December is one of the most festive and heartwarming times of the year in Virginia’s Northern Neck. Across our small towns and waterfront communities, you’ll find tree lightings, parades, holiday markets, concerts, and family-friendly celebrations that make this season so special. Whether you're a long-time resident, visiting for the weekend, or exploring the area for the first time, here’s your guide to the best December and Christmas events happening throughout the Northern Neck and nearby counties.
🎄 Friday, December 5
Christmas Fashion Show & Luncheon – Urbanna
11:30am–1pm • The Chesapeake Inn
A popular annual luncheon and holiday fashion show.
🎄 Saturday, December 6
Golden Village Christmas & Holiday Market – Heathsville
10am–3pm • Northern Neck Heritage Arts Center
A charming Christmas celebration featuring artisan vendors, children’s shopping, seasonal treats, and historic holiday atmosphere.
Oysters & Oldies + Tree Lighting – Heathsville
12:30-3:30pm
Enjoy oysters, music, and fellowship at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, followed by Heathsville’s annual tree lighting on the Old Courthouse lawn.
Tappahannock Winterfest & Annual Christmas Parade – Tappahannock
Afternoon–Evening • Downtown
Winterfest brings kids’ activities, vendors, firepits, s’mores, and a festive Christmas atmosphere—followed by the beloved Christmas Parade and tree lighting.
Festival of Trees – Urbanna
4:30-6:30pm
Beautifully decorated holiday trees showcased inside Historic Lansdowne. A wonderful stop during a day of small-town Christmas fun.
🎄 Friday, December 12
46th Annual Kilmarnock Lighted Christmas Parade
7pm • Main Street, Kilmarnock
Virginia’s longest-running lighted Christmas parade, featuring nearly 100 units, marching bands, festive floats, and Santa’s grand entrance.
🎄 Saturday, December 13
Warsaw Christmas Town Festival & Parade
11am–6pm • Warsaw Town Park
One of the biggest holiday events in the region with 100+ vendors, food trucks, rides, ice skating, horse and carriage rides, Santa visits, and a glowing nighttime parade.
Bella Pizza Christmas Market – Tappahannock
11am–3pm
A fun indoor/outdoor shopping market featuring local businesses, artisans, and holiday gifts.
Christmas Dinner & Membership Gathering – Northern Neck Farm Museum
An annual holiday gathering focused on agriculture, heritage, and community connection.
Kings Return Holiday Concert – Kilmarnock
7:30pm • Lancaster Elementary (RFA On Stage)
A spectacular holiday performance by the highly acclaimed a cappella group “Kings Return.”
🎄 Sunday, December 14
Reedville Festival Chorale Holiday Performance
3-4pm • Bethany United Methodist Church
A beautiful afternoon of choral music celebrating the Christmas season.
🎄 Friday, December 19
Open Boat Fishing Day – Coan River Marina
6–9am
A unique outdoor adventure for anglers who want a memorable December morning on the water.
🎄 Saturday, December 20
“Welcoming Winter” Colonial Holiday Program – Colonial Beach
10am–5pm • George Washington Birthplace
Step back in time with colonial demonstrations, hearth cooking, blacksmithing, textile arts, and a holiday ornament hunt for children.
🎄 Friday, December 26
Fourth Friday at Bay View – Northern Neck Land Conservancy
Fourth Fridays at Bayview is a free event from 12-3 pm at 725 Ball Lane, Kilmarnock, VA 22482. In order to manage environmental impact, and to ensure the best guest experience, attendace is limited to 30.
✨ Ongoing December Activities
TAG Holiday Market Pop-Up – Tappahannock
Nov 28–Dec 20 12-9pm
A rotating holiday market offering local art, handcrafted ornaments, textiles, jewelry, and gifts.
Ice Skating at Compass Entertainment Complex – Irvington
Nov 28–Jan 11 12-6pm
A family-favorite winter activity with an outdoor rink, lights, and festive atmosphere.
❤️ Celebrate the Season in the Northern Neck
No matter which events you choose to enjoy, December in the Northern Neck is filled with small-town charm, tradition, and community spirit. From parades and concerts to markets and living history experiences, this month offers something for everyone.
Wishing you a warm, joyful, and meaningful Christmas season from all of us at Bay River Realty.