The Norfolk, VA area has 18 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Dominion Energy Garden of Lights in Norfolk on November 8 to Here Comes Santa Claus! @ BFB in Norfolk, on December 16. 15 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in Virginia, part of our guide for every state.
The short version
- 18 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Norfolk, VA for 2026, in Norfolk
- First: Dominion Energy Garden of Lights, Norfolk, November 8. Runs latest: Dominion Energy Garden of Lights, Norfolk, through January 4
- Free: 40th Annual Grand Illumination Parade, Gring Sing-A-Long, Grinch Sing-A-Long at Little Creek, Santa's Reindeer Games, Sing-Along with the Grinch! at Larchmont, Winter Animal Storytime, (not so) Merry Grinchmas, Sing Along with the Grinch at Park Place, CraftsMas Kitchen Sweet Treat Workshop, Winter Wonderland, Holiday Storytime at Larchmont, Holiday Storytime at Park Place, Paper Snowflake Party, Winter Wonderland at Jordan-Newby and Here Comes Santa Claus! @ BFB
- Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Virginia Christmas train rides page.
Norfolk, VA Christmas events for kids at a glance
- Kids’ Christmas events
- 18 confirmed for 2026
- Cities
- Norfolk
- Season
- November 8, 2026 to January 4, 2027
- Free events
- 15
- Kinds of events
- holiday story time, holiday show, holiday lights and Santa visit
- Last checked
Plan your December
When each Norfolk, VA Christmas event for kids happens
The first is Dominion Energy Garden of Lights in Norfolk on November 8; the last runs to December 16. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.
- Dominion Energy Garden of LightsNorfolk · Nov 8 to Jan 4
- 40th Annual Grand Illumination ParadeNorfolk · Nov 21
- Gring Sing-A-LongNorfolk · Nov 28
- Grinch Sing-A-Long at Little CreekNorfolk · Dec 7
- Santa's Reindeer GamesNorfolk · Dec 9
- Sing-Along with the Grinch! at LarchmontNorfolk · Dec 9
- Winter Animal StorytimeNorfolk · Dec 9
- (not so) Merry GrinchmasNorfolk · Dec 10
- Sing Along with the Grinch at Park PlaceNorfolk · Dec 11
- CraftsMas Kitchen Sweet Treat WorkshopNorfolk · Dec 12
- Winter WonderlandNorfolk · Dec 12
- Holidays in the Wild: Holiday MarketNorfolk · Dec 13
- Holidays in the Wild: Holiday MarketNorfolk · Dec 13
- Holiday Storytime at LarchmontNorfolk · Dec 14
- Holiday Storytime at Park PlaceNorfolk · Dec 15
- Paper Snowflake PartyNorfolk · Dec 15
- Winter Wonderland at Jordan-NewbyNorfolk · Dec 15
- Here Comes Santa Claus! @ BFBNorfolk · Dec 16
Look inside the book
Story time with Santa in Norfolk, VA? Bring Rally home.
Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.
Rally Takes the Train
Eight pages from the book
Turn the page
That's 8 of 25 pages
See who’s waiting at the station
Grandmommy and Papa are at the last stop. Get the full hand-painted book, $16.99 on Amazon.
See the full bookPage 1 of 8
Like it so far? See the full book
25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.
Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.
Christmas events for kids in Norfolk
18 confirmed events for kids in Norfolk, soonest first.
Norfolk: Dominion Energy Garden of Lights
Holiday lightsNorfolk Botanical Garden · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Norfolk Botanical Garden, 6700 Azalea Garden Road, Norfolk, VA 23518 (near Virginia Beach)
- When
- Sunday, November 8, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (nightly), 5:30 to 8:30 pm
- Cost
- Children 3 to 12 $15 to $18, adults $24 to $30 (members less); walk up adds $5
- Ages
- Guests age 3 and up need a ticket
- Sign-up
- Recommended
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Dominion Energy Garden of Lights has been a Hampton Roads holiday tradition for more than 30 years, filling Norfolk Botanical Garden with light displays each evening from early November into January. The garden also runs extra holiday programming during the season, from meeting elves to nights when you can bring your dog.
Tickets are sold per person with limited nightly capacity, and guests age 3 and up need a ticket. Value nights cost $24 for non-member adults and $15 for children ages 3 to 12, and popular nights cost $30 and $18, with lower member prices. Walk up tickets add $5 each, and a 3 percent card surcharge applies.
