A visit to the Revolutionary City is special any time of the year, but something magical happens during the Christmas season. The historic buildings are fitted with greenery, dried fruit, and other decorations. Candles are placed in every window and the smell of fire from the cressets fills the air. If you’ve ever considered spending the holidays with us, this may be your year!

CHRISTMAS EVE

The Holiday Ball

Travel back to 1773, during Christmastide, and accept your invitation to ball at Mr. Southall’s Raleigh Tavern. Sing, dance, and enjoy lively conversations with the people of Williamsburg.

Ice Sculptures and Gingerbread Villages

Head to the Williamsburg Lodge and witness our executive chef as he transforms a 300 pound block of ice into a work of art. Then head inside to view the Gingerbread Village and warm up with some mulled wine, hot buttered rum, or hot chocolate at the Lodge Lounge.

Christmastide at Home

Experience Williamsburg Christmases of the past and discover our colonial traditions, customs and find out about the first Christmas tree in Williamsburg while learning how Colonial Williamsburg’s Christmas traditions began.

Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Join us on Christmas Eve from 5 - 5:30 p.m. for an 18th-century Virginia tradition of the firing of Christmas guns. The celebration continues with the reading of “The Night Before Christmas,” Christmas carols, and the lighting of the evergreen tree on Market Square. This is a must-see event, that will put you in the Christmas spirit!

CHRISTMAS DAY

Christmas Decorations Walking Tour

Enjoy a guided tour to view the picturesque buildings and streets decked out in their holiday best. Learn about the materials, construction technique, and the tradition behind the decorations.

Capitol Evening

It’s the 18^th-century event of the season! You will be delighted with entertainment and dancing as you pass through the Capitol building.

Of Christmas Past

Visit with a British servant who had just arrived in Virginia with his master. Hear what he misses most about the holiday customs and traditions he left behind.

Will you be spending Christmas with us this year? Have you spent Christmas with us in the past?