November 18, 2025
As a Richmond family photographer and a mom to a toddler, I know the holidays are equal parts magical and chaotic. Between photo sessions, editing galleries, and wrangling little ones, I’m always searching for things to do that feel joyful, easy, and memorable.
If you’re looking for holiday events for toddlers in Richmond, VA, here are ten tried-and-true favorites — perfect for making memories, capturing sweet photos, and soaking up the magic of the season together.
Table of Contents
Visit Maymont’s Merry Market
Maymont transforms into a holiday wonderland each December. The decorated mansion, nature center, and wide open spaces make it dream for holiday events for toddlers in Richmond who love to explore — and for parents who love beautiful backdrops.
- December 6-7, 2025
- https://maymont.org/calendar/merry-market/
Stroll the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s GardenFest of Lights
The twinkle of millions of lights, stroller-friendly paths, and cozy holiday ambiance make this outing a Richmond classic. Bring a thermos of cocoa and take your time exploring — it’s toddler heaven and photographer-approved.
- November 17 – December 24, 2025
- https://www.lewisginter.org/visit/events/dominion-energy-gardenfest-of-lights/
Stop by Stony Point Fashion Park for Holiday Fun
Between the sparkling lights, 42-foot tree, skating rink and more, Stony Point offers just enough magic without being an overwhelming holiday events for toddlers in Richmond. Perfect for a quick outing or a toddler-friendly shopping trip.
- Ice rink opens November 22, 2025
- https://www.shopstonypoint.com/events/stony-point-on-ice/
Take a Tacky Lights Tour
Pile into the car, play holiday music, and drive around town admiring Richmond’s famous “tacky lights.” It’s simple, free, and absolutely toddler-approved. This tradition is one of the easiest holiday events for toddlers in Richmond, VA that never fails to delight.
Visit Santa at Historic Tredegar
If your toddler is still in their brave “Hi Santa!” era, this historic spot is a must. It’s scenic, easy to navigate, and perfect for capturing those classic (and often hilarious) Santa moments. This is our favorite Santa experience each year! From a photographer’s perspective, I love how bright and airy the space is.
Reserve your ticket here with the Civil War Museum for December 20, 2025.
Take in the magic at Busch Gardens Christmas Town
Even if your little one isn’t skating yet, the music, energy, and twinkling downtown lights make this a cozy outing. Grab hot cocoa, bundle up, and enjoy the atmosphere.
- November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- https://buschgardens.com/williamsburg/events/christmas-town/?gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=15134122705&gbraid=0AAAAAD5e25QusTdhKjrQUuSfVJ6XIoqY-&gclid=CjwKCAiAz_DIBhBJEiwAVH2XwOU22X_nub6j61LqyJ4AJCNgUpLGm3RivSKnqNYBK_MrbPtfgX2v4BoC3DEQAvD_BwE
Attend Holiday Storytime at the Library
Richmond’s local libraries host adorable holiday-themed storytimes and craft sessions — free, festive, and perfect for slower days when you still want a little magic in your morning.
Wander a Holiday Market
Richmond’s festive markets are full of lights, treats, and local charm. Most are stroller-friendly and ideal for toddlers who love exploring. Plus, they make great spots to grab last-minute gifts and support local makers.
Make Keepsake Crafts at Home
When all else fails, a cozy afternoon at home making handprint ornaments or salt dough crafts is always a win. Add soft holiday music, warm light, and your camera — instant memories.
A Photographer + Mom’s Final Thoughts
As both a working mom and a Richmond family photographer, I love that so many of these events balance fun, beauty, and togetherness. The holidays don’t need to be complicated to be meaningful — sometimes the best moments are the simple, joy-filled ones you’ll want to remember forever.
So whether you’re exploring Richmond’s lights or cozying up at home, I hope these holiday events for toddlers in Richmond, VA help you slow down, laugh more, and make memories worth holding onto.
Let’s Capture the Magic of Your Family This Season
If you’re hoping to preserve this sweet season of life, the giggles, the chaos, the cozy hugs, I’d love to help you document it. My family sessions are designed to be relaxed, joyful, and full of real connection.
📷 Reach out here to learn more about booking your winter or spring session in Richmond, VA, and let’s create photos your family will treasure for years to come.
Jacqueline Burns is Richmond family photographer specializing in maternity, newborn and lifestyle family photography. Her work has been featured in magazine and online blogs worldwide. Jacqueline serves the Richmond, Virginia area, including the counties of Henrico, Hanover and Chesterfield, as well as the cities of Bon Air, Ashland and Mechanicsville.
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