Must Do's in Downtown Norfolk
for the Holidays

The holiday magic is coming back to Downtown Norfolk. Enjoy the season with themed events, shopping, dining, and favorite holiday traditions.

Unwrap the magic at every turn with our Holiday Experience Map.
For more holiday events happening in Downtown Norfolk, click here.

Downtown Norfolk Holiday Event Calendar

Holiday shows, unique shopping, chef-inspired restaurants with beautiful outdoor dining, and so much more: check out everything happening in Downtown Norfolk this holiday season here.

38th Annual Grand Illumination Parade

The Grand Illumination Parade takes place every year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, bringing thousands of spectators out to the streets of Downtown Norfolk to take in the beauty, magic, and electric holiday spirit to kick off the season.

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Support Holidays in the City

Holidays in the City is more than just a parade; it's a cherished tradition that brings families and friends together to celebrate the start of the holiday season. By donating, you’re helping to fund the behind-the-scenes work that makes the Grand Illumination Parade and the entire Holidays in the City celebration possible. Help us create a spectacular parade and a season filled with joy and wonder. Together, we can make this holiday season unforgettable.

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Model Railroad Museum of Hampton Roads Holiday Display at MacArthur Center

November 24-December 31

The Hampton Roads Model Railroad Museum brings their enchanting Holiday Train Show to MacArthur Center this holiday season. Admission is free to the public thanks to presenting sponsor MacArthur Center.

The 10th Annual Great Hot Cocoa War

November 23-30

Downtown’s beloved Great Hot Cocoa War is a week-long celebration from November 23-30, so you have plenty of time to try all the chocolatey creations from participating restaurants and vote on your favorite. Who has the most delicious hot cocoa in all the land? The competition is tough. Will last year's champs, Stripers Waterside, be dethroned? Make your voice heard this year and see your favorite concoction reign supreme!

Elf Door Discovery

This seasonal scavenger hunt will take you on a magic journey to unlock the mystery of Santa’s elves! Adventure comes knocking all around Downtown Norfolk where you’ll discover 50 tiny entrances decked out for the holidays. You can find these magical doors near theatres, restaurants, hotels, and any other places elves may gather throughout Downtown Norfolk.

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2024 Grand Illumination Parade Sponsors