Parent tip: Reserve online to save the $5 walk up fee and to pick a value night for the lowest price.
See dates and details from Norfolk Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: 40th Annual Grand Illumination Parade
Holiday paradeFreeDowntown Norfolk Council · Norfolk
- Host
- Downtown Norfolk Council (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Downtown Norfolk, Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 (near Virginia Beach)
- When
- Saturday, November 21, 2026, 7 pm
- Cost
- Free to watch
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Grand Illumination Parade is held every year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and brings thousands of spectators into Downtown Norfolk to kick off the holiday season. For its 40th year, the theme is Ruby Radiance, and participants are encouraged to light up the streets with jewel tones, movement and light.
The parade steps off at 7 pm and the sponsor list includes balloon and bleacher sponsors, so expect giant balloons along with illuminated entries. Downtown Norfolk also runs Holidays in the City through the season, including an Elf Door Discovery scavenger hunt with a bingo card from the Mermaid Market. Watching from the sidewalk is free.
Parent tip: It is an evening parade in late November, so dress warmly and arrive early for a curbside spot.
See dates and details from Downtown Norfolk Council (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Gring Sing-A-Long
Holiday story timeFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch Library at Broad Creek, 1425 Norchester Ave, Norfolk, VA 23513
- When
- Saturday, November 28, 2026, 11 am to noon
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Preschool, ages 3 to 5
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch Library at Broad Creek holds a Grinch themed sing-along on Saturday, November 28, 2026, from 11 am to noon. Children sing holiday classics and celebrate the season together.
The program is filed under holiday and story time and is listed for preschool children ages 3 to 5. The calendar page does not mention a fee or a registration requirement. The branch is at 1425 Norchester Avenue in Norfolk. A Saturday start makes it an easy outing for working families.
Parent tip: Saturday morning, so it works for families who are busy on weekdays.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Grinch Sing-A-Long at Little Creek
Holiday showFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Little Creek Branch Library, 7853 Tidewater Dr, Norfolk, VA 23505
- When
- Monday, December 7, 2026, 10:30 to 11:30 am
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Preschool, ages 3 to 5
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Little Creek Branch Library hosts a Grinch Sing-A-Long on Monday, December 7, 2026, from 10:30 to 11:30 am in the meeting room. Children sing holiday classics with the Grinch and celebrate the season together.
The program is filed under entertainment and is listed for preschool children, ages 3 to 5. The calendar page does not mention a fee or a registration requirement. The branch is at 7853 Tidewater Drive in Norfolk. A mid-morning start makes it a good fit for preschoolers who are not yet in school.
Parent tip: This one is aimed at preschoolers ages 3 to 5.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Santa's Reindeer Games
Santa visitFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Lafayette Branch Library, 1610 Cromwell Rd, Norfolk, VA 23509
- When
- Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 3:30 to 5:30 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- All ages, family
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Lafayette Branch Library hosts Santa's Reindeer Games on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, from 3:30 to 5:30 pm. Families can grab a holiday picture with Santa as he presides over reindeer games, crafts and music.
The program is listed for all ages and families. The calendar page does not mention a fee or a registration requirement. The branch is at 1610 Cromwell Road in Norfolk. The two hour window makes it easy to drop in after school for a craft and a photo.
Parent tip: Drop in any time during the two hour window.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Sing-Along with the Grinch! at Larchmont
Holiday showFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Larchmont Branch Library, 6525 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23508
- When
- Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 4 to 5 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Family
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Larchmont Branch Library holds a holiday sing-along with the Grinch on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, from 4 to 5 pm in the meeting room. The library invites guests to join in, or simply scowl at the merriment.
The audience is listed as family and the category as holiday. The calendar page does not mention a fee or a registration requirement. The branch is at 6525 Hampton Boulevard in Norfolk.
Parent tip: Families with a range of ages can attend together.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Winter Animal Storytime
Holiday story timeFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch Library at Broad Creek, 1425 Norchester Ave, Norfolk, VA 23513
- When
- Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 3 to 4 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Preschool, ages 3 to 5
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch Library at Broad Creek offers a Winter Animal Storytime on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, from 3 to 4 pm in the Youth Programming Room. Kids find out how animals do well in cold, snowy weather, with stories and songs along the way.
The listing is for preschool children ages 3 to 5 and is categorized as story time. Neither a fee nor a registration requirement appears on the calendar page. You can find the branch at 1425 Norchester Avenue in Norfolk. The storytime follows a seasonal theme without focusing on one holiday, so it suits families of any tradition.
