williamsburg christmas home tour

News and Information for Gloucester and Mathews, Virginia

Thursday, September 05, 2024 Vol. LXXXVII, no. 36 NEW SERIES

Home » Christmas Homes Tour returns

Christmas Homes Tour returns

After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Green Spring Garden Club of Williamsburg will hold its 61st Christmas Homes Tour Dec. 3 and 10 to coordinate with the festivities of the Colonial Williamsburg Grand Illuminations. Both tours will feature the Nelson-Galt House, which is this year’s Designer in Residence House. This is the oldest dwelling in the historic area dating to 1695. Two additional private homes located in the historic area will also be featured. Each home will be decorated with seasonal flower arrangements. Tickets are $40 for one tour date and $70 for both dates. Visit greenspringgardenclub.org to purchase tickets. The tours will be held from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. both days. The website also featured detailed descriptions of each home being featured in this year’s tours, as well as photographs of decorated homes from years past. Green Spring Garden Club donates its proceeds to fund scholarships for students who study current environmental issues at the Col...

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Virginia Gazette

Subscriber only, christmas homes tour returns this weekend in colonial williamsburg.

A dining room table set for a previous Christmas Homes tour. Courtesy of Green Spring Garden Club

PAUL M BLAIS

A holiday window decoration in the Nelson-Galt House from a previous Christmas Homes tour. The house is on the tour again this year. Courtesy of Green Spring Garden Club

Alison Johnson

Marie Bond, chair for the Coke-Garrett House tour, and Susan Dippre, one of two general chairs for the 2022 Christmas Homes Tour, in front of the Coke-Garrett House, home to the president of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. The home will be open Dec. 3. Alison Johnson/freelance

Instead, women gathered materials from their yards, such as pine cones, flowers, ivy and other greenery, and got creative. They shared items with neighbors and favored a symmetrical style, often creating matching arrangements for each side of a display.

The 2022 Christmas Homes Tour, presented by the Green Spring Garden Club and starting this weekend, aims to recreate those settings with a few extra whimsical touches. The club will showcase five Colonial Williamsburg residences for a two-day event — this Saturday and Dec. 10 — that aligns with CW’s Grand Illumination.

“We want people to have a magical experience when they walk inside each door,” said Marie Bond, chair for the Coke-Garrett House, one of the featured homes. “They’ll step right into these beautiful scenes, set up to look all ready for meals and family life.”

Dining rooms will feature fully set tables, while a bedroom might have a waiting tray of tea and gingerbread muffins. Gentlemen’s desks could have feather quill pens and parchment paper ready, with initialed stationary and small flower vases on ladies’ desks.

The Nelson-Galt House on East Francis Street — the oldest dwelling in town, with central framing that dates back to 1695 — will be open with special art, furniture and décor both days of the tour, each time with two additional homes.

Other properties are the Coke-Garrett House on East Nicolson Street, the Timson House on Prince George Street, the George Davenport House on East Francis Street and the Robert Nicolson House on York Street.

Each home will be decorated in an 18th-century style using all-natural and Virginia-grown decorations, including magnolia leaves and seed pods; roses, tulips and mums; dried yarrow and lavender; and tangerines, pomegranates, apples, pears and lemons.

Green Spring Garden Club, founded in 1956, is a 50-member, invitation-only club that incorporated as a nonprofit in 1997. The club launched its Christmas Tour in 1959 and is returning after a two-year pause due to the COVID-10 pandemic.

The event is a major annual fundraiser for the garden club’s philanthropic efforts, which focus on beautification work and educational opportunities throughout the Historic Triangle.

Money has gone to landscaping and gardens at sites such as Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown Settlement, Yorktown’s Church Street, the College of William & Mary, Sentara Regional Medical Center and Hospice House of Williamsburg. The club also sponsors scholarships for local college students studying environmental science and children attending nature camps.

“All of the money stays in our community,” said Susan Dippre, one of two general chairs of the 2022 Christmas Tour. “The tour is a lot of hard work, but we love doing it. It feels like the beginning of Christmas for us.”

