The magic of the holidays will shine a little brighter in Buena Vista this year.
The celebration begins on Saturday, Nov. 30, with Shop Small Saturday, marking the official start of the city’s downtown window decorating contest, themed “Northern Lights.” Participating local shops will deck out their storefronts in twinkling creativity, inviting visitors to stroll downtown and enjoy a true small-town holiday experience.
Every purchase made at a participating business earns shoppers a voting ticket to cast for their favorite festive display. The winning windows will be announced during a Facebook Live broadcast in mid-December.
“We want the community to come downtown and experience that smalltown charm — seeing, supporting, community this season,” said Justin Wiseman, co-owner of Leaf & Lore and one of the organizers of the window contest.
Then, on Thursday, Dec. 4, Buena Vista will officially ring in the holidays with its beloved Christmas tree lighting and parade, a partnership between Main Street Buena Vista and Glen Maury Park.
The evening begins at 6:30 in Town Square at 21st Street and Magnolia Avenue, where the city’s Christmas tree will sparkle to life. The ceremony will feature a performance by Accolade, Southern Virginia University’s acclaimed vocal ensemble, along with remarks from city leadership and a cheerful community countdown.
Immediately following, the Christmas parade will make its way down Magnolia Avenue, beginning at 7 p.m. and ending near 18th Street and the Community Garden. This year’s theme, “Winter Wonderland,” promises floats, carolers, classic holiday music, and the warmth of neighbors gathering to celebrate together.
“It’s been an amazing year downtown,” said Jen Carpenter, executive director of Main Street Buena Vista. “The transformation of Magnolia Square over the past two years has been incredible to see — and there’s no better time than the holidays to experience the heart of Buena Vista.”
Visitors are encouraged to shop local, vote for their favorite window displays, and come downtown for the joy and nostalgia that make Buena Vista’s holiday season so special.
For details or to participate in the window decorating contest, email [email protected]. Follow Main Street Buena Vista on Facebook, Instagram (@mainstreetbv), or visit www. mainstreetbuenavista.org for event updates.
At The Paxton House
The Paxton House Historical Society is preparing for its annual yuletide reception and Santa visit on Sunday, Dec. 7.
The reception, from 2 to 4 p.m., invites area residents to step back in time as they enter this historic home fully decorated and ready to offer a glimpse of a time past. Light refreshments will be served.
Then starting at 5 p.m., there will be Cookies and Cocoa with Santa.
Each child will be able to tell Santa what’s on their wish list and parents are welcome to take pictures of their child (children).
After seeing Santa, families can walk to the porch to hear local children singing holiday songs and enjoy some holiday treats.
In between the yuletide reception and Santa’s visit, families can also enjoy Horses’ Christmas, which will be held from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. behind the Paxton House.
Also At The Park
Throughout the season, area residents are invited to visit Glen Maury Park after dark to see the annual drive-thru holiday light displays. The lights are turned on Dec. 1 and they will continue to shine through New Year’s Day.
