Holiday Happenings: Creating One Final Memory for 2013

By Matt Berman

The holiday season is coming to a close at the Virginia Discovery Museum, and it's been a packed month! Here's the fifth and final part of our Holiday Happenings blog series, which will usher us in to the new year with a look at VDM's participation in this year's First Night Virginia celebration.

Another year is nearly in the books, but before we bid adieu to 2013 and ring in the awaiting 2014, join the Virginia Discovery Museum in celebrating the year that was during Charlottesville's 32nd annual First Night Virginia on Dec. 31.

This Tuesday only, the museum is extending its hours of operation to 8:30 p.m. to stay up late for the festivities! From 3 to 7:30 p.m. on New Year's Eve, the museum will transform into the Creation Station, where First Night Virginia participants can engage their imaginations in a series of unique crafts that can then be worn during the evening's processional on the Downtown Mall.

Started in 1982, First Night Virginia is the Charlottesville community's annual family-friendly celebration of the arts and is the second oldest event of its kind in the country. Entertainment and activities include musical performances, magic shows, comedy skits, and more.

If You're Going ...

• Admission: First Night Virginia wristbands provide access to all events on the Downtown Mall. Wristbands can be purchased at the Discovery Museum, as well as at several other locations around town or online until Dec. 30. On Dec. 31, wristbands can only be purchased at the First Night Virginia headquarters in the Omni Hotel Atrium and Paramount Theater.

• Cost: Until Dec. 30, wristbands are $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 6 to 15. A Family Pack of two adult wristbands and two child wristbands costs $35. On Dec. 31, prices increase to $18 for adults, $7 for children, and $43 for the Family Pack. Children 5 and younger get in free because they're just so darn adorable.

• Have a question? There's a good chance there's an answer for many of your questions here on the First Night Virginia FAQ page: http://www.firstnightva.org/fnv_faq.html

The Discovery Museum will also be open to non-First Night Virginia visitors for regular play time during Tuesday's extended hours. VDM admission is $6 per person for adults and children over 1. Children younger than 1 get into the museum for free. Visitors who show their AAA or AARP card or a valid military ID receive a $.50 discount per person. VDM is a member of the ASTC Passport and ACM reciprocal programs, as well.

On behalf of the Virginia Discovery Museum staff, enjoy the rest of the holiday season and have a happy New Year!

Matt Berman is the Exhibits and Marketing Manager at the Virginia Discovery Museum. Reach him at exhibits@vadm.org or marketing@vadm.org.