Parent tip: The theme is winter, not Christmas.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: (not so) Merry Grinchmas
Holiday showFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Lafayette Branch Library, 1610 Cromwell Rd, Norfolk, VA 23509
- When
- Thursday, December 10, 2026, 3:30 to 4:30 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Lafayette Branch Library holds a musical program called (not so) Merry Grinchmas on Thursday, December 10, 2026, from 3:30 to 4:30 pm. Guests sing holiday classics and celebrate the season together.
The calendar page does not list an age range, a fee or a registration requirement. The branch is at 1610 Cromwell Road in Norfolk. The late afternoon timing suits children coming from school, and the sing-along format lets everyone join in at their own pace.
Parent tip: No age range is posted, so check with the branch for very young children.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Sing Along with the Grinch at Park Place
Holiday showFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Park Place Branch Library, 620 W 29th St, Norfolk, VA 23508
- When
- Friday, December 11, 2026, 4 to 5 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Park Place Branch Library invites guests to sing along and celebrate the season with the Grinch on Friday, December 11, 2026, from 4 to 5 pm.
The calendar page does not list an age range, a fee or a registration requirement. The branch is at 620 West 29th Street in Norfolk. Because the program is a sing-along, children can join in at their own comfort level, and families with a range of ages can attend together. Call the branch with any questions about the program.
Parent tip: No age range is posted, so call the branch with questions.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: CraftsMas Kitchen Sweet Treat Workshop
Holiday craftsFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library, 9640 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23503
- When
- Saturday, December 12, 2026, noon to 1 pm
- Cost
- Free, registration required
- Ages
- Adults and all ages
- Sign-up
- Required ahead of time
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library holds a CraftsMas Kitchen Sweet Treat Workshop on Saturday, December 12, 2026, as part of a larger CraftsMas program running from 10 am to 3 pm. This session lets participants make a sweet holiday treat.
Registration is required and supplies are limited. The library asks patrons to register for no more than two CraftsMas events so that as many people as possible can take part. A companion workshop on the same day lets participants decorate a festive tote bag. The calendar lists the audience as adults 18 and over and all ages. The branch is at 9640 Granby Street in Norfolk.
Parent tip: Registration is required and supplies are limited. Register for no more than two CraftsMas events.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Winter Wonderland
Santa visitFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Downtown Branch at Slover, 235 E Plume St, Norfolk, VA 23510
- When
- Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10 am to 3 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Family
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Downtown Branch at Slover marks the season on Saturday, December 12, 2026, from 10 am to 3 pm. Listed attractions include live music, holiday movies, bingo with a snowflake theme, a scavenger hunt, lively snowball fights and crafts inspired by cultures worldwide, plus a chance to shop with vendors from the neighborhood and community backers.
Santa Claus drops in, and other sessions that day include a holiday photo session using a green screen from 11 am to 1 pm, plus a painting party for the holidays. The library lists the event in the family categories of multicultural, holiday, and arts and crafts. You will find it at 235 East Plume Street in downtown Norfolk. No fee is shown on the calendar page for the main event, although a few sessions may call for registration.
Parent tip: Activities are timed and scattered over several floors, so decide in advance what your family cares about most.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market
Holiday eventVirginia Zoo · Norfolk
- Host
- Virginia Zoo (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Virginia Zoo, 3500 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23504
- When
- Sunday, December 13, 2026, 11 am to 3 pm
- Cost
- Free with general zoo admission; free admission with a donation to Norfolk Animal Care Center
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Virginia Zoo's annual Holidays in the Wild market brings a festive mood to the trails on one Sunday in December. Included with admission are two Animal Ambassador Encounters in the Event Pavilion, at 11:30 am and 2 pm, photo ops with Tango the Tiger from 11 am to 1 pm, and an eco-friendly gift wrapping demonstration. Local artisans sell gifts in a holiday vendor market, and the African Village Restaurant and a hot cocoa bar are open.
The zoo is pairing the day with a donation drive for the Norfolk Animal Care Center. Bring a 5 pound or larger bag of dry pet food or three new items from the shelter's list, such as blankets, towels or pet toys, and you receive one free zoo admission for that day. The event takes place rain or shine.
Parent tip: Donations go to the shelter's mobile unit in front of the zoo, and each qualifying donation earns one free admission for December 13 only. Train rides and market purchases cost extra.
