What’s Happening in January 2016

We are excited to ring in the new year with changes and improvements. You may have heard that our Historic Area will be put on “pause” starting January 4. But what does that mean? It’s an opportunity for us to do much needed maintenance, repairs, and restoration to our historic buildings and grounds. And our Making History team plans to give you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the progress every step of the way.

When you’re a living history museum that’s open 365 days a year, you have to find a time with the least amount of impact on guests to make improvements such as these. For us, that month is January.

There will be many changes you can see; there will be several others you can’t. For example, our program directors and actor interpreters will be working diligently on fresh, new, educational programming. In particular, we are focusing on a vigorous schedule for Black History Month. Our tradespeople will be training the first week in January including some cross-training within sites. And we have a new trade that hasn’t been around since the 80s… that will be making a comeback in the spring. Stay tuned for more on that one!

While the Historic Area is shifting its focus and efforts for a few weeks—there is still plenty to do in and around the colonial capital.

• Our Art Museums will stay open! There are close to two dozen programs & exhibits lined up in January. All are included in your CW admission. You may also purchase tickets at the Lumber House ticket office and inside our museums.
• The Merchants Square and Historic Area shops will be open for business.
• Chowning’s Tavern will be serving food and drinks—seven days a week—11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. There will be no late night Gambols but you can call and make dinner reservations from 5 - 7:45 p.m.
• As long as the weather is good, you can take a carriage ride through town.
• The Lumber House Ticket office on DoG Street will be open from 9:45-5. It’s the perfect opportunity to avoid crowds & renew your Good Neighbor and Annual Passes!
• The Williamsburg Lodge will be taking reservations. Stop by the new restaurant, Sweet Tea & Barley which also provides outdoor seating around our new fire pits.
• Show off your skating skills at Liberty’s Ice Pavilion—open daily
• Take in a movie at the Kimball Theatre which will be selling tickets January 17-31

Be on the lookout for several behind-the-scenes blog posts in the coming weeks that feature some of the work and restoration being done. We’re looking forward to an exciting 2016!