It’s the Holiday Season in Virginia Beach

Pictured: Scuba Santa at the Virginia Aquarium for Holi-Rays

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Kick off the hap-happiest season of all with some Virginia Beach holiday traditions and programs from Virginia Beach Public Library, Cultural Affairs, the Farmers Market and the Virginia Aquarium.

Santa's Workshop
Dec. 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Virginia Beach Farmers Market, 3640 Dam Neck Road
FREE and open to the public

Get ready for the holiday season with over 90 artisans selling unique creations, perfect for early shopping of one-of-a-kind gifts. Enjoy music, food, children’s activities and free pictures with Santa in the Rural Heritage Center from 11:30 to 3 p.m. (bring your own cameras).

O Christmas Tea
Dec. 2, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Lynnhaven Colonial Education Center, 4409 Wishart Road
Price: $50

Care for a spot of tea? Come to the historic Lynnhaven House and toast to the holidays at “O Christmas Tea.” Dickens meets Downton Abbey in this classic, late 19th century holiday tea. Enjoy a specially curated selection of traditional Victorian teas, a menu of tasty treats and a variety of holiday melodies! Two seatings of 50 guests each are available. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.

Holi-Rays
Dec. 15 & 16, 6-9 p.m., Virginia Aquarium, 717 General Booth Blvd.

Price: $32.95/adults, $27.95/children 5-11 | Members: 50% off

The Virginia Aquarium is decking the halls and transforming into a winter wonderland of lights and holiday magic under the sea. Come dressed in your holiday best or festive pajamas for an evening of family fun. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance.

Yuletide Wassailing & Wonder Tours
Dec. 16 & 17, Noon to 5 p.m., Thoroughgood House, 1636 Parish Road

Price: $15/adults & children 11+, $7/children 2-10, FREE for children under 2

Step back in time to experience some favorite colonial holiday traditions. The house and grounds come alive with the sounds of live instrumental music while costumed guides share stories of the decor, traditions, food and festivities of 18th century coastal Virginia. Enjoy historic and timeless carols, make a cinnamon ornament, and grab a hot drink and some sweets. Don’t forget to write your wishes to burn on the Yule logs before you head home! Warm Wassail and Pleasure House Mulled Ale will be available for purchase at the event for those 21 and older. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.

The Virginia Beach Public Library has several holiday activities for all ages at various library branches. From a “Holiday Card Crafting Station” to “Happy Holidays Family Storytimes,” there’s plenty of festive fun to be had with VBPL. See the complete list of events, schedule and more at vbpl.librarymarket.com.

Be sure to check out Visit Virginia Beach’s event calendar for even more holiday festivities! Please note that some events may cause temporary road closures.

Happy holidays!