We track 3 displays in Virginia Beach. 2 of them are free to visit.
Displays here switch on around sunset. In Virginia Beach that means about 4:48 PM in early December and 4:49 PM by mid-month — the earliest sunsets of the year fall right in the middle of lights season. It is properly dark by about 5:18 PM, which is when the displays look their best. December nights in Virginia Beach typically drop to around 35°F.
| Date | Sunset | Fully dark |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 1 | 4:48 PM | 5:16 PM |
| Dec 15 | 4:49 PM | 5:18 PM |
| Dec 25 | 4:53 PM | 5:22 PM |
We ordered every display in Virginia Beach into the shortest sensible driving loop: roughly 0 miles and 12 minutes of driving, before you count time spent parked and looking. Start wherever is closest to you and follow it round.
ticketed (advance purchase required)drive-thrudrive-thruticketedmusicsynchronizedtimed-entry
Visitors drive their own cars along the oceanfront boardwalk past beach-themed scenes such as a Surfing Santa, jumping fish, and musical crabs. The 2025 season added a 600-foot LED tunnel and more blocks of displays, anchored by a 40-foot Christmas tree animated with dancing lights.
✓ Last confirmed for the 2025 season
Freeattractionwalk-throughone-night-event
The historic Cavalier Resort kicks off its holiday season with a single-evening lighting celebration on its grounds. Guests can enjoy carolers along with hot chocolate and s'mores as the property's decorations are switched on.
✓ Last confirmed for the 2025 season
Freeattractionwalk-through
Virginia Beach's Town Center district dresses up for the season with a holiday light installation that runs from the week of Thanksgiving through New Year's Eve.
✓ Last confirmed for the 2025 season
Know a display we're missing in Virginia Beach?Add it to the guide.