Experience the joy of the holidays in Portsmouth! Our guide highlights all the special festive events and activities. For Portsmouth experts and novices alike, our guide is your key to unlocking seasonal wonders.
Popular events include WinterFest, a community celebration featuring live entertainment, local vendors, and family-friendly activities that capture the holiday spirit. The Main Street Portsmouth In Bloom Small Business Saturday encourages shoppers to support local artisans and unique shops, ensuring a meaningful gift-giving experience. And you definitely don't want to miss the Winter Wonderland: The Coleman Nursery Collection, showcasing beautiful seasonal displays and stunning decorations. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Portsmouth
- WinterFest
- Main Street Portsmouth In Bloom Small Business Saturday
- Snow Wonders
- Winter Wonderland: The Coleman Nursery Collection
- Holiday Nights at the Park
- Christmas Tree Lighting at Courthouse
- Tour of Historic Churches
- Sciotoville Christmas Parade (Sciotoville)
- Shawnee Lodge Christmas Open House
See these and even more events listed below!
Portsmouth Holiday Light Displays
Winter Wonderland: The Coleman Nursery Collection
What to Expect:
Animated holiday scenes with over 50 years of tradition.
Description:
Winter Wonderland: The Coleman Nursery Collection offers a nostalgic holiday-themed visual treat featuring animated scenes of Christmas trees, lights, ice skaters, children sledding, little people, children from around the world, a Victorian chalet, and caroling villagers.
Where: Portsmouth | More Info: Winter Wonderland: The Coleman Nursery Collection
Holiday Nights at the Park
What to Expect:
Train ride to see holiday lights with food vendors and activities.
Description:
Holiday Nights at City Park features a train ride aboard the Pokey Smokey to see holiday lights, food vendors, an illuminated playground, and various holiday activities. Check out some of the Coleman Collection pieces not displayed at the Winter Wonderland exhibit.
Where: Portsmouth | More Info: Holiday Nights at the Park
Christmas Tree Lighting at Courthouse
What to Expect:
Traditional tree lighting ceremony in a historic setting.
Description:
The Christmas Tree Lighting at Courthouse is a cherished tradition where the community gathers to witness the illumination of the courthouse tree, marking the beginning of the holiday season with a sense of unity and celebration.
Where: Portsmouth | More Info: Christmas Tree Lighting at Courthouse
Portsmouth Holiday Markets and Shopping
Main Street Portsmouth In Bloom Small Business Saturday
What to Expect:
Supporting local businesses with special promotions and events.
Description:
Main Street Portsmouth In Bloom Small Business Saturday is a celebration of local businesses, offering unique shopping experiences and community engagement.
Where: Portsmouth | More Info: Main Street Portsmouth In Bloom Small Business Saturday
Portsmouth Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Sciotoville Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Traditional holiday parade with festive floats and local performances.
Description:
The 86th Annual Portsmouth Jaycees Christmas Parade is a beloved community event featuring festive floats, holiday music, and local performances. It takes place in the Portsmouth High School Parking Lot on December 5, 2024, and offers a delightful holiday experience for all attendees.
Where: Sciotoville | More Info: Sciotoville Christmas Parade
Portsmouth Other Holiday Activities
WinterFest
What to Expect:
Ice skating and carriage rides through twinkling lights.
Description:
WinterFest transforms Market Square Park into a vibrant holiday celebration with ice skating, charming craft vendors, delightful food trucks, live music, and cozy carriage rides through twinkling lights. Visit Santa Claus and enjoy a festive atmosphere perfect for all ages.
Where: Portsmouth | More Info: WinterFest
Snow Wonders
What to Expect:
Snowfall and live music in a festive setting.
Description:
Snow Wonders is a free seasonal event at the Children's Museum of Virginia, featuring snowfall and live music that evokes nostalgic memories. Join us for a holiday experience filled with festive atmosphere and family-friendly activities.
Where: Portsmouth | More Info: Snow Wonders
Tour of Historic Churches
What to Expect:
Historical significance of local churches.
Description:
Explore historic churches in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and delve into their architectural and historical significance.
Where: Portsmouth | More Info: Tour of Historic Churches
Shawnee Lodge Christmas Open House
What to Expect:
Craft vendors and holiday buffet.
Description:
Shawnee Lodge Christmas Open House features craft vendors, entertainment, and a holiday buffet from 10 am to 3 pm.
Where: Portsmouth | More Info: Shawnee Lodge Christmas Open House
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Ironville (25 miles)
- Ashland (26 miles)
- Meads (27 miles)
- Huntington (37 miles)
- Chillicothe (42 miles)