I am a proud Virginian from the Hampton Roads area, and we are well-known as, and often refer to ourselves as the 757. I love spending my winter break at home because there are so many things to do that keep me busy. All of the things mentioned can be done with friends, family, or even alone if you need time to yourself (something I totally understand). If you are from this area, you may have heard of these things before, but if you plan on visiting the 757, you should totally check these events out. You won't be disappointed!
1. MacArthur on Ice
Ice skating is one of the most fun things to do in the winter! I think a lot of people are afraid to get on the ice with those thin, sharp blades. However, it's a great time! MacArthur plays Christmas music and uses fake snow machines to get skaters in the winter mood! Ice skating would make a really cute date night activity too!
2. Woodland Christmas Wonderland
This is a hidden gem! This event takes place at a home located in Chesapeake. This home is decorated for the holidays in the most extravagant way! Many people come to walk around the outside of the home. There are several lights and inflatable characters. The best thing is that donations go to the Portsmouth Humane Society!
3. Busch Gardens' Christmas Town
If you love amusement parks and Christmas, you need to take a trip to Busch Gardens this season! I haven't been in a few years, but I have heard amazing things about it recently! A friend of mine works there and told me they have MILLIONS of lights! There are shows, good food, and several rides still open. I can't wait to go back at some point!
4. Norfolk Botanical Garden's Garden of Lights
The Garden of Lights is something I thought everyone around here knew about, but one of my friends told me that she had never gone! At the Botanical Gardens, you and everyone in your car gets to drive around the garden to see a ton of Christmas lights! They are beautiful, themed, and so fun to see! I highly recommend listening to Christmas music while you go through!
5. Norfolk or Williamsburg Premium Outlets
The Premium Outlets are the perfect place to go to spend the money you got for Christmas! The Williamsburg Outlets have been here forever, but the Norfolk location is only a few years old! It'll probably be a little crowded in both cities, but it is totally worth it. There are tons of stores that everyone will know (ex. Francesca's, Nike, Old Navy, and Columbia)!
6. Cure Coffeehouse in Norfolk
Cure is one of my favorite local coffee shops. My best friend and I come here every chance we get. Cure's Norfolk location has beautifully decorated the store for the holidays! They always have amazing drinks, food, and baked goods. What I love about this little shop is that they always have something going on to bring the community together; check their Instagram to see everything is going on!
There are always great things to do around you. You just have to take the time to go out and enjoy the adventure!
