Let’s be honest—when the weather turns chilly, a lot of towns seem to roll up the sidewalks and hibernate. But not Hampton. Winter on the Virginia coast isn’t about hiding indoors; it’s about discovering a different kind of magic.
The air gets crisp, the twinkle lights come out, and the city’s historic streets and waterfront come alive with a cozy, festive energy you just can’t find in the summer heat. This is when Hampton truly sparkles, offering the perfect blend of holiday tradition and low-key local charm.
Get ready to make some amazing new memories. We’ve hunted down the 14 absolute best places to visit in Hampton this winter, and this list is packed with insider gems.
We’re talking about dazzling light displays you’ll only find here, festive markets brimming with local crafts, and quirky coastal traditions that define the season. If you think you know Hampton, just wait.
This winter guide is your ticket to seeing the city in a whole new light. Let’s dive in.
1. Feel the Magic at the Hampton Carousel’s Winter Whimsy
For a dose of pure, old-fashioned nostalgia, you have to visit the historic Hampton Carousel. This isn’t just any merry-go-round; it’s a beautifully restored 1920s treasure, and during the winter, it becomes even more special.
From late November through New Year’s Eve, the carousel decks its classic wooden horses with festive garlands and ribbons for its Winter Whimsy event.
For just a dollar a ride, you can hop on and spin to the tunes of classic holiday music, creating a simple, sweet memory that feels straight out of a storybook.
It’s located right on the Downtown waterfront, making it the perfect start or end to a chilly day of exploring. After your ride, warm up with the complimentary candy canes and take a moment to admire the intricate craftsmanship of each hand-carved horse and chariot.
This charming winter attraction in Hampton is a hit with kids but has a magical way of making adults feel like kids again, too. It’s a gentle reminder that the best holiday joys are often the simplest ones, and it’s a wonderful, timeless thing to do in Hampton Virginia.
2. Step Into a Free Fantasy at the Whimsical Winter Wonderland
Mark your calendar for November 22nd, because the Hampton Coliseum transforms into something spectacular. The Whimsical Winter Wonderland is a massive, free, family-friendly festival that feels like stepping into a holiday movie.
Imagine a world with indoor and outdoor fun: you can watch awe-inspiring stage shows featuring aerialists and illusionists, get your face painted, or chase roaming stilt walkers for a photo. The energy is absolutely contagious.
Head outside for the “snow” flurries and say hello to the friendly animals in the petting zoo. Kids will lose their minds over the giant, 30-foot-tall inflatable snowman and the maze of other large-scale bounce houses and obstacle courses.
With so much to see and do from noon to 5 PM, this event is a powerhouse of holiday cheer and easily one of the best winter activities in Hampton for making unforgettable memories without spending a dime.
3. Find the Perfect Gift at the Bodacious Bazaar
Ready to knock out your holiday shopping in one fell swoop? Head to the Hampton Roads Convention Center in early November for the Bodacious Bazaar.
This bi-annual market is a shopper’s paradise, featuring a whopping 350 vendors, artists, crafters, and local businesses all under one roof. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry and unique home décor to gourmet food items and beautiful artwork.
Wandering the aisles here is an adventure in itself. You’re not just buying gifts; you’re discovering the creativity of local and regional makers. It’s the perfect place to find that one-of-a-kind present you won’t see in any big-box store.
Getting your shopping done early at this bazaar is a smart and satisfying winter activity in Hampton, leaving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the rest of the season. Trust us, your gift list will thank you.
4. Shop Local Art at the Hampton Holiday Fine Arts Bazaar
For the art lovers on your list (or for treating yourself), the Hampton Holiday Fine Arts Bazaar is an absolute must-visit. Held at the lovely Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center in mid-December, this two-day event is a curated celebration of local talent.
You’ll browse original, handmade works from artists around the region, from paintings and prints to sculptures and ceramics. The best part? You can meet the artists themselves, learn about their process, and take home a piece with a real story.
This free event pairs perfectly with the opening of the center’s Small Works Exhibition, giving you even more beautiful art to appreciate. It’s a more intimate and focused shopping experience than the larger bazaars, making it ideal for finding sophisticated, extra-special gifts.