See dates and details from Virginia Zoo (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market
Holiday eventVirginia Zoo · Norfolk
- Host
- Virginia Zoo (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Virginia Zoo, 3500 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23504 (near Virginia Beach)
- When
- Sunday, December 13, 2026, 11 am to 3 pm
- Cost
- Included with zoo admission; free admission with a pet supply donation
- Ages
- All ages
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Virginia Zoo's Holidays in the Wild market fills a Sunday afternoon with seasonal fun for families. Included with admission are animal ambassador encounters in the Event Pavilion at 11:30 am and 2 pm, photo ops with Tango the Tiger from 11 am to 1 pm, and an eco friendly gift wrapping demonstration, plus a hot cocoa bar and local artisans selling gifts.
The event is free with general admission and takes place rain or shine. Families can also get one free admission per donation to the Norfolk Animal Care Center, such as a 5 pound or larger bag of dry pet food or three new items from the shelter's list, dropped off at the shelter's mobile unit outside the zoo that day.
Parent tip: Bring a pet food or supply donation for free admission, good only that Sunday. Zoo train rides cost extra.
See dates and details from Virginia Zoo (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Holiday Storytime at Larchmont
Holiday story timeFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Larchmont Branch Library, 6525 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23508
- When
- Monday, December 14, 2026, 4 to 5 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Family
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Larchmont Branch Library invites families to a festive storytime on Monday, December 14, 2026, from 4 to 5 pm in the meeting room. The library describes it as a warm storytime celebrating the season.
The program is listed for families and filed under holiday. The calendar page does not mention a fee or registration. Larchmont Library is at 6525 Hampton Boulevard in Norfolk. The late afternoon time works well for children after school.
Parent tip: The late afternoon time is easy to reach after school.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Holiday Storytime at Park Place
Holiday story timeFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Park Place Branch Library, 620 W 29th St, Norfolk, VA 23508
- When
- Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 11 am to noon
- Cost
- Free
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Park Place Branch Library holds a holiday storytime on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, from 11 am to noon. The library says winter holidays do not get much better than the ones in this celebratory storytime.
The calendar page does not list an age range, a fee or a registration requirement. The branch is at 620 West 29th Street in Norfolk. Because the program is a regular storytime format, it suits preschool children and their caregivers, and families can call the branch to ask about space.
Parent tip: No age range is posted, so call the branch if you are bringing a baby or an older child.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Paper Snowflake Party
Holiday craftsFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Little Creek Branch Library, 7853 Tidewater Dr, Norfolk, VA 23505
- When
- Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 4 to 5 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Elementary school age, 5 to 9
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
Little Creek Branch Library welcomes elementary school kids to a Paper Snowflake Party on Tuesday, December 15, 2026. The party takes place in the meeting room from 4 to 5 pm. The library says the idea is to mark the holidays by filling the building with paper snowflakes, as if it were snowing indoors.
The listed ages are 5 to 9. The calendar page shows no fee and no registration requirement. The branch sits at 7853 Tidewater Drive in Norfolk. The party is an easygoing hour of crafting that kids can mostly handle by themselves.
Parent tip: The program is meant for ages 5 to 9, so younger kids may want a hand with the scissors.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Winter Wonderland at Jordan-Newby
Holiday lightsFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch Library at Broad Creek, 1425 Norchester Ave, Norfolk, VA 23513
- When
- Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 5 to 6 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Family
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch Library at Broad Creek invites families to a Winter Wonderland on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, from 5 to 6 pm in the Art Studio. Guests enjoy the season with glowing lights, warm treats and winter crafts.
The program is filed under arts and crafts for families. The calendar page does not mention a fee or a registration requirement. The branch is at 1425 Norchester Avenue in Norfolk. The early evening time makes it a good weeknight outing.
Parent tip: Early evening, so it fits after work or school.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Norfolk: Here Comes Santa Claus! @ BFB
Santa and Mrs. ClausFreeNorfolk Public Library · Norfolk
- Host
- Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Barron F. Black Branch Library, 6700 E Princess Anne Rd, Norfolk, VA 23502
- When
- Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 4 to 5:30 pm
- Cost
- Free
- Ages
- Family
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
The Barron F. Black Branch Library asks families to put on festive clothing and join Santa and Mrs. Claus in decorating the halls on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, from 4 to 5:30 pm. It all happens in the Gloria L. Lance Conference Room.
Kids can frost a cookie and pose for a picture with Santa. The listed audience is family, and the category is holiday. No fee appears on the library's calendar page, and no sign-up requirement is shown. You can find the branch at 6700 East Princess Anne Road in Norfolk.
