When a little merry is what you seek, a little merry is what you shall find. Gather your friends and family to kick off the holiday season in a bright way. We have five suggestions that are sure to delight.  

--- FIREWORKS ---

Surprise! There are fireworks this time of year in Virginia; no need to wait until New Year's Eve or Independence Day when there are major displays for your enjoyment. - Colonial Williamsburg Grand Illumination, Williamsburg - Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon - Hollydazzle, Newport News

Christmas Illumination at Mount Vernon

Christmas Illumination at Mount Vernon

 

--- LIGHTED BOAT PARADES ---

An interesting way to light up the season is with an evening parade of decorated, lighted boats on the water, and there are a few places to enjoy such a show in Virginia. - Alexandria - Hampton - Yorktown - Deltaville - lighted boat tour

Christmas Illuminated Boat Parade

Christmas Illuminated Boat Parade in Alexandria by R. Kennedy.

 

--- CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTINGS ---

Many Virginia communities gather together to flip the switch on their annual tree, so these mentions do not scratch the surface. Discover more. - Chincoteague Island - Clifton Forge - Harrisonburg - Louisa - Purcellville - Reston - Suffolk

Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, Chincoteague Island. Photo by JMS Photography.

Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, Chincoteague Island. Photo by JMS Photography.

 

--- CANDLELIGHT HOME TOURS ---

Virginia's historic homes and private residences are putting candles in the windows, wreaths on the door, and a welcome mat out front just for you this season. Come on in and take a look around. - Monument Avenue, Richmond - Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest, Forest - Lantern Tours at Meadow Farm, Glen Allen - James River Plantation, Williamsburg - George Washington's Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon - Stratford Hall, Stratford - Christmas at Oatlands, Leesburg - Discover More

Poplar Forest

Poplar Forest

 

--- DRIVES FOR LIGHTS ---

Drive all 100 Miles of Lights or pick a few experiences here and there this season. You don't even have to get out of the car. - McDonald's Holiday Lights at the Beach, drive the boardwalk at Virginia Beach - Celebration in Lights, Newport News - Elks National Home Christmas Lights Display, Bedford - Illuminate Light Show & Santa's Village, Doswell - Celebration of Lights, Staunton

Illuminate Light Show & Santa's Village

Illuminate Light Show & Santa's Village