Every year, the University's Lawn becomes an illuminated landscape, known by all UVA students and locals as the perfect hot-cocoa-in-hand scenic walk. But it's not the only scenic holiday walk to take in Charlottesville. The Downtown Business Association of Charlottesville is presenting "Downtown for the Holidays 2010," an annual series of events that takes place in Historic Downtown Charlottesville.
explains George Benford, owner of Siips Wine and Champagne Bar and Bistro, a board member of the Downtown Business Association of Charlottesville and co- Chairman for the Wachovia Holiday Parade with Bob Stroh.
“The whole community can be involved in these events simply by contacting the Downtown Business Association of Charlottesville,” adds Benford, including the UVA community. “We would love to have more students involved with the traditions.” This season, take a walk on the Downtown Mall and enjoy the sites of historical Charlottesville.
Wachovia Holiday Heritage Parade @ 10am-12pm on the Downtown Mall. Join the Charlottesville community in celebrating the spirit of our national and community history by enjoying a warm cup of joe and watching marching bands, floats, dancers, historic performances, local celebrities, of course Santa, and even animal rescue units - even a big kid can say "aw" to that!
The Jefferson Thanksgiving Ball @ the Omni, 7:30-10pm. “The oldest tradition" according to Benford, this historic ball is the 16th annual holiday show and includes professional colonial performers and re-enactors, dancing, and food! The ball is $5, and there is a cash bar. Following the ball is a sit-down dinner with historic characters, such as Jefferson, Madison, or Monroe. Tickets are $30 for the dinner.
Saturday, November 20:
Virginia Gingerbread Christmas @ Skylight Studios
Charlottesville Arts & Crafts Festival @ Main Street Arena
Presale for Gingerbread Express tickets @ Main Street Arena (see December 9-11 and 16-18)
The 7th Annual Virginia Gingerbread Christmas @ the Omni - Participant-made gingerbread houses fill the Omni in this event, hosted by Mrs. Claus herself. Drawings and awards given on Sunday, December 5.
Howliday Yappy Hour, Dog and Horse Lover's Boutique
Holiday Spotlight @ The Paramount Theater
Chamber Holiday Business After Hours at The Jefferson Theater
The Gingerbread Express (formerly Holly Trolley) light tours around town
Holiday Show @ Main Street Arena - December 21: The first day of Winter!
First Night Virginia - Look out for new additions to Charlottesville's tradition, including carnival rides on the Downtown Mall.
For more information about any of these events, visit www.holidaytradition.org or www.downtowncharlottesville.net/index. You can also call (434) 295-9073.