Holiday Activities in Harpers Ferry
When winter settles into the Shenandoah Valley, something magical happens in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. The historic streets fill with the sound of carolers, hillsides light up with glowing displays, and the rush of wind on a snow tube replaces the summer splash of whitewater. Whether you’re planning a festive day trip or a weekend getaway, Harpers Ferry offers unforgettable family-friendly holiday experiences. If you’re searching for Harpers Ferry holiday activities or Christmas events near DC, this guide will walk you through three can’t-miss seasonal favorites: the dazzling Harpers Ferry Holiday Light Show, the beloved Olde Tyme Christmas Festival, and thrilling winter fun at Snow Riders Snow Tubing.1. Harpers Ferry Holiday Light Show: A Walk-Through Winter Wonderland
- A hot cocoa station to warm up along the way
- A children’s play zone with interactive light features
- A four-story aerial overlook offering panoramic views of the glowing hillside
2. Olde Tyme Christmas: Step Into a Storybook
Each December, the historic streets of Harpers Ferry come alive with the charm and cheer of the Olde Tyme Christmas Festival. Picture horse-drawn carriage rides, glowing lanterns, costumed carolers, and the smell of roasted chestnuts in the air. This free event—typically held the first two weekends of December—is a heartwarming way to experience the spirit of the season. Highlights include:- Live holiday music and storytelling
- Festively decorated 19th-century buildings
- Artisan vendors and local shops with handcrafted gifts
- Appearances from Santa & Mrs. Claus
3. Snow Riders: The Closest Snow Tubing to DC & Baltimore
If your holidays aren’t complete without a little outdoor excitement, Snow Riders Snow Tubing is a must. Operated by River Riders, Snow Riders is home to the longest tubing hill on the East Coast, featuring up to 12 lanes and a magic carpet lift so you can tube more and climb less.
Ideal for families, the park offers both daytime tubing and “Downhill Disco” night tubing—a glow-in-the-dark party with music and lights that turns your tubing run into a holiday dance floor. The park uses advanced snowmaking, so you can count on great conditions even if nature doesn’t cooperate.
Add in:
- On-site fire pits for rent
- Alstadt’s Ale House for hot food and warm drinks
- Easy online booking with timed ticketing
Make It a Full Day (or Weekend!)
What makes Harpers Ferry truly special during the holidays is that you don’t have to choose just one experience—you can do it all. Spend the day exploring Olde Tyme Christmas in the Lower Town, head to Snow Riders for tubing thrills, then unwind under the stars with a hot chocolate in hand at the Harpers Ferry Holiday Light Show. River Riders even offers on-site lodging options including cabins and vacation rentals if you want to turn your day trip into a weekend getaway. That way, you can enjoy a cozy night in after your holiday adventures and return home with a sleigh-full of memories.Plan Your Harpers Ferry Holiday Getaway
✨ Book your snow tubing and light show tickets in advance—they fill up quickly on weekends and during winter break.
🎄 Visit harpersferrylightshow.com and snowriders.com to plan your dates.
📸 Don’t forget your camera—these are moments you’ll want to capture.
Whether you’re looking for the best holiday light show near DC, a nostalgic Christmas stroll through history, or a thrill ride down a snowy hill, Harpers Ferry delivers. Come see why families across the region are making this mountain town part of their holiday traditions. River Riders wishes you a magical and memory-filled holiday season. We’ll see you on the hill!
