YORKTOWN — The holiday season is filled with community traditions in Historic Yorktown and holiday events begin the first week of December.
Christmas Tree Lighting
Yorktown’s Christmas Tree Lighting will take place on Friday, Dec. 6 at Victory Monument and Riverwalk Landing. The Victory Monument Festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. and the tree will be lit at 7:30 p.m.
This community tradition goes all the way back to 1945, according to York County Public Affairs. That’s the year Rev. Claud G. Barkley, Pastor of Yorktown Baptist Church, and staff from the County Clerk’s office decorated a cedar tree that stood at the corner of Main and Ballard Streets.
The York County Historical Committee works hard to continue the tradition, the county noted. The tree that is used today is a 24-foot artificial Tannenbaum tower tree placed at Riverwalk Landing.
There will be live music from local elementary school students, as well as a performance by the Fifes and Drums of York Town. From there, the procession will make its way to Riverwalk Landing, where the tree lighting ceremony will begin.
Parents and grandparents are encouraged to stay for a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy holiday music from the TRADOC Band, and stop by the Freight Shed to sign holiday cards for first responders and members of the U.S. military.
Christmas Market on Main
Shoppers can search for holiday gifts for family and friends, or a treat for themselves, during the Christmas Market on Main that takes place on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This is one of the most anticipated Yorktown events every holiday season, the county noted, with close to 100 vendors line the street selling everything from jewelry and handmade soaps to Christmas ornaments and wreaths.
The Town Crier will ring in the market at 10 a.m. on Saturday, followed by a performance from the Fifes and Drums of York Town to officially open the market.
On Saturday, visitors can also enjoy a classic car show.
Santa Claus himself will ride in on York County’s first fire truck and will be available for photos on Main Street.
Kids can make colonial ornaments, and the Nelson House and Swan Tavern will be open to visit. Expect strolling musical entertainment during both days to add to the festive atmosphere and an ice carving demonstration in front of York Hall on Sunday.
Lighted Boat Parade
The Lighted Boat Parade is one of the most unique holiday events in Yorktown, said York County Public Affairs. Pre-parade festivities begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7 at the Yorktown Waterfront and include caroling around illuminated braziers, a musical performance by the Fifes and Drums of York Town, and complimentary hot cider from a local Boy Scout troop.
The boats will finish out the evening as they make their way down the York River in a dazzling show of lights that starts at 7 p.m.
This annual community tradition has been taking place for more than two decades and brings neighbors together to celebrate the season, according to the county. Families are encouraged to bring flashlights to assist in navigation around town at night.
Cookies with Santa
The Gallery at York Hall will host Cookies with Santa on Sunday, Dec. 8 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. It’s free for families. Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras and wish lists.
Viking Yuletide Celebration
Continue your Christmas journey to experience a unique holiday event at the Watermen’s Museum. Observe a Victorian reenactment and hear St. Nicolas contrast both eras’ contributions to today’s holiday celebrations. The Viking Yuletide Celebration will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8.
