Have you ever noticed that there are some places that seem tailor made for particular seasons? While all of Virginia is simply magical during the holidays, there are certain towns that were destined to be Christmas towns. You may recall we featured 14 Magical Christmas Towns in Virginia, and this year we have plenty more to add to the list. Whether it’s the weather, the decorated Main Streets, or just the feel in the air, the following 10 best Christmas towns in Virginia are especially enchanting during the holidays:

1. Lexington
Lexington, Virginia and the Rockbridge Area Tourism/Facebook
Lexington, VA 24450, USA
burstingwithcolors/Flickr
Few towns have the sparkle of Lexington when it comes to winter decor. The historic Main Street shines with wreath-decorated lamps and twinkle lights as far as the eye can see. And the annual Christmas Parade, led by Santa and Mrs. Claus in a horse-drawn carriage, is certainly not to be missed.
2. Charlottesville
Visit The USA/Google Maps
Charlottesville, VA, USA
familytreasures/Flickr
Just when you thought Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall couldn’t get any more charming. Seeing these friendly shops and restaurants covered in a blanket of snow will make you want to spend your holiday in the land of Thomas Jefferson. There are plenty of family-friendly holiday events that go on here, including wreath workshops, restaurant events, parades and more.
3. Luray
Luray, VA 22835, USA
Stephen Little/flickr
Luray is often put on the map for its impressive cavern systems. But aboveground is where you’ll find all the holiday spirit. From Christmas tree farms, holiday parades, decorated storefronts, dazzling lights and plenty of candy, this friendly town is nothing short of a winter wonderland.
4. Abingdon
Denise McMillan/Google Maps
Abingdon, VA, USA
Visit Abingdon VA/Facebook
Abingdon during the holiday season is a truly unique experience. Whether you’re just dropping in to catch a holiday show at the famous Barter Theatre, or have time to meander the illuminated downtown stretch, you’re sure to remember your time in this southwestern Virginia Christmas town.
5. Blacksburg
Nathan/flickr
Blacksburg, VA, USA
Nathan/flickr
This southern Virginia town ushers in the holiday with a series of festive events. December begins with a holiday gift market, followed by an appearance of Santa and Mrs. Claus at the historic Lyric Theatre, a tree lighting ceremony, and a holiday parade. You’ll love seeing these familiar streets decorated with lights and plenty of cheer.
6. Fincastle
Fincastle, VA 24090, USA
Town of Fincastle/Facebook
Many small towns feature twinkling lights during the holidays, but what truly sets Fincastle apart is its vintage, retro-looking lights. This enchanting detail casts the whole town in an enchanting light. When you stop by, be sure not to miss the Holiday Home Tour. This free event showcases some of the best gifts and homemade crafts from the area’s talented artists.
7. Middleburg
Visit Middleburg/Facebook
Middleburg, VA 20117, USA
Visit Middleburg/Facebook
Middleburg is the heart of Virginia’s hunt country and come December, it’s also the heart of holiday celebration. It’s not unusual for folks to travel from out of state to witness this winter transformation. The town’s festive parade includes horses, carriages, and all sorts of animals.
8. Staunton
K. Shuyler/flickr
Staunton, VA 24401, USA
Visit Staunton, Virginia/Facebook
If you are lucky enough to visit Staunton in the next few weeks, you’ll want to play close attention to the storefronts. Each year, these local businesses compete for the best-decorated exteriors, and the results are simply stunning. Even seen from afar, the town of Staunton appears like something from a storybook.
9. Chincoteague
Chincoteague, VA, USA
Jillian Chilson/flickr
You might be surprised to learn that such a coastal town would emphasize the holidays, but Chincoteague’s Christmas By The Sea does just that. This beloved tree lighting ceremony is one for the books. This time of year, you might also spy snow geese flying through the sky near the pristine shores of the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.
10. Warrenton
Suzanne Funesti/Google Maps
Warrenton, VA, USA
Pirate_J/Flickr
If you haven't heard about Gum Drop Square, it's time to plan a Christmas trip to Warrenton. This magical tradition happens following the town's parade and features elves, decorations, and plenty of holiday treats.

Now we’d love to hear from you! What are some of your favorite Christmas towns in Virginia? If you’re not quite sure yet, take a look at these 11 places in Virginia that are perfect for the holidays.

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What are the best Christmas light displays in Virginia?

If you’re looking for mesmerizing holiday light displays, Virginia is the place to be. The Bull Run Festival of Lights in Centreville has over 2.5 miles of animated displays of light that will wow the whole family. Bull Run Regional Park comes alive as you enjoy big bonfires, roasting s’mores, and have fun at a Christmas Carnival as well. For something truly magical, the Lighting of the Tunnel at Natural Tunnels is surely something to behold. Take a chairlift through several thousand lighted displays, some of them animated, and become dazzled by the combination of electrical and natural beauty. 

What winter festivals in Virginia should not be missed?

Virginia really comes alive with holiday festivities during the winter months. A Franklin County Christmas, held in Rocky Mount, has a lovely Christmas Parade and the downtown area is lit up by beautifully decorated lamp posts. Tons of delicious holiday treats and drinks are on hand to enjoy. The Winter Lights Festival in Blacksburg has a ton of live musical entertainment at the Lyric Theatre including performances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. The tree lighting ceremony is rather special as well. While unconventional, it turns out that Christmas music and oysters go together quite well at Oysters & Oldies in Heathville. 

What are Virginia’s best Christmas markets?

The Alexandria Christmas Market is a European style holiday market with tons of booths filled with local arts and crafts, many of them handmade. You’ll enjoy Irish dancers, European food and drink, live music, and don’t forget a warm mug of spiced Gluhwein! For a taste of German holiday cheer, visit the German Christmas Market, also known as Weihnachtsmarkt, at Bluestone Vineyard for some Bavarian revelry. Beautiful gifts are all around and scrumptious Bavarian food and drink will warm you up, especially with some mulled wine. Bring the whole family for some festive fun!

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