Winter Nature Nights

Join us for Holiday Magic at Winter Nature Nights

sponsored by York County Arts Commission

December 19, 2025 – December 23, 2025
5:30 pm – 8:15 pm

Celebrate the holidays with Winter Nature Nights, an enchanting evening stroll through the Museum’s glowing outdoor trail, where twinkling lights and sparkling displays bring the beauty of nature to life after dark. Families can enjoy festive treats, cozy moments, and plenty of hands-on fun throughout the evening.

Tickets are date and time specific and highly encouraged be reserved in advance.

Holiday Festivities at Winter Nature Nights

  • Evening walk along the lighted Outdoor Trail
  • Festive Story Walk featuring How Do Dinosaurs Say Merry Christmas?
  • Holiday games on the lawn, including Peppermint Connect Four and Snowball Cornhole
  • Letter writing to Santa in the Education Lobby
  • Decorated museum interiors filled with seasonal cheer
  • Special discounts for Members on pre-sale tickets

Featured Attractions

Enjoy a photo op with Santa during Winter Nature Nights.
Photo Op with Santa in the Goodson House

Step into the warmth and charm of this beloved spot and capture a magical moment with Santa.

Watch Ice Come to Life

Chisel & Shaker, a talented live ice carver will transform a block of ice into a stunning animal sculpture right before your eyes. Friday event ONLY!

warm up druing winter nature nights with Cocoa and Cookies in the cafe.
Winter Treats

Sip hot chocolate and create sweet memories at our cookie decorating station in Saté Café.

Dazzling Planetarium Shows

Experience the wonder of the night sky with special holiday screenings inside the Abbitt Planetarium.

6:30pm Star of Wonder – A planetarium exploration of the possible identity of the Star of Bethlehem.


7:30pm Holiday Magic – A mixed music laser show

Enjoy holiday themed planetarium shows during winter nature nights.

Live Entertainment

Live Music Performances (throughout the museum grounds)

December 19:
Tabb High School Jazz Choir, Jazz Band + Girl’s Choir

December 20:
Wassail Singers

December 21:
Doorway Singers

December 22:
Santa Bones Trombone Quartet

December 23:
Santa Bones Trombone Quartet

Savory Bites

Local Food Trucks

December 19:
Saté

December 20:
Blzntacos

December 21:
Blzntacos

December 22:
Moto Crepes

December 23:
DD214

Winter Nature Nights Map

Group of friends at Winter Nature Nights

Introducing Golden Tickets

Your Flexible Pass to Winter Nature Nights

Golden Tickets are the perfect way to experience Winter Nature Nights on your schedule. Designed especially for families, groups, and those who prefer a little more freedom, Golden Tickets let you visit on any night of the event — no need to commit to a specific date or time.

Whether you’re coordinating holiday plans with extended family, hosting out-of-town guests, or trying to fit festive fun around a busy season, Golden Tickets give you the gift of choice. Simply purchase in advance and arrive when it works best for you.

Reach out to [email protected] or call (757) 595-1900 to purchase your Golden Tickets.

Volunteers Make the Magic Happen!

Winter Nature Nights depends on helping hands to create an unforgettable experience for our guests. Sign up today to be part of the team that brings this holiday tradition to life.

Thank you to our 2025 sponsors

York County Arts Commission

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities for Winter Nature Nights or other Museum events, please contact [email protected]

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Heads Up!

The Virginia Living Museum staff will begin setting up for an after hours event around 3PM on the main floor.

This should not interfere with your experience and we will not be closing early.

 

Wild Explorations

Heads Up! The Changing Exhibit Gallery, where our Wild Explorations exhibit lives, will close at 3PM today in preparation for an after hours event!