There’s nothing quite like the classic charm of Colonial Williamsburg during Christmas. Just take a leisurely stroll down Duke of Gloucester to admire the 18th-century inspired decorations (soon to be illuminated by candles and cressets). Or bundle up and take in the sights by horse-drawn carriage while sipping on hot cider or a cup of hot cocoa. There are countless opportunities to make memories with friends and family. And to help put you in the holiday spirit, we have a list of some of the brand NEW events this year that may just lead to new holiday traditions for you!

Grand Illumination Supper

Joining us Sunday for the Grand Illumination? The Chefs of Colonial Williamsburg have planned a holiday spread leading up to the big show. Enjoy live musical performances while you dine with friends and family in the intimate setting of the Williamsburg Lodge. I double-checked and you’ll be done in plenty of time to grab your spot for the fireworks! Tickets are required and there are still some reservations left.

Christmastime is Coming; the Geese are Getting Fat

Here’s another festive option if you plan to be in town this weekend for Grand Illumination. Veteran performers will play traditional tunes from varying centuries in Europe, the British Isles, and America. You may recognize some of the songs from your childhood. There are three different shows on Sunday and all wrap up before the fireworks!

Twelfth Night

Music, shipwrecks and sword fights! Sounds like a night of fun to me. This presentation of Shakespeare’s famous comedy is branded as family friendly and there’s been a lot of buzz about this inaugural performance. I personally plan to attend one of these shows and at just $25 a ticket, I think it falls into the category of affordable fun for the entire family.

Hurrah for the Holidays

Get ready for precision kick line dancers and holiday favorites as the excitement of Radio City Music Hall comes to Williamsburg Friday night. The Hurrah Players is Virginia’s leading family theater company. This performance takes place in Kimball Theatre and you’ll need a ticket!

A Sinatra Affair

Still not quite in the holiday spirit yet? Close your eyes and picture Frank Sinatra crooning “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” How about now? Tribute entertainer Sean Reilly will perform “Ol’ Blue Eyes'” most popular songs during a four-course meal at the Williamsburg Inn’s Regency Room. With Executive Chef Travis Brust planning the menu, I have no doubt you’ll be singing his praises before the night is over. My suggestion: Surprise your sweetheart and make it a date night!

Rum and Highland Tales

Winters were cold in the colonial capital and it wasn’t just the fires that kept everyone warm. It turns out a barrel of rum often lead to a barrel of laughs and some pretty great stories too. Storytellers Donna Wolf and Shel Browder share tales told by Highlanders of the 18th century as they transplanted here from Scotland. The first show is tonight!

Brasstastic Holidays

The Eastern Virginia Brass will perform all the classic Christmas Carols including “Sleigh Ride,” “Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “The Saints Hallelujah,” and themes from the “Nutcracker.” Judging by their picture alone, it should be a fun night! For this event, you’ll need museum admission plus a ticket which is only eight bucks!

There are so many performances and events-too many to share them all!

For a complete calendar of all our holiday happenings, click here to download our 2014 planner!