Celebrate Christmas in July
50 Years of Parade Magic. One Unforgettable Summer.
This summer, we’re unwrapping something special. As we prepare for the 50th anniversary of the beloved Historic Downtown Tappahannock Christmas Parade, we’re bringing the holiday spirit to life early, with a joyful celebration that captures the heart of our community.
Join us for Christmas in July, a warm and welcoming campaign that invites you to:
- Shine bright on the community Christmas tree with a personalized ornament
- Support local businesses through a fun and festive Holiday Passport program
Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this is your chance to be part of something meaningful, memorable, and uniquely Tappahannock.
Reserve Your Ornament
Your Name. Our Tree. One Magical Moment.
Whether you’re honoring a loved one, marking a milestone, or simply celebrating the season, this is your chance to leave your mark downtown.
For a gift of $50, your personalized ornament will shine on the beautifully lit Historic Downtown Tappahannock Christmas Tree this holiday season.
You can order online starting June 10th or stop by our booth at the July 19th Farmers Market. The earlier you order, the more time we have to prepare your ornament for display during our Winterfest celebration.
The earlier you purchase, the sooner we can begin preparing your ornament for display this Winterfest. Don’t miss this chance to shine in the heart of downtown. Act now—quantities are limited, and this celebration only happens once every 50 years!
🗓️ Order Deadline: October 31, 2025
📍 Displayed during Winterfest 2025
How It Works
Join the Celebration in Four Simple Steps!
- Reserve your ornament online starting June 10th or in person at the July 19th Farmers Market.
- Personalize your name or message (details provided at checkout).
- Sit back and relax while we prepare your personalized ornament.
- Come see it glow on the Winterfest tree as part of our festive downtown display!
What’s Next
Full details for Winterfest 2025 will be announced in the fall, but your place on the tree starts here. Celebrate early and light up the season.
NEW! Shop Local Holiday Passport
12 Days. 12 Businesses. 1 Big Prize.
Beginning July 19th, pick up your Christmas in July Holiday Passport at the Historic Downtown Tappahannock table during the Farmers Market — or at any participating business throughout the campaign.
Visit any 12 participating businesses between July 19 and July 31, collect a stamp at each one, and turn in your completed passport for a chance to win.
✦ You can complete more than one passport if you shop more!
✦ Each $20 purchase earns one stamp on one passport.
✦ Only one completed passport will be selected to win.
🎁 Prize Drawing: August 4, 2025
📥 Return by August 2 at a participating business or the HDT office
📅 Shop Local Important Dates
Mark your calendars! Here’s a quick look at what’s happening this summer and beyond as we celebrate 50 years of holiday magic. Whether you’re reserving an ornament, shopping local, or joining us at the Farmers Market, there’s something special for everyone.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 19 | Kickoff at the Farmers Market – Get your passport! |
| July 19–31 | Shop Local Holiday Passport Active |
| August 2 | Final day to submit passports |
| August 4 | Prize drawing winner announced |
| October 31 | Last day to order commemorative ornaments |
| November (TBA) | Winterfest & Tree Lighting Ceremony |
Local Businesses: Be a Featured Stop on the Christmas in July Passport Trail!
🎄 Boost foot traffic, grow your visibility, and connect with new customers during this festive summer campaign.
✨ More than 20 businesses are already participating — don’t miss your chance to join the list!
Why Join?
✔️ Reach hundreds of local shoppers
✔️ Promote your summer specials or giveaways
✔️ Get featured in print + digital materials
✔️ Help celebrate 50 years of the Tappahannock Christmas Parade
What’s Required?
Participating businesses are asked to:
- Offer a simple in-store promotion (e.g., a discount, giveaway, or featured item).
- Stamp customers’ passports when they purchase $20 or more at your location.
- Display optional signage provided by Historic Downtown Tappahannock.
If your business would like to participate, please contact the HDT office right away so we can get you added to the final materials.
📩 Email: director@downtowntappahannock.org
📞 Phone: 804-443-4050
We’re grateful for your partnership and can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Frequently Asked Questions (For the Community)
How does the Passport work?
- Pick up a passport on July 19
- Make a $20 purchase at any 12 participating businesses from July 19–31
- Receive a stamp at each location with purchase (1 purchase = 1 stamp)
- Return your completed passport by August 2
- Winner announced August 4!
What’s included with the $50 ornament?
Each commemorative ornament includes your personalized message and will be professionally displayed on the Historic Tappahannock Christmas tree in downtown Tappahannock.
What kind of personalization can I include?
You can add a family name, dedication, or short message. You’ll provide this when placing your order.
When and where will my ornament be displayed?
Your ornament will hang on the beautifully lit Historic Downtown Christmas tree in Historic Downtown Tappahannock starting in November 2025.
Can I buy more than one ornament?
Yes! Multiple ornaments are welcome—order one for each person or memory you’d like to celebrate.
What do the ornament proceeds support?
All proceeds go toward programs and beautification efforts in Historic Downtown Tappahannock—helping our community shine all year long.
Frequently Asked Questions (For Local Businesses)
What is the Christmas in July Passport Trail?
It’s a fun, shop-local campaign where shoppers collect stamps at participating businesses between July 19–31. Those who complete their passport by making purchases at 12 or more businesses are entered into a prize drawing!
How does my business participate?
Simply sign up with Historic Downtown Tappahannock, and we’ll include your name on the printed passport and promotional brochure. You’ll commit to offering stamps to customers who make qualifying purchases during the event dates.
Is there a cost to participate?
No, participation is free! All you need to do is promote the event and be available to give out stamps with qualifying purchases.
What counts as a qualifying purchase?
A purchase of $20 or more earns the customer one stamp on their passport. Each purchase can only be used on one passport.
Do I need to offer a discount or giveaway?
It’s not required — but you’re welcome to! Some businesses offer a promotion to draw in customers, while others simply enjoy the added visibility and foot traffic.
What happens after the campaign ends?
Customers must turn in completed passports by August 2. HDT will randomly draw one winner on August 4. We’ll celebrate the winner and spotlight participating businesses on social media!
Need Help? Contact Us!
Get In Touch
Office Hours
Our team is available Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST.
We strive to respond to all inquiries within one business day.
