Staunton River Battlefield State Park in Randolph, Virginia, will hold its annual “Lighting of the Bridge” event on December 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, and 15. The event will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Clover Center.
Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy festive lights, including the fully illuminated Staunton River Bridge, as well as a wagon ride or a walk along a lighted trail with holiday decorations.
In addition to the lights, the event will feature a range of family-friendly activities, including a children’s craft table, wreath-making, a Christmas photo station, and refreshments at the Clover Center.
The event has an entry fee of $5 per car (cash only) at the gate. Wreath-making will be available for an additional $10.
The park will also accept donations for the Tri-County Community Action Agency, which provides shelter for victims of violence and domestic assault in Halifax, Charlotte, Mecklenburg, and Lunenburg counties. Visitors are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items, personal hygiene products, or household items to support the cause.
“We are excited to share two weekends of lights this year with our guests,” Staunton River Battlefield State Park Manager David Gunnells said in a press release. “Please help us support our community by bringing non-perishable food items, personal hygiene items, or household products to a drop box located in the Clover Center.”
As most of the event is outdoors, attendees are advised to dress appropriately for the weather.
According to its website, Staunton River Battlefield State Park offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities and amenities. The park features a 1.2-mile self-guided trail that traverses the historic battlefield, as well as a 0.75-mile nature trail with two wildlife observation towers that provide views of the surrounding wetlands. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, allowing guests to explore the river.
Though Staunton River Battlefield State Park does not offer overnight accommodations, the nearby Staunton River State Park, located just 20 minutes away, provides additional camping options and cabin rentals. This neighboring park also offers an equestrian campground with campsites and horse stalls. Visitors can enjoy access to Virginia’s largest lake, Buggs Island Lake, which is ideal for fishing, boating, water skiing, and various other aquatic activities.
Additionally, Staunton River State Park features picnic shelters, three playgrounds, tennis and volleyball courts, multiple boat launches, and over 17 miles of multi-use trails.
Featured image by Virginia State Parks
