CW Planner

A Political Mind: An Evening with James Madison

Step back into the birth of a nation as award-winning actor and historian Bryan Austin brings to life James Madison, the brilliant architect of the American federalism.

Bassoon & Organ Recital

Join us in this beautiful 18th-century worship center and enjoy a candlelit recital by bassoonist Elizabeth Roberts and organist Rebecca Davy.

Beyond Words: Bringing History to Life Responsibly

2026: A Five-Year Conference Series is sponsored jointly by The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, William & Mary, and the Omohundro Institute of Early American History & Culture.

Bobby BlackHat Blues Spectacular - General

Bobby BlackHat cordially invites you to bring in the New Year with a fun filled evening of Toe Tappin’, Finger Poppin’, Hip Shakin’ Blues!

Bobby BlackHat Blues Spectacular VIP

Bobby BlackHat cordially invites you to bring in the New Year with a fun filled evening of Toe Tappin’, Finger Poppin’, Hip Shakin’ Blues!

Broadway Dance Arts: It’s A Wonderful Life

"It's A Wonderful Life" is a spectacular holiday dance and variety show that will be sure to put you into the most upbeat holiday spirit to deck the halls!

Chamber Concert: Music from the British Isles

Enjoy music from the British Isles in this 350-year-old church.

Choral Evensong of Remembrance

Join us for a choral evensong of remembrance presented by the Choirs of Bruton Parish, Rebecca Davy, Director, and JanEl Will, Organist.

Christiana Campbell's Christmas Dinner

Celebrate Christmas with a chef-curated dinner at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern.

Christiana Campbell's Grand Illumination

Celebrate the start of the holiday season with a dinner at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern before or after the Grand Illumination fireworks.

Christiana Campbell's Thanksgiving Dinner

Enjoy a lovely prix fixe Thanksgiving dinner while relaxing in the colonial ambiance of Christiana Campbell's Tavern.

Christmas Feast Shields Tavern

Ring in Christmas in 18th-century style while enjoying a three course traditional holiday fare.

Christmas Holiday Golden Smoke To-Go Pick-Up Menu

A Christmas Day meal prepared by the Chefs of the Golden Horseshoe Clubhouse. Available for pick up December 23 and 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Conversation: Farming with George Washington

Meet George Washington at our Ewing Field where you can discuss farming practices, innovation, and the importance of agriculture to society.

Conversation: Meet a Person of the Past

Meet people of the past for some informal conversation or activity.

Conversation: Meet and Greet the Rare Breeds

Our Coach & Livestock team cares for over 100 rare breed animals, from lambs to cows to chickens to horses. Discover how they ensure these animals' safety and proper care.

DIY Craft: Jane Austen

Explore objects on exhibit through the works of Jane Austen, then make an inspired bookmark to take home.

DIY Craft: Quilting

Discover the story of Rita Mae Pettway, quilter, and enjoy a mini-quilting project.

Decorating the Private Homes

Join us for our 32nd annual, fun-filled celebration of the decorating skills of the employees who live in Colonial Williamsburg's restored private residences.

Evening Program: Capitol Concert

Celebrate the joys of holiday music with this 18th-century concert by the Governor's Musick Ensemble.

Evening Program: Christmastide at the Courthouse

Join musicians Brian Forsman & Bill Weldon for the best dance tunes and songs of Christmastide.

Evening Program: Cry Witch

Question witnesses, weigh evidence, and determine the guilt or innocence of "the Virginia Witch." Not appropriate for young children due to subject matter and intense emotion.

Evening Program: Dancing at the Governor's Palace

"Virginians will dance or die" wrote an 18th-century diarist. What better time than the 21st century to learn a few "new" dance steps? Audience participation encouraged.

Evening Program: Haunted Williamsburg

Brave centuries of scares, from 18th-century colonial ghost stories to creepy modern-day encounters!

Evening Program: Palace Concert

Colonial Williamsburg's early music ensemble, the Governor's Musick, offers an elegant evening of chamber music.

Evening Program: Revolutionary Points of View

Step back in time to the eve of the American Revolution. There are just as many opinions about war and independence as we hear about politics and religion today.

Evening Program: To Hang a Pirate

Join us in a trial of a Blackbeard crew member that occurred in Williamsburg in 1719. Hear the evidence and make a judgment!

Event: A Big Band Christmas

Swing your way into the holidays with the great big band sound of the Williamsburg Classic Swing Orchestra in their 15th annual performance.

Event: A Crooner's Christmas

Good Shot Judy pays tribute to the Classic Christmas Crooner Hits!

Event: A Kilted Christmas with Eireann's Call

A delightful holiday journey through Celtic lands and traditions.

Event: Christmas Dreams - Institute for Dance

It's Christmas in Williamsburg, and Janie Sparkle wants just one thing this year: for all her wishes to come true! Join iDance for this local holiday tradition.

