Filtering by: Family Friendly
Traveling Bricks An Exhibition Made of LEGO® Bricks
Oct
19
to Jan 5

Traveling Bricks An Exhibition Made of LEGO® Bricks

  • Virginia Museum of History & Culture (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

As the LEGO Group opens its first and only U.S. manufacturing plant in the Commonwealth of Virginia, VMHC guests can embark an exciting journey through transportation history—one brick at a time! In its first continental United States appearance, Traveling Bricks—one of the largest exhibits of its kind—features more than 100 models of iconic land, air, sea, and space vehicles constructed from nearly 1 million LEGO® bricks. After viewing the exhibition guests can get creative with thousands of LEGO® bricks to build anything they can imagine.

LEGO® is a registered trademark of the LEGO Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse this site.

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Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights 2024-2025
Nov
18
to Jan 5

Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights 2024-2025

  • Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Advance tickets are REQUIRED and are available online only (no walk-ups). Tickets are limited and have an arrival time window. Popular times sell out quickly. Las entradas están disponibles en línea SOLAMENTE (no se venderán en ventanilla) Cada 30 minutos tiene un límite de entradas disponibles. Language Translations: see drop-down menu at bottom right of web page.

GardenFest is rain or shine. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable unless you purchase the optional Ticket Insurance. You can purchase the optional Ticket Insurance at checkout. Please note: Insurance allows for tickets to be moved ONCE. All ticket sales are final. Ticket transfer insurance is available at time of purchase that allows you to transfer your ticket to an alternate date and/or time. Ticket Insurance is non-transferrable and all tickets, with or without insurance, are non-refundable. The cost of purchased tickets that are unused, will be donated to the general operating fund of the Garden.

Please have your ticket QR code, confirmation email or order number at check-in. If you created an account when you purchased tickets through my.lewisginter.org, you can also access your tickets by logging into your account.

What’s New:

  • Voted Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights in the U.S.! (USA Today 10Best contest; 2023)

  • This year’s theme is Homes & Habitats: A Celebration of Connection: As audiences take in millions of lights across the Garden they will explore and celebrate the beauty and importance of interconnected environments. Homes and habitats; where nature and community intertwine. From vibrant wetlands, a lush forest, and a vibrant savannah, to a magical world of fantasy, every environment plays a vital role in sustenance for life. Enjoy as you explore different ecosystems, and welcome HOME!

  • Travel through our grounds as the Gardens are re-imagined resembling wetlands, rainforests, deserts, and more through light forms and brand-new interactive features in the Waterway splash pad (Children’s Garden) and Cochrane Rose Garden.

  • Find the Pokémon light form in each habitat! Ponyta, Ivysaur, and many others are waiting for you.

  • Herbs in the Home, a display in the Library Reading Room, will show us how we use nature in our kitchen, for crafts and decorations, and other practices, representing the HOME – traditions and festivities.

  • Dried botanicals and a brand-new timeline exhibit outlining our Garden’s past, present, and future will grace the Robins Visitors Center and its hallway as you walk in. Celebrate 40 years with us!

FAMILIAR FAVORITES RETURN

  • Millions of lights light up the gardens and twinkle in trees under the night sky. The walk-through experience is designed so you, your loved ones, and friends can relax, have fun, and make special memories in a magical setting. 

  • Model trains return to the Kelly Education Center nightly 4-9:45 p.m. Our volunteers have worked hard at creating a themed display centered around Homes and Habitats that includes a lake scene, a wooded mountain, a farm, a town, and more!

  • The Warming Fire in the Children’s Garden is a great spot to warm up, drink hot chocolate, and roast s’mores (available for purchase at the nearby Carriage House).

  • Homemade natural wood trees built by our volunteers and decorated by Henrico County Public Schools students brighten the Lora Robins Library.

  • The Fairy Village enchants viewers in the Lora M. Robins Library, with miniature houses made with seeds, petals, and other natural mediums.

  • A Live Tree outside of the Conservatory and a light tunnel in the Central Garden –perfect for a holiday photo-op!

Special Nights

MEMBER PREVIEW WEEKEND: Nov. 15-17
Free admission for members only, learn more and become a member here.

GARDENFEST FOR FIDOS:
Please read our rules and guidelines for visiting Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden with dogs.

