Patrick County’s Hometown Christmas celebration returns Dec. 5–7 with a full lineup of festive events across the county.
The holiday weekend begins Friday, Dec. 5, with the ninth annual Grand Illumination at 6 p.m. on Main Street in Stuart. The ceremony includes the lighting of the community Christmas tree in front of the Patrick County Courthouse by Grand Marshals of this year’s parade. Many Main Street businesses will stay open late for holiday shopping, and Santa will be available for photos at the Star Theatre starting at 7 p.m.
Events continue Saturday, Dec. 6, with a full day of holiday activities and shopping opportunities, including:
- Mistletoe Market at the Stuart Farmers’ Market (10 a.m.–1 p.m.)
• Holiday Bazaar at Stuart Church of Living Water (8 a.m.–2 p.m.)
• Stuart Elementary PTO “Winter Blender” (9 a.m.–1 p.m.)
• Patrick County Library Open House (10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.)
• Breakfast with Santa at The Landmark Center (8:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m., reservations recommended)
• Free hot chocolate at Circle K (1 p.m.–4 p.m.)
The P&HCC Fab Lab will offer DIY Christmas stocking personalization from 10 a.m. to noon, giving visitors a chance to create a custom keepsake or holiday gift.
At 2 p.m., the 53rd annual Patrick County Christmas Parade, presented by One Family Productions, steps off with this year’s theme, “The Magic of the Season.” From dazzling lights to nostalgic music, the parade celebrates the wonder that makes Christmastime special.
For those who can’t attend in person, WHEO Radio (1270 AM, 92.7 FM and online) will broadcast the parade live with commentary from One Family Productions and the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce.
Festivities wrap up Sunday with a free ukulele concert, “A Very Maui Christmas,” at the Star Theatre. The Mt. Airy Ukulele Orchestra performs at 5 p.m.; doors open at 4 p.m.
Hometown Christmas is organized by the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Stuart, One Family Productions and local merchants. For details, contact the Chamber at 276-694-6012 or visit PatrickChamber.com.
