Natural Bridge State Park will once again offer its Festival of Trees and Luminary Nights this holiday season.
The ninth annual Festival of Trees actually began last Friday, giving guests the chance to celebrate the holiday season while giving back to the community.
During the Festival of Trees, the visitor center is filled with creatively decorated trees, each sponsored by local businesses and community groups. Guests can vote for their favorite tree by placing donation items under it or purchasing a ballot from the front counter.
The tree with the most ballots and donations by Dec. 31 will be named the winner. There is no charge to view the trees.
This year’s donations will benefit Rockbridge CAN, Project Horizon and the Natural Bridge/Glasgow Food Pantry.
Suggested donations include household items such as paper towels, aluminum foil, sandwich bags, 13-gallon trash bags, laundry detergent, disinfectant spray/wipes, towels and washcloths; personal items such as body wash/soap, deodorant/body spray, shampoo/conditioner, hairbrushes, socks, diapers (size 5 and 6), baby hygiene items such as lotion, shampoo, wash and baby wipes; and nonperishable, unexpired food items.
The trees will be on display daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Dec. 31. The visitor center is closed on Christmas Day.
For more information about the Festival of Trees, call (540) 291-1326 or go to virginiastateparks.gov/events. - Luminary Nights kicks off Dec. 13 and promises a blend of nature and seasonal celebration.
During Luminary Nights, the iconic 200-foot-tall Natural Bridge is lit from above and below by dozens of festive-colored lights, creating a breathtaking scene and an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
This year’s dates will be Dec. 13-15 and Dec. 20-22 from 5 to 9 p.m.
After a stroll along Cedar Creek Trail to see the bridge, visitors can return to the pavilion to warm up next to a campfire and take a picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
“We’re excited to bring back Luminary Nights for another season,” said Natural Bridge State Park Manager Jim Jones. “This event offers a chance to connect with the natural beauty of the park in a uniquely festive way. It’s a wonderful opportunity for visitors to slow down, take in the lights and enjoy some peaceful moments in a remarkable setting.”
Regular admission fees apply: $9 for those 13 and up and $6 for those 12 and younger. Carriage rides will be offered on Dec. 13, 15 and 22, and cost $25 per rider, which includes admission. Guests must register for carriage rides by calling (540) 254-0795.
Foot traffic is allowed on the trail on nights with carriage rides, but guests will share the trail with the carriage. Regular admission applies for guests not taking a carriage ride.
This event is sponsored in part by Rockbridge Area Tourism. For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, go to virginiastateparks.gov/ natural-bridge or call (540) 291-1326.
Please note: Accessing the Natural Bridge requires navigating a stairway of 137 steps. Accommodations for accessibility can be made upon request at the visitor center or by calling (540) 291-1326.
