See all Portsmouth Christmas happenings this year!
Portsmouth rings in Christmas 2025 around Olde Towne Portsmouth, where cobblestone streets and waterfront views set a festive scene. Popular attractions feature Christmas attractions, festive events, and winter festivities with markets, holiday concerts, and cozy harbor-side strolls.
Find the best Portsmouth Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around Portsmouth
- Santa Claus Shuffle 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run
- Olde Towne Scottish Walk
- Olde Towne Holiday Homes Tour
- Winter Wonderland: The Coleman Collection
- Olde Towne Holiday Lights
- Snow Wonders at The Children's Museum of Virginia
- New Year's Eve Crab Pot Drop (Hampton)
- 38th Annual Grand Illumination Parade (Norfolk)
- Winterfest on The Wisconsin (Norfolk)
- Hampton Holly Days Holiday Series Events (Hampton)
See even MORE Christmas events below!
Portsmouth Christmas Events
Portsmouth Christmas Light Displays
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Experience the enchanting spirit of olde world charm as historic homes in Portsmouth's Olde Towne are beautifully decorated for the holidays. This self-guided walking tour offers a unique glimpse into the past, featuring select homes open on Friday evening with refreshments and lights, and all homes open on Saturday. Enjoy a festive holiday market, live music, caroling, and historical re-enactors along the way. Admission to the historic Hill House Museum is also included.
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Step into a nostalgic holiday dream at Winter Wonderland: The Coleman Collection. This enchanting exhibit features animated scenes of Christmas trees, ice skaters, and joyful villagers. Families can visit with Santa for photos, enjoy live music, and participate in festive art activities. It's a perfect visual treat for all ages.
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Experience the magic of Olde Towne Holiday Lights, a progressive celebration that illuminates the city. Festivities kick off with music, face painting, and holiday characters. Witness the official tree lighting ceremony, complete with falling snow and a dazzling pyrotechnic display. Follow bagpipers to discover more festive stops, including Santa's grand arrival by fire truck. Enjoy free hot cocoa and cider, and explore open shops.
Portsmouth Other Christmas Activities
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Lace up your running shoes for the 31st Annual Santa Claus Shuffle, a festive 5K race and 1-mile fun run in Portsmouth. This family-friendly event supports the Tidewater Youth Services Foundation, providing essential resources and opportunities for at-risk youth. Participants are encouraged to wear holiday costumes for a chance to win awards, with prizes also given to top finishers in various age categories. Enjoy a fun, fitness-focused start to the holiday season while making a difference in the community.
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Experience the Olde Towne Scottish Walk, a New Year's Eve tradition inspired by Scotland's Hogmanay Festival. This vibrant community event features a lively procession led by pipe-and-drum bands, inviting locals and visitors alike to march through historic streets. The walk concludes at High Street Landing, where participants join hands to sing 'Auld Lang Syne,' fostering a spirit of unity and well wishes for the year ahead.
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Step into a magical winter wonderland at The Children's Museum of Virginia's 'Snow Wonders' event. This delightful indoor experience transforms the museum into a playful, snowy landscape, offering a unique opportunity for families to enjoy the magic of winter without the cold. It's a perfect escape for imaginative play and creating lasting memories.
Christmas Events Near Portsmouth
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