Description of Festival Events

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20

Santa's Arrival on the Mall     5:30 PM
Santa rides a horsedrawn carriage down the mall! Then he will set up shop in The Shops at April's Corner, where he will be available to listen to the wishes of children of all ages. The carriage will then be available for free rides on a first come, first serve basis.

Grand Illumination of Christmas Tree on the Mall     6:00 PM
Join the festivities at Central Place with comments from Charlottesville’s Mayor and other dignitaries and then watch the illumination of the Community’s Christmas Tree with brilliant holiday lights. Afterward enjoy face painting, and balloon art while you continue to make decorations for the tree while listening to seasonal music. You might even enjoy an early snowfall!

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21

Thanksgiving Parade on the Mall     10:00 AM
An old-fashioned Revolutionary pipe and drum parade. Historic costumed characters will take part in a procession that starts at the Ice Park and ends in the Pavilion. It includes musical performances, dances and musket firings and brief greetings from historic and modern public officials.

Dolly Madison's Thanksgiving Dinner at Omni Hotel     7:00 PM
Step back in time for a Thanksgiving dinner hosted by James and Dolley Madison. They have just returned to the area after two terms in the White House. You are encouraged (but not required) to dress up as they would 200 years ago. While you dine, you will watch a performance by John Douglas Hall and Katherine Spivey of northern Virginia. And you will mingle and converse with other dignitaries from the past. After dinner you will be able to join in period music and dancing at the Three President’s Ball in the adjacent ballroom. Cost is $30/person for both the dinner and the Ball. Cash bar also available. For ticket reservations, click here.

Three Presidents Ball at Omni Hotel     7:00 PM
Join Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe in an authentic period ball with music and dancing. Family-friendly dances will be led by the Cuckoo Assembly Dancers and music will be performed by Howard Markham and Michael Dunn. You are encouraged (but not required) to dress up as they would 200 years ago. Entrance to the ball is $10/person. Children under 13 are admitted free.  For ticket reservations, click here.

Holiday City Market at City Hall Plaza    10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Holiday City Market will offer crafts, baked goods, toys, greenery and more. Everything is locally made. Great gift ideas! $free. All ages welcome.

Horse-drawn Carriage Rides     10 AM to 4 PM
Go for a ride in a horse and carriage like they did in Jefferson's day (fee required). Rides begin at the 4th street crossing on the Mall.