Richmond may not be New York or Paris at Christmastime, but we definitely do it up here for the holidays. As the city grows, it seems like more and more establishments have their own unique take on holiday festivities. There’s the traditional take on Christmas at the historic Jefferson Hotel, the iconic pink tree at Quirk Hotel, and the Evergreen Popup at Birdie's Bar & Café, a most recent favorite opportunity for holiday cheer. These are not places you have to spend very much time—just places to grab a drink or a few photos to make memories during the time of year we most want to be together. Check out our picks to add to your holiday itinerary.

1. Most Stylish Experience: Quirk Hotel

Quirk is known for its pink Christmas aesthetic. The lobby features an enormous pink tree that makes for a great photo opportunity. You can grab a Christmas-themed drink at the bar in the lobby or hit the rooftop bar for great views of the city lights over a signature winter cocktail. You can do a festive staycation here or just stop by to check out one of their special holiday events.

2. Most Delicious Experience: The Evergreen Birdie's Bar & Café

Birdies Bar & Café in Richmond’s Arts District transforms into a Christmas wonderland for its Evergreen Popup. The restaurant is strewn with whimsical decorations to admire over themed cocktails and a menu inspired by holiday flavors. The food is great and the staff is wonderful, so I would say it’s an ideal spot for catching up with friends over breakfast, a solo lunch date, or enjoying a romantic dinner under twinkling lights. Check out our full review here.

3. Most Traditional Experience: The Jefferson Hotel

No holiday season in Richmond is complete without visiting The Jefferson Hotel, a historic landmark that epitomizes elegance and tradition. Every December, the grand staircase and rotunda come alive with twinkling lights, garland, and a towering Christmas tree. People from all over come here to enjoy afternoon tea, holiday brunches, and the signature gingerbread display that changes themes each year. It’s an experience that has sort of become a generational tradition for some Richmonders.

4. Most Shoppable Experience: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA)

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) holiday bazaar is where you’ll want to go to find artisanal creations. There are so many unique finds like handcrafted ceramic mugs, delicate jewelry, and decorative art like one-of-a-kind, handpainted ornaments. While the bazaar is in Floris, the building behind the museum, you can stop by the cafe inside the museum for warm cider or hot chocolate.

5. Most Lights: Kanawha Plaza

Each December, Kanawha Plaza lights up downtown Richmond with its dazzling tree illumination ceremony. The towering tree, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights, is the centerpiece of Richmond’s Christmas activity. For the ceremony, there are family-friendly activities, live music, and refreshments available. This event marks the official start of the season for many Richmonders and a way for the city to celebrate the holidays as a community.