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Celebrate the Season Christmas Villages and Festivals in WV
MEGAN BEVINS
Christmas time in West Virginia is nothing short of mesmerizing . As the weather gets colder and snow starts to fall , locals begin to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit . With the help of Christmas villages and light shows , that spirit is brought to life .
From Charleston ’ s colorful and twinkling streets to the historic charm of Harpers Ferry , each community hosts its own unique festivities . At these celebrations , families gather to sip hot chocolate ; explore festive , local markets ; and view incredible light displays .
These events not only brighten the area but also promote connection within communities , bringing people together to share in timeless traditions . Whether it ’ s the vibrant lights of Oglebay ’ s Winter Festival or the nostalgic charm of a horse-drawn carriage ride in Harpers Ferry , Christmas in West Virginia offers a season filled with joy and warmth .
Charleston Christmas Village : Light the Night , Holly Jolly Brawley , Capitol Market
Starting in November , downtown Charleston transforms into a stunning winter wonderland , thanks to the work of three local organizations . Salango Law Dirty Birds Light the Night presented by GoMart , Holly Jolly Brawley run by the Downtown Charleston Association and the Holiday Village at Capitol Market all decorate the area with bright , colorful lights , tasty treats , family fun and Christmas cheer .
This year ’ s Light the Night event , held at the GoMart Ballpark , will run from November 15 to January 1 . The event will feature more than 2.5 million choreographed Christmas lights and offer a wide range of activities , including rides , activities , shopping , food and ice skating . Light the Night ’ s hours of operation are Sunday to Thursday from 5-9 p . m . and Friday and Saturday from 5-10 p . m .
The Holly Jolly Brawley festival , held at the City Center at Slack Plaza , is a two-day event and will take place on November 29 and 30 . The event will run from noon to 8 p . m . on both days and feature an exciting schedule of live musical performances , a holiday market , a light show and a Kids Zone
with Christmas-themed inflatables . For those who want to attend the event but need help getting there , the Holly Jolly Brawley Trolley will offer transportation to the City Center , Lee St . Triangle , GoMart Ballpark and Capitol Market .
Capitol Market will spend two December weekends offering guests a market experience re-vamped with twinkling lights and holiday themed goods . The Holiday Village will be held this year on December 6-7 and 13-14 from 6-9 p . m . It is themed after a European Christmas market , pulling inspiration from cities like Vienna and Prague . The markets will feature handcrafted goods and artisanal products as well as holiday ornaments and specialty foods all sold by local vendors . To further enhance the Christmas feel , the village will provide mulled wine , hot cocoa and baked goods at various food and drink stalls .
Photo by GoMart Ballpark .
Heritage Farm
The Heritage Farm Museum and Village offers a festive experience for visitors of all ages . As the holiday season approaches , the village beams with light-trimmed buildings and cheerful Christmas music and is filled with activities that bring the magic of the North Pole to West Virginia .
The village is packed with holiday-themed activities , including a live nativity scene and charming wagon ride that takes guests on a journey through the village . Visitors can
118 WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE