Fredericksburg, get ready! The most anticipated time of the year is approaching, and the city is alive with anticipation. From brilliant tree lightings to exceptional craft fairs and a cherished parade, the 2025 holiday season is shaping up to be memorable. Note the dates and bring your loved ones as we welcome the festive mood with a schedule of events designed to bring joy and fill your homes with special items.
This year offers a wonderful start to the holidays, combining local customs with chances to support area craftspeople. If you are searching for the ideal handmade present, a beautiful holiday decoration, or simply a pleasant way to spend an evening in November or December, Fredericksburg has something special for everyone. Let’s look at the details of how you can experience the season’s charm right here in our active city.
Fredericksburg Holiday Kick-off: Tree Lighting Ceremony
Prepare to be amazed as Fredericksburg officially illuminates for the holiday season at the eagerly awaited Tree Lighting Ceremony. This impressive event will occur on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Riverfront Park, located at 701 Sophia Street. It is an excellent way to begin the festive period, uniting the community for an evening filled with happiness and amazement. The atmosphere will be filled with holiday spirit, making it a must-visit for families and friends looking to create lasting memories.
This special evening is filled with enjoyable activities for all ages. Picture the delight as children meet Santa Claus and participate in engaging family crafts. Festive music will fill the air, and tasty seasonal foods will be available to enhance the celebratory mood. While this event focuses on community gathering, if you are a vendor interested in future events, you can contact info@fxbg.com. Please note that food vendors and trucks are not part of this specific occasion.
Fredericksburg Holiday Craft Show
Discover a wide selection of handcrafted items at the Fredericksburg Holiday Craft Show. This popular event runs from December 5th to December 7th, 2025, providing ample time to look around and purchase items. On Friday and Saturday, the show is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; on Sunday, it is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The show is conveniently situated at 500 William Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, serving as a central point for your holiday shopping needs. It is the perfect place for finding distinctive gifts and holiday decorations.
Be impressed by the extensive variety and high standard of goods presented, featuring over 325 skilled vendors. You will find an amazing assortment of handmade gifts that are sure to please, ranging from elegant jewelry and comfortable clothing to attractive home décor and charming holiday ornaments. In addition to crafts, the show also offers delicious food items and unique artisan products, making it a complete destination for quality handmade goods. Tickets can be bought online or at the entrance for access on all three days, providing good value. Additionally, children 12 and under can attend for free!
Fredericksburg Christmas Parade
The center of downtown Fredericksburg will be transformed with bright lights and festive floats for the yearly Fredericksburg Christmas Parade. Scheduled for Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 5:30 PM, this cherished tradition is a wonderful spectacle. The parade proceeds through the attractive downtown streets, specifically along Caroline and Princess Anne Streets, creating a magical atmosphere that embodies the true spirit of the season. It is an event that brings people together in a shared celebration of holiday happiness.
This impressive parade proceeds regardless of the weather, so be ready for a festive time, whether it is raining, sunny, or even snowing a little! It is highly recommended that attendees dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the experience. Arrive early to find a good viewing spot and consider visiting the unique downtown shops and pleasant restaurants before the parade starts, and stay afterward to enjoy the atmosphere. In the unlikely event that severe weather forces a cancellation, announcements will be made through Fred Alerts, the Facebook page @FredParksRec, and our radio partner B101.5. Please note that the parade will not be held on a different date.
