Hallmark Movie-Inspired Holiday Fun in the Shenandoah Valley

As the Shenandoah Valley awaits the first snow of the season, and the twinkling holiday lights spill warmth into dark winter nights, there are few things cozier than curling up to watch a Hallmark holiday movie with the people you love. Well, actually, one thing is cozier, and that’s experiencing those heartwarming traditions first-hand. In case you’re not familiar with the genre, Hallmark movies emphasize tradition and relationships with loved ones.They take place in idyllic (often snowy) small-town settings, usually include performances or competitions, and feature visits from Santa. Most importantly, they remind people that togetherness and holiday magic are more important than presents. Here are four ways to enjoy a Hallmark holiday movie-inspired day in the Shenandoah Valley.

Old-Fashioned Fun with Lexington Carriage Company

Not every town has a carriage tour, but every Hallmark movie deserves one! Narrated Lexington Carriage Company tours are MADE for Hallmark movies. What is more romantic than snuggling with your favorite people as your carriage sways and jingles behind a team of well-mannered horses? Reserve a ride through beautiful downtown Lexington, all dressed up with wreaths and decorated storefronts. Experience the festive small-town atmosphere when you sip a hot drink from one of our local bakeries or coffee shops and visit the community Christmas tree at Hopkins Green. Next shop locally-owned boutique stores to find the perfect gifts. Collect stamps as you go for entries to win a gift card for more shopping on your next trip to downtown Lexington.

Augusta County’s Vintage Finds and Craft Brews

Start your holiday adventure with coffee or a light lunch at Valley Pike Farm Market, where rustic charm meets a scenic view and a curated selection of holiday treats and local goodies. Shop for stocking stuffers and the ingredients for the cookies you’re going to bake when you get home. 

Next, wander the Factory Antique Mall to enjoy treasures from the past and nostalgia from your childhood. Shop for ornaments, vintage toys, and estate jewelry. Since this is America’s largest antique mall, you’re sure to find something that sparks joy for everyone on your list. 

Finally, head to Stable Craft Brewing & Kitchen for dinner and drinks. Your party can have a seat by the fire or rent an igloo for personal use. The kids can play games and toast marshmallows by the fire pits. Stable Craft hosts lots of live music and kid-friendly seasonal events, like the Old-Fashioned Farm Christmas on December 7. Enjoy holiday brews, mulled ciders, horse-drawn wagon rides, and caroling.

Ride with Santa and Journey to the Past

Don your holiday attire and hop aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway at Staunton’s historic Amtrak station for a very merry train excursion with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and all their cheerful helpers. You’ll feel like you’re riding the Polar Express as the decorated train chugs through the winter landscape. Passengers can sip hot beverages and sweet treats while they wait to meet and pose for photos with jolly old St. Nick.

Next, travel to the past with a lantern-lit tour of the Frontier Culture Museum. This popular annual event features historic decorations and performances at each of the museum’s Old World farms. Heartwarming and comic skits help visitors connect with traditions from the past. Another way to access Staunton’s past is to see six of its prettiest Gospel Hill houses decked in their holiday finery on the 49th annual Historic Staunton Foundation Holiday House Tour. Finally, don’t miss the Staunton Holiday Market on Saturdays in December for a chance to shop locally for your Christmas tree, decorations, and holiday treats.

Shenandoah County’s Small-Town Winter Traditions

While a sense of community and loyalty to small businesses are important year-round in Woodstock, the small town will go full-Hallmark this holiday season. Stroll down this quaint main street, shopping for locally-made gifts and indulging in coffee drinks and delicious sweet and savory treats from Flour & Water Bakery. 

Remember how towns used to set up elaborate window displays for the holidays? You can still see them at Shenandoah Caverns and Main Street of Yesteryear. The decorations and animatronic scenes in the retro-cool exhibit will transport you back to the 1940s and 50s! If there’s snow on the ground, you’ll want to bundle up and make tracks as you walk along the North Fork of the Shenandoah River in Seven Bends State Park.

Round up the family on December 6 for a big dose of holiday cheer at the “Light Up Woodstock” celebration. Nibble free cookies and sing along to holiday songs with local children’s choirs. Next, stake out your favorite spot to watch the parade and share your warm wishes with fellow merrymakers. The evening comes to a joyous close with a tree-lighting ceremony and a very important special guest! If you want to extend the fun, head over to the Woodstock Brewhouse for live music and craft beverages.

Experience Americana on Berryville’s Main Street

People describe Berryville as both looking and feeling like Mayberry-. You’ll feel like you’re in a scene from a Norman Rockwell painting as you shop the unique stores for gifts on Small Business Saturday (November 30). Look for hand-crafted items from local artists, toys and clothing from Sweet Pea’s Children’s Shop, and breads and goodies from Sweet Elephant Bake Shop and Sacred Heart Goods.

Join the holiday fun when you head to Rose Hill Park for Christmas in the Park on December 6th. The festival features a tree lighting, live music, photo opportunities, crafts, and the crowning of the Holiday Parking Meter Decoration winner. Find a spot along Main Street to watch the old-fashioned Christmas parade on Dec 7th. It’s a great way for families to connect and get in the Christmas spirit, and you might catch a glimpse of Santa riding an antique fire truck! If you’re looking for more holiday fun, the Clarke County Fairgrounds has a free event with holiday light displays, hot drinks, toasted marshmallows, and a nativity scene.

Do you know a tea fan? The Tea Cart is offering a special weekend Nutcracker Tea  from December 6-29. Along with its Holiday Gala on December 7, Long Branch Historical House is hosting Downton Abbey teas on December 10 and 17. Finally, Rosemont Manor will have its weekend Christmas teas through January 12.

Celebrate Christmas in Front Royal

Front Royal is decorated for visitors this holiday season! Explore the wonderful dining and shopping options in the historic district with other merrymakers. Next, gather at the main Street Gazebo from noon – 7 pm on December 7 to enjoy the wares of over 40 vendors, crafters, and food trucks. There’s plenty of fun for the entire family. Pick a prime spot to watch the famous Christmas Parade, which steps off at 4 sharp. This lively event will get you in the holiday mood with musical performances from local choral groups, dance performances from youth troupes, creative floats, and even a Santa spotting!

Visit the Valley during the holiday season, and you might feel like the star of your own Hallmark holiday movie!