by Caroline Sumner

Created on: November 24, 2010

When the frosty chill hits Richmond, the outdoor activities start to slow a bit in favor of some warmer, indoor entertainment. If you are looking for ways to stave off the winter blues in Richmond, Virginia, here are some of the most popular activities:

-See the lights at the James Center-
At the beautiful James Center in downtown Richmond, there is an annual display of gorgeous Christmas lights. Feel free to frolic around the seasonal decorations, and be sure to duck inside the gigantic Christmas tree! This is an especially great place to bring children.

-See a beloved holiday classic-
Richmond is a small city that is incredibly rich in the arts. There are twelve main theatres in the city, almost all of which have a holiday show during the season! Whether you catch Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” at the Empire Theatre or Richmond Shakespeare’s “A Christmas Carol for Two Actors”, you will be sure to enjoy these nostalgic shows in their beautiful facilities. Another option is to see the Richmond Ballet perform their exquisite interpretation of the old favorite, “The Nutcracker”!

-Treat yourself to a shopping trip-
Richmond is a wonderful city for shopping! There are two high-end shopping centers, Stony Point and Short Pump, which feature great restaurants and a wide variety of stores. Wander these open-air malls and enjoy their beautiful decorations, all while spending that holiday cash and those gift cards! Alternatively, Carytown is a fan area shopping area often referred to as “Richmond’s Soho”, and it has something for everyone. Warm up with a cup of coffee at Jean-Jacques, get a gorgeous vintage coat at Bygones, and take in a movie at the historic Byrd Theatre for a wintertime treat. Make sure to stop by For the Love of Chocolate to stock up on all the chocolate Santas you can eat!

-Enjoy a Victorian Christmas celebration-
At Maymont Park every holiday season, the place goes back in time! The mansion is decorated for Christmas, costumed volunteers sing carols and offer guests hot roasted chestnuts, and there is even a real carriage to take visitors for a wintertime ride! Enjoy a bit of history at this charming celebration.

-Visit a museum-
Richmond is packed with great museums that will educate and entertain while keeping you out of the cold! Whether you see the exhibitions at the Virginia Museum of Fine Art or catch a film at the Science Museum of Virginia’s epic IMAX theatre, Richmond’s museums are always a nice way to spend a winter day. 

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