With the first snowflakes quickly approaching, it made me think about all the wintertime activities in the area and what a beautiful time of year to explore them. Whether it be attending a Candlelight Processional and Tree Lighting, checking out the European-inspired Christmas market, or wandering through the historic homes in Staunton, there is something to delight even the Grinch. Listed are a few events in Lexington and Staunton that I thought sounded like fun and wanted to share them. After a fun-filled day of activities, join us at Sugar Tree Inn to recharge!
1. Candlelight Processional and Tree Lighting: Friday, November 28th, 2025 at 5:15pm in Lexington
Join us on Friday, Nov. 28, for the 30th annual Candlelight Processional and Community Tree Lighting!
Lineup begins at 5:15 p.m. at the Main Street entrance to Oak Grove Cemetery, where candles and holiday songbooks will be distributed.
At 5:30 p.m., Santa and Mrs. Claus will lead the Processional down Main Street in a horse-drawn carriage provided by the Lexington Carriage Company. The Processional will arrive at Hopkins Green, where caroling will continue. The community tree will be lit to officially usher in the holiday season. As always, the Processional is family-friendly, open to all, and free of charge.
https://lexingtonvirginia.com/calendar/59540/
2. Downtown Buena Vista Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade: Thursday, December 4th, 2025 at 6:30pm
The evening begins at 6:30 PM with the official lighting of the Town Christmas Tree, followed by stunning live performances from Southern Virginia University’s talented music singers.
https://www.mainstreetbuenavista.org/
3. Downtown Lexington Christmas Parade: December 5th, 2025 at 6:00pm
The Downtown Lexington Christmas Parade returns on Friday, Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. The parade will take place rain or shine, and it will only be canceled in case of very inclement weather.
https://www.mainstreetlexington.org/events.html

4. Queen City Christkindlmarkt: We are listing this market from last year as we are very hopeful they will have it again! We will update as soon as we know anything!
Step into the magic of the Queen City Christkindlmarkt! Immerse yourself in a European-inspired Christmas market and explore charming, beautifully decorated booths featuring one-of-a-kind treasures from local artisans and makers—perfect for finding unique gifts for loved ones or a special treat for yourself.
Warm up with seasonal drinks and feel the cozy holiday spirit all around. Whether you’re here for the shopping, the atmosphere, or just to soak up the joy of the season, the Queen City Christkindlmarkt is the perfect way to celebrate this holiday season. Bring friends, bring family, and make unforgettable memories!
https://visitstaunton.com/event/queen-city-christkindlmarkt/
5. Historic Staunton Foundation 50th Annual Holiday House Tour: December 6th, 2024 12-6pm
Mark your calendars with this rare chance to see inside beautifully rehabilitated, private residences in and around downtown Staunton! Following the tour on December 6, you’re invited to an elegant evening of music, merriment, and holiday cheer from 6 pm to 9 pm at the beautiful Great Hall at the Blackburn Inn. Join us in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Holiday House Tour with festive hors d’oeuvres, seasonal spirits, and a live performance by soulful blues artist Mojo Parker. Tickets for the tour and the party go on sale in November.
https://www.historicstaunton.org/events-2/holiday-house-tour/
6. Frontier Culture Museum Lantern Tours: December 16th-23rd, 2025 5:30-8:00pm
Our ever-popular Lantern Tours are back! For 2025, we do have a few changes due to our on-going construction, but the skits and holiday atmosphere will be just as enjoyable as ever! The tour will begin at our Temporary Ticketing and will be a lantern-lit walking tour stopping at 17th century England, 18th century Ireland (both forge and farm), 18th century Germany, and end in our Lecture Hall for refreshments and our final sketch set in 1850s Virginia. Please remember that this is an outdoor walking tour that will occur rain or shine, please plan to dress appropriately.
Tickets go on sale November 1st. Tours leave Temporary Ticketing every half hour from 5:30-8:00 pm and last around an hour and a half. Tuesday Dec 16th-Tuesday Dec 23rd, 2025
https://frontiermuseum.org/event/2025-lantern-tours/2025-12-17/
Sugar Tree Inn is the ideal home base for your Blue Ridge adventure. Our mountain bed and breakfast offers a peaceful, low-tech escape nestled right off the Blue Ridge Parkway near milepost 27. Wake up to the sounds of nature, savor a hearty homemade breakfast, and then set off to explore nearby activities, scenic drives, or hiking trails. Whether you're looking for a romantic weekend, a girlfriends' getaway, or a restful solo retreat, you’ll enjoy warm hospitality, delicious dinners by Chef Gerry, and cozy accommodations with rustic charm. Come disconnect to reconnect at Sugar Tree Inn—your Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountain getaway.
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