Event: Holiday Pops - Williamsburg Symphony

The Williamsburg Symphony’s Holiday Pops. Michael Butterman conducts your holiday favorites with Tiffany Haas, soprano.

Event: The Virginia Cat Festival

Join us for some CAT-tastic fun! The Virginia Cat Festival features special guests, film screenings, performances, workshops, panels, marCATplace vendors, and more.

Event: Williamsburg Old Time Radio Hour

Travel back in time to the golden age of radio with unique stories about Williamsburg during the Colonial Restoration. Enjoy live music, sound effects and holiday nostalgia!

Feast of the Seven Fishes Christmas Eve Dinner

The chefs of the Williamsburg Inn’s beloved Rockefeller Room are bringing a special nine-course interpretation of the Feast of Seven Fishes to celebrate Christmas Eve.

Film: Williamsburg – The Story of a Patriot

See the 1957 film, in its vibrant 70mm format, that tells the story of a Virginia planter deciding to join the patriot cause.

For Donors: Visit a Nation Builder

Donors who have access to the donor reception center in the St. George Tucker House as part of their giving advantages are invited to meet with a Nation Builder.

Goodwin Room Halloween Tea

Enjoy a spooky afternoon with your family and friends while indulging in the fine Afternoon Tea at the Williamsburg Inn with a Halloween inspired menu.

Grand Illumination Yuletide Celebration

Join us Saturday evenings from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. during Grand Illumination on the lawn of the St. George Tucker House for a Yuletide Celebration.

Hands-On: Company of Comedians

Children of all ages! Join the Play House Players on the Duke of Gloucester Street to learn about Williamsburg’s theatre and participate in 18th-century entertainments.

Hands-On: The Art-full Tree

Explore the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg and discover the Folk Art Christmas Tree, then make your way to the Goode Education Studio and create an ornament to take home.

Hands-On: Under Arms

Guests of all ages will step into the shoes of soldiers enlisting in the army during the American Revolution.

Hands-on: Daily Life

Participate in the daily activities of an 18th-century family at the Geddy House.

Historic Organ Recital - Rebecca Davy

Rebecca Davy, Music Director at Bruton Parish Church, gives a recital on the Historic English Chamber Organ, one of Colonial Williamsburg's 18th-century instruments.

Historic Organ Recital - Sarah Bland

Sarah Bland, organist at Hickory Neck Episcopal Church, gives a recital on the Historic English Chamber Organ, one of Colonial Williamsburg's 18th-century instruments.

Horticulture Workshop: Candle Centerpiece

In this hands-on class, Colonial Williamsburg's landscape designers will show you how to make a centerpiece with candle to take home and enjoy.

Horticulture Workshop: Fresh Fruit Decorations

In this hands-on class, Colonial Williamsburg's landscape designers will show you how to make a decorative apple candle and fragrant orange pomander to take home.

Horticulture Workshop: Small Centerpiece

Following a demonstration by a Colonial Williamsburg landscape designer, participants will create their own "Williamsburg Style" arrangement in a holiday mug to take home.

Horticulture Workshop: Wreath Decorating

Take home your own "Williamsburg Style" wreath that you decorate after learning the tricks of the trade from the landscape design team who decorate the Historic Area.

King's Arms Tavern Christmas Dinner

Celebrate Christmas Day with a three-course prix fixe dinner in the charming setting of King’s Arms Tavern.

King's Arms Tavern Grand Illumination Dinner

Celebrate the start of the Holiday season with a three-course prix fixe dinner at King's Arms Tavern before or after the Grand Illumination fireworks.

King's Arms Tavern Thanksgiving Dinner

Treat your family to a hearty prix fixe Thanksgiving dinner at King's Arms Tavern.

King's Arms Wine Dinner with a Nation Builder

Dine in the company of a Nation Builder and enjoy a chef-curated five-course meal paired with some of Mr. Jefferson's favorite wines from his travels in Europe.

Museum Discoveries: Pop-Up Archaeology!

Stop by the Art Museums for a special pop-up exhibition of recent finds from Custis Square, along with artifacts from some of Colonial Williamsburg’s most iconic sites.

Museum Discoveries: The Public Hospital of 1773

Explore the Public Hospital of 1773 for a discussion about 18th-century mental health and the history of the reconstructed mental hospital.

Music: A Charles Dickens Christmas

Gabe Stone, Mark Nixon, and David Gardner present a holiday show featuring readings from various Charles Dickens writings paired with Victorian Christmas carols.

Music: A Christmas Peaceable Kingdom

Doves, donkeys, cattle, sheep and more. Join Kelly Kennedy for the joyous songs, tunes and stories of the animal kingdom from all over the world that mark the season.

