLIDAY MARKETS & COMMUNITY EVENTS

 

26. VIRGINIA THANKSGIVING FESTIVAL

Date & Location: Early November 2026; date to confirm | Berkeley Plantation, Charles City, VA

Description: Discover Virginia's Thanksgiving history through cultural presentations, historical reenactments, crafts, and food.

Admission: Fees vary.

Website: https://virginiathanksgivingfestival.net/

 

27. CRAFTSMEN'S CHRISTMAS CLASSIC

Date & Location: November 6–8, 2026 | Richmond Raceway Complex

Description: Explore hundreds of handmade crafts, artwork, holiday decorations, and unique gifts created by talented artisans.

Admission: Paid admission.

Website: https://gilmoreshows.com/richmond-va-craftsmens-classics/

 

28. RICHMOND NIGHT MARKET

Date & Location: Select dates | Richmond, VA

Description: Enjoy a lively community market featuring local artists, handmade goods, music, food, and cultural experiences.

Admission: Typically free entry.

Website: https://www.richmondnightmarket.com/

 

29. LAKESIDE'S HOLLY JOLLY MARKET

Date & Location: November 6, 2026 | Henrico, VA

Description: Shop seasonal gifts and handcrafted goods from local vendors in the Lakeside community.

Admission: Typically free entry; confirm.

Website: https://www.metrorichmond.com/events

 

30. COVENANT WOODS CHRISTMAS MARKET

Date & Location: November 6–7, 2026 | Mechanicsville, VA

Description: Browse holiday gifts, handmade products, and seasonal offerings from community vendors.

Admission: Confirm event details.

Website: https://www.metrorichmond.com/events

 

31. SWEATER WEATHER MARKET AT AGECROFT

Date & Location: November 14, 2026 | Richmond, VA

Description: Enjoy a seasonal shopping experience featuring local makers and handmade goods at historic Agecroft Hall.

Admission: Confirm event details.

Website: https://www.agecrofthall.org/

 

32. RVA CRAFT SHOW

Date & Location: November 21–22, 2026 | Glen Allen, VA

Description: Browse creative gifts, handcrafted products, and seasonal merchandise from local artisans.

Admission: Confirm admission.

Website: https://www.metrorichmond.com/events

 

33. RICHMOND FALL CRAFT & VENDOR MARKET

Date & Location: November 21–22, 2026 | Chesterfield Towne Center

Description: Discover unique gifts, handcrafted products, and seasonal items from area vendors.

Admission: Typically free entry; confirm.

Website: https://www.metrorichmond.com/events

 

34. COLLECTIVE — A CREATIVE MARKET

Date & Location: November 28, 2026 | Glen Allen, VA

Description: Explore handmade artwork, creative gifts, and unique products from local makers.

Admission: Confirm event details.

Website: https://www.artsglenallen.com/

 

35. MADE IN RVA HOLIDAY SHOP

Date & Location: November 14–December 30, 2026 | Richmond, VA

Description: Shop locally created artwork, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal merchandise.

Admission: Free to browse.

Website: https://artworksrva.com/

 

36. FIRST FRIDAYS AT THE VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF HISTORY & CULTURE

Date & Location: Select first Fridays | Richmond, VA

Description: Explore museum exhibits and special evening programs. Check the schedule for family-friendly activities.

Admission: Varies by event.

Website: https://virginiahistory.org/events

 

37. WEST BROAD VILLAGE SEASONAL EVENTS

Date & Location: November–December 2026 | Short Pump, VA

Description: Enjoy seasonal community gatherings, shopping, and holiday entertainment.

Admission: Typically free entry; some activities may cost extra.

Website: https://westbroadvillage.shopkimco.com/

 

MUSEUMS, STEAM & EDUCATIONAL ADVENTURES

 

38. CHILDREN'S MUSEUM OF RICHMOND

Date & Location: Year-round | Richmond and Chesterfield, VA

Description: Let children learn through imaginative play, interactive exhibits, art activities, and hands-on exploration.

Admission: Paid admission.

Website: https://www.childrensmuseumofrichmond.org/

 

39. CHILDREN'S MUSEUM STORYTIMES, ARTSPLAY & SENSORY PROGRAMS

Date & Location: Select dates | Richmond, VA

Description: Enjoy storytelling, creative art projects, sensory exploration, and early-childhood learning programs.

Admission: Included with admission or additional fee, depending on program.

Website: https://www.childrensmuseumofrichmond.org/

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40. SCIENCE MUSEUM OF VIRGINIA

Date & Location: Year-round | Richmond, VA

Description: Explore interactive science exhibits, engineering challenges, technology, and hands-on discoveries.

Admission: Paid admission.

Website: https://smv.org/

 

41. MODEL RAILROAD SHOW

Date & Location: Thanksgiving weekend; 2026 schedule to confirm | Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond

Description: Discover model train layouts, miniature railroads, and engineering concepts through this popular holiday tradition.

Admission: Paid admission.

Website: https://smv.org/

 

42. BRICKUNIVERSE LEGO FAN EXPO

Date & Location: November 21, 2026 | Richmond Raceway Complex

Description: Explore creative LEGO displays, impressive building projects, and engineering inspiration for young builders.