Each home on the tour has a rich history. Take the Coke-Garrett House, the current home of Cliff Fleet, president and CEO of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. While the property has multiple sections, parts of it date back to the 18th century.

John Coke, a goldsmith and tavernkeeper, built the center house in the late 1750s or early 1760s. When Coke died in 1767, his widow rented out the home as a tavern, while a son living with her repaired wagons and mounted cannons during the Revolutionary War.

In 1810, another owner, the Garrett family, purchased the property. Dr. Robert Garrett, a surgeon, added a brick office where he would treat wounded Union and Confederate soldiers after the Battle of Williamsburg in 1862.

Garden club hostesses will be on site during tours to answer questions about a property’s history and furnishings. Club members also hope people will remember favorite decorations that they might duplicate in their own houses.

In past years, for instance, crowds formed around the sheep figures in a colonial scene, made with cauliflower bodies and black olive heads, and a Noah’s Ark built with pairs of vegetables. “It’s so much fun to inspire people and get new ideas from each other,” Bond notes.

Tourgoers also can choose to stay for the Grand Illumination, which Colonial Williamsburg has scheduled for three Saturday evenings in December. Those festivities include special holiday decorations and processions, musical performances and fireworks.

As Dippre puts it: “Many different kinds of beauty, all in a single day.”

Want to go?

What: 61st Anniversary of the Christmas Homes Tour, presented by Green Spring Garden Club

When: Dec. 3 and 10, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Price: $40 for one day; $70 for two days; $15 for day-of single house tours

Notes: No interior photography, touching items, smoking, backpacks, pets, food or drinks. Homes are not handicapped-accessible. Flat shoes are strongly encouraged; masks are optional.

For tickets and information, visit greenspringgardenclub.org .

Alison Johnson, [email protected]

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11 Magical Things to Do in Williamsburg at Christmas

By: Author Katie

Posted on November 16, 2023

Williamsburg is one of the absolute best places to explore in Virginia at Christmastime, and there are plenty of activities and events to keep you busy. History lovers have a special place in their heart for Virginia’s historic triangle and it’s easy to see why during the holidays.

1. Experience a Colonial Williamsburg Christmas

There’s no better way to experience Christmas than by visiting Colonial Williamsburg! The tree-lighting ceremony is a must-see, and the Governor’s Palace is decked out in all its colonial glory. 

Even if you can’t make it to Williamsburg during Christmastime, don’t worry – there are plenty of other events happening throughout the month. Duke of Gloucester Street is still beautifully decorated, so be sure to take a stroll down there if you’re in town. Happy holidays!

2. Christmas Shopping in Williamsburg

If you are looking for fun Christmas shopping places, look no further than Colonial Williamsburg. There is a unique combination of historical items, unusual ornaments and traditional decorations to get your home ready for the holiday season.

The Christmas Shop in Merchants Square is a great place to find unique ornaments and collectibles. If you’re looking for something special, this is the place to go. 

Along Duke of Gloucester Street, stop by the open trade shops to learn more about 18th Century American life. Be sure to ask a few questions at each shop so you can get the most out of your visit.

Finally, don’t miss out on the main street for Williamsburg – it offers plenty of shops and attractions. 

Williamsburg is a great place to find Christmas décor during the holidays – so don’t wait any longer and start planning your trip today!

When you need a break from shopping, enjoy lunch or dinner at one of our favorite restaurants near Colonial Williamsburg .

3. Witnessing The Marvelous Grand Illumination Of Colonial Williamsburg

If you are anywhere near the Williamsburg, VA area during December, you’ll definitely want to witness the Grand Illumination. This special event is a holiday tradition that celebrates the beginning of Christmas festivities in the city.

The fun starts in the evening, but be sure to get there early if you want a good spot to view the fireworks show!

There are three great locations where you can see everything that’s going on: Merchant’s Square, Market Square, and Duke of Gloucester Street. And don’t worry–you won’t miss any of the action no matter where you are in Williamsburg; all of the streets will be lit up with beautiful displays!

