Highlights
Christmas in Abingdon
Treat your family to a picture-postcard Christmas in Abingdon.
Historic downtown Abingdon is full of charms during the holidays. Escape to Abingdon for a winter getaway, and take care of your holiday shopping while you take in the twinkling lights and cozy eateries on Main Street.
"A Southern version of It's a Wonderful Life."
Abingdon is so enticing at Christmas that it almost looks like a movie set. Southern Living wrote "If Frank Capra had made a Southern version of It’s a Wonderful Life, he might have set it in Abingdon, Virginia, with its tree-lined Main Street, scenic Blue Ridge setting, historic Martha Washington Inn & Spa, and legendary Barter Theatre."
Abingdon’s quaint downtown is transformed in to a Christmas wonderland, with carolers, magical storefront displays, and special events to celebrate the season. There are plenty of opportunities to find the perfect gift, as Abingdon’s merchants stay open late to accommodate shoppers.
Plan a destination Christmas in AbingdonHoliday Events in Abingdon
Abingdon's holiday calendar is packed full of family-friendly events. In 2024, you'll find plenty of ways to safely enjoy the holiday season, from the Christmas Parade to outdoor holiday markets and performances at Barter Theatre.
The holiday season in Abingdon kicks off in November with the opening of Barter Theatre’s holiday offerings. Barter is a tradition for many regional families, and that's true even in 2024!
Shopping in a Winter Wonderland
Abingdon is known for its charming mom-and-pop stores, which offer unique gifts you won't find in the mall. This holiday season, Abingdon's merchants invite families to spend the entire day in Abingdon.
Browse the storefront displays downtown. Grab a bite at one of Abingdon’s locally-owned restaurants, and enjoy the festive decorations downtown. You might even run into Santa while in town!
The Abingdon Farmers Market will be open on Saturdays, with baked goods, crafts, wreaths and produce. Holston Mountain Artisans highlights handmade crafts from the region, with unique offerings and holiday décor items. Browse for something really special with holiday open houses at local merchants.
Christmas Activities for Families
Kick off the Holiday Season with Mistletoe Market on November 8-10, 2024, at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. This is the region’s largest holiday shopping event and the biggest annual fundraiser for the William King Museum of Art!
The annual Festival of Trees event is from mid-November to early January. Celebrate the Lighting of the Trees event on November 23rd at 5:15 p.m., complete with singing, cider, and Santa at the Abingdon Visitor Center. Participate in this event by voting for your favorite tree by donating the following items: pet food, toothpaste, soap, body wash, and shampoo. These items will be donated to local United Way of Southwest Virginia charities, The Animal Defense League, and Happy Tails Animal Rescue.
Shop the Abingdon Merchants’ Holiday Open House on November 23rd, 2024. Abingdon is charming all year long, but the town shines at Christmas. Each year, Abingdon’s businesses compete for the most over-the-top window display. Extended shopping hours help you get a jump start on your holiday shopping.
Skip the Black Friday madness and head to downtown Abingdon for Small Business Saturday, held the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This national campaign encourages shoppers to support small businesses. Abingdon celebrates Small Business Saturday with free family activities and extended merchant hours. Stroll along the adorable brick sidewalks and enjoy the window displays.
Mark your calendar for the Abingdon Christmas Parade on December 7th, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.
Abingdon has added even more holiday fun with weekend activities (and some weeknights). We hope you’ll join us for Christmas time!
