Hometown Holidays 2025
DON’T ROAM! #ShopAtHome | Keep the CHEER Here!
Thank you for shopping locally! We encourage you to shop at the wonderful stores in the Alleghany Highlands, where you can find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list!
By supporting local businesses, you are helping keep jobs in the Alleghany Highlands.
Remember, gift certificates to local businesses make great gifts.
F-2 Photo Exhibit Open Until Friday, December 26th. Gallery Hours are Monday–Saturday, 10am–4:30pm & Sundays, 1:00pm–4:00pm
Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center – You must come see it to appreciate it!
This year’s F-2 Photo Gallery is a wonderful mix of photographic works.
Come enjoy the exhibit and vote for your favorite for the People’s Choice Award.
The exhibit is supported by the Alleghany Foundation and the local artists who entered.
The winners will be announced in January.
Located at 439 E. Ridgeway Street, Clifton Forge.
Call 540-862-4447.
Weekly from November 18th–December 16th
Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism – Cash Mobs –
Help us support small businesses this holiday season by shopping local!
How it works: The first 10 people to show up will get $20! We just ask that you
spend $20 of your own. This will provide the business with at least $400 of sales
that day! Call 540-962-2178 for additional details. Every Tuesday or Wednesday.
Friday, November 21st, 10:00am–8:00pm & Saturday, November 22nd, 10:00am–5:00pm
Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center – Christmas Open House –
A Holiday Treat-Come visit us! We are ready for Christmas! Enjoy some Santa Snacks while you shop! 540-862-4447 (439 E. Ridgeway Street, Clifton Forge).
Friday, November 21st, 11:00am–9:00pm & Saturday, November 22nd, 10:00am–5:00pm
CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE –
Clifton Forge Merchants along with the Town of Clifton Forge and Clifton Forge Main Street presents our Hometown Christmas Open House in Downtown Clifton Forge.
Friday, November 21st, 11:00am–6:00pm & Saturday, November 22nd, 10:00am–5:00pm
Betsy Francis Rogers and The DEPOT on Main A Good Ole Fashioned CHRISTMAS –
Join us for A Good Ole Fashioned Christmas featuring: Over 30 LOCAL vendors, Art, Handcrafted Quilts, Pottery, Jewelry, Clothing & Furniture, Antiques, Vintage Christmas decor, gifts and more. There will also be LIVE Christmas Music, Free coffee, Hot chocolate & Photos with Santa, shopper Gift Registration, Gift Certificates, Door prizes ALL DAY, And the best yet; The Opportunity to SHOP LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON! 528 Main Street, Clifton Forge.
Friday, November 21st, 2:00pm–8:00pm & Saturday, November 22nd, 10:00am–5:00pm
CFSOTA & The MILL presents the 14TH ANNUAL KRISKINDLMARKT –
Join us to discover the enchantment of an Appalachian mountain town’s take on a
European advent market. The heart of our event is nestled within “The Mill,” a beautifully repurposed 100+ year-old lumber mill right behind the Clifton Forge School of the Arts. In addition to The Mill, explore the main CFSOTA building, where you’ll find a Children’s Makers Space, gallery exhibits, photos with Santa and information about the wide range of creative classes offered by the School of the Arts. While at this event, you will also have the opportunity to enjoy a selection of German food and drink, listen to live music, and visit with Santa. Admission is $5 and children enter free! Kriskindlmarkt is a wonderful event for the whole family and our proceeds go directly to supporting the arts education programming here at CFSOTA! 518 Church Street, Clifton Forge.
Saturday, November 22nd, 6:00pm
Clifton Forge TOWN HALL ANNUAL TOWN TREE LIGHTING –
We will begin our community celebrations in Clifton Forge with an official lighting of the Town Christmas Tree. Enjoy festive dance performances by Garlynda’s Fancy Feet, and Cora Dance. Then, sing along with the Immanuel Baptist Church choir to some classic Christmas carols and watch as our special guest light our town tree. Be sure to bring the kids by Santa’s booth for a special visit and picture!
Sunday, November 23rd, 2:00pm–6:00pm
Covington Parks and Recreation Holiday Market at The Jackson River
Sport Complex-
Come do your holiday shopping from over 30 vendors, food will be available, roasted chestnuts will be available. Numerous musical acts offering Holiday tunes will be going on throughout the day at The RiverRock Amphitheatre. Horse and Buggy rides for a fee will be available starting at 6:00 pm. Jeremy in a Flash will be on site if you want to purchase Holiday Photos. Then at 6:00 pm we will illuminate The Twinkling Trails for our 2025 season. Please mark your calendars for this awesome event.
