Enchanting Holidays: Celebrating Christmas in Romney, West Virginia

Nestled in the heart of West Virginia’s picturesque countryside, Christmas in Romney is a festive celebration that embodies the true spirit of the holiday season. With a charming array of events and activities spanning the first days of December, this small town comes alive with the magic of Christmas. From the enchanting Christkindl Market to heartwarming tree lighting ceremonies, parades, and a host of family-friendly attractions, Romney offers a perfect backdrop for creating cherished holiday memories with loved ones. Join us as we explore the delightful festivities that make Christmas in Romney a truly enchanting experience for all ages.

Christmas In Romney has kindly shared the following information with us:

Friday, December 1

  • Cookie Crawl and Business Open House – 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

91 South High Street, Romney

Embark on a delightful stroll through Romney, exploring the charming businesses along Main Street to savor some delectable treats and enjoy a steaming cup of hot chocolate before the Tree Lighting Ceremony. Your adventure begins at the Historic Courthouse steps, where you can collect your maps and a goody bag. Christy Kauffman and her dedicated team from the State Farm Insurance Agency, as well as The West Virginia Deaf and Blind School Blue and Gold Café, will be there to share special treats with you.

  • Christkindl Market – Sponsored by the Hampshire County Coop– 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

91 South High Street, Romney

Christkindl Markets blend German and European customs with a touch of international allure and local enchantment. As you step into this festive atmosphere, your senses will be whisked away to a whimsical Christmas market filled with delightful scents and sights reminiscent of distant lands. Commence your Cookie Crawl at the Christkindle Market location, where you can enjoy hot cider and participate in a live wreath-making station.

  • Soup, Sandwiches, and Cider – Romney Brew Station – 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

43 West Main Street, Romney

Drop by for a cozy respite and indulge in a comforting bowl of soup, a delectable sandwich, and a delightful cup of cider. You’ll also have the option to savor their mouthwatering full menu.

  • Tree and Town Lighting Ceremony – 6:00 p.m.

19 East Main Street, Romney

Witness a classic tree lighting ceremony right on the steps of our stunning historic Courthouse, featuring a special appearance by a distinguished guest. Immerse yourself in the enchantment of Christmas in Romney as the town comes alive with the glow of festive lights, marking the beginning of the holiday season.

  • Festival of Trees Display

301 East Main Street, Romney

Christmas in Romney is excited to announce the return of its 3rd Annual Festival of Trees. Once again, the city will transform into a winter wonderland, with displays spread throughout town. The Festival of Trees will grace the lawn of The West Virginia Elementary School for the Deaf and the Blind. You can expect to see exquisitely adorned trees, generously donated and decorated by local businesses, schools, civic groups, families, and individuals. Everyone is welcome to enjoy all the Christmas in Romney festivities, including the Festival of Trees!

Saturday, December 2

  • Christkindl Market – Sponsored by the Hampshire County Coop – 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

91 South High Street, Romney
The Christkindl Markets blend the rich traditions of Germany and Europe with a touch of international flavor and local allure. As you stroll through, your senses will be transported to a magical Christmas market, filled with delightful aromas and sights reminiscent of distant lands. You’ll discover a delectable array of offerings, including Brats and Hot Dogs, authentic Mulled Wine, Hot Apple Cider, Apple Strudel, Candied Nuts, Pretzels, a diverse selection of high-quality gifts from various vendors, our Kids Make & Take Craft Corner, a Live Wreath Making Station, a Holiday Selfie Stop, and much more. Our market provides an ideal setting for families and friends to create cherished and unique holiday memories.

  • Holiday Pooch Pageant – Sponsored by The Hampshire County Coop – 11:00 a.m.

91 South High Street, Romney

Mark your calendar for the Christmas in Romney Purdy Holiday Pooch Pageant. Get your furry friends all dressed up and ready to strut their stuff! We’ll be announcing a winner, and all proud pooches and their owners are invited to join the parade on December 9th at noon. The proceeds from this charming event will be dedicated to supporting the Romney Food Pantry. Stay tuned for more details about this upcoming event, coming soon!