  • Monday, Nov. 18

  • Monday, Nov. 25

  • Monday, Dec. 2

  • Monday, Dec. 9

  • Monday, Dec. 16

FREE NIGHTS FOR MEMBERS: Dec. 30-Jan. 5
Free admission for members only.

PERFORMANCES: 

  • Tuesday, Nov. 19, 6-7 p.m., Pungmulnori Korean Festive Performance (The Main Garden Walk)

  • Tuesday, Nov. 26, 6:30-8 p.m., The Nutcracker performed by The Concert Ballet of Virginia (The Rose Garden)

  • Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6:30-8:30 p.m., SPARC’s Touring Ensemble will be caroling around the Garden (The Rose Garden)

  • Tuesday, Dec. 10, 6-8 p.m., Hanover High School (The Rose Garden)

  • Tuesday, Dec. 17, 6-8 p.m., Henrico High School (The Rose Garden)

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Annual Holiday Tree Lighting at Stony Point Fashion Park
Nov
23
5:00 PM17:00

Annual Holiday Tree Lighting at Stony Point Fashion Park

Get ready for a magical evening filled with DJ spinning your favorite holiday hits, countdown to illumination, warm beverages & lite bites, a snow show, face painting & balloon art, Santa photos & giveaways, Dickens Christmas Carolers, RVA mini express train rides, the Children's Museum of Richmond's Book Buggy with story time & school readiness tools, festive crafts at the Richmond Family Magazine booth, and charitable ties with Feed More & Make-A-Wish Greater Virginia. Celebrate the season with us—bring your friends and family for an unforgettable holiday kickoff!

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47th Annual Model Railroad Show
Nov
29
to Dec 1

47th Annual Model Railroad Show

  • Science Museum of Virginia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Featuring all the bells and whistles, guests will enjoy unique and traditional model train displays from across the state. Learn how trains work, conduct experiments, check out special demonstrations and enjoy a holiday weekend filled with fun for the whole family. The Model Railroad Show is included with Museum admission. 

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Kings Dominion's WinterFest
Nov
29
to Jan 4

Kings Dominion's WinterFest

See the Kings Dominion amusement park magically transform into a winter wonderland during the ultimate holiday celebration! Kings Dominion's WinterFest is packed with all the sights, sounds, food, and experiences of the holiday season. The park shines bright with over two million shimmering lights, a 300-foot tree and lavish displays while live shows and strolling performers delight guests throughout the park. Plus, a selection of your favorite rides will be open to complete your night of memory making! 

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Coco + Santa
Nov
30
9:00 AM09:00

Coco + Santa

Santa is visiting Coco + Hazel for a special weekend event. Come enjoy ice cream, hot cocoa or coffee, and a professional photograph with Santa. Kids will be able to write a letter to place in Santa's mailbox. Each ticket admits up to 4 individuals and 1 adult must be on each ticket. Ticket holders will leave with a professionally printed photograph and information on purchasing additional photos. Tickets are available for every 10 minute window between 9 and 3 and each seating lasts for 30 minutes. Families will have time to meet and speak with Santa during their photograph.

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Coco + Grinch
Nov
30
4:00 PM16:00

Coco + Grinch

The Grinch is coming to Coco + Hazel for one magical weekend! Come enjoy ice cream, hot cocoa or coffee, and a meet and greet + professional photograph with The Grinch. Each ticket seats up to 4 individuals and at least 1 adult must be part of each ticket. Seatings occur every 10 minutes between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m., and each seating lasts 30 minutes. Families will leave with a professionally printed photograph from a photographer + information to purchase additional photos.

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Coco + Santa
Dec
1
9:00 AM09:00

Coco + Santa

Santa is visiting Coco + Hazel for a special weekend event. Come enjoy ice cream, hot cocoa or coffee, and a professional photograph with Santa. Kids will be able to write a letter to place in Santa's mailbox. Each ticket admits up to 4 individuals and 1 adult must be on each ticket. Ticket holders will leave with a professionally printed photograph and information on purchasing additional photos. Tickets are available for every 10 minute window between 9 and 3 and each seating lasts for 30 minutes. Families will have time to meet and speak with Santa during their photograph.

