Richmond International Airport Welcomes Travelers with Largest Holiday Display

Over 180,000 passengers expected during December holiday period

Santa’s not the only one flying this season, and Richmond International Airport (RIC) is bringing holiday cheer to its terminals to make the journey as festive as the destination. Travelers are invited to come early and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.

Over a 12-day period from December 20, 2025, to January 1, 2025, RIC anticipates more than 180,000 travelers passing through the terminal as part of their holiday travel, which is similar to last year. Passengers are encouraged to plan ahead and allow ample time for parking, check-in, and security screening before departure.

“Every December at Richmond International Airport, as travelers set out to visit friends and loved ones, you can feel the spirit of the season all around you,” said Perry J. Miller, Ph.D., A.A.E., I.A.P., president and CEO of the Capital Region Airport Commission. “In support of our mission to deliver world-class customer experience, we’ve created an immersive holiday atmosphere throughout the terminal. It’s one way we can show our appreciation for the passengers who choose RIC and, hopefully, add a little extra joy to their holiday journey.”

Travelers at RIC will be greeted by the airport’s largest holiday display ever, including 650 feet of lights, over two football fields (850 feet) of garland, and nearly 8,000 colorful ornaments sprinkled from ticketing to takeoff. At the mouth of the airport’s upper-level connector, the crisp scent of winter woods wafts from a festively decorated 12-foot evergreen tree.

Holiday performances from area schools will take place near the tree through December 18, filling the connector with merry music (schedule attached). Just beyond, small business pop-up shops await passengers — 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday-Friday through December 19.

About Richmond International Airport (RIC)

Richmond International Airport’s vision is to be the region’s preferred gateway to the world. Eleven passenger airlines and four dedicated cargo carriers offer service from RIC with connecting options to points around the globe. According to the Commonwealth of Virginia, activities attributable to the Airport create nearly 16,000 jobs and contribute about $2.1 billion in annual economic activity to Virginia’s Capital Region. To learn more, please visit RIC on the web, X, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, or LinkedIn.

Contacts:

Susan Rowland
Sr. Specialist – Public Relations and Corporate Communications
srowland@flyrichmond.com

Troy M. Bell, C.M.
Director – Air Service Development and Corporate Communications
tbell@flyrichmond.com