Best Christmas Activities in Virginia Beach, Virginia
There’s no better time of year than the holiday season and there’s no better place to spend it than in Virginia Beach. Though many people only associate the area with the ocean and sand, Virginia Beach has a lot more to offer. From shopping to art and fine dining to local events, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re a fan of dazzling light displays, experiencing Santa’s workshop, or a festive 5K run, Virginia Beach is the place to be this holiday season.
Santa’s Cottage at Town Center
One of the premier destinations in Virginia Beach is Town Center. Of course, while it is filled with activities to enjoy all year round, at Christmas time there is even more to do.
Town Center covers 24 blocks and is the home to more than $500 million in private and public investments. It’s safe to say that it is a growing gem in the Virginia Beach area. Locals and tourists alike enjoy restaurants like Lamia’s Crepes and McCormick and Schmick’s alongside activities including Muse Paintbar and a 12-screen Regal Movie theater.
During the holiday season, Town Center also plays host to a very special guest: Santa. Throughout the weekends of December 13-15 and 20-22, Santa’s Cottage will be set up in the Fountain Plaza of the center.
Parents can bring their children to make a Christmas-themed craft and send a letter to the North Pole. For the adults, there is also complimentary gift wrapping available. The entire thing is free and open to the public. While enjoying everything else that Town Center has to offer, be sure to stop by Santa’s Cottage.
Holiday Lights at the Beach
If there is one thing synonymous with the holiday season, it’s the lights. An annual tradition in Virginia Beach is a holiday light display along the iconic Boardwalk. From now until December 30th, the nautical-themed lights will be set up along the beachfront for everyone to enjoy.
You can take your car for a drive (yes, really) to see the lights so you don’t have to walk in the cold. At the end of the display there is a huge Christmas tree that’s big enough to rival the King Neptune statue. For those that aren’t familiar with the area, that means it is really, really big.
2019 Surf-n-Santa Expo and Race
Although the holidays mean plenty of cookies, egg nog, and feasting, there’s always time to squeeze in a few healthy activities. Virginia Beach plays host to the Surf-n-Santa 5-mile race along the Boardwalk.
To get everyone in a festive mood before the race begins, participants can choose from either a 5-piece Santa suit or an official race t-shirt. As a bonus, the event starts at twilight, so runners are able to enjoy the holiday lights along the Boardwalk.
Following the race, everyone can head over to the Virginia Beach Convention Center for a post-race party that includes Sam Adams brews, live music, and plenty of Christmas cheer. There are actually two races, one on December 13th and one on the 14th.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens
Though this last activity isn’t located near the beach, it is still one that residents and visitors to Virginia Beach don’t want to miss. Busch Gardens is well known for its thrilling rides during the summer. However, the theme park also has an incredible display of more than 10 million Christmas lights.
The theme park is divided into areas that are decorated like countries and each one has unique lights. There are also several rides still open as well as a hot chocolate and cookie stand with delicious holiday treats. Christmas Town is open now and will run through January 5th.
Velocity Urgent Care Has Your Back
Regardless of what activities you choose to enjoy during your holiday time in Virginia Beach, Velocity Urgent Care has you covered. Our team of friendly, board-certified providers will keep your holidays festive no matter what.
Whether you catch a cold while looking at lights, pull a muscle during the race, or just need treatment for your cough, sore throat, an earache, or fever, we’ve got you covered. There are four locations throughout the Virginia Beach area including one in Town Center, Chimney Hill, Little Neck, and Red Mill.
Our Town Center location is the perfect spot for quick and convenient care since it is right in the heart of all of Virginia Beach’s holiday activities. It is also open every day (including weekends), until 8:00 PM. You can walk in any time for high-quality care on your schedule. For more information about our services, where to find us, or to book an appointment, visit https://velocityuc.com.