Music: A Fiddler's 75th Christmas

Part of the Hennage Holiday Concert Series, join master fiddler John Turner for an hour of holiday-related melodies gleaned from a lifetime of listening, performing, and composing.

Music: A Very Virginia Christmas

A concert of songs through the centuries interwoven with stories about Virginia from Wilford Kale’s book “A Very Virginia Christmas."

Music: All Hail to the Days

Join Lynn, Barry, and Lee to enjoy music for the winter season from the late 16th through the 17th centuries on lute, cittern, viols, hurdy gurdy, violin, percussion, and voice.

Music: Breaking Up Christmas

Dance tunes and songs that create a musical portrait of Virginia from the days of English country dances to the rise of country music in the Appalachian hills and hollows.

Music: Christmastide with Governor's Musick

Join members of the Governor’s Musick for musical entertainments enjoyed during Christmastide in the 18th century.

Music: Domestic Diversions

Celebrate the holidays with seasonal tunes enjoyed by Nancy Geddy and other 18th-century citizens of Williamsburg at home.

Music: Eastern Virginia Brass

Celebrate the holidays with the festive music of the Eastern Virginia Brass. Enjoy familiar music, new pieces and always great music.

Music: Fife & Drum

Watch and listen to the Fifes and Drums as they demonstrate the music and drill of various military ceremonies from an 18th-century soldier's working day.

Music: Fife & Drum March

The Colonial Williamsburg Fifes and Drums, representing military field musicians, march down Duke of Gloucester Street.

Music: Five Centuries of Holiday Music in Virginia

As part of the Hennage Holiday Concert Series, join Henley Fork for a celebration of music of the Christmas season from the time of Jamestown through the twentieth century.

Music: Folk Hymns for Thanksgiving

Join John and Turner and Kelly Kennedy as they play Harvest Home anthems, American hymns of Gratitude, and other lively tunes and songs to observe the Thanksgiving holiday.

Music: Governor's Musick in the Geddy House

Join members of the Governor’s Musick in the Geddy House as they illustrate domestic music on period instruments.

Music: Governor's Musick in the Palace Ballroom

Join members of the Governor’s Musick in the Palace Ballroom as they illustrate domestic gentry music using period-style instruments and performance practices.

Music: Governor's Musick in the Wythe Parlor

Join members of the Governor’s Musick in the gentry setting of the Wythe House parlor as they illustrate domestic music on period instruments.

Music: Holiday Celebration of Dulcimers

With musicality and seasonal joy, join Timothy Seaman for distinctive American melodies and festive holiday music showcased on a magnificent array of dulcimers.

Music: How to Play the (18th-Century) Violin

The violin was played by all classes and in all settings in 18th-century Virginia. Come hear how this instrument was played; it is easier said than done.

Music: Jolly Old St. Nicholas

Celebrate that jolly old elf and discover worldwide traditions with Gabe Stone and David Gardner through tunes and stories about the star of the Christmas gift-giving season.

Music: Keeping the Home Fires Burning

Singer, actor, and folklorist Kelly Kennedy shares the music, recipes, tales, and lore from women through the centuries as they continue to keep the home fires burning.

Music: Mind the Music and the Step

Join members of the Governor’s Musick for an exploration of the political lyrics set to popular tunes at the time of the American Revolution.

Music: Nowell Sing We Clear

Join Lynn and Barry Trott in this concert to sing along with favorite English and American carols from the 17th to the 19th centuries.

Music: One Street Over

Join One Street Over, a four-piece traditional Irish band that combines the sounds of flute, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, cello, banjo, and bodhran into foot-tapping melodies.

Music: Profound Joy

In this concert, Timothy Seaman celebrates the wonder of the holiday season with early American and worldwide melodies and new compositions.

New Year's Eve Dinner at King's Arms Tavern

Celebrate New Year's Eve in the Historic King's Arms Tavern with a 4-course menu and wine pairing.

Organ Recital - Agnes French

Experience a candlelit recital by Agnes French, organist from Williamsburg, Virginia, in this 18th-century worship space.

Organ Recital - Dr. JanEl Will

Enjoy a candlelit recital by Dr. JanEl Will, organist at Bruton Parish Church.

Performance: A Christmas Remembered

Join a Nation Builder as they share memories of Christmastide and hopes for the coming year.

Performance: A Holiday Medley

A Holiday Medley brings the warmth and joy of holiday traditions, telling the tale of winter in Williamsburg over 250 years.

Performance: A Posture of Defense at Christmas

Christmas 1774, George Washington is caught in the middle of growing fears of civil war with England. Where does he stand?

Performance: A Soldier's Christmas

Colonel James Innes returns home from the war filled with the haunting voices of his fallen comrades. Will he be able to recover from the war and find peace this Christmas?

Performance: All Things Are Possible

On September 5, 1791, Robert Carter III recorded an extraordinary document. Why did the largest slaveholder in Virginia do what most of his peers consider impossible?

