A Victorian Christmas at 70 degrees
Every December, Thomasville transforms into an even more magical place where the air is filled with the scent of roasting chestnuts, the sound of carolers singing, and the sight of twinkling lights reflecting off the “snow” as time turns back to reflect an elegant Victorian era. Truly, it is straight out of a Hallmark movie, and the town's Christmas celebrations are renowned throughout the south. The festivities kick off with the Holiday Open House in mid-November, where the town's shops and restaurants extend their hours to allow for a more leisurely festive shopping and dining experience - somewhat reminiscent of a time without screens or phones or even cars!
One of the most anticipated events is the Victorian Christmas celebration, a two-night event that takes place in early December. This event, which started in 1986, has grown into a beloved tradition that attracts over 30,000 attendees every year. The Victorian theme is a perfect fit for Thomasville, a city filled with historic Victorian-style homes and buildings. During this event, the downtown area is transformed into a Victorian-era wonderland, complete with live reindeer, carriage rides, a live nativity, and even a chance to visit with St. Nick himself.
The Victorian Christmas isn't just about the past, though. It's also about the present and the future. The event includes a variety of kid-friendly activities, including a Christmas Workshop where children can create their own Christmas ornaments, gift wrap, and decorations.
Throughout December, Thomasville is aglow with one of the country's most acclaimed Christmas light displays. These mesmerizing displays, which are on daily from Thanksgiving through December 26, bring classic holiday scenes to life through thousands of lights. Here, walking down the magically lit sidewalks, Christmas shopping becomes a treasure hunt. Thomasville is home to a variety of unique shops that are perfect for finding that special Christmas gift. From the town's independent bookstore, The Bookshelf, to the lifelike specimens at the taxidermy shop, there's something for everyone on your list.
If you are longing for a storybook Christmas but maybe not the frigid weather, then Thomasville is your perfect match.