Parent tip: Put on holiday clothes for the picture. Bring a camera if you would like a photo of your own.
See dates and details from Norfolk Public Library (opens in a new tab)Looking further afield? Our Virginia Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Virginia Beach, Richmond, VA and Roanoke. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.
A story for the drive home
A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.
A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.
Buy on AmazonNorfolk, VA Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask
What Christmas events for kids are in Norfolk, VA in 2026?
We confirmed 18 Christmas events for kids in Norfolk, VA for 2026 on each host’s own page: Dominion Energy Garden of Lights in Norfolk (November 8), 40th Annual Grand Illumination Parade in Norfolk (November 21), Gring Sing-A-Long in Norfolk (November 28), Grinch Sing-A-Long at Little Creek in Norfolk (December 7), Santa's Reindeer Games in Norfolk (December 9), Sing-Along with the Grinch! at Larchmont in Norfolk (December 9), Winter Animal Storytime in Norfolk (December 9), (not so) Merry Grinchmas in Norfolk (December 10), Sing Along with the Grinch at Park Place in Norfolk (December 11), CraftsMas Kitchen Sweet Treat Workshop in Norfolk (December 12), Winter Wonderland in Norfolk (December 12), Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market in Norfolk (December 13), Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market in Norfolk (December 13), Holiday Storytime at Larchmont in Norfolk (December 14), Holiday Storytime at Park Place in Norfolk (December 15), Paper Snowflake Party in Norfolk (December 15), Winter Wonderland at Jordan-Newby in Norfolk (December 15) and Here Comes Santa Claus! @ BFB in Norfolk (December 16). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.
What Christmas events for kids are in Norfolk, Virginia?
For families in and around Norfolk, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Dominion Energy Garden of Lights (Nightly, Nov 8 to Jan 4, from 5:30 pm, children 3 to 12 $15 to $18, adults $24 to $30 (members less); walk up adds $5); 40th Annual Grand Illumination Parade (Sat, Nov 21, 7 pm, free to watch); Gring Sing-A-Long (Sat, Nov 28, 11 am to noon, free); Grinch Sing-A-Long at Little Creek (Mon, Dec 7, 10:30 to 11:30 am, free); Santa's Reindeer Games (Wed, Dec 9, 3:30 to 5:30 pm, free); Sing-Along with the Grinch! at Larchmont (Wed, Dec 9, 4 to 5 pm, free); Winter Animal Storytime (Wed, Dec 9, 3 to 4 pm, free); (not so) Merry Grinchmas (Thu, Dec 10, 3:30 to 4:30 pm, free); Sing Along with the Grinch at Park Place (Fri, Dec 11, 4 to 5 pm, free); CraftsMas Kitchen Sweet Treat Workshop (Sat, Dec 12, noon to 1 pm, free, registration required); Winter Wonderland (Sat, Dec 12, 10 am to 3 pm, free); Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market (Sun, Dec 13, 11 am to 3 pm, free with general zoo admission; free admission with a donation to norfolk animal care center); Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market (Sun, Dec 13, 11 am to 3 pm, included with zoo admission; free admission with a pet supply donation); Holiday Storytime at Larchmont (Mon, Dec 14, 4 to 5 pm, free); Holiday Storytime at Park Place (Tue, Dec 15, 11 am to noon, free); Paper Snowflake Party (Tue, Dec 15, 4 to 5 pm, free); Winter Wonderland at Jordan-Newby (Tue, Dec 15, 5 to 6 pm, free); Here Comes Santa Claus! @ BFB (Wed, Dec 16, 4 to 5:30 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Norfolk section of this page.
Are there free Christmas events for kids in Norfolk, VA?
Yes. 15 of the 18 events here are free: 40th Annual Grand Illumination Parade in Norfolk, Gring Sing-A-Long in Norfolk, Grinch Sing-A-Long at Little Creek in Norfolk, Santa's Reindeer Games in Norfolk, Sing-Along with the Grinch! at Larchmont in Norfolk, Winter Animal Storytime in Norfolk, (not so) Merry Grinchmas in Norfolk, Sing Along with the Grinch at Park Place in Norfolk, CraftsMas Kitchen Sweet Treat Workshop in Norfolk, Winter Wonderland in Norfolk, Holiday Storytime at Larchmont in Norfolk, Holiday Storytime at Park Place in Norfolk, Paper Snowflake Party in Norfolk, Winter Wonderland at Jordan-Newby in Norfolk and Here Comes Santa Claus! @ BFB in Norfolk. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.
