Traditional Christmas and holiday experiences are abundant in the Roanoke Region in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, but there are new things to explore, too.

Get a jump on all things merry with an upcoming parade or performance, or stroll through beautiful lights. It’s going to be a holly jolly holiday!

Here are some of the best holiday experiences you’ll find during your next metro mountain adventure in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

Christmas Parades

Roanoke Christmas Parade - Dickens of a Christmas

Saint Nick and his elves are sure to make a variety of appearances across Virginia’s Blue Ridge this season. Plan to attend a parade to catch a peek and perhaps light a community Christmas tree while you’re at it.

Illuminights at Explore Park

Illuminights - Explore Park - Roanoke County, VA

You’ll be walking in a winter wonderland in no time – literally – at Explore Park. Open during the holiday season, a trail in Explore Park will twinkle and sparkle with more than 600,000 lights. Sights, sounds, and smells of the season await as you proceed at your own pace.

It's also accessible for strollers and guests with mobility issues.

Don’t miss the artisan Christmas market for a thoughtful gift, and marvel at the Snowville Miniature Christmas Display.

Get Your Tickets for Illuminights > (NOTE: Ticket sales open November 1.)

Christmas in Salem

Santa - Salem VA

The City of Salem is an excellent option for a cozy Christmas getaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Main Street boasts a diverse selection of local businesses and restaurants, many of which are beautifully decorated for the holidays, and offers numerous fun seasonal events. Check out a concert at the Salem Civic Center, which features performances by Mannheim Steamroller on November 24 at the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra's Holiday Pops concert on December 5.

The weekend of December 5-7 is packed with holiday fun, as the city hosts its popular Salem Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday evening, followed by the Holiday Pops concert. On Saturday, December 6, pick up unique goods and gifts from local artisans at the Crafty Christmas event at the Salem Farmers Market, and pick your favorite gingerbread house at the Gingerbread Festival at Longwood Park and the Salem Museum.

For some additional holiday shopping inspiration, don't miss the Salem Holiday Market on December 13 & 14 at the Salem Civic Center.

Learn More: Visit Salem VA >

Fashions for Evergreens at The Hotel Roanoke

Fashions for Evergreens - The Hotel Roanoke

If some of your holiday joy is wrapped up enjoying decorations, Fashions for Evergreens is an annual event you can’t miss. Each year, community organizations sponsor a tree for professional decoration at The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, Curio Collection by Hilton.

Spectators are encouraged to “vote” for their favorite tree monetarily. All money raised benefits the United Way of the Roanoke Valley, and the tree with the most donations will be declared the winner of the People’s Choice Award.

Fashions for Evergreens is free and open daily from Thanksgiving Day to New Year’s Day.

Learn More: Holidays at The Hotel Roanoke >

Dickens of a Christmas

Roanoke Christmas Parade - Dickens of a Christmas

A beloved holiday tradition for many, The Delta Dental Dickens of a Christmas is a three-weekend event that's held the first three Fridays in December.

It begins with the Christmas Tree Lighting on December 5, features the Christmas Parade on December 12, and culminates with the beloved RVSPCA Pet Costume Contest on December 19.

Experience very Dickens-esque merriment like roasted chestnuts and carriage rides. If it’s not already your family tradition, there’s a great chance it will become one.

Learn More: Dickens of a Christmas >

Special Performances & Holiday Concerts

Roanoke Ballet Theatre - The Nutcracker 

Is it really Christmas if there aren’t classic holiday performances nearby? We’re suckers for traditional works of art like The Nutcracker, as well as concert mainstays like Holiday Pops.

If that’s you, too, here’s where and when to catch them and other special performances this season:

Holiday Flavors

Twin Creeks Distillery - Christmas Cocktails

Get your big pants ready because the holidays are meant for eating and drinking all the great things with the greatest people with whom you can surround yourself. Here are a few of our favorites…

Homestead Creamery Eggnog can often be purchased at your local Kroger, but we love it fresh from the farm. Visit Homestead Creamery in Franklin County to get your own quart or half gallon. [Homestead Creamery Products >]

At Blue Cow Ice Cream, peppermint ice cream is all the rage. Yes, rejoice, all you peppermint lovers! Our season is finally here! [Blue Cow Ice Cream Flavors >]

Ultimate holiday cocktails are being shaken, stirred, and gently poured all over Virginia’s Blue Ridge. For some delicious holiday-inspired drinks, check out Twin Creeks Distillery in Rocky Mount.

Tree Lighting Celebrations & Christmas Light Displays

Roanoke Christmas Tree - Downtown Roanoke, VA

There’s nothing like a downtown community dressed for the holidays, and part of that décor includes a lighted tree.

Some of our favorite events are connected to the lighting of the official tree, while others are unique light displays that you can enjoy throughout the holiday season.

Holiday Markets & Christmas Shopping

Rocky Mount Farmers Market - Christmas Shopping 

More merriment awaits at our area festivals and holiday markets. You’ll be able to shop, taste, and encounter magical moments as you go.​

​In addition to the various holiday markets, we encourage you to visit our Christmas Shopping section for more ideas and resources to help you shop local and make the most of the holiday shopping season in Virginia's Blue Ridge.  

From our family to yours, Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas! Visit our Holidays section for additional resources and information.

Enjoy your adventures and explorations in Virginia’s Blue Ridge as you become a #trailsetter of all things bright and joyful.