Holiday Happenings in the Hampton Roads Area

The Holidays are upon us so here's a sampling listing of just a few of the many festive events happening around the area:

- December 6: Holiday Parade at the Beach
- December 6: Downtown Hampton Lighted Boat Parade
- December 6: Great Bridge (Chesapeake) Christmas Parade
- December 13: Suffolk Santa Parade
- Now Thru December 30: Winter Wonderland in historic Downtown Portsmouth
- Now Thru December 31: Holiday Lights at the Beach
- Now Thru December 31: Garden of Lights at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens

Like I said, the above is just a very small sampling of the area events. Be sure to visit event calendars on sites like pilotonline.com for a complete listing of area events.

Update on Holiday Lights at the Beach

Holiday Lights at the Beach has officially begun - and the folks at Beach Events have added some exciting enhancements. First, you can now purchase a Combo Ticket. For just $15, you get access to both Holiday Lights at the Beach as well as the light display at Norfolk Botanical Garden. Second, you can now view the Holiday Lights at the Beach by horse and Carriage. Operated by Sea-Horse Carriage Company, the cost of this service is $15 per person and $10 per child under 10. There is no charge for kids 2 and under (must sit on lap). All rates are based on half trip charge. So, if you've yet to make your plans to head to Virginia Beach for the Holidays, now is the time. And, don't forget, when you book any two or more night non-Friday package through goldkeyvacations.com, you'll receive a complimentary pass to Holiday Lights at the Beach.

A Vacation within a Vacation - Catch 31

Food can be one of the most enjoyable, and memorable, aspects of your vacation. Knowing that, I thought I'd pass along this great article recently published by The Virginian Pilot. It's an article about Catch 31, located in the Hilton. Take a read and let your taste buds start watering.

Gas Prices Falling Means it's a Great Time to Travel

A month or two ago, everyone was getting their walking shoes ready and figuring out how they could drive less and save more as gas prices were continuing to sky rocket. Well, a lot has changed in the past month - including gas prices. Gas prices across the region are falling at unprecedented rates...meaning you can drive for less now. And, what better place to drive than a quick getaway to Virginia Beach. Low gas prices combined with incredible prices on Virginia Beach oceanfront hotel stays makes November a great time to be at the beach! So, go ahead, get in your car and make the short drive to Virginia Beach.

Average Gas Prices Across the Region
Richmond, VA: $2.00, compared to $3.01 a month ago
Washington, DC: $2.42 compared to $3.51 a month ago
Charlottesville, VA: $2.05 compared to $3.19 a month ago
Baltimore, MD: $2.07 compared to $3.22 a month ago