November In Fredericksburg: Can't-Miss Events, Festive Fun And Things To Do

November is shaping up to be a busy month in Fredericksburg, with plenty of reasons to head downtown, explore something new and spend time with family and friends. As the season shifts toward the holidays, the calendar is filling up with special markets, festive traditions, live performances and activities for all ages.

From a downtown scavenger hunt to gingerbread creations and seasonal celebrations, here are some events and activities to check out in and around Fredericksburg this November.

Dates, hours and other event details can change. Check with organizers before heading out.

Holiday Open House Weekend In Downtown Fredericksburg

When: Saturday, Nov. 14, and Sunday, Nov. 15
Where: Downtown Fredericksburg

Downtown Fredericksburg welcomes the holiday season with its annual Holiday Open House Weekend. Visitors can browse decorated storefronts, explore independent boutiques and art galleries, and look for special promotions and giveaways at participating shops. Santa is also expected to make an appearance at the Fredericksburg Visitor Center. With seasonal decorations, shopping and dining opportunities throughout downtown, the two-day celebration offers plenty of ways to enjoy an outing with family or friends.

Fredericksburg Tree Lighting At Riverfront Park

When: Saturday, Nov. 14, 4-7 p.m.
Where: Riverfront Park, 701 Sophia St., Fredericksburg

Riverfront Park will come alive with music, activities and seasonal festivities during the city's annual Fredericksburg Tree Lighting. The free celebration includes live music, food trucks, local vendors, children's activities and a visit from Santa, leading up to the lighting of the community tree. It's an opportunity to gather with neighbors, enjoy the riverfront setting and celebrate the beginning of the holiday season.

Window Wonderland 2026

When: Saturday, Nov. 14, through Friday, Jan. 1, 2027
Where: Participating businesses throughout downtown Fredericksburg

Turn a stroll through downtown into a fun challenge during Window Wonderland 2026. This seasonal scavenger hunt invites participants to search for riddles hidden in the decorated windows of participating businesses and solve the clues along the way. Pick up an entry form at the Fredericksburg Visitor Center, 601 Caroline St., or download one online. Completed entries offer a chance to win $1,000 in downtown gift cards and other prizes from participating businesses. With the contest continuing through New Year's Day, families and friends can take part throughout the holiday season.

A Christmas Carol At Riverside Center For The Performing Arts

When: Select performances Nov. 11 through Jan. 3, 2027
Where: Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, 95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg

Make plans for an evening of live theater as Riverside Center for the Performing Arts presents "A Christmas Carol." The seasonal production brings Charles Dickens' classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his unforgettable encounters with the ghosts of Christmas to the stage. Running from mid-November into early January, the show offers an entertainment option for theater lovers and families looking to add a special outing to their calendars. Check the theater's website for performance dates, ticket prices and availability.

Merry Market At Hurkamp Park

When: Saturday, Nov. 21, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Hurkamp Park, 500 William St., Fredericksburg

The Fredericksburg Farmers Market adds a festive twist to its regular Saturday gathering with the Merry Market. Local artists and crafters will join the market to offer handmade goods in a seasonal setting, giving shoppers a chance to discover unique gifts while supporting area makers. Visitors can also browse the market's regular offerings and enjoy a morning exploring downtown. The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., making it an easy addition to a weekend shopping trip.

Mistletoe Market At Hurkamp Park

When: Saturday, Nov. 28, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Hurkamp Park, 500 William St., Fredericksburg

Another opportunity to support local businesses arrives Thanksgiving weekend when the Mistletoe Market returns to Hurkamp Park. The special holiday market brings local artists and crafters together to sell handmade items, offering visitors an alternative to traditional holiday shopping. Scheduled for the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the event is a chance to find thoughtful gifts, browse seasonal goods and support local vendors before continuing on to downtown Fredericksburg's shops and restaurants.

40th Annual Gingerbread House Contest & Exhibit

When: Sunday, Nov. 29, through Wednesday, Dec. 30
Where: George Washington's Ferry Farm, 268 Kings Highway, Fredericksburg

Creative gingerbread houses take the spotlight at the 40th Annual Gingerbread House Contest & Exhibit at George Washington's Ferry Farm. This year's theme, "America the Beautiful," invites participants to create edible designs inspired by the country's landscapes and natural beauty. Entries will be displayed in the Ferry Farm Visitor Center Gallery beginning Nov. 29, with creations from multiple age groups, families and professional participants. Visitors can admire the intricate designs throughout December and take part in voting for the People's Choice award.

Looking for more things to do in Fredericksburg this fall? Check out the Patch events calendar for more local events and activities.

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