Saturday, December 9

  • Breakfast with Santa – Sponsored by Romney Volunteer Fire Department – 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 am

175 South High Street, Romney

Start your day with a warm and inviting breakfast, complete with a special visit from the one and only Santa Claus. Gather the entire family for a chance to meet Santa, who’s traveled all the way from the North Pole to enjoy breakfast and pose for photos with everyone.

  • Decorate a Cone Christmas Tree – Sponsored by the Hampshire County Public Library at the Romney Volunteer Fire Department – 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 am or until supplies run out

175 South High Street, Romney

Kids can craft a delightful holiday masterpiece by building and adorning their own candy Christmas tree.

  • Romney Christmas Parade – Sponsored by The Hampshire Review – 12:00 p.m.

Main Street, Romney

The Hampshire Review and Christmas in Romney cordially invite you to join us for the annual Christmas Parade! Let’s commence the festive holiday season with a dazzling display of local organizations, businesses, sports teams, and Queens uniting to showcase and celebrate.        

  • FNB Christmas Party – Following the Christmas Parade – 1:00 p.m.

105 North High Street, Romney

Children can drop by for a delightful surprise from the elves at FNB Bank and spend some time with Santa.

  • Christkindl Market – Sponsored by the Hampshire County Coop – 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

91 South High Street, Romney

The Christkindl Markets harmonize the rich traditions of Germany and Europe with a touch of international allure and local charisma. As you journey through the Christmas Circle, your senses will be transported to a wondrous Christmas market filled with enchanting aromas and scenes reminiscent of distant lands. Explore an array of delectable offerings, including authentic Goulash, Mulled Wine, Hot Apple Cider, Candied Nuts, Pretzels, and an array of high-quality gifts and displays from various vendors. Don’t miss our Kids Make & Take Craft Corner, Live Wreath Making Station, Holiday Selfie Stop, and much more. Our market is the perfect setting for families and friends to create new, cherished memories.

  • Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides – American Legion, 154 E. Main Street – Friday. December 8th through Sunday, December 10th – Sponsored by the WV Peach Festival

154 East Main Street, Romney
Cuddle up with your loved one or bring your little one to share in the enchantment of a small-town Christmas as you ride in the back of a one-horse open sleigh.

  • Chili Cook-Off – American Legion, 154 E. Main Street – Saturday, December 9th – Sponsored by the WV Peach Festival

Local participants will be cooking up their best pots of chili and you will be the judge! Enjoy cold drinks, HOT chili, and good company.

  • North Pole Express – Potomac Eagle Saves Christmas – Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad – November 17th – December 25th

149 Eagle Drive, Romney

OnBoard, settle in for some storytelling. Enjoy milk and cookies as you listen to our unique story of Christmas in Appalachia, “Yes, West Virginia, There is a Santa Claus.” Story characters dance through your car to our Holiday production of the “Nutcracker” and hear how “The Potomac Eagle Saves Christmas.” Watch as the night is suddenly aglow with thousands of twinkling lights at the North Pole. Santa and Mrs. Claus wave from their porch as children spy playful elves among the trees. To the delight of all, Santa boards the train with a gift for every child as we carol our way home.

Visit the Christmas Event Barn to experience fresh country festivities. See live animals at our petting farm, visit the Nativity, roast s’mores, and purchase refreshments. Relax while children color or write Santa letters for deposit in our special North Pole mailboxes. With beautiful photo ops available, music, and entertainment, it is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.

At the Gift Shop, purchase North Pole Express mementos, Christmas gifts, and train souvenirs.

This heartwarming Christmas event begins November 17 and runs through December 25. Excursion days have different multiple departure times to suit all of your busy holiday schedule needs. Come aboard with the whole family and immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas.

Photos by Cindy Twigg Photography