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Spend A Day Downtown for the Holidays

Are you ready to celebrate the magic of the holidays? Downtown Norfolk is the perfect place to spend a day full of both classic and unique holiday traditions and activities. Here is just a sample of the many things you could do to spend a holi-day in Downtown Norfolk.

Start the day with coffee and pastry from the authentically French La Brioche or an adventurous cup of joe from Three Ships Coffee

Make your way down Granby Street while you hunt for the cute elf doors scattered throughout Downtown as part of Elf Door Discovery. Searching for these small, colorful little doors are the perfect daytime activity and a great way to discover Downtown. 

Kick off the afternoon by knocking out some holiday shopping and support locally owned businesses at Selden Market and MacArthur Center. This is also the perfect time to get that picture of the kids with Santa at the mall! 

While you're at MacArthur Center, take a spin on the Mac On Ice ice rink. The rink is open to all levels, so whether you are practicing your triple salchow or just practicing standing up, you will be in great company. 

After all that shopping and skating, we imagine you are pretty hungry. Take advantage of Downtown Norfolk's restaurant scene, where there is a restaurant to fit any occasion, whether you're looking for a spot for a family-friendly quick meal, a romantic date night, or a fun girls' night out. Check them all out here.

Take in a holiday show like Virginia Stage Company's A Merry Little Christmas Carol or take the family on a visit to WinterFest on the Wisconsin for an only-in-Norfolk light show experience aboard the battleship.

After a long day, there's no better way to end the night than with a themed cocktail from Miracle on Waterside, a decked out holiday pop up bar with festive snacks as well. Or consider one of Downtown's many other nightlife spots.  

And don't forget!

The season of giving is upon us, and Downtown Norfolk's businesses are ready to give in a big way. When you visit Downtown, be sure to bring any non-perishable goods with you to donate at one of over 40 of Downtown Norfolk's businesses that have come together for the new Downtown Norfolk Food & Fund Drive benefiting the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. Businesses will be accepting donations from November 18 through December 10. Donations can also be made to the Downtown Norfolk Food & Fund Drive anytime online here. Get more information, suggested donation items, and a list of all participating Downtown Norfolk businesses here.