by Linda Card
Nobody does the holidays like Smyth County Virginia. There’s so much to do in our cozy corner of Virginia this time of year that it can be difficult to keep track of it all, but fear not! We put together a schedule of Smyth County’s 2023 holiday events and activities so you won’t miss a thing.
From holiday markets to the Christmas parade, Main Street’s holiday transformation, and a new year’s eve concert that will “take it to the limit,” Smyth County has enough holiday cheer to fill Santa’s sleigh and more. Find events for the whole family or a fun night out, and be sure to stock up on unique gifts and food items to share the holiday spirit.
November Events
Friendsgiving
Thursday, Nov. 9 | 4 to 8 p.m.
Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Troutdale
The recently opened nature center will host a potluck dinner for the community. This is a great opportunity to visit the older schoolhouse and experience the renovations while enjoying fellowship with neighbors and friends and good food. Please remember to bring a dish to share!
Fall Holiday Market
Saturday, Nov. 11 | 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Adwolfe Fire Department, Marion
Support a local fire department and find unique crafts, jewelry, decor and more at this festive market. Local vendors will have something for everyone on your list – including you! – along with giveaways and refreshments.
The Raleigh Ringers
Sunday, Nov. 12 | 3 p.m.
Lincoln Theatre, Marion
While handbells have long provided a soundtrack for the holidays, we promise you haven’t seen anything like The Raleigh Ringers. Emmy-nominated and internationally-acclaimed, this 18-member ensemble performs music from a wide range of genres with compositions both original and familiar. And if you’ve never been to the Lincoln Theatre, consider this a great opportunity for your first trip…but certainly not your last!
Community Holiday Art Show
Monday, Nov. 13 | Noon to 6 p.m.
The FORD Studios, Marion
Creative, artistic, extraordinary and original displays by multiple artists from The FORD Studios will be on view at this vibrant studio and gallery. You’ll find truly unique gifts here by local artists. The show extends through the end of November.
Thanksgiving Market
Saturday, Nov. 18 | 9 a.m. to Noon
Farmer’s Market, Marion
The Marion Farmer’s Market is always hoppin’, but the Thanksgiving Market takes it to another level! Swing by the market to stock up for the big meal with fresh produce, meats, baked goods and more. You can’t shop more local!
United Way of SWVA | Celebrity Bagging at Food City
Wednesday, Nov. 22 | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Food City, Chilhowie & Marion
Take part in this fun charity event by putting together your own team of “celebrities” and bagging groceries at your favorite Food City store! Participants will choose a team name, theme and attire, and bag groceries for an hour, with all donations and tips collected benefiting United Way of Southwest Virginia.
Community Thanksgiving Meal
Thursday, Nov. 23 | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Industrial Park, Chilhowie
Join Lions International for this free event and enjoy turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving favorites. The Lions want to make sure everyone has a delicious Thanksgiving meal, with plenty of fellowship.
Christmas Mini Markets
Saturdays – Nov. 25, Dec. 1, Dec. 9, Dec. 16 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Farmer’s Market, Marion
The Marion Farmer’s Market takes on a holiday theme starting November 25 with its Christmas Mini Markets. Held every Saturday and running until December 16, local vendors will be on hand to sell foods, crafts, baked goods, plants, holiday décor and plenty more. Support our local farmers and craftspeople and find something unique to round out your holiday decorations or satisfy your holiday cravings!
Merry Marion Christmas Celebration
Thursday, Nov. 30 | 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Main Street, Downtown Marion
After Thanksgiving, Marion’s Main Street begins its transformation into Smyth County’s holiday hub. Get your first look at the holiday magic during the Merry Marion Christmas Celebration and Tree Lighting! The celebration starts with a Downtown Open House and builds to the community Christmas Tree Lighting party at 6 p.m. Downtown stores will have extended hours and special offers, while Town Hall and other locations will showcase their holiday decorations. Let the joyous atmosphere, Christmas carols and friendly folks really get you into the spirit of the season!
December Events
Marion Christmas Parade
Friday, Dec. 1 | 7 p.m.
Main Street, Marion
With the town Christmas tree lit the night before, Marion’s Main Street rings in December by hosting the annual Marion Christmas Parade! This annual event is a real crowd-pleaser and an absolute must-do for families of all ages. The parade begins at 7 p.m., but make sure to get there early enough to stake out your seat and grab a hot chocolate or special holiday treat from one of our local Main Street shops. Don’t forget to bring enough folding chairs for the family!
“The Wizards of Winter” Holiday Rock Opera
Saturday, Dec. 2 | 7 p.m.
