Charlottesville’s charm revolves around days of yore, but contemporary amenities heighten its allure as a place to relax and enjoy Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.
Some things are inescapable in Charlottesville—Thomas Jefferson, his home, and the noble university he founded; the Paramount Theater and its iconic marquee; and history. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find a community with great food, abundant spirits, lively arts and entertainment, and tantalizing stories of yesteryear.
Holiday time brings out the best in C’ville (the town’s moniker) as jovial celebrations abound. Thousands gather before the Rotunda at the University of Virginia for the Lighting of the Lawn and candlelight tours are among the special events at Jefferson’s plantation, Monticello. The city’s Grand Illumination tree lighting inaugurates the season at the Historic Downtown Mall.
If you want to pack a picnic or sample some distinctive flavors, head to JM Stock Provisions, a whole-animal butcher shop that works with local farms to provide only the freshest beef, pork, poultry, and more—including extras like mustard, hot sauce, cheese, cider, and biscuits made on-site.
Nearby you can stop at the historic Paramount Theater; its marquee touts year-round events, including films and live performances. The venue hosts candlelight tours where you’ll learn about the history of the 1931 theater.
Relish the arts in Charlottesville at the Fralin Museum of Art or at one of many shops where a lively community of artisans and craftsmen present their wares. Decorative arts thrive in an atmosphere of restoration as antebellum homes abound in the area.
Those who enjoy outdoor explorations will find magnificent ridges, shady forests, trails, and more at Shenandoah National Park. About an hour away, you’ll find entrances to the Scenic Skyline Drive, which offers overlooks for picnics as well as access to trails for outdoor horseback riding, biking, or hiking— including the renowned Appalachian Trail.
Charlottesville prides itself on an impeccable dining scene known for its tremendous variety. If seafood is your preference, try Public Fish & Oyster, which offers a raw bar and a craft beer and cocktail menu.
At the Clifton Inn, you can enjoy a comfortable room or suite in five beautifully restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings furnished with antiques, sophisticated artwork, fine linens, claw-foot soaking tubs, and rainfall showers. Dine in coziness at the hotel restaurant 1799 or in the Library with its warm ambience and festive holiday spirit. Options also include a chef’s counter dining experience in the kitchen.
No trip to Charlottesville is complete without a tour of Thomas Jefferson’s home, Monticello, decorated in period holiday swag like natural greenery, wreaths, and clove-studded fruit wrapped in bows. In December, candlelight tours of the house, including the Dome Room, give visitors an intimate look at how the holidays were celebrated in Jefferson’s time, plus the rare opportunity to experience Monticello after dark.
Also dressed in Yuletide finery at this time of year is Highland, the dwelling of James Monroe, and nearby Montpelier, the residence of James Madison and his wife, Dolley, a renowned hostess. All three presidential museums ring in the festivities in late 18th- and early 19th-century fashion with fresh greenery like mistletoe and holly, as well as adornments true to the period of their respective famous occupants.
Photography by Jim Bathie
Text by Marie Baxley
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