The Grand Illumination is always a marvel to behold. If you’re looking for something special to do during Christmastime, this event is definitely worth checking out!

Williamsburg is one of the most magical things to do in Virginia at Christmas . Be sure to see our other top picks!

4. Williamsburg’s Marvelous 18th Century Holiday Tradition

The 18th century Christmas tradition in Williamsburg is lighting the cressets. This event takes place on Duke of Gloucester Street from mid-December to Christmas Eve. Cressets are large, metal baskets that hang from a frame and have a handle. They were used to carry lighted candles or torches. The flame was often used as a signal or warning.

There are many events and performances happening throughout the holiday season, including walking tours that highlight Colonial Christmas decorations.

There is also the Grand Illumination Celebration where visitors can see buildings and homes all dressed up for the holidays with thousands of lights!

5. Busch Gardens Christmas Town

Christmas Town at Busch Gardens is a must-see for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit! This theme park features all of the classic Christmas attractions, like Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, an ice skating show, and a light display that will take your breath away.

In addition, there are plenty of festive food options available throughout the park.

Busch Gardens has added a new attraction to their lineup: the Christmas Town Express train. Board this steam locomotive for a relaxing ride through the park as you take in all of the holiday sights and sounds. And don’t worry – jolly old St. Nick himself will be on board to make sure everyone has a good time!

See our guide to Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Williamsburg for more helpful information about visiting.

6. Williamsburg Premium Outlets

If you are looking for a great place to shop during the Christmas season, Williamsburg Premium Outlets is definitely worth checking out! This shopping destination has more than 120 stores, including Kate Spade and Coach.

7. Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Foundation

The Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Foundation offer holiday programs for visitors. These programs include special interpretive tours, holiday films, and seasonal activities on both historic sites.

The Jamestown Settlement is hosting Christmastide events to show off how Christmas was celebrated in the 17th and 18th century. 

At Historic Jamestown, enjoy the “ At Christmas Be Mery” celebration. This special ticket event recreates an early Virginia Christmas celebration circa 1621 with caroling, a bonfire, a cappella singers and costumed interpreters.

Jamestown is just one of the many fun things to do in Williamsburg with kids , which makes this a great family activity.

✅ Check out our Virginia Christmas Tree Farm Guide!

8. Colonial Williamsburg Hotel Christmas Packages

Planning on visiting Colonial Williamsburg during the Christmas season? Why not stay at one of the many hotels or resorts in the area!

Colonial Williamsburg Resorts offer a Holiday Getaway Package valid from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. This package includes a variety of great benefits, such as admission to all of the Historic Area attractions and discounts on merchandise at select shops.

If you’re looking for a luxurious option, the Williamsburg Inn is a 5-star Regency-style luxury hotel. It features beautiful rooms and suites, award-winning dining options, and an indoor pool.

If you’re looking for something with more family appeal, check out Kingsmill Resort . It offers condos with access to golf courses and swimming pools.

For those who prefer bed and breakfast accommodations, The Cedars of Williamsburg Bed and Breakfast is a charming colonial inn located close to everything Colonial Williamsburg has to offer, including restaurants, shopping, and sightseeing opportunities. All of its beautifully decorated rooms include private baths and free Wi-Fi service.

If traveling with kids, you may be interested in the Great Wolf Lodge. We are not big fans of this property as you can see in our honest review of Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg , but you may enjoy it.

No matter what type of accommodation you choose in Colonial Williamsburg, you can be sure that you will enjoy some great perks like free breakfast or discounts on admission to local attractions!

9. Holiday Dining at Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg offers a variety of dining options for visitors during the holiday season.

There are four taverns in the Historic Area which serve authentic 18th-century food, including:

• King’s Arms Tavern
• Shields Tavern
• Chowning’s Tavern
• Christiana Campbell’s Tavern

The Tavern at Williamsburg is open year-round.

10. Mistletoe Market

Sponsored by the York County Tourism Development Board, the Mistletoe Market on December 9, 2023 offers a variety of gift options for those looking for unique presents.