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Kids Adventure Terrarium Workshop
Dec
1
1:30 PM13:30

Kids Adventure Terrarium Workshop

Calling all young explorers and budding botanists! Join us for a fun-filled adventure at our Kid's Adventure Terrarium Workshop, where imagination knows no bounds! Children aged 6 and above, along with their families, are invited to unleash their creativity as they select air plants and craft their own magical terrariums filled with sand, rocks, animal figures, moss, and other delightful decorations.

What's Included:
Engaging instruction and assistance from the PlantHouse crew
Choice of air plants and a wide selection of fun decorations
High-quality materials including glass vessels, sand, rocks, and moss
Valuable care tips to help kids nurture their terrarium creations
Family-friendly atmosphere with activities suitable for all ages
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase to refresh young explorers and their families
Ticket Options:
General Admission: Includes workshop participation and all materials needed to create a kid's adventure terrarium.
Project Sharing Ticket: For parties of 2 people and only wanting to make one project.

Set off on a journey of discovery and creativity in the welcoming environment of our plant store. Whether your child is a nature enthusiast or simply loves to create, this workshop offers a fantastic opportunity for hands-on learning and family bonding!

Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today and let your child's imagination soar at the Kid's Adventure Terrarium Workshop! 🌿🐾

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Coco + Grinch
Dec
1
4:00 PM16:00

Coco + Grinch

The Grinch is coming to Coco + Hazel for one magical weekend! Come enjoy ice cream, hot cocoa or coffee, and a meet and greet + professional photograph with The Grinch. Each ticket seats up to 4 individuals and at least 1 adult must be part of each ticket. Seatings occur every 10 minutes between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m., and each seating lasts 30 minutes. Families will leave with a professionally printed photograph from a photographer + information to purchase additional photos.

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Merry Market at Maymont
Dec
7
to Dec 8

Merry Market at Maymont

Make your holidays brighter at Merry Market, Saturday–Sunday, December 7–8 from 12-5pm. More than 70 talented local artisans will offer an amazing variety of hand-made gifts for all tastes and interests in a festive setting on Maymont’s Carriage House Lawn. Working in every medium imaginable, these craftspeople transform wood, clay, yarn, leather, glass, metal and natural materials into imaginative gift items that will delight anyone on your gift list.

The whole family will enjoy a chance to visit with Saint Nicholas, ride on a holiday train, and make-your-own craft activities. Refuel with a cup of hot cocoa and a sweet treat around a cozy fire pit, enjoying the sounds of holiday tunes and the ambience of historic buildings draped in fresh evergreen wreaths and garlands.

Online ticket purchase is recommended. Tickets are non-refundable. Your ticket purchase helps Maymont stay free and open to the public all year long. Merry Market is a rain or shine event, except in case of severe weather. If you are unable to attend the event, please consider your ticket purchase as a donation.

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Gingerbread House Workshop
Dec
8
12:30 PM12:30

Gingerbread House Workshop

Experience the magic of the season in our gingerbread house workshop, a perfect family-friendly activity! We bake each gingerbread house from scratch. Each kit comes with homemade royal icing, homemade marshmallows (to build a snowman), and an assortment of quality, colorful candies and decorations. Each General Admission ticket ($39.99) provides general admission for up to 5 individuals + 1 gingerbread house kit. You can add up to 2 additional gingerbread kits ($25 each) per general admission ticket. The following items can be pre-purchased at a discount with your general admission ticket:

Loaded Hot Chocolates-
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Housemade cocoa blended with our chocolate ice cream, peppermint syrup, and steamed milk choice—topped with a peppermint ganache brownie in a crushed peppermint candy-rimmed cup—served with a peppermint stick.

S'Mores Hot Chocolate: housemade cocoa, blended with our chocolate ice cream and steamed milk choice- topped with a stack of housemade white and milk chocolate covered marshmallows, a homemade chocolate-dipped graham cracker, and served in a graham-cracker rimmed cup

Mexican Hot Chocolate: housemade cocoa, chili powder, and cinnamon, blended with our chocolate ice cream and steamed milk choice- topped with whipped cream and a housemade churro in a cinnamon toast crunch-rimmed cup.

Boozy Eggnog Shake: eggnog ice cream, milk, and a brandy shot, topped with whipped cream and cinnamon.

