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10 Things Not to Miss in Downtown Norfolk this Holiday Season

The holiday season has a tendency to fly by, but we've put together a list of some of Downtown Norfolk's can't-miss holiday activities and experiences here!

1. Miracle on Waterside Drive: A Holiday Pop Up Bar

Featuring over-the-top decor, holiday-inspired cocktails and nostalgic energy, Miracle on Waterside Drive is one of the holly-jolliest spots for seasonal drinks in a festive setting. 

2. A Merry Little Christmas Carol at the Wells Theatre

Ebenezer Scrooge's haunting journey unfolds with an incorporation of traditional holiday music. A Merry Little Christmas Carol is hilarious, hopeful, and will really get you into the spirit of the season.

3. Elf Door Discovery

Go on a seasonal scavenger hunt in search of 100 small "elf doors" scattered throughout Downtown Norfolk. There is even a fun coloring sheet to bring the fun home! How many doors will you find?

4. WinterFest on the Wisconsin

The elf door fun is also happening at WinterFest on the Wisconsin! Fifteen additional doors can be found at Mistletoe Marina, a new lighted experience with decorated boats, beverages and bites, and nightly shows. Then climb aboard the Battleship Wisconsin to see over one million lights brilliantly decorating the entire ship.

5. Discover the Magic Augmented Reality Experience

Get your pictures at three Augmented Reality stops in Downtown Norfolk: outside of Tidewater Community College, at the Ice Rink, and the giant tree at MacArthur Square! Just scan the QR code on your phone, and a holiday surprise will pop up on your Instagram app. 

6. MacArthur on Ice Skating Rink

MacArthur Center's ice rink is back! Whether you're ready to practice your triple axel or if you're still just trying to learn to stand up on skates, you can take a spin around the rink at MacArthur on Ice all season long.

7. Selden Market Holiday Market

Selden Market is fully decked out for the holidays and the small, locally owned businesses inside are here for all of your shopping needs. Selden also has something fun planned for every Saturday in the holiday season, from a fun "Naughty or Nice" market day to their ever-popular Vintage event.

8. Model Train Exhibit at Selden Holiday Market

All aboard! Downtown's beloved Model Train Exhibit presented by Atlantic Coast S Gaugers is back in Selden Market from December 1-24. The interactive exhibit is fun for everyone! Enjoy the impressive display and visit with our volunteers to learn about the lifelong hobby of model railroading.

9. Downtown Norfolk Holiday Food & Fund Drive

It's the season of giving, and Downtown Norfolk's business community is ready to give. Over 40 businesses have come together for a district-wide Food & Fund Drive benefiting Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. Participating businesses are accepting donations from November 19-December 10. Just look for the donation box and bright DONATE HERE sign to make your donations, whether you are bringing non-perishable goods or scanning the QR code on the sign to make a digital donation. You can also make a donation online anytime here.

10. Take Advantage of Downtown's Restaurant Scene

Whether a delicious meal is the main event, or you need a bite before or after shopping, skating, visiting Winterfest on the Wisconsin or seeing a show, Downtown has the perfect place to eat, drink and be merry. Check them all out here.