This market is located on Riverwalk Landing in Yorktown. Visitors can find baked goods, hot and hearty soups and chowders, handmade goods, candles and soaps, among other items.

Unique activities include a colonial ornament craft opportunity and ice carving demonstrations.

11. Yule Log Celebration

The Yule Log Celebration is an annual tradition that takes place in Colonial Williamsburg.

It is a cherished tradition in Williamsburg, Virginia. Every year on the day after Thanksgiving, residents, and visitors alike gather around a giant bonfire to watch as the yule log is burned. The event is free and open to the public, and everyone is welcome to join in the fun.

There’s something special about gathering around a fire and watching the flames dance. It’s a time to reflect on the past year and give thanks for all that we have. The Yule Log Celebration is a wonderful way to start off the holiday season.

There are plenty of things to do in Williamsburg at Christmas, including shopping, attending parades exploring world-famous Colonial Williamsburg. If you are looking for something truly unique, though, be sure to check out the Jamestown Settlement and American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. These two museums offer a rare look into how Christmas was celebrated in 17th and 18th century Virginia.

While in Williamsburg for Christmas, you may also enjoy these activities:

• Most Scenic Hiking Trails Near Williamsburg
• Christmas Tree Farms in Virginia
• Small Towns in Virginia with Southern Charm

Williamsburg VA Christmas: 14 Must-Do Festivities for a Joyful Season!

Crackling fireplaces, piping hot mugs of wassail, and garlands of popcorn and cranberries. There’s just something so enchanting about adopting 18th-century Christmas traditions. Celebrate the holidays in our country’s most historic area when you plan a Williamsburg Christmas.

Step into a historic area of a winter wonderland as you experience Christmas at Colonial Williamsburg ! This charming historic town in Virginia transforms into a festive paradise with some of the best light displays in North America, Christmas markets, and unforgettable events. Imagine strolling through cobblestone streets lined with beautifully decorated colonial buildings, each more enchanting than the last.

From caroling and live music to traditional holiday feasts and dramatic reenactments, there’s something magical for everyone. Don’t miss out on making timeless Christmas traditions with your loved ones in this captivating holiday destination!

What's in this article?

Must-Attend Events at Colonial Williamsburg Christmas 2024

The holiday season in Colonial Williamsburg is a magical journey back in time. Immerse yourself in the festive celebrations with these must-attend events:

Grand Illumination: Get ready to be dazzled! The Grand Illumination at Colonial Williamsburg on December 7, 14, & 21, 2024, is a fireworks extravaganza like no other. Explore beautifully decorated 18th-century sights by day, then soak up the magic with live music and a sky-filling fireworks show at the Capitol and the Palace.

Colonial Christmas in Williamsburg VA: Step back in time for a truly unforgettable holiday experience ! From December 5-8, 2024, Richmond, Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, and Yorktown transform into a winter wonderland. Discover holiday traditions, savor delicious food at historic taverns, and immerse yourself in the colonial spirit.

Christmas Town at Busch Gardens: Get ready for a thrill-seeking holiday theme park adventure! Busch Gardens Christmas Town , open from November 15, 2024, to January 5, 2025, is a magical wonderland of lights, shows, and rides. Enjoy the excitement of your favorite coasters with a festive twist, savor delicious holiday treats, and soak up the cheerful atmosphere at 1 Busch Gardens Blvd .

Community Christmas Tree Lighting: Join your community for a heartwarming celebration! The Community Christmas Tree Lighting at W Duke of Gloucester Street , in 2024 (date TBD) is a free event that kicks off the Christmas season with a dazzling tree, live music, and a sense of community. It’s the perfect way to spread joy and cheer.

Williamsburg Christmas Parade: Experience the magic of the holidays at the “Believe” themed Williamsburg Christmas Parade on December 8, 2024! Watch as illuminated floats fill the streets at 5 PM, and don’t forget to wear your brightest light-up accessories to add to the sparkle. This beloved tradition, delighting Williamsburg since 1965, is a must-see for everyone!

