Good morning, Charlottesville.

The annual Toy Lift collection continues despite snowy conditions + marks its 36th consecutive year while serving 3,781 children this holiday season in Charlottesville.

Albemarle Fire Rescue brings Santa Claus on a fire engine through Hollymead neighborhoods today and over the coming days.

The annual Santa Run is a festive tradition that spreads holiday cheer to local residents.

The former diner at the C&O railway station is now an intimate white-tablecloth eatery on Water Street at the far end of the Downtown Mall that serves a blend of classic French and modern American fare.

Reservations are recommended (the only open slot is 8:30 p.m. on a Thursday).

Charlottesville officials hired a cleanup group on Friday, Dec.

5 to tidy downtown — a move designed to improve public spaces as the city prepares for future events.

U.Va. board members will hold December meetings at Boar’s Head Resort to minimize disruption during stage preparations for Lighting of the Lawn.

The open sessions will be livestreamed; however, legal experts have raised FOIA concerns about the venue's accessibility (in-person attendance may be less accessible).

The UVA Board of Visitors held its final meeting Friday amid pressure from on-grounds groups and from Richmond to pause its search for a permanent president.

The Virginia Cavaliers are set to face Duke in an ACC Championship rematch today in Charlotte.

Coach Elliott said his team is focused on winning by one score — while Duke coach Diaz noted schedule challenges, both sides bracing for a tight contest.

Virginia volleyball ended its season 13-17 as a drop in veteran continuity and frequent changes to playing venues affected its rhythm; key matchups with Virginia Tech and Michigan showed the team’s potential to build for a stronger 2026 campaign.

Virginia's women's basketball team lost by 13 points to No. 15 Vanderbilt on Wednesday in the ACC/SEC Challenge as free throw issues + low support from key players allowed Vanderbilt to pull ahead.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

7:30-9:00 p.m. — John Paul Jones Arena — Family-friendly event — Experience a dazzling holiday spectacular filled with breathtaking performances.

Ramona & The Holy Smokes with Hannah Juanita

7-9 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket prices may vary — Enjoy a lively Honky Tonk Night with great music from local talents.

Shakey Graves Solo Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Tickets available — Experience the unique musical journey of Shakey Graves up close and personal.

Rebirth Brass Band Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant sounds of the Rebirth Brass Band, a New Orleans institution.

Tuesday Rumba Night with Vincent Zorn

7-11 p.m. — The Bebedero — Check website for cost — Experience wild Gypsy Rumba guitars fused with Latin and Cuban influences in an evening of dynamic performances.

New Year's Eve Dining Experience

New Year's Eve 2025 — 4:00 p.m. onwards — Hamiltons' at First & Main — $95 per person — Enjoy a luxurious four-course dinner crafted by Chef Hunter Harding with a toast to ring in 2026.