Sunday, November 23rd–January, Daily from 6:00pm–Dawn
Christmas in the Park at Intervale Park – Illumination & Walking Trail –
Enjoy the magic of the holidays from the comfort of your own car as you drive through the spectacular light display at the Jackson River Sports Complex. For more information, call the Recreation Office at 540-965-6360.
Friday, November 28th & Saturday, November 29th, 11:00am–5:00pm
Blue Spring Run Farm – Small Business Friday & Saturday -
Thank you for supporting small businesses! 3901 Blue Spring Run Rd Covington, VA
Sunday, November 30th, 3:00pm
Covington Parks and Recreation Annual Hometown Christmas Celebration -
Covington City Hall (333 W. Locust Street). There will be musical entertainment to kick off the evening from a local group. Then we will have our honorary Christmas tree lighter illuminate the tree. To finish up the evening we will move inside for milk and cookies with Santa. Children will have the opportunity to take a picture with Santa.
Wednesday, December 3rd, 3rd-5th Grade Class, 9:15am - 10:15am and K- 2nd Grade Class, 10:30am - 11:30a
Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center-Story/Craft Hour-
The children will read and discuss a story, make their own craft pertaining to the story, and often there is a snack! Kids are sure to have fun while learning with retired school teachers Cathy Drummer & Judy Scott! Only a few spots are available. All supplies provided. Each session is FREE, but registration is required. Register by calling the Art Center at 540-862-4447. For more information, call Cathy: 540-968-1648.
Friday, December 5th, 6:00pm
CHRISTMAS PARADE – Clifton Forge Annual Christmas Parade –
Clifton Forge Main Street, Inc. invites you to be a participant or be a spectator in our 2025 Christmas Parade! The parade will begin at the intersection of Ridgeway and Roxbury Street and continue down Ridgeway Street through the Historic District to the Clifton Forge Fire Station on D Street. Trophies will be given out for best religious float, best private and public vehicles, best marching unit, best dance entry, best clogging entry, most creative entry, best animal entry, best overall float, and judges favorite. Call 540-862-2000 or email cliftonforgemainstreet@gmail.com to participate in the parade.
Saturday, December 6th, 9:00am - 10:30am -
Good News Church on Main - BREAKFAST WITH SANTA -
FREE Pancake Breakfast with Santa. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Saturday, December 6th, 9:00am - 4:00pm
Good News Church on Main-8th Annual Good News Christmas Bazaar -
Feeling Christmassy- 55+ Returning and NEW Vendors, Sweet Makers, and Artisans offering something for everyone on your gift list. Door Prizes, Surprises and KidZONE for the kids. Good News Church on Main, 331 W. Main Street, Covington.
Saturday, December 6th, 10:00am - 4:00pm -
CF Woman’s Club-2025 Holiday Home Tours -
Tour Locations: Clifton Forge 708 McCormick Blvd., 924 Acacia Ave., Low Moore 109 Old Church Rd., Covington 302 N. Lexington Ave., 102 Rosedale Ave. and 122 Glen Aerie Lane Eagle Rock/Glen Wilton. Tickets can be purchased from any Club member and may also be purchased on Dec 5 , 10am-7pm or Dec 6th during the Joy Silent Auction at the Historic Masonic Theatre. Tickets are $15.00 per person. For more information, call 540-865-0373.
Saturday, December 6th, 9:00am–5:00pm
AN OLD TOWN CHRISTMAS – ALL DAY – Sponsored by OLD TOWN COVINGTON
Welcome Center Location in the Mid-City Mall Parking Lot- Here you will find all you need to know about 0TC, An Olde Town Christmas and much more! **EMS/FIRE/PD on site for emergenices**
Winter Wonderland Water at Image Express- From thirsty to festive in just one sip! Stop by and grab a bottled water to quench your thirst!
Popcorn Balls at The City's Café & After Parade Fun- Stop by and grab your popcorn ball and some yummy breakfast or lunch. Or stop in after the parade and get warm with hot chocolate and cozy dinner. Popcorn balls- ALL DAY, Hot Chocolate After Parade.
Hot Apple Cider & Old Dog Coffees at the Pocket Park (LOVE Sign)- Downtown fun brewed better! Come and grab fresh hot apple cider and Old Dog Coffee to keep you warm.
