It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and with more festive holiday events than Norfolk has ever seen! Take a look at some of the best ways to embrace the magic of Norfolk this holiday season, from simple strolling to full-on Christmas events!

A Christmas Light Stroll Through Norfolk Neighborhoods

If you’re looking for something free and fun to do with the family, grab a thermos of cider or hot chocolate and wander the neighborhoods of Norfolk. Some houses are even doing light shows, such as the house at the end of Princess Anne Rd. in West Ghent, put on by Ross Illuminations.

Winterfest on the Wisconsin

The Wisconsin has several years of the Winterfest experience under its belt, but this year has a bigger and brighter experience than years’ past. Check out the Winterfest for a ship full of lights, a marina of mistletoe, and maybe even a spotting of Santa himself!

For more Christmas light magic, enjoy a trip to the Norfolk Botanical Garden to enjoy the enchanting Garden of Lights. The Garden of Lights is available through January 1, so that you can keep the magic alive a little longer.

Enjoy a Cup of Cheer from a Local Restaurant

Whether you’re in the mood for a specialty latte or craft cocktail, many Norfolk restaurants are celebrating with Christmas-themed drinks. Sip on a latte flight from Cova Brewing around the fire, with flavors including sugar cookie, ginger snap, snickerdoodle, and peppermint bark. Or sip on a Piece O’ Pie martini from Orapax.

Scavenger Hunt Through Downtown Norfolk

Elves have taken over the city! There are one hundred tiny elf doors that recently appeared throughout downtown, wander the streets to see if you can find all of the doors on a magical scavenger hunt!

Check out the Holiday Markets 

Still looking for a gift for the person who has everything? Shopping local is always a great way to find something special and unique. Norfolk boasts a wide array of markets in December, including the weekend leading up to the holidays for you last-minute shoppers. Check out some of the upcoming markets and fairs below:

Crafted Indoor Holiday Market at Sky’s the Limit Yoga Co.

When: Saturday, 12/15 from 12pm – 5pm

Holiday Night Market at Waterside District

When: Thursday, 12/15 from 6pm – 9pm

Holiday Vintage Market at Selden Market

When: Saturday, 12/17 from 11am to 6pm

Last Minute Gift Mini Market at CoVa Brewing 

When: Wednesday, 12/23 from 3pm – 9pm

In addition to the markets, check out other local events, such as attending the annual Ugly Sweater Christmas Party at Benchtop Brewing or ice skating at MacArthur on Ice which goes through January 16th. Norfolk makes it easy to soak up the holiday season with so many festivities and events. Have a happy and Norfolk-y holiday season!