Where can kids see Santa in Norfolk, VA this December?
Santa appears at Santa's Reindeer Games in Norfolk (December 9), Winter Wonderland in Norfolk (December 12) and Here Comes Santa Claus! @ BFB in Norfolk (December 16). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.
Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Norfolk, VA?
Holiday story times on this page: Gring Sing-A-Long in Norfolk, Winter Animal Storytime in Norfolk, Holiday Storytime at Larchmont in Norfolk and Holiday Storytime at Park Place in Norfolk. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.
Which Norfolk, VA Christmas events are best for toddlers?
These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Gring Sing-A-Long in Norfolk (Preschool, ages 3 to 5), Grinch Sing-A-Long at Little Creek in Norfolk (Preschool, ages 3 to 5), Winter Animal Storytime in Norfolk (Preschool, ages 3 to 5) and Holiday Storytime at Park Place in Norfolk.
Are there kids' Christmas events in Norfolk, VA on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?
Yes: Dominion Energy Garden of Lights in Norfolk (through January 4).
How much is Dominion Energy Garden of Lights in Norfolk?
Children 3 to 12 $15 to $18, adults $24 to $30 (members less); walk up adds $5. Dominion Energy Garden of Lights is on Sunday, November 8, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (nightly), 5:30 to 8:30 pm at Norfolk Botanical Garden. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is 40th Annual Grand Illumination Parade in Norfolk?
Free to watch. 40th Annual Grand Illumination Parade is on Saturday, November 21, 2026, 7 pm at Downtown Norfolk. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Gring Sing-A-Long in Norfolk?
Free. Gring Sing-A-Long is on Saturday, November 28, 2026, 11 am to noon at Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch Library at Broad Creek. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Grinch Sing-A-Long at Little Creek in Norfolk?
Free. Grinch Sing-A-Long at Little Creek is on Monday, December 7, 2026, 10:30 to 11:30 am at Little Creek Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Santa's Reindeer Games in Norfolk?
Free. Santa's Reindeer Games is on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 3:30 to 5:30 pm at Lafayette Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Sing-Along with the Grinch! at Larchmont in Norfolk?
Free. Sing-Along with the Grinch! at Larchmont is on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 4 to 5 pm at Larchmont Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Winter Animal Storytime in Norfolk?
Free. Winter Animal Storytime is on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 3 to 4 pm at Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch Library at Broad Creek. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is (not so) Merry Grinchmas in Norfolk?
Free. (not so) Merry Grinchmas is on Thursday, December 10, 2026, 3:30 to 4:30 pm at Lafayette Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Sing Along with the Grinch at Park Place in Norfolk?
Free. Sing Along with the Grinch at Park Place is on Friday, December 11, 2026, 4 to 5 pm at Park Place Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is CraftsMas Kitchen Sweet Treat Workshop in Norfolk?
Free, registration required. CraftsMas Kitchen Sweet Treat Workshop is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, noon to 1 pm at Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Winter Wonderland in Norfolk?
Free. Winter Wonderland is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 10 am to 3 pm at Downtown Branch at Slover. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market in Norfolk?
Free with general zoo admission; free admission with a donation to Norfolk Animal Care Center. Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market is on Sunday, December 13, 2026, 11 am to 3 pm at Virginia Zoo. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market in Norfolk?
Included with zoo admission; free admission with a pet supply donation. Holidays in the Wild: Holiday Market is on Sunday, December 13, 2026, 11 am to 3 pm at Virginia Zoo. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Holiday Storytime at Larchmont in Norfolk?
Free. Holiday Storytime at Larchmont is on Monday, December 14, 2026, 4 to 5 pm at Larchmont Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Holiday Storytime at Park Place in Norfolk?
Free. Holiday Storytime at Park Place is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 11 am to noon at Park Place Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Paper Snowflake Party in Norfolk?
Free. Paper Snowflake Party is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 4 to 5 pm at Little Creek Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Winter Wonderland at Jordan-Newby in Norfolk?
Free. Winter Wonderland at Jordan-Newby is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 5 to 6 pm at Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch Library at Broad Creek. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
How much is Here Comes Santa Claus! @ BFB in Norfolk?
Free. Here Comes Santa Claus! @ BFB is on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 4 to 5:30 pm at Barron F. Black Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.
Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Norfolk, VA?
Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Norfolk, VA Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.
How do you confirm these events?
We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.
Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.
