Virginia’s Best Light Shows: Winter Wander Trail of Lights

Located on 600 acres, Boar’s Head Resort is the only 4-diamond resort around Charlottesville. It’s known for its southern hospitality, a luxury spa & plenty of recreational activities… and it is decked out in Christmas cheer! You can even enjoy their annual holiday light show without being a resort guest. 

Winter Wander Trail of Lights is open now through January 4, 2025. This half-mile walking trail is illuminated with lights & displays synchronized to music. You’ll see 12-foot tall boar-faced nutcracker, illuminated archways, a fountain of lights & two Tunnel of Lights. New this year, you can either watch Wander In Motion Winged Dancers or Elevation Illumination Drone Show!

I also have a special promotion to get you $5 off per ticket promotion. Use the code "westendwander" during checkout, and you will receive $5 off per ticket.

Follow @thewestendmom on Instagram for things to do with kids in Virginia!

*Heads Up: Boar's Head Resort is one of my partners. My website also uses affiliate links. This means I may get a commission or freebies if you book through or purchase items from my website. Clicking my links is no extra charge for YOU, and it makes sure my guides are available for FREE to the community. Thank you for supporting my small, mom-owned business!

Where is Boar's Head Resort?

Boar’s Head Resort is located on located on 600 acres in Charlottesville, just about an hour from Richmond. It's the only 4-diamond resort around Charlottesville. It’s known for its southern hospitality, delicious dining options, a luxury spa & plenty of recreational activities!

Its address is: 200 Ednam Drive, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903.

What is Winter Wander Trail of Lights?

Winter Wander Trail of Lights is open now  through January 4, 2025. This half-mile walking trail is illuminated with lights & displays synchronized to music.

You’ll see 12-foot tall boar-faced nutcracker, illuminated archways, a fountain of lights & two Tunnel of Lights. New this year, you can either watch Wander In Motion Winged Dancers or Elevation Illumination Drone Show!

Throughout the stroll, you’ll find fire pits, food trucks & a large, warming tent. You can grab wine, hot chocolate or s’mores for your stroll too! 

What's new for the 2024 holiday season?

Winter Wanter Trail of Lights has two new shows this year. These shows replaced the ice skating rink from previous years, and you can watch the shows at no extra cost.

Wander In Motion Winged Dancers perform a show every 30 minutes on November 22 - December 24, except for on December 17. Show times start at 5pm and end at 8:30pm. These shows are set to Christmas music, and all of the dancers' costumes light up!

Elevation Illumination Drone Show are scheduled for December 17, 29, 30 and Jan. 1. There will be two shows per night at 6 and 8 p.m. (weather permitting)

SPECIAL DISCOUNT CODE

I have a special promotion to get you $5 off per ticket promotion. Use the code "westendwander" during checkout, and you will receive $5 off per ticket.

This does exclude the value nights of December 1 and January 3 &4. Those nights are already priced at $10.

Things to Know When Visiting with Kids:

1. Tickets start at $22 for adults & $10 for youth ages 4-12. Children 3 and under are free). 

2. $10 Value Days are on December 1, January 3 & January 4.

3. Save by purchasing your tickets in advance. The price increases on event day.

4. Tickets are timed to manage the number of guests on the trail at one time.

5. The illuminated walking path is open at 4:30pm Wednesday through Sunday most weeks, and it’s open the entire week of December 17. 

6. Parking is free at the resort. 

7. It’s a half mile walking trail is around the lake. You can walk around the lights as many times as you would like!

8. An all terrain, single stroller would work.  For the easiest experience, bring a baby carrier or let your kiddo walk. 

9. You can also purchase pizza, wine, beer, cookies and s’mores. If you get hot cocoa, don’t miss the toppings bar! 

10. Winter Wander is a rain, snow or shine event. 

11. Dress comfy & for the weather. Most of this experience is outside. 

12. Santa is in The Market. Make sure to see him before you leave! 

If you're looking for more Christmas fun, check out my guide on finding Santa around RVA!

If you're ready to try out my 2024 Christmas Bucket List, you can download the printable here. Don't forget: any kiddo with my bucket list printed can get a FREE cupcake from Cameo Cakery and Cafe on December 20, 2024!

For more things to do with kids around Richmond, follow @thewestendmom on Instagram!