Related Post: Williamsburg VA Packing List – The Must-Have Items for Your Next Trip

Christmastide in Virginia:  Step back in time and experience the magic of Christmastide ! From December 20-31, 2024, Jamestown Settlement & American Revolution Museum at Yorktown transports you to the 17th and 18th centuries with festive cheer.

Enjoy lively programs, mouthwatering cooking demos, and sing-alongs that’ll fill you with holiday spirit. Immerse yourself in history through interactive exhibits and activities. Open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except Christmas Day), it’s a perfect family outing!

WinterFest at Kings Dominion: Get ready for a dazzling WinterFest !

Kings Dominion transforms into a magical holiday experience from November 29 to December 31 on select nights. Be amazed by millions of Christmas lights, including a 300-foot-tall Christmas tree Eiffel Tower!

Lace up your skates on the ice rink, enjoy live shows, savor festive treats, and shop for unique gifts. It’s a winter wonderland filled with thrills and holiday cheer!

Things To Do at Christmas in Williamsburg 2024

Williamsburg transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holidays! From historic charm to thrilling attractions, there’s something for everyone at Colonial Williamsburg at Christmas and beyond.

Liberty Ice Pavilion: Lace up for festive skating at Liberty Ice Pavilion on historic Duke of Gloucester St! Glide under holiday lights while enjoying festive tunes. Warm up with hot cider available nearby, then consider dining in nearby Merchant Square. It’s the perfect chilly day escape!

Colonial Christmas Tour:  Step back in time with a Colonial Christmas Tour in Williamsburg. Discover beautifully decorated homes and learn about 18th-century holiday traditions. This historical adventure is perfect for families and history buffs, and it begins at E. Duke of Gloucester St .

Visit the Williamsburg Christmas Market 2024: From December 19-22, the Williamsburg Christmas Market transforms Downtown Williamsburg. Go holiday shopping with local artists and vendors along Court Street and Bicentennial Park. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with festive decorations and seasonal treats. It’s a shopper’s paradise in a picturesque setting!

See the Holiday Decorations at Colonial Williamsburg:  Tour Colonial Williamsburg to see holiday decorations that light up the historical streets. Each building features authentic 18th-century decor, offering a festive visual treat. This seasonal decor tour is ideal for those who love history blended with holiday charm. Don’t miss this beautiful, photogenic experience.

Related Post: Williamsburg with Toddlers – 5 Fun Activities to Try

Visit the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg:  Explore the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg at 301 S Nassau St this holiday season. Enjoy collections of American and folk art in a festively decorated setting. Perfect for art lovers and history enthusiasts, these museums offer a cultural break from the cold.

Candlelight Dinners in Historic Taverns:  Enjoy a meal by candlelight at one of Colonial Williamsburg’s historic taverns . Savor dishes inspired by 18th-century recipes in a historic setting. These dinners are perfect for a romantic evening or a historical family experience. Dine like the colonists during the festive season!

Enjoy a Christmas Carriage Ride:  Take a Christmas carriage ride through Colonial Williamsburg’s beautifully lit streets. Bundle up and enjoy the sights of festive decorations and historic buildings. This charming ride is perfect for creating special holiday memories. It’s a delightful way to see the town’s festive best.

Williamsburg VA Christmas FAQs

Is williamsburg, va nice at christmas.

Williamsburg, VA transforms into a winter wonderland at Christmas, offering a truly enchanting experience, steeped in historical charm and festive cheer. The city's colonial backdrop adorned with holiday lights and decorations makes it a unique destination for seasonal celebrations.

Is Williamsburg Open on Christmas?

Yes, Williamsburg is open on Christmas Day, welcoming visitors from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This gives guests a chance to enjoy the festive atmosphere and historical sites during the holiday.

Is Williamsburg a Walkable Town?

The City of Williamsburg is bicycle-friendly and is known for its easy walkability, making it ideal for exploring on foot. Its compact layout and well-maintained sidewalks allow visitors to comfortably wander through historic streets and local attractions. This walkability enhances the charming experience of visiting Williamsburg, especially during the festive seasons or historical reenactments.

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas at Colonial Williamsburg With Tripster!