Lincoln Theatre, Marion
The Song of the Mountains presents a special holiday concert: “The Wizards of Winter” Holiday Rock Opera, another stunning show that offers a unique musical take on the season. An 11-member ensemble that includes former members of The Trans-Siberian Orchestra and classic rock giants like Blue Oyster Cult, “The Wizards of Winter” use music, drama and storytelling to find the meaning of Christmas in their production of “The Christmas Dream.”
Christmas with the Church Sisters
Sunday, Dec. 3 | 3 p.m.
Lincoln Theatre, Marion
Back in Marion by popular demand, the talented Church Sisters harmonize to our favorite holiday tunes. Natives of Southwest Virginia and fraternal twins, this sister duo started singing together when they were 10 years old. Their family harmony and mountain roots style perfectly capture Appalachia.
Christmas Festival
Saturday, Dec. 9 | 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Atkins Elementary School, Atkins
Another local market, this one sets up at Atkins Elementary School and features crafts and wooden items to round out your Christmas shopping list.
Nature’s Little Elf Workshop
Saturday, Dec. 9 | 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Troutdale
A fun and family-friendly event for kids aged 3 to 15, the Nature’s Little Elf Workshop hosted by Blue Ridge Discovery Center is full of crafts and activities. Kids choose their “elf name,” enjoy hot cocoa with friends and speak with BRDC educators.
Indoor Christmas Market
Saturday, Dec. 9 | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Industrial Park, Chilhowie
Do some Christmas shopping, support the Lions Club, and say hello to Santa Claus at this pop-up market at the Chilhowie industrial park. Vendors will be on hand, and food and baked good will be available for purchase. Santa will visit from 1-3 p.m. and will be available for free photos!
Christmas with the Isaacs
Saturday, Dec. 9 | 7 p.m.
Lincoln Theatre, Marion
Another local favorite, The Isaacs return to Smyth County with their holiday-themed family show. Performing for more decades, the award-winning troupe combines their vocal, instrumental and songwriting talents in a genre-blending show they have performed around the world.
John Hardy’s One-Man Version of a Christmas Carol
Sunday, Dec. 10 | 3 p.m.
Lincoln Theatre, Marion
It’s hard to imagine one person playing every role in this classic masterpiece, but John Hardy does and receives rave reviews. It’s a wonderful event for the entire family.
It’s a Wonderful Life
Tuesday, Dec. 12 | 11 a.m.
Lincoln Theatre, Marion
“Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.” The second Tuesday of each month, The Lincoln Theatre presents “Golden Oldies,” with a different classic film every month. No registration or ticket is required!
Holiday Open House at Smyth County Chamber of Commerce
Friday, Dec. 15 | Noon to 4 p.m.
Smyth County Chamber of Commerce, Chilhowie
Santa Claus, games, goodies and more await kids and families at the Holiday Open House hosted by the Smyth County Chamber of Commerce. Santa will be on hand for photos, so come dressed in your holiday best to get a great shot for a holiday greeting card, memento, or a gift for a special someone.
A Stanley Country Christmas
Friday, Dec. 15 | 7 p.m.
Lincoln Theatre, Marion
Lincoln Theatre’s holiday hosting continues with country singers Starring Nathan Stanley and Buddy Jewell and special guest Bob Smallwood. Sit back and sing along as the award-winning country artists croon their versions of best-loved country-themed carols.
New River Christmas Bird Count
Saturday, Dec. 16 | 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Troutdale
A non-traditional but locally adored outing organized by the Audubon Society, this annual event encourages citizens to participate in a count of bird populations in our area. All ages are welcome to help with this scientific, educational effort.
River’s Edge Concert
Sunday, Dec. 17 | 11 a.m.
Sugar Grove Baptist Church, Sugar Grove
Enjoy an afternoon concert and support the Manna from Heaven Food Distribution Center at this musical event hosted by Sugar Grove Baptist Church.
7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience
Saturday, Dec. 30 – 9:30 p.m.
Lincoln Theatre, Marion
Kick off your New Year’s Eve festivities a little early with a live concert at The Lincoln. Using no backing tracks or harmonizers, 7 Bridges faithfully re-creates the
experience of an Eagles concert from the band’s most prolific period. Every show features one brilliant hit single after another with some mighty Joe Walsh surprises sprinkled into the mix.
Linda Card is a Professional Writer, living in Marion, Va since October 2022. She has traveled extensively in the U.S., Mexico and Central America, contributing to various publications as a travel writer. She enjoys exploring SWVA, visiting scenic and historical sites, participating in community events, and sharing insights about her new home.
