Holidays 2024
This holiday season, Town Center of Virginia Beach is brimming with festive charm, from dazzling snow globe displays to the beloved annual holiday tree lighting. For a dose of seasonal entertainment, the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts and Zeiders American Dream Theater are your go-to spots for musical performances that perfectly capture the magic of the season. Here’s what to add to your calendar to celebrate the wonder and joy of the winter holidays in Virginia Beach.
Snow Globe Spectacular
November 29 - December 23
The sights and sounds of the season come alive through the Snow Globe Spectacular at Town Center. More than a dozen super-sized holiday snow globes captivate visitors as whimsical elves, ballerinas, tap dancers and more perform from within the globes. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be on hand, greeting little ones from their own snow globe at Town Center Fountain Plaza. Snow globes are on display as you enjoy holiday shopping evenings from 5 to 9 p.m. Parking is free in the Town Center garage.
Grand Illumination
November 30
Kick off the holiday season at Town Center’s Grand Illumination. Festivities begin at 5 p.m., followed by the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus by horse-drawn carriage at 6 p.m. to light the 40-foot-tall tree with more than 5,000 lights and ornaments. Virginia Beach City Council members will join them and lead the countdown to light the spectacular holiday tree. Santa's elves will be there too, serving up free hot chocolate, clam chowder, and delicious samples from Town Center merchants. Check off a few loved ones on your holiday gift list and enjoy restaurant specials across Town Center eateries.
Last Night on the Town
December 31
Ring in the new year at Virginia Beach’s signature celebration, Last Night on the Town, at Town Center. Headlined by Hunter Hayes, with special guests Anthony Rosano & The Conqueroos, and DJ Mista Cham, this event draws thousands of revelers for a night of music and fun. Now in its 11th year, this free family event kicks off at 7 p.m. at Cantina Laredo, with live music starting at 9 p.m. VIP tickets include perks like party favors and prime main stage views.
Musicals and Live Performances in Town Center
A Soulful Christmas: A Groovy Musical Revue
December 5-7 and 13-15
Celebrate the holiday season with A Soulful Christmas: A Groovy Musical Revue at Zeiders American Dream Theater. Disco era vibes meet festive classics in this all-ages musical show. Enjoy a lively blend of gospel, jazz and R&B that will fill the air with warmth and joy. Tickets start at $10 (students/children.)
A Christmas Carol
December 6-8
Get into the holiday spirit with A Christmas Carol. This beloved family classic based on the timeless Charles Dickens story about miserly Ebenezer Scrooge comes to life at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts with captivating original music and spectacular costumes. It’s a heartwarming way to celebrate the season with loved ones. Tickets from $33.
Jim Brickman
December 11
Renowned pianist Jim Brickman comes to the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts for a magical evening of uplifting holiday music. Celebrate the warmth and joy of the season with signature instrumentals and soul-stirring vocal performances. It’s a wonderful holiday treat for all ages. Tickets start at $48.
Harmony Around the Tree
December 13
Join the Virginia Beach Chorale, Symphonicity and Tidewater Winds at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts for a festive collaboration called Harmony Around the Tree. This concert promises a musical mashup of holiday cheer thanks to a harmonious blend of traditional carols and contemporary favorites. Tickets from $25.
PBJ: Jingle Bell Jam
December 15
The Virginia Symphony Orchestra presents family-favorite PBJ: Jingle Bell Jam at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts. It’s a lively holiday celebration featuring tremendously talented Hampton Roads musicians that will have you tapping your toes to the music of the holidays. As a bonus, Santa Claus will be in the house to spread cheer! Tickets from $22.
Holiday POPS!
December 15
At the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, led by Robert Shoup, will deliver an evening filled with festive cheer featuring classic carols, seasonal songs, and surprise elements at Holiday POPS! Special guest performances include vocalist Kathryn Whitbeck and pianists Angela and Valerie Zhang. Expect high-energy music, holiday warmth, and a spectacular experience that embodies the magic of the season. Tickets start at $27.
Holidivas
December 19-21
Get ready for a holiday extravaganza with Holidivas at Zeiders American Dream Theater. This high-energy holiday cabaret show celebrates its 10th year with a dazzling cast of performers and a Broadway-style flair. Perfect for all ages, this festive celebration will have you singing and dancing to the music. Tickets are for $12 (students/children).
NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet
December 20-22
Ballet Virginia magically brings NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet to life at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts. Watch Clara’s adventure unfold with a talented cast of over 100 dancers as the Symphonicity Orchestra performs the iconic score. This holiday classic is a must-see for all ages. Tickets start at $45.
Tidewater Winds: Santa Swings
December 22
Swing into the holiday season with Tidewater Winds: Santa Swings at Zeiders American Dream Theater. Enjoy a festive evening of big band tunes performed by Tidewater Winds Big Band, with jazz vocalist Danielle Roby adding a soulful voice to classic holiday favorites. This lively concert will add a fun and jazzy twist to your holiday traditions. Tickets start at $10 (students/children.)
Symphonicity: 42nd Annual Messiah Sing-Along
December 23
The timeless holiday classic Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along comes to the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts. This powerful and moving concert and sing-along is performed by Symphonicity and a full choir, bringing the joy of the season to life through festive music that fills the air and amplifies the spirit of the season. This is a free event, but donations are appreciated.
The Elf and the Reindeer
December 27-28
Children of all ages will love The Elf and the Reindeer at Zeiders American Dream Theater. Presented by the Children’s Theatre of Hampton Roads, this heartwarming tale follows an elf and his reindeer pal as they embark on a quest to save the North Pole. It’s a holiday adventure that the whole family will enjoy. Tickets start at $9 (seniors/military.)