Experience Christmas in Colonial Williamsburg with Tripster and enjoy a festive journey back in time! We offer exclusive discounts on hotels , activities , and vacation packages , making your holiday both merry and budget-friendly.

Stroll through historically decorated streets, and immerse yourself in the 18th-century holiday spirit. Don’t forget to check out our travel guide for insider tips on the best colonial festivities. With Tripster, Williamsburg at Christmas will be filled with charm and cheer at great value!

Did We Miss Anything?

Let us know below!

Written by Kyla Paler

1 comment about “Williamsburg VA Christmas: 14 Must-Do Festivities for a Joyful Season!”

The Capitol Concert is a special occasion to hear Christmas chamber music. Don’t miss it!

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Colonial Williamsburg Christmas Decorations Walking Tour

Colonial Williamsburg’s 2023 Christmas Decorations Walking Tour

Daily: Nov 25 – Dec 1 from 10 – 11 am Daily: Dec 2 – 25 from 2 – 3 pm

Enjoy a guided look at Colonial Williamsburg’s picturesque building exteriors and streets decked out in holiday splendor. Discuss the materials and construction techniques of these traditional holiday decorations. For tickets and times visit here .

James Geddy House｜$15 per person | Learn more and get your tickets here

For more events at Colonial Williamsburg visit our Colonial Williamsburg events page , their Holiday Planner page and our Daily Calendar !

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“The earth belongs to God. Everything in all the world is His!” -Psalm 24:1

A Williamsburg Christmas

Saturday, December 07, 2024

Price per person: $849.00

Walking Guide 3 requires moderate amount of walking possibly on uneven surfaces; longer and shorter days; possible air travel with long walks to terminal gates.

Witness the Grand Illumination in Historic Williamsburg, visit Christmas Town in Busch Gardens  and browse Old Town Alexandria.

Select an option... Lancaster, PA York, PA

Select an option... Deposit only per person ( $ 75.00 ) Double per person ( $ 849.00 ) Single per person ( $ 1,003.00 ) Triple per person ( $ 798.00 ) Quad per person ( $ 772.00 )

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December 7-9, 2024 | 3 days

Pickup: Lancaster, PA    York, PA    Lv-8:00 am    Rt-9:00 pm

Price per person : $849 Double    $1,003 Single $798 Triple    $772 Quad Deposit – $75 per person at registration

2 breakfasts    2 lunches    1 dinner

Day 1 *Travel to Historic Williamsburg, Virginia *Enjoy a seafood dinner at Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant *See the Grand Illumination in the Historic area *Overnight in Williamsburg, VA (1st of 2 nights) (D)

Day 2 *Take in the beauty and history of Williamsburg with a guided walking tour of Historic Williamsburg *Explore Williamsburg historic shops and homes on your own *Lunch at the historic Shield’s Tavern *Visit Christmas Town in Busch Gardens *Enjoy Christmas Show in the one of their many theaters with reserved seating *Overnight in Williamsburg, VA (B, L)

Day 3 *Depart Williamsburg for Alexandria, VA *Browse Old town Alexandria *Tour the Gadsby’s Tavern Museum Mr. Gadsby’s establishment was a center of political, business, and social life in early Alexandria. It was frequented by George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe and the Marquis de Lafayette. *Lunch at the historic Gadsby’s Tavern *Continue our journey home (B, L)

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If you’re looking to live inside a Hallmark Holiday movie, book a Williamsburg Christmas vacation!  It turns into a magical place throughout the holiday season with romantic carriage rides, boat parades, epic holiday light displays, and charming holiday markets, to name just a few.

15 Things to do during a Williamsburg Christmas Vacation

Its central Northeast location is within one day’s drive for a large portion of the U.S. population. So skip those expensive holiday flights, and drive or even take Amtrak to a magical Williamsburg Christmas vacation. Here are the best ways to enjoy a Williamsburg Christmas from local resident Wander With Alex .

Even the town thinks the last week of the year is “the most wonderful week of the year in Williamsburg. There are many idyllic holiday things to do on a Williamsburg Christmas trip. Let’s get to them!