Supporting these local creators makes your holiday shopping feel even more meaningful, cementing this bazaar as a premier place to visit in Hampton for winter culture.
5. Enjoy a Cozy Community Vibe in Historic Phoebus
The Phoebus neighborhood is a historic gem any time of year, but it truly shines in December. The community comes together for the Phoebus Holiday Illumination & Craft Market, a cozy, small-town-style celebration.
Stroll down Mellen Street, browse the handmade goods from local artisans at the craft market, and soak up the festive atmosphere. As dusk falls, everyone gathers for the main event: the lighting of the neighborhood’s towering Christmas tree.
There’s a warm, authentic spirit here that’s hard to find elsewhere. After the tree lighting, you can explore Phoebus’s unique collection of independent boutiques, antique shops, and inviting restaurants.
It’s the perfect setting for a relaxed winter evening, offering a charming and picturesque winter experience in Hampton VA that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle.
6. See Hampton History in a New Light
Winter is the perfect time for a deep dive into local stories, and the Hampton History Museum is the place to do it. In mid-December, the museum hosts a unique event called Hampton for the Holidays: 12 Days of Yule, Hearth & Herald.
This isn’t a stuffy lecture; it’s a vibrant, living celebration of winter solstice traditions through storytelling, live Taiko drumming, music, and community reflections.
It’s a fascinating look at how cultures around the world have marked the season of renewal and light. The museum’s regular exhibits, which trace Hampton’s story from the Kecoughtan people to the space age, are equally compelling on a quiet winter day.
Spending a few hours here is a wonderfully enriching indoor activity in Hampton that connects you to the deep roots of this coastal city.
7. Marvel at the Downtown Hampton Lighted Boat Parade
Here’s a coastal tradition you don’t want to miss. On a Saturday in mid-December, bundle up and head to the Downtown Waterfront to witness the Lighted Boat Parade.
As darkness settles, the Hampton River suddenly comes alive with a sparkling procession of boats, each decked out from bow to stern in brilliant holiday lights and decorations. It’s a mesmerizing sight, with the lights reflecting beautifully on the dark water.
The waterfront plaza buzzes with free family-friendly fun, including live music and holiday treats. The big finale? Santa Claus himself arrives by boat to greet everyone.
Watching this parade is a magical, unforgettable winter thing to do in Hampton that perfectly blends the city’s maritime heritage with festive cheer. It’s a picture-perfect evening that truly captures the spirit of the season.
8. Discover Handcrafted Treasures at Santa’s Attic
For a classic, hometown holiday market, make your way to Hampton City Hall in early December for Santa’s Attic. This annual arts and crafts show, presented by the city’s Parks and Recreation department, is all about supporting the talented people right here in the community.
You’ll find a wonderful array of one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted items, from knitted scarves and wooden toys to holiday ornaments and homemade jams.
Admission is free, and you can make a day of it by grabbing a tasty lunch or sweet treat from the available vendors. There’s a friendly, neighborly feel to this event that makes shopping a joy.
Finding that perfect, heartfelt gift for someone special here is a rewarding Hampton winter activity that supports local hands and hearts.
9. Experience a Jazzy Night at The American Theatre
For a touch of classic holiday sophistication, check the schedule at the stunning American Theatre. This beautifully restored 1908 venue hosts special winter performances that are the perfect excuse for a date night or a festive outing with friends.
In early December, you can catch a performance like Jane Monheit: The Merriest, featuring Grammy-nominated jazz vocals and timeless holiday favorites.
Later in the month, the Hampton Roads Philharmonic takes the stage for a concert of beloved Holiday Classics!. Sitting in the elegant, intimate theater, listening to beautiful music, is a wonderfully warm and cultured way to spend a winter evening.
It’s a standout winter destination in Hampton for anyone looking to add a little melody and refinement to their seasonal adventures.
10. Celebrate Culture at the Holiday & Kwanzaa Marketplace
For a rich, culturally vibrant shopping experience, the Hampton University Museum hosts its annual Holiday & Kwanzaa Marketplace in early December.
