Let Newport News Light the Way to Dazzling Nights and Holiday Lights!
The holiday season is here, and Newport News is glowing with festive light displays, from beloved traditions to modern, tech-savvy shows.
While we’re highlighting a few signature events, don’t forget to explore the many other decorated homes, businesses, and attractions across the city – including the beautifully lit campus of Christopher Newport University.
At the center of the season’s festivities is the NlightN Holiday Event Series, sponsored by Ferguson. Running from Thanksgiving Day through New Year’s Day, this series features three signature events: Celebration in Lights, Lights by the Fountain, and ARTech Lights.
Here’s your guide to the most magical holiday lights in Newport News:
Celebrating its 32nd year, this event has the honor of being Virginia’s FIRST drive-through holiday light show! A beloved local tradition, this 2-mile display at Newport News Park features over a million twinkling lights and whimsical scenes, from sparkling forests to animated holiday characters. Whether it’s your first visit or your 32nd, Celebration in Lights is guaranteed to deliver holiday cheer!
A state-of-the-art light show in the heart of City Center, this dazzling, strollable experience features the delightful Timber the Talking Tree, a 50-foot animated holiday tree that anchors the display. Surrounding the five-acre fountain are 50 pixel-wrapped perimeter trees, synchronized to a festive soundtrack. The combination of lights, music, holiday décor – and even falling snow – makes it a magical outing for all ages. Shows run every half hour, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy the surrounding shops and restaurants before or after your holiday light stroll.
This show features a stunning 30-foot animated holiday tree, pixel-wrapped perimeter trees, and dazzling décor that’s perfect for selfies and holiday cards. Located at Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center, ARTech Lights is a great option for families and anyone looking for a modern holiday experience in Downtown Newport News.
Once again, you’ll need to mark your calendar for this special event. Christopher Newport University’s Lighting of the Lawn, along with its Holiday Happening Concert, combine music and lights for a festive evening on December 8. The concert, featuring holiday performances, begins at 4 p.m. at Ferguson Center for the Arts. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online or at the ticket office. Afterward, the Lighting of the Lawn takes place at 6 p.m. This free event includes fireworks, crafts, photos with Santa, and festive treats, all set against the backdrop of the beautifully lit campus.
In addition to these shows, Newport News is full of smaller but equally delightful displays. Some private homes feature dazzling light arrangements, such as the Stern Family Holiday Light Show at 108 Sheffield Way in the Pear Tree Hall neighborhood. What started in 2002 as a simple display has transformed into a dazzling spectacle of synchronized lights dancing to festive tunes. Admission is free, but donations for the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank are encouraged.
Whether you’re driving through the enchanting Celebration in Lights, strolling through the brilliance of Lights by the Fountain, or enjoying the charm of ARTech Lights, you’ll find plenty of brightness in Newport News this holiday season!