1. Busch Gardens Christmas Town

Busch Gardens Christmas Town is a holiday activity for the entire family to enjoy. Busch Garden Williamsburg turns into a magical Christmas wonderland from November to January. Touting “10 million twinkling lights,” Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers one of North America’s largest Christmas light shows!

In addition to your favorite amusement park rides, your family can enjoy ice skating, light shows, and delicious food from around the world! And let’s not forget the ever-popular Christmas shows! Enjoy annual musicals such as ‘Twas That Night and Up on the Haustop. Your Williamsburg Christmas vacation isn’t complete without a visit to Busch Gardens Christmas Town!

2. Colonial Williamsburg Christmas Events

Colonial Williamsburg holds several different events during the Christmas season. First, the Grand Illumination is held three weekends in December. First, take a walk or carriage ride through the grounds and enjoy the beautiful Christmas décor. Then, enjoy holiday traditions from the 18th century and end the night watching spectacular fireworks at the Capitol Building.

Colonial Williamsburg also offers ice skating on the Historic Duke of Gloucester St. at the Liberty’s Ice Pavilion Outdoor Ice-Skating rink. So enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or cider and watch the kids have fun on the ice. Or, better yet, join them out there! Ice skating season passes and day passes are available as skate rentals.

Enjoy many other holiday traditions, such as the Yule Log celebration, the 12 Days and Nights before Christmas, and a Christmas decoration walking tour.

3. Christmas Tree Lighting

This year, take the family to the community Colonial Williamsburg Christmas tree lighting! Located in Market Square on Duke of Gloucester St., the annual tree lighting offers Christmas décor, holiday carols, and a 40ft Christmas tree with over 7,500 lights!

Another fun Christmas tree lighting ceremony occurs nearby Yorktown at Victory Monument & Riverwalk Landing. This lighting tradition started in 1945 and has continued to this day. Enjoy live music and local holiday traditions, and take the kids to see the Clauses!

4. Winter Carriage Rides in Williamsburg

Try something unique to the area this holiday season and take a Colonial Williamsburg carriage ride! Carriage rides, and wagon rides, can accommodate 1 to 4 people. Enjoy Christmas decor, music, and the aroma of the holiday season while touring the grounds of Historic Colonial Williamsburg. Carriage rides are an excellent activity for families and friends or a romantic outing with your significant other!

5. Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade

Street parades are a traditional family activity during the holiday season, but have you ever been to a lighted boat parade? If not, you’re in luck! Yorktown , just 15 minutes from Williamsburg, holds an annual lighted boat parade free to the public! So, grab a cup of hot chocolate, grab a seat, and marvel over the beautifully decorated boats floating along the York River this holiday season. Oh, and don’t forget your flashlights and lawn chairs!

6. Williamsburg Christmas Market

If you love Traditional European Christmas Markets, you’ll want to head to the Downtown Williamsburg P6 parking lot on Francis Street this holiday season! Free to the public, the newly assembled Williamsburg Christmas Market offers live entertainment, fire pits, Christmas music, and 60 different vendors throughout the event. Drink cider and wine while shopping and trying locally made goods.

7. Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Pops

If you love the music and sounds of the holiday season, then you’ll love the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra’s annual holiday concert, Holiday Pops! The December concert series occurs the weekend of the Grand Illumination in Colonial Williamsburg. Perfect for the entire family, the Holiday Pops series showcases classics, carols, and an atmosphere that will surely get you in the Christmas spirit.

8. Merchants Square Holiday StoryWalk

An educational Christmas activity for the kids, put on by the Williamsburg Public Library each year, is called the holiday StoryWalk. Each year the library chooses a children’s Christmas story and partners with businesses on Merchant Square.

Then, each company posts a page of the story in their window! So take the family on a stroll through beautifully decorated Merchant Square while reading about fun Christmas adventures! You can pick up a copy of the map at the Williamsburg Public Library or download it from their website.

