Step back in time this holiday season and celebrate Christmas as they did in the 18th century. Historic Virginia City, Nev. hosts its annual Christmas on the Comstock this December, offering a Victorian-style holiday celebration. Located just 25 miles from Reno, the town boasts festivities for all ages ranging from unique boutique holiday shopping including 2,000 free gifts at local merchants, a Steampunk Christmas Ball and a country Christmas concert in the world famous Piper’s Opera House to a special holiday ride on the famous Virginia & Truckee Railroad, to name a few.
The Candy Cane Express Trains, Nov. 23-24 and Dec. 1-2, 8-9, 2012 with two departures daily, noon and 2 p.m.
Come aboard the Candy Cane Express Christmas Train on the famous Virginia & Truckee Railroad complete with hot cider and hot chocolate all while being dazzled by the Candy Cane Sisters and Santa’s Elves. Price: $14 adults, $6 children (ages 2 & under free).
Meet Father Christmas at the Virginia City Visitor Center, Nov. 23-25 and Dec. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, and 22-23, 2012, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Bring a camera and wish list to the “big guy” himself, Father Christmas, weekends throughout December and secure a spot on the “nice” list. Price: FREE.
Merchant Gift Giveaway, Dec. 1 – Dec. 30, merchant business hours vary
Pick up a lucky number card at Forever Christmas, The Mark Twain Museum or the Visitor Center for a chance to win one of 2,000 free gifts at 20 participating merchants. Price: FREE.
Virginia City Christmas Ball – President Lincoln Meets Steampunk, Nov. 30, 2012, 7 p.m.
Take a step back in time to the Civil War era with contra dancing with Dennis Butterfield’s Victorian Orchestra and Steampunk at this annual ball at Piper’s Opera House. Price: $15, $20 at door.
Christmas on the Comstock Parade of Lights, Dec. 1, 2012, 5 p.m.
Gather along C Street, the town’s main drive, for an evening showcase of holiday lights glowing on everything from trucks to bikes. Price: FREE.
Christmas in the Sierra Concert, Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m.
Bring cowboy boots and a Santa hat to this boot-stomping good time with David John and the Comstock Cowboys for a country Christmas concert at Piper’s Opera House. Price: $20, $25 at door.
Breakfast with Santa, Dec. 2, 2012, 10 a.m. – noon
Join Father Christmas for breakfast and a chance to sit upon his merry lap to tell him Christmas wishes at Piper’s Opera House. Price: $6.
Gingerbread Social & Silent Auction, Dec. 9, 2012, 5 p.m.
Come see the work of custom gingerbread homes at Piper’s Opera House and purchase a favorite in the auction benefitting the Community Chest Food Bank. Price: FREE.
Mardi Gras New Year’s Eve Party – a benefit for Storey County Schools, Dec. 31, 2012, 8 p.m.
Ring in the New Year and benefit the community at Piper’s Opera House. Grab dinner at the Cajun style buffet and enjoy three alcoholic beverages plus a midnight champagne toast. Complete the night with party favors, live music and dancing. Price: $40 per ticket, $60 per couple.
To purchase tickets and for more information on Christmas on the Comstock events taking place in Virginia City, Nev., visit www.visitvirginiacitynv.com or call the Virginia City Tourism Commission (VCTC) at 775-847-7500.
