Decorated storefronts, twinkling lights, and beautiful Christmas displays make Thomasville the perfect holiday destination. Make plans to join us for the 36th Annual Victorian Christmas on December 8 th and 9th in Downtown Thomasville. Guests can turn back time and experience the holiday spirit of the Victorian era during this cherished Thomasville tradition.
“Victorian Christmas is always a much-anticipated event with all City of Thomasville Departments working together to bring it to life for our community,” said Director of Tourism Bonnie Hayes. “Delicious food, musicians, and entertainment are just some of the activities that make you feel like you’re a part of the Victorian era celebrating the spirit of Christmas long ago.”
Carriage rides, marshmallow roasting, children’s activities, and live reindeer are yearly favorites for guests to enjoy. Visits with Victorian-clad St Nick are popular with children of all ages, and guests are encouraged to don Victorian costumes to add to the event’s festive feel. Event organizers incorporate new ideas and activities each year to give event attendees something to look forward to.
“This year, we’ve decided to give our popular St Nick a larger space for guests to enjoy, so look for him on The Ritz Amphitheater stage,” noted Hayes. Children’s activities will be set up around the amphitheater, and performances by local dance companies have been moved inside to the Thomasville Municipal Auditorium stage, providing participants opportunities to perform on “the big stage” for their friends and family members.
Another change to this year’s event is the location of the live nativity hosted by Thomasville First Baptist Church. This well-loved production featuring talented volunteers and live animals will be in the parking lot across from the church at the corner of Crawford and Jefferson Streets. “The live nativity is beloved by everyone and brings hundreds of people into Downtown just to experience the words and the meaning of the Christmas story,” stated Hayes.
Hayes also mentioned that live entertainment will be abundant with local high school bands and holiday musicians throughout the event area both nights.
In addition to entertainment, Victorian Christmas will feature a wide variety of indulgent dining options. Restaurants will be open throughout the night, or guests can enjoy street vendor favorites like fried Oreos, chicken pitas, and smoked turkey legs. Many Downtown merchants will also feature holiday-themed foods and beverages.
If holiday shopping is on your list, most Downtown shops will be open both nights, with many featuring in-store entertainment.
Victorian Christmas is also a great opportunity to snap some beautiful holiday photos. With largerthan-life photo opportunities scattered about, trees wrapped in beautiful lights, and beautifully decorated storefronts, families will enjoy making memories in the festive atmosphere.
“Victorian Christmas attracts visitors from all around the country,” said Hayes. “It’s not only a sentimental favorite event, it also provides a significant economic boost to our local economy. That boost, combined with all the work and preparation to make the event memorable, showcases the magic of Christmas in Thomasville.”
Plan your visit to Thomasville for Victorian Christmas on December 8th and 9th from 6:00-9:00 p.m. each night. No tickets are needed, and most activities are free to the public.
Additional events are scheduled throughout Thomasville during the holiday season. For additional information, visit thomasvillega.com/holidayevents or contact the Thomasville Visitors Center at 229-228-7977.