Admission: Paid tickets.

Website: https://www.brickuniverseusa.com/

 

43. HISTORIC TREDEGAR & AMERICAN CIVIL WAR MUSEUM

Date & Location: Year-round | Richmond, VA

Description: Explore Richmond's industrial history and learn about the American Civil War through museum exhibits and historical interpretation.

Admission: Paid museum admission; outdoor access varies.

Website: https://acwm.org/visit/

 

44. VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

Date & Location: Year-round | Richmond, VA

Description: Introduce children to art, creativity, and cultures from around the world through the museum's diverse collections.

Admission: Free general admission; special exhibitions may cost extra.

Website: https://vmfa.museum/

 

45. VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF HISTORY & CULTURE

Date & Location: Year-round | Richmond, VA

Description: Discover Virginia history through educational exhibits, historical artifacts, and interactive learning opportunities.

Admission: Paid general admission; special free opportunities may be available.

Website: https://virginiahistory.org/

 

46. MEADOW FARM MUSEUM

Date & Location: Year-round | Glen Allen, VA

Description: Explore a historic farm and discover Virginia's agricultural heritage through educational exhibits and programs.

Admission: Free general admission.

Website: https://henrico.gov/rec/places/meadow-farm-museum/

 

47. THE DOME AT THE SCIENCE MUSEUM OF VIRGINIA

Date & Location: Year-round | Richmond, VA

Description: Watch immersive giant-screen films exploring space, nature, science, and the world around us.

Admission: Paid; ticket options vary.

Website: https://smv.org/

 

48. PUBLIC LIBRARY STORYTIMES & CHILDREN'S WORKSHOPS

Date & Location: Weekly | Richmond, Henrico, Chesterfield, and Hanover

Description: Enjoy free storytelling, arts and crafts, early-literacy programs, and educational workshops for children of various ages.

Admission: Free.

Website: https://henricolibrary.org/

 

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES, SPORTS & ACTIVE FAMILY FUN

 

49. RICHMOND MARATHON, HALF MARATHON & 8K

Date & Location: November 14, 2026 | Richmond, VA

Description: Cheer for runners along the racecourse and enjoy the excitement of one of Richmond's biggest community sporting events.

Admission: Free to spectate; race registration requires payment.

Website: https://www.richmondmarathon.org/

 

50. RICHMOND ROAD RUNNERS TURKEY TROT

Date & Location: Thanksgiving 2026; race details to confirm | Richmond, VA

Description: Celebrate Thanksgiving with a community running tradition. Check the event schedule for children's participation opportunities.

Admission: Paid registration.

Website: https://www.rrrc.org/

 

51. OUTDOOR ICE SKATING AT STONY POINT

Date & Location: Seasonal opening November 14, 2026 | Richmond, VA

Description: Enjoy a festive outdoor skating experience for children and adults during the holiday season.

Admission: Paid skating admission.

Website: https://www.shopstonypoint.com/

 

52. MAYMONT GARDENS & WILDLIFE

Date & Location: Year-round | Richmond, VA

Description: Explore beautiful gardens, wildlife habitats, scenic trails, and open spaces perfect for family adventures.

Admission: Free grounds access; some experiences require payment.

Website: https://maymont.org/

 

53. BELLE ISLE NATURE WALK

Date & Location: Year-round | Richmond, VA

Description: Walk scenic trails along the James River, discover natural habitats, and enjoy outdoor family exploration.

Admission: Free.

Website: https://www.rva.gov/parks-recreation/james-river-park-system

 

54. Pony Pasture Rapids

Date & Location: Year-round | Richmond, VA

Description: Enjoy scenic river views, wildlife watching, and nature walks along the James River.

Admission: Free.

Website: https://www.rva.gov/parks-recreation/james-river-park-system

 

55. ROCKWOOD NATURE CENTER

Date & Location: Year-round | Chesterfield, VA

Description: Discover native wildlife, nature exhibits, and environmental education programs for children and families.

Admission: Free entry; some scheduled programs may have fees.

Website: https://www.chesterfield.gov/

 

56. POCAHONTAS STATE PARK

Date & Location: Year-round | Chesterfield, VA

Description: Explore wooded trails, enjoy outdoor recreation, observe wildlife, and experience nature with the whole family.

Admission: Parking or entrance fee applies.

Website: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/pocahontas

 

57. THE GREEN AT THE SCIENCE MUSEUM OF VIRGINIA

Date & Location: Year-round | Richmond, VA

Description: Enjoy outdoor green space and discover the museum's fascinating Earth Kugel sculpture.

Admission: Free.

Website: https://smv.org/

 

58. KINGS DOMINION HOPS & HARVEST

Date & Location: Select dates November 14–29, 2026 | Doswell, VA

Description: Combine theme-park entertainment with seasonal food, fall festivities, and family fun.

Admission: Paid park admission.

Website: https://www.kingsdominion.com/

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BEFORE YOU GO

Event schedules, ticket prices, and admission policies may change. Some seasonal events listed in this guide are annual traditions whose 2026 dates have not yet been confirmed.

We encourage families to visit each event's official website before making plans, purchasing tickets, or traveling.

Have fun, make memories, and enjoy everything Metro Richmond has to offer!

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