A step back in time...
Experience Christmas the old fashioned way in historic Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia.
Colonial Williamsburg is a great family destination any time of year, but it's best in December when the town's buildings are beautifully decorated for Christmas.
Along with enjoying the wonderful holiday decorations, you will also experience the rich history that Colonial Williamsburg is famous for.
The Story of Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg' is the historic district of the independent city of Williamsburg, Virginia. It consists of many of the buildings that, from 1699 to 1780, formed colonial Virginias capital. The capital straddled the boundary of two of the original shires of Virginia, James City Shire (now James City County), and Charles River Shire (now York County). For most of the 18th century, Williamsburg was the center of government, education and culture in the Colony of Virginia.
Colonial Williamsburg is meant to be an interpretation of a Colonial American city, with exhibits including dozens of authentic or accurately-recreated colonial houses and relating to American Revolutionary War history. Prominent buildings in Colonial Williamsburg include the Raleigh Tavern, the Capitol, The Governor's Palace, and Bruton Parish Church. However, rather than simply an effort to preserve antiquity, the combination of extensive restoration and thoughtful recreation of the entire colonial town facilitates envisioning the atmosphere and understanding the ideals of 18th century American revolutionary leaders. It was here that Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, James Monroe, James Madison, George Wythe, Peyton Randolph, and dozens more helped mold democracy in the Commonwealth of Virginia and the United States.
The Historic Area is located just east of the College of William and Mary, founded at Middle Plantation in 1693, just prior to the establishment of the town as capital of Virginia and its renaming. The university's historic Wren Building stands at the west end of Duke of Gloucester Street.
Colonial Williamsburg is a major source of tourism to Williamsburg, as well as a touchstone for many world leaders and heads of state, including U.S. Presidents. The United States hosted the first World Economic Conference at Colonial Williamsburg in 1983. It is the centerpiece of the surrounding Historic Triangle of Virginia area, which has become a popular tourist destination for visitors domestic and foreign. The other two points of the Historic Triangle are Jamestown and Yorktown.
Holiday Decorations
One of the most popular winter activities in Colonial Williamsburg is walking through town to see the beautiful wreaths, swags and other holiday decorations.
You can walk around on your own or take a guided tour that explains the materials used, how they're made and the stories behind each wreath.
Did the colonists decorate this way for Christmas?
These traditions have been beautifully incorporated into life at Colonial Williamsburg. The wreaths and other decorations are all hand made using materials (fruit, shells, feathers, etc) that would have been available to the Virginia colonists.
Colonial Williamsburg on the Web
- Christmas in Colonial Williamsburg
- The official site of Christmas time in Colonial Williamsburg. You'll find a short history of the decorations and info on the special events held during the winter holidays.
- Colonial Williamsburg
- The official website for Colonial Williamsburg. Get the latest info on events, tickets, special offers, educational resources and even take a virtual tour of the city.
Learn More About Christmas in Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg Scenes
Pictures of various buildings decorated for Christmas in Colonial Williamsburg.
![IMG_5027.jpg by [ecpark]](http://static.flickr.com/131/332103831_7f822438e7_s.jpg)
Recommended Reading
Official Guide to Colonial Williamsburg
A wealth of beautiful pictures and information about touring Colonial Williamsburg, this guide will help you plan your trip and relive the experience when you return home.
Colonial Williamsburg Podcasts
Hear behind the scenes interviews with the historians, tradesmen, interpreters, musicians and others who make Colonial Williamsburg such a wonderful and educational place to visit.
Fetching RSS feed... please stand byWilliamsburg at Night
During the holiday season, there is a nightly parade of the fife and drum corps through town. Torches are lit as the corps passes each building.
What's New at Colonial Williamsburg?
Stay current on the latest events at Colonial Williamsburg.
Fetching RSS feed... please stand byTips to Help You Enjoy Your Visit
- Be Prepared to Walk - There is a lot to see in Colonial Williamsburg, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Try to plan out your route in advance to minimize backtracking.
- Dress for the Weather - Williamsburg in December is typically mild with highs in the 50s. Check the latest forecast with WeatherBug.
- Research Special Offers - The official CW hotels usually offer package rates that include the exhibit admissions. Check the official site for details.
- Make Dinner Reservations Early - Reservations fill up quickly for the on site restaurants.
- Take At Least One Guided Walking Tour - They're very informative, fun and give you a deeper understanding of colonial life. The guides are knowledgeable and able to answer any questions.
Colonial Folks
Mingle with the residents of Colonial Williamsburg. You might even get to hear Thomas Jefferson speak.
Other Area Attractions
- Shirley Plantation
- Established in 1613, Shirley Plantation is Virginia's first plantation and the oldest family owned business in North America. If you only have time to tour one of the James River plantations, this is the one.
- Williamsburg Winery
- It's only a short drive from Colonial Williamsburg to this beautiful winery.
- Jamestown and Yorktown
- Visit Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in the New World. Visit Yorktown where the British army surrendered to General Washington ending the American Revolution.
- Berkeley Plantation
- Berkeley is the birthplace of William Henry Harrison, 9th U.S. President and Benjamin Harrison V, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Colonial Christmas Decorations
Living History
Please share your thoughts of Colonial Williamsburg during the winter holidays.
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NicholeB
What a beautiful lens! Oodles of stars for you! Posted November 23, 2007 |
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