What's happening this month in Virginia State Parks

December

There are plenty of festive activities to enjoy this month in Virginia State Parks! Lights, trees and other decorations are sure to add to the holiday spirit. And with the lakes, bridges and tunnel all dressed up for the occasion, there's even more reason to take a stroll or ride and enjoy the scenery. For those who love getting into the holiday spirit, there may even be some chances to meet Mr. or Mrs. Claus! Plus, with several events taking you back to Christmases of old, it's sure to be a memorable experience for all.

Events Sampler:
Holiday Lights

Karlan Christmas: Parade of Trees

Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21, 2024. 5 - 8 p.m.
Dec. 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2024. 2 - 5 p.m.

Wilderness Road State Park

Join us for a magical and entertaining view of our most treasured holiday at the Karlan Mansion. Browse trees uniquely decorated by the local community while enjoying classic holiday music. The event is sponsored by the Friends of Wilderness Road State Park.
Join us on Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. for A Frontier Christmas.

Lights at the Lake

Dec. 6, 7, 8, 13, 14 & 15, 2024. 5 - 8:30 p.m.

Bear Creek Lake State Park

During this annual winter event, visitors will drive their car through the park’s campground and beach area to experience a wonderland of lights and community displays. Admission is a new unwrapped toy or a monetary donation to benefit the Cumberland Christmas Mother. The Lakeside Snack Bar will be open to sell light refreshments and holiday-themed merchandise. The Lakeside picnic shelter will have a warming campfire, with s’mores making kits available for a small donation, and an activity table for making and decorating free crafts.

Christmas Lighting of the Tunnel

Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21, 2024. 6 - 10 p.m.

Natural Tunnel State Park

As you ride down on the chairlift and make your way to the tunnel, you will be surrounded by thousands of Christmas lights and see animated Christmas displays. Once at the tunnel, stand by the warm fire while sounds and smells of the holiday season fill the air. Hot chocolate and Christmas carols are just a few things you can expect to enjoy. The Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association will also be on hand with period dressed historians telling stories of Christmas from 1775 in the Carter Cabin, one of Scott County's older buildings.

Decorated trees at Southwest Virginia Museum

Festival of Trees

Through Dec. 31, 2024.

Southwest Virginia Museum State Park

A beloved holiday tradition, the Festival of Trees celebrates its 29th year. Get yourself in the mood for the holidays as you enjoy beautifully decorated trees, mantels, banisters and doorways. Each tree is decorated by volunteers representing families, churches, schools, businesses and civic groups around the region. Step into a lovely, enchanting atmosphere of community and holiday spirit. Museum hours are Tuesday-Friday: 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: 1-5 p.m.

Luminary Nights at Natural Bridge State Park

Dec. 13, 14, 15, 20, 21 & 22, 2024. 5 - 9 p.m.

Natural Bridge State Park

Experience Natural Bridge State Park like never before, with festive lighting and roaring fires; the park is awash in the holiday spirit this December. Enjoy an after dark stroll along the illuminated Cedar Creek Trail and under the Natural Bridge, lit up to show the crags and clefts of the arch in festive colors. Back at the pavilion, warm up around one of our campfires and relax with friends and family, or stop by to see Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Carriage rides available on Sunday nights.

Don't miss the Festival of Trees through Dec. 31, 2024 at the visitor center. Local organizations decorate a holiday tree to represent themselves in the community. Community members then vote for their favorite tree by placing a donated item beneath it.

Lighting of the Bridge

Dec. 6, 7, 8, 13, 14 & 15, 2024. 5:30 - 8 p.m.

Staunton River Battlefield State Park

Get in the holiday spirit by joining park staff on our jingling wagon ride which will take you to our holiday decorated trail and lights on the Staunton River Bridge. Gaze up at the twinkling lights and enjoy the festive activities.