Family
Lighting of the Lawn
Thursday, December 1
This annual tradition aims to unify UVA students and faculty as well as the Charlottesville community with performances ranging from a capella to dance, and an elaborate light show. Free, 7-10pm. UVA Lawn. lightingofthelawn.com
Nonprofit
The Great
Charlottesville Santa Fun Run & Walk
Sunday, December 4
Adults receive a Santa suit and children don elf ears for a one-mile fun run to benefit the Arc of the Piedmont. Free-$20, 11am. Sprint Pavilion, Downtown Mall. arcpva.org/event/great-charlottesville-santa-fun-runwalk
Food & Drink
First Fridays
Friday, December 2
Try the new monthly cocktail menu at Virginia Distillery Company, which changes its drink samples based on the season and what’s locally available. Prices vary, 11am-6pm. Virginia Distillery Company, 299 Eades Ln., Lovingston. vadistillery.com
Health & Wellness
Scandinavian Secrets for a Happier Winter
Friday, December 2
Positive psychology expert and author Jaime Kurtz presents an overview of the Scandinavian concept and practice of “hygge,” loosely translated as coziness or comfort. Free, 6-7:30pm. Speak! Language Center, 313 Second St. SE, Suite 109. speaklanguagecenter.com