Holiday Coffee Flight- Hot or Iced: Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Latte, Eggnog Latte, and Sugar Cookie Latte

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Gingerbread House Workshop
Dec
8
2:30 PM14:30

Gingerbread House Workshop

Experience the magic of the season in our gingerbread house workshop, a perfect family-friendly activity! We bake each gingerbread house from scratch. Each kit comes with homemade royal icing, homemade marshmallows (to build a snowman), and an assortment of quality, colorful candies and decorations. Each General Admission ticket ($39.99) provides general admission for up to 5 individuals + 1 gingerbread house kit. You can add up to 2 additional gingerbread kits ($25 each) per general admission ticket. The following items can be pre-purchased at a discount with your general admission ticket:

Loaded Hot Chocolates-
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Housemade cocoa blended with our chocolate ice cream, peppermint syrup, and steamed milk choice—topped with a peppermint ganache brownie in a crushed peppermint candy-rimmed cup—served with a peppermint stick.

S'Mores Hot Chocolate: housemade cocoa, blended with our chocolate ice cream and steamed milk choice- topped with a stack of housemade white and milk chocolate covered marshmallows, a homemade chocolate-dipped graham cracker, and served in a graham-cracker rimmed cup

Mexican Hot Chocolate: housemade cocoa, chili powder, and cinnamon, blended with our chocolate ice cream and steamed milk choice- topped with whipped cream and a housemade churro in a cinnamon toast crunch-rimmed cup.

Boozy Eggnog Shake: eggnog ice cream, milk, and a brandy shot, topped with whipped cream and cinnamon.

Holiday Coffee Flight- Hot or Iced: Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Latte, Eggnog Latte, and Sugar Cookie Latte

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Cocoa & Candy Canes with the Flying Squirrels
Dec
14
11:00 AM11:00

Cocoa & Candy Canes with the Flying Squirrels

Join us for some Squirrelsmas FUNN! Our Kids Club exclusive event will feature hot chocolate, pictures with Nutzy and Nutasha, and holiday shopping at the Squirrels Nest Team Store.

In partnership with 106.5 The Beat, we encourage you to bring a new toy for donation for Toys for Tots for underprivileged children.

Join the Kids Club: bit.ly/KidsClubFS

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CarMax Tacky Light Run
Dec
14
6:00 PM18:00

CarMax Tacky Light Run

Enjoy a fun walk, jog or run through the Walton Park neighborhood in Chesterfield County decked out in wow-worthy holiday décor. Celebrate 10 years of this famed holiday tradition of over-the-top, dazzling holiday light displays. Spread some holiday cheer as a spectator or sign up to participate in this family friendly event.

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Smiles with Santa at Hardywood
Dec
15
12:30 AM00:30

Smiles with Santa at Hardywood

  • Hardywood Park Craft Brewery (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Santa’s coming to Hardywood ! Stop by our West Creek location on December 8thth for a visit full of holiday cheer! Your ticket includes:

An opportunity to sit with Santa and share your list!
A digital photo to treasure forever
Two drink tickets (can be used on non-alcoholic choices like our Francie’s Lemonade as well)

One ticket includes the whole family - no need to buy individual tickets per person!

When you checkout, you will choose a half hour time slot, and will have a 5 minute time slot to spend with Santa. Our Gingerbread Stout and variants will be available in the taproom for you to enjoy!

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Christmas Cookie Decorating
Dec
15
1:00 PM13:00

Christmas Cookie Decorating

Experience the magic of the season in our Christmas cookie-decorating workshop! We bake our sugar cookies from scratch. Each cookie kit comes with 4 Christmas-themed sugar cookies (Christmas Tree, Candy Cane, Gingerbread Person, and Snowflake), 3 piping bags of homemade buttercream icing (red, green, and white), and an assortment of sprinkles. Each ticket provides general admission ($39.99) for up to 5 individuals + 1 cookie kit. Each ticket must have at least 1 adult present. You can add up to 2 additional cookie kits ($25 each) per general admission ticket. We will have disposable aprons available for kids. The following items can be pre-purchased at a discount with your general admission ticket:

Peppermint Hot Chocolate: housemade cocoa, blended with our chocolate ice cream, peppermint syrup, and steamed milk choice- topped with a peppermint ganache brownie in a crushed peppermint candy-rimmed cup- served with a peppermint stick.