9. Annual Williamsburg Christmas Parade

Now, who doesn’t love a good Christmas parade? A local tradition since 1965, the annual Williamsburg Christmas Parade is a fun family community activity. So relax on the sidelines, bundled up with your loved ones, with a cup of hot chocolate in hand!

Enjoy decorated floats with hundreds of twinkling lights, performances by local school bands, live entertainment, and even Mr. Clause himself! The parade begins on Brooks Street and Richmond Road and ends in the Colonial Williamsburg employee parking lot.

10. Yorktown Mistletoe Market at Riverwalk Landing

Presented by Yorktown Market Days, and for one day only– be sure not to miss the Yorktown Mistletoe Market at Riverwalk Landing! Explore local vendors for homemade pies, cookies, chowders, candles, and soaps, all while enjoying live music and performances.

Next, join in on the fun and festivities of the annual Toyland Parade! Finally, take a loop around the excitement on the Riverwalk Landing Polar Express!

11. Christmas at Historic Jamestown

Presented by the Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation, you won’t want to miss the annual “At Christmas Be Merry” holiday celebration. Sit by a bonfire with the family, and learn all about the Christmas traditions of the 17th century.

Then enjoy caroling and holiday stories followed by the firing of “Christmas” guns. For a fun and educational Christmas activity for the kids, head to Historic Jamestown this holiday season.

12. Christmas at Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

If you’re a history buff, you’ll love learning about 17th and 18th-century Christmas traditions at two popular living museums in Yorktown! An interactive outdoor learning experience will involve reenactments, live music, and storytelling.

Referred to as “Christmastide in Virginia,” you’ll first want to visit the Jamestown Settlement outdoor living museum. See buildings decorated in greenery, watch traditional holiday cooking, and learn about hunting in those times.

Then visit the American Revolution Museum and learn all about what it was like for the Continental Army during Christmas—they were living in camps! You will also learn about rationing, muskets, and Christmas traditions.

13. Yorktown Christmas Market on Main Street

If you’re looking for unique and handmade gifts, the Christmas Market on Main Street may help you cross a few things off your list! This annual event, held in Yorktown , is a local’s favorite during the holiday season.

The two-day event is free to the public, bringing together nearly 100 vendors for you to shop. First, stroll down Historic Main Street while enjoying live Christmas music and watch an ice carving at York Hall. Then, take the kids over to meet Santa Clause! The Christmas Market on Main Street is the perfect family holiday outing.

14. An Enchanted Evening on Main Street

For one night only, head over to Historic Main Street this year for an enchanting evening Christmas Market! That’s right! A brand-new event, Yorktown will be hosting a nighttime Christmas Market. There will be festive holiday music, cider, hot chocolate, and lots of shopping! An event not to miss! Check out VisitWilliamsburg.com to learn more about this event.

15. Holiday Dining in Williamsburg

Traditionally, Christmas meals are a big deal in Williamsburg. Many taverns and local restaurants are open for Christmas breakfast and brunch. Shield’s Tavern, King’s Arms Tavern, and Christiana Campbell’s Tavern have their waitstaff in costume. You’ll also enjoy your Christmas breakfast or brunch while listening to carolers sing some of the classics.

If it’s dinner you are looking for, be sure to make a reservation ahead of time. Popular Williamsburg Christmas dinner restaurants include the Colonial Williamsburg Lodge, Campbell’s Tavern, Kingsmill Resort, and the Williamsburg Winery.

If given the opportunity, the experience at the Colonial Williamsburg Lodge is one of a kind. Attend the Yuletide Supper on Christmas Eve, and then have an 18th-century style feast for Christmas dinner while enjoying live classical music.

A Magical Williamsburg Christmas Vacation

Many families make traveling to Williamsburg, Virginia, during Christmastime a family tradition! That’s because Williamsburg is filled with many different things to do and see during the holiday season. From theme parks and musicals to parades and walking tours, there’s a little something for everyone in the family.

More Articles by Planner at Heart

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• 10 Things to Do In Virginia Across the Seasons
• Endless Family Fun: 13 Things to Do in Lancaster PA

This article was produced by Planner at Heart .

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