Christmas Ornament Making at Make Room! Covington- Get creative this Christmas with holiday ornament making. Choose from a free option for festive fun or upgrade to a paid option for a keepsake you'll treasure year after year. A perfect activity for kids and adults alike!
Face Painting at A-Line Bargains- Bring the kids for a little holiday magic with festive face painting! From sparkling snowflakes to cheerful reindeer noses, it's fun for all ages and a perfect way to add extra cheer to your Christmas shopping.
9:00am–12:00pm – Fairy Hair at Patsy’s Dance Studio-
Add a little sparkle to your holiday look with magical Fairy Hair! Shimmering strands are tied into your hair to catch the light and bring a touch of Christmas magic everywhere you go! Free to the public and sponsored by Patsy’s Dance Studio.
9:00am–12:00pm – Bow Making at Formals & Floral on Main-
Come test your bow making skills with the experts and learn how to make bows for your Christmas gifts or holiday decorating.
9:00am–3:00pm – Boys Home Tree Farm & Goodies at the Farmers Market-
Shop handcrafted soaps, candles and baked goods made with care by the boys and staff of Boys Home of Virginia. When you buy from the Boys Home Tree Farm, you’re not just decorating your home, you’re helping change lives!
9:00am–4:00pm – Gift Wrapping at Patsy’s Dance Studio-
Take the stress out of wrapping and give back at the same time! Throughout the day, volunteers will be offering gift wrapping by donation to support several local nonprofit organizations. Let us wrap your presents with care while you help spread holiday cheer where it’s needed most.
Santa’s Train Ride at Greenways Auction Parking Lot-
Calloway Enterprises will have Santa Train Rides available where you can experience some fun on Santa’s Train. COST: $5
10:00am–4:00pm – Candy Cane Craft at the Discovery Center-
Sponsored by Rustic Elegance. Bring your kiddos to make a Reindeer Candy Cane Craft.
10:30am–12:30pm – Cookie Decorating at Patsy’s Dance Studio-
Come enjoy some sweet fun with cookie decorating! This event is sponsored by Peoples Bank. The 4H team will be volunteering their time to help you create these sweet treats.
11:00am - 12:30pm – Story Time & Craft with Santa’ Elves at the Library-
Join Santa’s elves at the library for a magical story time and hands-on holiday craft! Perfect for kids of all ages to enjoy a cozy Christmas adventure filled with imagination, creativity, and cheer!
11:00am - 1:00pm – A Cozy Lunch Special at the Friendly Fork-
Take a break from the holiday hustle and enjoy a Cozy Lunch Special! Warm flavors, hearty dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect stop to relax, refuel, and share a little comfort this Christmas season.
11:00am - 6:00pm – An Olde Town Christmas Garland Making with the Grinch at Mountain Rush-
Sponsored by The Friendly Fork. Step back in time with a holiday tradition that never grows old—stringing paper and popcorn garland! Join the Grinch for a playful twist on this nostalgic craft. It’s a perfect mix of old-fashioned Christmas cheer and whimsical fun for the whole family.
12:00pm - 2:30pm – Piano Lounge at Mountain Rush-
Come soak in the cozy piano lounge vibe at Mountain Rush! Gather with friends and neighbors to enjoy festive holiday cheer, live music, and the spirit of the season in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
12:00pm - 4:00pm – Face Painting at Mountain Rush-
While enjoying the family fun at Mountain Rush, stop by the face painting station to get a little extra sparkle to your holiday fun!! Kids of all ages can enjoy cheerful designs that bring Christmas magic to life.
12:00pm - 5:00pm – Hot off the Press: Cookies & Christmas at the Virginian Review -
Experience the history of the newspaper in the Alleghany Highlands. Here you will be able to learn how things are made and experience some behind the scenes information from the paper with cookies and bottled water.
1:30pm - 3:00pm – Adult Canvas Painting at Make Room! Covington-
While the little ones enjoy the Christmas Movie, come to Make Room! Covington for an adult Christmas canvas painting. For only $15, the parents can have fun too! Kiwanis Club of the Jackson River will have volunteers at the theater to chaperon the children.
1:30pm - 3:10pm – Polar Express at R/C Theater Covington Movies 3-
Enjoy a FREE holiday favorite on the big screen. FREE popcorn and drink, sponsored by Olde Town Covington, Inc. A perfect way to relax, laugh, and make memories this Christmas season.
3:00pm - 5:00pm – Christmas Carolers at the LOVE Pocket Park-
Fill your heart with the sounds of the season! Enjoy the Alleghany High School Choir as they spread holiday cheer with classic Christmas carols. A perfect way to pause, listen, and soak in the true spirit of Christmas.