S'Mores Hot Chocolate: housemade cocoa, blended with our chocolate ice cream and steamed milk choice- topped with a stack of housemade white and milk chocolate covered marshmallows, a homemade chocolate-dipped graham cracker, and served in a graham-cracker rimmed cup

Mexican Hot Chocolate: housemade cocoa, chili powder, and cinnamon, blended with our chocolate ice cream and steamed milk choice- topped with whipped cream and a housemade churro in a cinnamon toast crunch-rimmed cup.

Boozy Eggnog Shake: Eggnog ice cream, milk, and a brandy shot, topped with whipped cream and cinnamon.

Holiday Coffee Flight- Hot or Iced: Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Latte, Eggnog Latte, and Sugar Cookie Latte

Additional Cookie Kits- $25 each

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Kids Adventure Terrarium Workshop
Dec
15
1:30 PM13:30

Kids Adventure Terrarium Workshop

Calling all young explorers and budding botanists! Join us for a fun-filled adventure at our Kid's Adventure Terrarium Workshop, where imagination knows no bounds! Children aged 6 and above, along with their families, are invited to unleash their creativity as they select air plants and craft their own magical terrariums filled with sand, rocks, animal figures, moss, and other delightful decorations.

What's Included:
Engaging instruction and assistance from the PlantHouse crew
Choice of air plants and a wide selection of fun decorations
High-quality materials including glass vessels, sand, rocks, and moss
Valuable care tips to help kids nurture their terrarium creations
Family-friendly atmosphere with activities suitable for all ages
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase to refresh young explorers and their families
Ticket Options:
General Admission: Includes workshop participation and all materials needed to create a kid's adventure terrarium.
Project Sharing Ticket: For parties of 2 people and only wanting to make one project.

Set off on a journey of discovery and creativity in the welcoming environment of our plant store. Whether your child is a nature enthusiast or simply loves to create, this workshop offers a fantastic opportunity for hands-on learning and family bonding!

Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today and let your child's imagination soar at the Kid's Adventure Terrarium Workshop! 🌿🐾

View Event →
Kids Adventure Terrarium Workshop
Dec
22
1:30 PM13:30

Kids Adventure Terrarium Workshop

Calling all young explorers and budding botanists! Join us for a fun-filled adventure at our Kid's Adventure Terrarium Workshop, where imagination knows no bounds! Children aged 6 and above, along with their families, are invited to unleash their creativity as they select air plants and craft their own magical terrariums filled with sand, rocks, animal figures, moss, and other delightful decorations.

What's Included:
Engaging instruction and assistance from the PlantHouse crew
Choice of air plants and a wide selection of fun decorations
High-quality materials including glass vessels, sand, rocks, and moss
Valuable care tips to help kids nurture their terrarium creations
Family-friendly atmosphere with activities suitable for all ages
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase to refresh young explorers and their families
Ticket Options:
General Admission: Includes workshop participation and all materials needed to create a kid's adventure terrarium.
Project Sharing Ticket: For parties of 2 people and only wanting to make one project.

Set off on a journey of discovery and creativity in the welcoming environment of our plant store. Whether your child is a nature enthusiast or simply loves to create, this workshop offers a fantastic opportunity for hands-on learning and family bonding!

Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today and let your child's imagination soar at the Kid's Adventure Terrarium Workshop! 🌿🐾

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Tredegar Tree Lighting
Nov
21
5:30 PM17:30

Tredegar Tree Lighting

Join us at the popular Tredegar Tree Lighting when we officially illuminate the 20ft tall tree in the museum lobby! A Richmond holiday event favorite, the lighting of the Tredegar Tree features live music by the Joe Sarver Trio, holiday cheer provided by Virago Spirits, is family friendly, free and open to the public. The Tredegar Tree is decorated with hand-crafted 19th century era style ornaments and hundreds of lights. A great way to start the season! This event is sponsored by Wilton Companies.

ACWM is pleased to be an official Toys for Tots collection partner and encourage guests to bring an unwrapped toy to donate at the Tredegar Tree Lighting!

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