It wouldn't be the holidays without Dickens' A Christmas Carol at the Wells Theatre. Experience the childlike wonder of this heartwarming story that follows the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future as they take Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of redemption where he learns the power of kindness and compassion. This play is recommended for all ages and, in our opinion, is better the more kids you bring.

Based on the memoir of award-winning comedic author David Sedaris, this hilarious one-man-show takes us back to ye olden days when he was one of Santa's Elves at Macy's Department Store. In this one-act play the struggling writer, who chooses the elf name "Crumpet," weaves an unbelievable tale of drunken Santas, lascivious actors, and combative parents. Come laugh, drink and be merry with your friends at the Wells Theatre. This late night holiday treat for adults is sure to make your spirits bright!

Tchaikovsky's brilliant ballet score comes to life for this magical collaboration between Richmond Ballet, The State Ballet of Virginia, and the Virginia Symphony Orchestra! Heralded as "perfect" by The New York Times, Stoner Winslett's The Nutcracker returns to Chrysler Hall for the 6th consecutive year. From a battle beneath the branches of a mystical Christmas tree, to a winter white forest, and then off to a far-off kingdom of delectable sweets, this dazzling production is sure to bring joy to everyone’s December.

Guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit is the annual production of HURRAH FOR THE HOLIDAYS; a joyful celebration featuring all the best music of the season - from your favorite classic standards to popular modern day hits. With the renowned Lisa Wallace kick-line dancers, a 6 foot dancing snowman, and a few festive surprises - it's an event for the entire family. Click below for tickets.

"Knotworks" is the most recent iteration of a 5-yr. collaboration between Cuba native Jorge Benitez, an Asst. Professor in the Communication Arts Dept. at VCU & Reni Gower, a Professor in the Painting & Printmaking Dept. at VCU. Through complex patterning & laborious processes, their works reveal the universal language of sacred geometry. Gower's work resonates with geometric constructs intrinsic to Islamic tilework motifs that reflect the mathematical & geometric basis of weaving. Whether woven, cut, or tied, "Knotworks" resonates with ancient observations, discoveries, & traditions consequential & far-reaching throughout the visual arts & the sciences.

The Boys Choir of Hampton Roads is an excellent performing chorus of outstanding young men from various schools throughout the Hampton Roads area. They perform songs in many different genres, from traditional gospel to contemporary Broadway. The Christmas Concert is sure to be a well attended crowd-pleaser.

Walk through 2-miles of spectacular holiday light displays with family and friends. It’s a great way to kick off the holiday season… with a few new surprises. TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Based on the popular book by Barbara Robinson, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER is the funny, heartwarming, and mildly irreverent story of what happens when a church play is hijacked by six of the 'absolutely worst kids in the history of the world'. A holiday tradition for 27 years, this event is presented with Happy Hanukkah, My Friend; a short program celebrating the Festival of Lights."The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.

Walk through 2-miles of spectacular holiday light displays with family and friends. It’s a great way to kick off the holiday season… with a few new surprises.

Visitors are transported to a winter wonderland when they step inside the spectacular holiday Ice Palace, featuring a 30-foot ice dome with falling snow, a light show and interactive fun for all ages. Visitors can also marvel at the larger-than-life snow globes, leave an icy handprint and sit on the chilly Ice Throne. The adventure culminates with a visit to Santa and a special gift.

Celebrate family, art and literature during six magical weeks in this delightful holiday village. In recognition of the 175th anniversary of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, this season will feature the first-ever U.S. exhibition of original book sketches by Christmas Carol illustrator P.J. Lynch. Let your imagination soar with magical fairies, carousel horses, weekend tea parties, a second giant train display, carolers, new entertainment, shops and more! Every child will receive a FREE copy of A Christmas Carol. Returning to this year’s experience will be Father Christmas, Geoffrey “the Talking Christmas tree”, puppet shows, magicians, a children’s crafts corner, and lots of free family activities! PLUS, special programming returns the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

MacArthur Center kicks off the fourteenth season of ice skating at the coolest place in town. Whether it’s a family tradition or a first date, the center’s 7,200-square-foot outdoor ice rink is the place for good times this winter. Throughout the season, enjoy public skating sessions, ice hockey clinics, figure skating exhibitions and more. Those new to the ice or feeling a bit rusty can sign up for private lessons or get a helping hand from skate guards on-site. The ice skating rink is located just outside MacArthur Center, at the corner of Monticello Avenue and Freemason Street

Special appearance by Santa. Breakfast buffet with kid-friendly options. DJ entertainment, dancing & festive holiday decor. Price: Adults from $34.90, child (Age 12 & Under) from $24.90. Register online

Santa always starts his day with a good breakfast and the kids are invited to join him at California Pizza Kitchen. Guests can meet and talk with Santa and enjoy their favorite breakfast and a jolly good time. Saturday, December 8th from 8AM - 9:30AM Saturday, December 15th from 8AM - 9:30AM Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. $7 for children/$8 for adults. Register online

This tacky sweater Christmas-themed event has a little something for everyone with a competitive 5K race, 5K walking category, and a themed tacky sweater competition. All 5K runners & walkers will receive a race T-shirt, custom finisher medal, post-race refreshments, and festive post-race party and awards ceremony at Smartmouth Brewing Company with entertainment by DJ E. NEW this year is our new venue including running along the beautiful Elizabeth River Trail.