Saturday, December 6th, 6:00pm – Olde Town Covington Christmas Parade-
It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Olde Town Covington, and that means it’s time to line the streets with lights, music, and holiday cheer! Location: Downtown Covington (line-up starts at 5 PM at the back entrance of Smurfit Westrock Parking Lot)
Sunday, December 7th, 3:00pm
ALLEGHANY HIGHLANDS ARTS COUNCIL-
Alleghany Highlands Chorale Holiday Concert- Local singers present an inspiring afternoon of holiday music that will leave the audience with a heart full of Yuletide spirit. Located at First Presbyterian Church (185 N Maple Ave, Covington). Admission is by Donation. For more information, call 540-962-ARTS (2787).
Sunday, December 7th, 3:00pm
STARS -
The Historic Masonic Theatre is thrilled to announce the return of the Special Theatrical Artists Revue & Showcase (STARS) program. The highly anticipated event is made possible through the generous support of the City of Covington, Town of Clifton Forge, and Alleghany County. Visit www.historicmasonictheatre.com/masonic-event/stars/ or call 540-862-5655 for more details. FREE EVENT!
Friday & Saturday, December 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 11:00am–5:00pm
Blue Spring Run Farm - Christmas Open House -
Join us for our Christmas open house. Enjoy some wintry treats as you shop for gifts for friends, loved ones, and why not even something special for yourself. Contact info: 3901 Blue Spring Run Rd, Covington. 540-747-2055.
Friday, December 12th, 7:00pm
Erich Cawalla & The Uptown Band’s Christmas Show at The Historic
Masonic Theatre-
This is a Pennsylvania “Supergroup” and truly a band for all ages. They are looking forward to making their debut appearance at The Historic Masonic Theatre performing their “Christmas Extravaganza and Variety Show”. For tickets visit The Historic Masonic Theatre website or call 540-862-5655 for more details.
Saturday, December 13th, 1:00pm
Town of Iron Gate, Christmas Parade-
Ghostbusters Christmas is the theme for 2025. The parade is sponsored by the Town of Iron Gate and Iron Gate Volunteer Fire & Rescue. Line up starts at 12pm. For more information and entry form please call 540-862-0770.
Sunday, December 14th, 3:00pm
The Barter Players Presents: I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas at
The Historic Masonic Theatre-
It’s Christmas time at the Ypsilanti Zoo, and everyone there eagerly anticipates the birth of Bella, the zoo’s first baby hippo. Seven-year-old Lois Jean, the zookeeper’s daughter, is especially excited-she’s counting on Bella to reunite her family in time for the holidays. Then the unexpected happens, and only one person can prevent tragedy. Will Santa arrive in time to save Bella-and Christmas? A heartwarming musical adventure for the whole family. FREE EVENT!
Wednesday, December 17th, 7:00pm–9:00pm
ALLEGHANY HIGHLANDS ARTS COUNCIL-RSO Handel’s MESSIAH-
With thunderous choruses and soul-stirring solos, David Wiley and the Roanoke
Symphony & Chorus will breathe life into the Christmas portion of G.F. Handel’s
MESSIAH. This masterwork remains Handel's most famous composition. It is one
of the most triumphant choral pieces ever written and stands as a hallmark of the
holiday season. Located at Covington Middle School Curfman Hall, 606 South
Lexington Avenue, Covington. Call 540-962-ARTS (2787) for additional
information.
Friday, December 19th, 7:00pm
Mountain Opry Presents: Christmas in the Mountains with the AHS Choir
at The Historic Masonic Theatre-
The Mountain Opry presents a night of music at the Christmas in The Mountains Celebration, with the Alleghany High School choir performing along with the Mountain Opry band. Doors open at 6PM and the show starts at 7PM. If you’d like to, you may bring non-perishable food to be donated to the local food pantries. A monetary donation
Saturday, December 20th, 6:30pm & Sunday, December 21st, 2:00pm
Shenandoah Ballet-The Nutcracker at The Historic Masonic Theatre-
The Shenandoah Ballet returns with the beloved Nutcracker Ballet just in time for
Christmas. For tickets visit The Historic Masonic Theatre website or call 540-862-
5655 for more details.
Looking for a unique, last-minute gift?
The Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is excited to announce that the:
2026 Uniquely Alleghany Calendars are available!
We had some amazing photographer submissions this year which showcases the beauty of the Alleghany Highlands!