This free event is a fantastic opportunity to find beautiful handcrafted items and artwork while supporting local craftsmen and artisans.
The marketplace is just one part of the experience; you can also enjoy scheduled programming that celebrates the history and principles of Kwanzaa.
While you’re there, take time to explore the museum’s incredible permanent collections, which feature African, African American, and Native American art.
It’s an enriching and educational outing that offers a meaningful perspective on the season. Visiting this marketplace is a top-tier thing to do in Hampton VA in winter for thoughtful, culturally inspired gift-giving.
11. Get Creative with Holiday Diamond Art
On a chilly afternoon when you’re looking for a calm, creative activity, the Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center has you covered. In mid-December, they host a Holiday Diamond Art workshop.
This festive, hands-on craft lets you create a sparkling seasonal image by placing hundreds of tiny, colorful resin “diamonds” onto a sticky canvas. It’s relaxing, meditative, and you walk away with a gorgeous, glittering piece of art.
It’s the perfect indoor activity in Hampton for winter, whether you come solo for some mindful “me time” or bring a friend for a fun, low-key hang.
No artistic experience is needed—just a little patience and a love for all things shiny. In a season that’s often go-go-go, this workshop is a welcome chance to slow down and make something beautiful with your own hands.
12. Enjoy a Classic Film for the Season
Sometimes, the best winter plans are the cozy, simple ones. At The American Theatre, you can lean into that classic comfort with their Classic Movie Nights.
In mid-December, they screen the beloved holiday film It’s a Wonderful Life. There’s something magical about watching George Bailey’s story on the big screen in a historic theater, surrounded by the shared warmth of the audience.
It’s an affordable, nostalgic night out that everyone can enjoy. You can make a whole evening of it by grabbing a bite to eat in downtown Hampton before or after the show.
This is the kind of timeless winter activity in Hampton that reminds you what the season is all about: community, hope, and appreciating the life you have.
13. Splash into Fun at the North Pole Pool Party
Who says pool parties are only for summer? The Hampton Virginia Aquaplex flips the script in December with a fantastically fun Breakfast with Santa & North Pole Pool Party.
Start your morning with a festive buffet-style breakfast featuring all the classics, then get ready to make a splash in the indoor pool, which is transformed into a watery winter wonderland.
Kids absolutely love this unique twist on holiday fun, and it’s a brilliant way for them to burn off some of that seasonal excitement in a safe, warm, and joyful environment.
Spots fill up fast, so you’ll want to register well before the December deadline. This splashy shindig is easily one of the most unique and memorable family winter activities in Hampton.
14. Ring in the New Year with the Crab Pot Drop
Forget the ball drop in Times Square—Hampton has its own iconic, and wonderfully coastal, New Year’s Eve tradition. Head to Downtown Hampton for the New Year’s Eve Crab Pot Drop.
As midnight approaches, all eyes turn to a giant, lit-up crab pot as it’s lowered down, marking the start of the new year with a uniquely Hampton flair.
The downtown area is packed with excitement, entertainment, and community fun, making for an unforgettable night out. It’s a lively, local, and totally quirky way to celebrate.
Whether you’re a lifelong local or a first-time visitor, ringing in the new year at this event is a fantastic winter thing to do in Hampton TN that you’ll be talking about for months.
Conclusion
So, what are you waiting for? Hampton, Virginia, in the winter isn’t just open for business—it’s dressed in its holiday best and ready to show you an incredible time.
This list proves there’s a whole world of twinkling lights, festive markets, coastal charm, and warm community spirit waiting for you. You’ve got the guide to everything from nostalgic carousel rides to dazzling boat parades and one-of-a-kind New Year’s celebrations.
Now it’s your turn to get out there and experience it. Pick a weekend, book a cozy stay, and come see for yourself why winter might just be Hampton’s most wonderful season. Share your own discoveries and tag your photos.
Your perfect, festive, and unforgettable winter getaway is waiting just down the road in Hampton. Don’t just dream about it—make it happen