Magic on the Mall
This winter season celebrate the holiday festivities in Downtown Charlottesville. Presented by Friends of Charlottesville Downtown, there is something for every member of the family during Magic on the Mall. Join us to experience winter splendor and wonder FREE OF CHARGE. Want to save the full rundown?
Download 2024 Calendar of Events
Help us make this holiday season magical! We are looking for volunteers to help us run the Downtown Express as well as pass out Elves in Cville booklets and stamps, Peppermint Trail brochures, and assist with Santa pictures.
Peppermint Trail
November 21st – January 7th
Follow the trail of peppermints on the sidewalks of Downtown
Charlottesville to discover all sorts of treats featuring the favorite
red and white candy. From candy cane coffees at morning brunch to craft
cocktails sipped by candlelight, you’ll find peppermint treats round
almost every corner. Want to plan your journey? You can download the Peppermint Trail brochure in advance or pick it up at participating locations.
Elves in Cville
November 21st – January 7th
Santa has sent his elves to Downtown Charlottesville to help during the holiday season but some of them have gotten lost! Help him find them all and win a prize! You can
pick up your North Pole Pass (and holiday stamp) at J Fenton Too or Magpie Knits on the Downtown Mall, the JMRL central branch, or download the digital version.
Selfies with Santa and Classics on the Big Screen
Saturday, November 30th
10 AM – 2 PM
Santa is coming to the Paramount Theater on Saturday, November 30th, from 10 AM – 2 PM for free photos! Bring your family
downtown to share your wish list with Santa, snap a photo for your
holiday card, and catch a few beloved holiday classics on the big screen!
This event will include a food drive benefiting the Blue Ridge Food Bank. If you would like to donate, please bring unopened canned food and non-perishables in non-glass containers. Suggested items include:
- canned soups, stews, and chill
- canned veggies
- cereal
- peanut/almond butter
- spaghetti sauce
- boxed mac & cheese
- pasta and rice
- canned tuna and chicken
- paper products
- baby food, formula, and diapers
- soap and feminine products
- toothbrushes
Downtown Holiday Express
Saturdays, 10 AM – 2PM
The Downtown Holiday Express will be available to take a ride down the mall
every Saturday during the holiday season. Come enjoy the magic Downtown!
Extended Holiday Hours
December 5th, 12th, 19th
Many Downtown shops are aiming to make the holiday season a little less stressful by extending their store hours on Thursdays before Christmas in December! Those participating in extended hours will be open until 8PM those evenings so you can get your shopping done.
See the Full List of Participants Here!
Best in Snow Windows
November 21st – January 7th
Your favorite downtown spots are in a festive face off for the title of best holiday window decoration! This year, we will have a panel of judges to determine who has the jolliest decor. Stay tuned for more details!
Hanukkah Celebration Downtown
December 29th
Join the Chabad House from the University of Virginia for a fun celebration of the fourth night of Hanukkah!