Veritas Illuminated is a half-mile winter light walk at Veritas Vineyard & Winery in Afton. It is one of many beautiful holiday light walks near Charlottesville and throughout Central Virginia that can become winter traditions for your family.
Founded by Andrew and Patricia Hodson and now run by the next generation, the event runs November 24, 2025 through January 3, 2026 with evening hours from 5:30–9:00 p.m. The well-lit vineyard path is easy for kids, grandparents, and most strollers. Families enjoy mulled wine, cocoa, warm firepits, and easy on-site field parking.
A Charlottesville Winter Tradition To Enjoy Every Year
Having visited several times, Veritas Illuminated has become one of my favorite winter outings. The vineyard glows softly under the Blue Ridge foothills, creating a peaceful atmosphere that feels celebratory without ever being overwhelming for children.
Part of the charm is the place itself. Veritas Vineyard & Winery was founded by Andrew and Patricia Hodson, who brought warmth, hospitality, and a sense of family to every part of the property. Today, the next generation manages the winery, and that welcoming feeling continues—especially during Illuminated.
All About Veritas Illuminated 2025
Veritas Illuminated is a self-guided, half-mile vineyard light walk featuring sparkling displays, illuminated tunnels, and quiet glowing scenes woven through the little wood and among the vines. The path is wide, well lit, and perfect for families wanting to enjoy a winter evening together.
After the walk, guests often gather around the firepits with mulled wine or hot cocoa. It’s relaxed, scenic, and beautifully done.
Why Charlottesville Families Love It:
- Family-owned feel: The Hodson family’s warmth shows in the entire experience.
- Easy terrain: The well-lit vineyard paths are comfortable for kids and manageable for grandparents.
- Most strollers do well: Especially jogging or medium-wheel strollers. The terrain is gravel and grass, but very walkable.
- Warm drinks: Adults enjoy mulled wine; kids love the cocoa.
- Ample parking: The field parking is abundant and easy to navigate, even with little ones in tow.
When to Go (2025–2026 Season)
In 2025, Veritas Illuminated runs:
- Opening Night: November 24, 2025
- Final Night: January 3, 2026
General schedule details:
- Evening hours: 5:30–9:00 p.m., with last entry typically around 8:30 p.m.
- Trail length: Approximately ½ mile, 20–30 minutes depending on pace.
- Operating days: Primarily Friday through Sunday, with select extra dates near holidays.
It’s wise to reserve your entry day and time early. This is one of the most popular holiday light walks near Charlottesville! Holiday weekends and early time slots fill quickly.
Picture-Perfect Spots for Photos (Great for Holiday Cards!)
One thing I love about Veritas Illuminated is how naturally photogenic the entire experience is. The vineyard glows softly against the mountains, and nearly every bend in the path feels like a holiday-card moment waiting to happen.
Families often stop for photos at:
- The illuminated archways that frame the vines beautifully.
- The gentle curves of the vineyard path, where the lights stretch out behind you.
- The final overlook near the tasting room, which is often softly lit with firepits glowing in the background.
- The twinkle-lit rows of vines, perfect for sibling snapshots or a family silhouette at dusk.
Because the path is well illuminated, photos turn out far better than typical nighttime outings. It’s a great chance to capture a frame-worthy picture of your kids or to take a relaxed family photo..
If you send holiday cards each year, this outing makes it easy to take a meaningful image—something natural, fun, and unmistakably Central Virginia.
Pro Tip for Parents:
Have kids stand one large step in front of the brightest part of the arch, and have an adult angle the camera slightly downward—this softens shadows and captures the warm glow behind you. If faces are in shadow have them look just a little bit to their right to catch light from the next exhibit.
Our Best Practical Tips for Visiting Veritas Illuminated
As someone who has visited Veritas Illuminated several times now, I’ve rounded up the best tips to make this an outing the whole family will enjoy.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking on vineyard terrain (gravel and grass) so supportive shoes are best for all ages.
- Dress warmly: Afton tends to be colder and breezier than Charlottesville in the evenings. Layers make the experience far more enjoyable for everyone.
- Parking is easy: On-site field parking is plentiful, well-directed, and close to the tasting room.
- Arrive with a little extra time: I like being there 10–15 minutes before our scheduled entry to settle in and enjoy the view.
- Try the mulled cider: It’s delicious and adds the perfect cozy touch to the evening.
Family-Friendly Stops on the Way to Afton
If you’re heading out from Charlottesville around mealtime, Crozet has lots of quick bites. Some of our favorites are:
- Crozet Pizza: Casual, quick, and consistently a hit with my family before we head over the mountain. They also have gluten-free options.
- Smoked Kitchen and Tap: Award-winning barbecue in a casual setting that’s perfect for groups. If your kids aren’t barbecue fans, they’re sure to love the many sides on the menu.
- Fardowners: A homestyle restaurant with casual style perfect for families. They’re famous for their wings and sauces, but the menu also includes of sandwiches, soups, bowls, and creative mac ‘n’ cheese options.
FAQs About Veritas Illuminated
Is Veritas Illuminated good for kids and grandparents?
Absolutely. The lighting is gentle, the walk is not strenuous, and the atmosphere is easygoing. We’ve taken multiple generations, and everyone has enjoyed it.
Most strollers do well, especially those with slightly larger wheels. And since the path is bright and steady underfoot, grandparents find it very manageable.
How long is the walk at Veritas Illuminated?
About ½ mile, taking 20–30 minutes at a relaxed pace.
What are the 2025–2026 dates?
November 24, 2025 through January 3, 2026.
What are the hours?
Typically 5:30–9:00 p.m., with last entry around 8:30 p.m. Be sure to check the website for exact times and to purchase tickets before you visit.
Is it stroller-friendly?
Yes, most strollers handle the gravel and grass paths well.
What does Veritas Illuminated cost?
Approx. $15 for adults and $10 for children ages 4–13 for the 2025 season.
Is parking available?
Yes, there is plenty of on-site field parking.
Each visit to Veritas Illuminated reminds me why families here treasure winter in Central Virginia. Between the lights, the mountains, and the welcoming family behind the winery, it’s a uniquely magical experience. A visit to Veritas Illuminated is a special Charlottesville winter tradition perfect for kids, grandparents, out-of-town guests, or simply a quiet night out.
Be sure to check out our other wonderful stories
to help make your holidays bright!
The Best Charlottesville Christmas Events
Central Virginia Christmas Tree Farms
Virginia’s Best Holiday Light Displays
10 Christmas Day Trips in Virginia Perfect for Winter Break
Live Christmas Tree Care Guide
Sugar Cookies Recipe
Favorite Places for Snow Tubing
Top DC Holiday Attractions
Jennifer Bryerton
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Jen has always loved stories, teaching, and adventure. Originally from rural Illinois, she studied education at the University of Illinois and lived in many places, including Colorado and the Netherlands, before settling down in Charlottesville with her husband where they’ve raised four kids and a lively menagerie of pets. Jen finds joy in gardening, travel, and a good book. Her favorite part of the job? Hearing that a story inspired or comforted a reader.