Experience the magic of Colonial Williamsburg’s Christmas decorations on a private walking tour. Learn about the history and craftsmanship behind the wreaths and garlands adorning the 18th Century buildings. Discover how holidays were celebrated in the past and indulge in gingerbread cookies. Don’t miss the Grand Illuminations and Yule Log lightings!
- Merchants Square - We’ll begin our holiday journey with a meeting in front of The Dog Street Pub on Merchant Square and take in a breathtaking view of some of the decorations by our local merchants before making our journey along the Duke of Gloucester Street towards The Capitol. Roundtrip from Merchants Square to The Capitol is a little over 1 mile and is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Note: this is a seasonal tour offered from November 25, 2022 through January 1, 2023. Keep in mind that the later tour time of 5pm may be darker although there are lights along the Duke of Gloucester. Because this is a new offering, we are manually accepting requests until our booking system catches up (thereafter, it will be automatic confirmation).
- Evening tours include 2 guide-provided lamps
- Guests are encouraged to bring additional flashlights/lanterns
- Complimentary snacks provided
- Tea and coffee available
- Bottled water
- Gratuities
- Warm clothing including gloves and hat for colder weather.
This private, exclusive excursion (restricted to your group only) showcases the captivating holiday décor and celebrated Christmas customs of Colonial Williamsburg, a historical location. In this experience, we delve into the resources, artisans, assembly, and layout of the festive garlands and wreaths adorning the facades of 18th-century buildings, exhibits, and private residences, as well as varied evaluation standards. Our rendezvous point is at The Williamsburg Inn, where we appreciate the stunning adornments and kick off our venture towards the Duke of Gloucester. We’ll delve into the way holidays were commemorated in the Williamsburg of the 18th Century, across Virginia’s plantations, and during the Revolutionary War era. Guests are treated to gingerbread cookies.
Please Note: The much-awaited Grand Illuminations occur on the first, second, and third Saturdays of December with 7 pm firework displays from the Government’s Palace and Capitol. The Yule Log lightings are scheduled for the first, second, and third Fridays of December. The assessment of decorations takes place the Monday following the first Grand Illumination and again two weeks following.
- Parking is available in nearby lots using the Passport App
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.