Destination Bedford offers big, bold and unforgettable experiences. You’ll see stunning beauty in the Blue Ridge Mountains and hear stories of bravery that will take your breath away at the National D-Day Memorial.
December 2, 2020
+The holidays are approaching quickly! Here are some ideas of what to do with your family and friends this holiday season!
National D-Day Memorial
Anytime of year is wonderful for visiting the D-Day Memorial! You will be overwhelmed with emotion from the events that happened on D-Day, which shaped our country’s, and the world’s history. You will also learn about our beloved “Bedford Boys”. The annual Flames of Memory will take place December 4-6. Drive through after dark and see thousands of luminaries that will honor the 4,415 service members killed on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Admission is free, donations will be accepted.
Downtown Bedford is the perfect place for shopping, eating and enjoying the storefront Christmas decorations! Stop by the Bedford Museum and Genealogical Library for the annual Train Exhibit! This fun, interactive exhibit will be going on until January 2nd and is a great place to take the kids! While visiting downtown, make sure you stop by the Bower Center for the Arts and check out the beautiful artwork and resident artists that call Bedford home!
Christmas Lights
Driving through the English Meadows Elks Home Campus during Christmas time has always been a great outing for the family. The lights are gorgeous and will make you want to come back every year! This holiday display starts December 4th. After leaving the Elks Home, drive to Liberty Lake Park and enjoy the beautiful light display that will be on until New Year’s Day.
Visiting Thomas Jefferson’s personal retreat will give you a look into the President’s life and the history of this Bedford property. For a unique experience, consider visiting at night during the Holiday Candlelight Tours! Click here for more information and tickets. The home is also open for daily tours which require advance reservations.
The feeling you get when reaching the summit of Sharp Top is like no other! Even though it’s cold outside, it is still the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors with your loved ones, and Bedford has plenty of outdoor opportunities to offer! There are several trails to choose from at the Peaks of Otter, ranging from easy to difficult. So escape the hustle and bustle of the holidays with a nice, peaceful hike and enjoy the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains.
Festival of Trees at the Bedford Area Welcome Center is going on now through January 3rd. “Christmas through the Decades” is the theme this year. This fun annual tradition features 25 trees decorated by local businesses. Visitors are encouraged to vote for their favorite tree(s) for only $1.00/vote, with all proceeds benefiting charitable organizations. There is also a fun scavenger hunt for the kids with prizes at the end! For more details click here.
For more information on fun things to do in Bedford during the holidays, check out our website! Be sure to share your experiences on social media using #DestinationBedfordVA and #LOVEBedfordVA!
Blog written by: Layney Skinner
Destination Bedford Virginia