There’s always something exciting happening in Charlottesville, Virginia! From outdoor concerts and food festivals to art walks and kid-friendly celebrations, Central Virginia offers events for every interest and age. Our editors at CharlottesvilleFamily Magazine update this guide daily to help locals and visitors discover the region’s best happenings—whether you’re a parent looking for weekend fun with the kids or simply exploring what’s going on around town. Bookmark this page and check back often for the latest family events, festivals, and community gatherings throughout Charlottesville and Albemarle County.
Virginia's Premier Holiday Light Show The beauty of light and whimsy of nature come together in perfect harmony at our Winter Wander Trail of Lights, returning for its fifth consecutive [...]
Santa has sent his elves to Downtown Charlottesville to help during the holiday season. But some of them have gotten lost! Help him find them all and win a prize! [...]
This winter season celebrate the holiday festivities in Downtown Charlottesville. Presented by Friends of Charlottesville Downtown, there is something for every member of the family during Magic on the Mall. [...]
Experience Veritas under the lights... Back for our fourth season, we are continuing the tradition of our Veritas Illuminated Light Show, featuring the enchanting Veritas holiday lights, a dazzling walking [...]
Santa is coming to the Paramount Theater on Saturday, November 29th for free photos! Bring your family downtown to share your wish list with Santa, snap a photo for your [...]
The Downtown Holiday Express will be available to take a ride down the mall every Saturday during the holiday season. Come enjoy the magic Downtown! Just because the weather [...]
Step into a glowing world of color at Garden Glow presented by Kroger — where light and a bit of magic take over Maymont after dark. Wander through mesmerizing light [...]
All ages, no registration required Drop by Northside Library’s Children’s department any time between 12pm and 4pm to make a fun foam craft! There will be a verity of foam [...]
The First Saturday of Each Month – 8 AM to 10 AMJoin for Special Needs Jump Time, where everyone can enjoy jumping fun! This time is designed to ensure everyone [...]
Toddler Time offers the perfect opportunity for your little ones to embark on a journey of exploration, learning, and growth. Specifically designed for children aged 2 to 4 years old, [...]
For teens ages 11-18. Need something to do when school's closed? Drop in all day to the Teen Space to play games, do crafts, and eat snacks!
Ages 4-8 Buckle up for a high-flying adventure through the wild blue yonder! Let your curiosity and imagination take flight as we build planes, explore the science of flight, and [...]
Fun for all ages! Join the Shenandoah National Park and explore winter life in Virginia!
Little Nature Explorers is a weekly outdoor program created for young children ages 3 to 5 and their caregivers. This free event takes place every Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to [...]
Join us on January 10, 10am-2pm, for the first Family Studio Day of 2026! The featured project will be reflective of the photographs on view in Possibility, a solo exhibition [...]
Join the Moms Lit Society: Books After Bedtime, a Quarterly Gathering for Moms to Relax, Connect, and Discuss Powerful Books by Women Authors CharlottesvilleFamily Magazine is thrilled to launch Moms [...]
Register for and attend the monthly DIY-U Kids’ Workshops by Lowe’s. For each workshop you attend, you’ll receive a limited-edition workshop badge. After collecting six qualifying badges, your mini-builder will [...]
Our handy calendar is a great way to find fun things for Cville kids to do in Charlottesville and Albemarle County all month long. It’s also a great way to plan for seasonal family activities like hikes near Charlottesville, apple picking, Halloween events, berry picking, pumpkin patches, Charlottesville Christmas events, seasonal festivals, fairs, storytimes, art-making events, and more.
Please note that although all posted Charlottesville events are reviewed by our staff for correct content, event details may change after they are posted. Be sure to check any event’s website or social media to confirm locations, times, and costs before traveling.
Hosting a local event or kids’ activity in Charlottesville, VA? We invite you to submit your listing to our CharlottesvilleFamily events calendar — the go-to resource for parents seeking local events, seasonal activities, and free things to do in Charlottesville with kids. From community festivals and holiday celebrations to educational workshops and outdoor adventures, we highlight what makes Central Virginia such a vibrant place for families. Please submit your event using this form.
We hope you will also enjoy our stories on raising healthy kids, schools & learning, home & garden and family fun.
From festive Charlottesville events to everyday fun, these guides help you find engaging things to do in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Keep your busy Cville kids entertained and create fun family memories and traditions year-round!
Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or searching for seasonal events in Charlottesville, VA, this curated list highlights the best local activities, destinations, and experiences for kids and parents alike. These year-round attractions are perfect for families who want to make the most of life in Central Virginia.
To keep up with all the fun events for Cville kids and families, sign up for our free CharlottesvilleFamily e-Mag. You’ll receive weekly or monthly (you choose!) family news and events right in your inbox.
And don’t forget to check out the amazing local businesses and partners who help families thrive in our community.
