Spend Christmas in Williamsburg

The Grand illumination

Sunday, December 8, 2013

Purchase a Gift Certificate for Someone Special

The Grand Illumination weekend is one of the busiest in the year for visitors and residents alike in our historic city. The event is generally scheduled for the first Sunday in December and heralds the beginning of Christmas in Williamsburg and the holiday season in the historic area.

The decorations of fresh flora and fauna begin to go up on the residences on the Duke of Gloucester right after Thanksgiving. This has become quite competitive as a prize goes to the winning decorator.

With a tradition that began in the late 1800s, candles are lit in every window of the historic area at the same moment. It is quite an experience to witness. Since the Jamestown celebration in 1957 fireworks on market square have become an integral part of the celebration.

The Colonial Williamsburg Christmas Decorations Walking Tour offers a guided look at Colonial Williamsburg’s picturesque buildings and streets, decked in their holiday splendor.

54th Annual Christmas Homes Tour

Date: TBA

Presented by the Green Spring Garden Club

This year features: the Elkanah Deane House, the Timson House, the Davenport House, and the Palmer House. In addition, the Wolf House, close to the Historic area, will be open for the first time. Free use of the Colonial Williamsburg buses is provided to ticket holders along with a special shuttle bus to and from the Wolf House; this shuttle can be picked up at the Williamsburg Lodge bus stop.

Tickets, which include use of the shuttle bus from the Visitor Center, will be available at the Visitor Center or visit the website at Green Spring Garden Club/homestour. Advance purchase recommended.

Read about Christmas in Williamsburg: Then and Now