A Christmas Adventure
Holiday magic returns to Thomasville for its 38th annual Victorian Christmas
From joyous, lively gatherings where eggnog flows freely and festive holiday cookies are abundant, to anticipatory giggles shared by children eagerly awaiting the sound of hooves on rooftops, Christmas traditions weave a diverse tapestry of memories and customs across generations. This dynamic is equally true for communities, as cherished traditions become the threads that bind people together, creating a festive, familiar fabric that warms the winter season.
Tallahassee’s neighboring city, Thomasville, has its own charming, vibrant annual holiday tradition that began decades ago, as shopkeepers opened their doors to welcome customers. To this very day, the Victorian Christmas celebration is marked with welcoming shopping experiences, ornate Victorian attire, delectable sweets and time-honored holiday music.
To continue cultivating a joyous, lively holiday atmosphere, this year’s Victorian Christmas will nurture various events organized by small-business owners that capture the pulse of downtown Thomasville.
The 2024 event dates for Thomasville’s 38th annual Victorian Christmas include Dec. 12 and 13. Visitors and locals alike can expect the streets to twinkle with holiday lights and beautifully decorated storefronts to showcase holiday cheer. Both shopkeepers and patrons will don their Victorian-era clothing to stroll the streets.
Like in years past, Santa will stop by the enchanted city, and families can enjoy carriage rides, marshmallow roasting and music, bringing to life a true Victorian Christmas.
SouthLife Supply Co. will host Meet the Maker events where visitors can chat with their handmade, premium leather goods makers. And Mode Boutique’s windows will feature live models wearing formal attire, ideal for holiday parties, or casual wear, perfect for winter vacations.
The models have spread holiday cheer on Broad Street since 2013.
“The crowds just love the live models. People will stare into the windows and wonder if they’re real,” shared Stacey Kelley, owner of Mode Boutique. “Sometimes, our models will wink at the children, and the kids just light up when they realize the mannequin is actually a real person.”
Inside Farmer’s Daughter Vineyards tasting room, your spirit (and spirits) will come alive as each employee embraces the Victorian theme with Steampunk-inspired decor, including corsets, fishnets, big hair and pearls, all while serving up Christmas cocktails of spiked cider and seasonal sangria.
Eateries will offer indoor and outdoor seating and set up street food areas outside their stores, and several Thomasville retailers will offer holiday discounts in-store and online.
A Festive Start to the Season
Are you anxiously anticipating the holiday season? Luckily, you won’t have to wait until December to celebrate.
During the holiday season, Downtown Thomasville transforms into a holiday wonderland infused with the year-round warmth of community spirit, where the streets sparkle with festive cheer and the air is filled with the delightful sounds of the season.
• Beginning as early as Nov. 24, you can usher in the Christmas season in Thomasville with the Holiday Open House. With extended hours in stores and restaurants, guests can enjoy a plethora of shopping and dining options. Enjoy free trolley rides, holiday music and food trucks from 1–5 p.m., and grab a glass of wine or beer from participating businesses to sip while you shop. For every $20 you spend, you’ll be entered to win $100 in Downtown Dollars gift certificates.
• As you revel in the festive season, mark your calendars for the live performance of The Nutcracker by the South Georgia Ballet, taking place at the Thomasville Municipal Auditorium on Dec. 2 and 3. The 26th annual celebration will feature a live orchestra under the direction of Boyan Bonev. Attendees are promised dazzling performances from the show’s guest artists and can expect surprise appearances from beloved South Georgia Ballet alumni and staff.
After the matinee performance on Dec. 3 at 2:30 p.m., young guests will have the opportunity to meet and greet with the characters.
Get ready to be captivated by the incredible talent, mesmerizing costumes and festive music as South Georgia Ballet honors this cherished tradition.
To secure your tickets, please visit Eventbrite.
