With COVID-19 and procedures and precautions changing every day, it can be hard to keep up with any Holiday events happening in Staunton! Where can you find events and activities happening and stay up to date with what’s been canceled? We have done the hard work for you! Below we have collected information on holiday events happening in Staunton and virtual events to help fill your holiday season with plenty of cheer!
Local Events
Small Business Saturday
It is more important than ever to shop small on Small Business Saturday, November 28th! With COVID-19, small businesses are struggling more than ever and need your support this holiday season. Shop online, in person, or buy a gift card to help Staunton small businesses stay strong!
Celebration of Holiday Lights
The 16th Annual Celebration of Holiday Lights will take place at Staunton’s Gypsy Hill Park, from the Monday before Thanksgiving through the end of December. Gypsy Hill Park’s 214 acres will be aglow with holiday light displays each evening from 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
American Shakespeare Center: The Christmas Carol
Staunton’s American Shakespeare Center will present The Christmas Carol in a variety of digital ways, including on-demand, live stream, and on the big screen. Celebrate the holidays with your favorite actors as they perform a new adaptation of the timeless Dickens novel.
Waynesboro Christmas Parade
Unfortunately, the Staunton Christmas Parade has been canceled this year! However, you can head over to nearby Waynesboro for the ‘That Holiday Feeling’ Reverse Christmas Parade, which will take place December 12th. The “Reverse” Christmas Parade allows spectators to enjoy parked floats decorated for the holidays from the comfort and safety of their cars!
Virtual Events:
Many of America’s favorite Holiday Events are still happening this year for everyone to enjoy from home!
Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Parade
The Annual Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Parade will be converted into a made-for-TV spectacle, featuring larger-than-life balloons, over-the-top floats, and big-name performers! You can watch the parade as always on NBC on Thursday, November 26th from 9 am to noon. Or, watch the live stream!
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
Enjoy the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting on December 2nd with a live national broadcast hosted by NBC to officially mark the start of the Christmas season!
National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Washington D.C’s 98th National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and holiday performances will take place on December 3rd on thenationaltree.org.
New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Time Square
The Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square will also occur virtually this year. You can still countdown the ball drop and pop some champagne in the comfort (and warmth!) of your own home! The event will feature the iconic ball drop countdown, as well as performances and a recap of the year’s events broadcast on television and live stream.
Whether you decide to celebrate your holidays virtually this year or find a way to visit family and friends, be sure to stay safe this Holiday season!