Shoppers encouraged to buy local

This holiday season, Virginia City business owners invite area residents and visitors to shop locally for holiday gifts and partake in the family-friendly spirit of Christmas events reminiscent of the old day

The historic town’s Christmas on the Comstock is a month-long holiday celebration beginning Dec. 3, with a new The Grinch Made Me Do It Saloon Crawl, a holiday craft fair, the Parade of Lights, a holiday concert and photos with Father Christmas.

“There’s a great movement to shop locally and support the local economy, especially through the holidays,” said Deny Dotson, tourism director for the Virginia City Tourism Commission. “Our Virginia City merchants have a lot to offer with unique gifts and collectables. Perhaps you’d like to give the gift of an experience. The history buff in the family might love a membership to the Fourth Ward School or the kids may enjoy a day trip with a ride on the V&T Railroad. Plus, a trip to the Comstock makes for a great holiday excursion for family and friends visiting during the holidays.”

Dec. 3 festivities and month-long shopping and specials include:

The Grinch Made Me Do It Saloon Crawl: Start the day with some spirited fun sampling holiday-themed specialty drinks throughout the saloons of Virginia City. Designated drivers are rewarded for being “Rudolph” with free non-alcoholic drinks, a Christmas on the Comstock Santa hat and the chance to win a $50 gas card. Advance purchase available online or day-of at the Virginia City Visitors Center. Dec. 3, 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Price: $20 in advance, $25 day of. Designated Driver “Rudolph” cup $8 in advance or $10 day-of.

3rd annual Holiday Faire: Start your Christmas shopping early and view works of art from artists around the region at St. Mary’s Art Center. Dec. 3, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 55 R Street, Virginia City. Call 775-847-7774 for details. Free.

Parade of Lights: Bundle up and gather along C Street for Virginia City’s holiday parade and watch as the town lights up with Christmas cheer. Dec. 3, 5 p.m. Free.

Christmas in the Sierra — Concert with David John & The Comstock Cowboys: Bring your cowboy boots and 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. Purchase tickets online. Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Price: $25 adults, $15 kids 12 and under.

Photos with Father Christmas: Stop by the Virginia City Visitors Center at 86 South C St. to meet Father Christmas and create a holiday memory, Nov. 25-27, Dec. 3-4, 10-11 and 17-18 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

The Candy Cane Express Trains: Create holiday memories aboard the V&T Candy Cane Express. Delight with visits from the Candy Cane Sisters while sipping hot chocolate, spiced apple cider and enjoying delicious cookies and candy canes. Purchase tickets online: Nov. 25, 26 and Dec. 3, 4, 10, 11. Price: $19 adults, $8 kids 12 and under. Under 2 free.

Boutique Holiday Shopping: Explore shops like Forever Christmas, From the World and many more for unique gifts. December hours vary. Contact the stores directly or the Virginia City Visitors Center for details at 775-847-7500.

For more information on Christmas on the Comstock or Virginia City, visit VisitVirginiaCityNV.com, or call the Virginia City Tourism Commission (VCTC) at 775-847-7500.