Performance: Beyond The Walls

The scholars of the Bray school have a lot that they can learn from the tiny creatures within its walls.

Performance: Christmas Entertainments

Join the musicians and storytellers of the Play House Players for some 18th-century holiday fun!

Performance: Coffee Cantata

Mrs. Charlton’s daughter is in love with the delicious juice of the coffee bean! A comedic ballad opera based on Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Coffee Cantata.”

Performance: Designing Virginia's Seal

Join George Mason and George Wythe as committee members to design the new seal of a free and independent Virginia.

Performance: Finding Jane Vobe

A sneak peek behind the scenes into the research behind Colonial Williamsburg's newest Nation Builder Jane Vobe.

Performance: From Freedom to Slavery

After making a free life for herself as an adopted Shawnee Indian, Methotaskee is brought back into slavery.

Performance: God is My Rock

Gowan Pamphlet, an enslaved man and popular local preacher, offers his perspective on slavery, religion, and freedom.

Performance: Good Progress

Meet Mrs. Wager, teacher of the Williamsburg Bray School, as she debates the nature of her school with Elizabeth DeRosario, a free Black woman.

Performance: Gulliver's Travels

Join us in a humorous retelling of Jonathan Swift's 18th-century novel Gulliver's Travels, which has been read all over the world since 1726.

Performance: Harvest's In, Fiddle's Out

Join some of the members of the Play House Players as they play 18th-century songs and dance tunes from the Williamsburg harvest season.

Performance: Is Our Love Enough

Join Sarah and Lewis Hallam as they step through the trials of marriage, family, and the theatre in the 1770s

Performance: Judith and Daniel

Judith and Daniel, an enslaved couple, anxiously await their reunion after a year apart. Learn the tragic story resulting in their separation.

Performance: Lucinda and the Lottery

Based on a story from The Christmas Frolick (1775), Lucinda, a charming young heiress, devises a stratagem to test whose love is true.

Performance: Measure of a Man's Worth

While conversing with Major James Innes, Benjamin, an enslaved carriage driver, gradually learns what the revolution has in store for enslaved men and women in Williamsburg.

Performance: Merriment and Measles

Join the Washingtons on the eve of Twelfth Night in 1760 as they reflect on the past year and their hopes for the future in the midst of a measles outbreak at Mount Vernon.

Performance: Nation Builders Discuss Slavery

Join two Nation Builders to discuss how they viewed the complicated tragedy that was the institution of slavery.

Performance: Of Christmas Past

A British servant, newly arrived in the colony, reflects on the holiday traditions he has left behind in the mother country.

Performance: Play House of Horror

Horror-as-entertainment was as popular in the 18th century as it is today, and in both centuries, it was fodder for fun as much as fear!

Performance: Pursuing Happiness

Witness imagined conversations between Thomas Jefferson, John Locke, and King George III to discover the ghosts behind Jefferson’s drafts of the Declaration of Independence.

Performance: Sing and Merry Be!

Come celebrate the holidays as the families of 18th century Virginia did, with merriment and the music of the season!

Performance: The Offering

Colonel William Byrd III, one of the most powerful loyalists in Virginia, has suddenly abandoned his allegiance to the king by seeking a commission in the Continental Army.

Performance: Two Steps Forward…

Hear different stories of the people and events that shaped America’s early history through their own actions and choices.

Performance: Visit a Nation Builder

Step into the past with a Nation Builder. Through stories, discussion, and questions, explore the hopes, choices, and challenges they faced.

Performance: Visit with Ann Wager

Step into the past with Ann Wager, Educator of free and enslaved children. Through stories and questions, explore the hopes, choices, and challenges she faced.

Performance: Visit with Colonel George Washington

Step into the past with George Washington, Colonel of the Virginia Regiment. Through stories and questions, explore the hopes, choices, and challenges he faced.

Performance: Visit with General George Washington

Step into the past with George Washington, father of the country. Through stories and questions, explore the hopes, choices, and challenges he faced.

Performance: Visit with George Wythe

Step into the past with George Wythe, teacher, lawyer, judge, and revolutionary. Through stories and questions, explore the hopes, choices, and challenges he faced.

Performance: Visit with James Armistead Lafayette

Step into the past with James Armistead Lafayette, Enslaved Revolutionary Spy.

Performance: Visit with James Madison

Step into the past with James Madison, Scholar Statesman.

Performance: Visit with Jane Vobe

Step into the past with Jane Vobe, keeper of the tavern "where all the best people resorted". Through stories and questions, explore the hopes, choices, and challenges she faced.

Performance: Visit with Marquis de Lafayette

Step into the past with the Marquis de Lafayette, French hero of two worlds. Through stories and questions, explore the hopes, choices, and challenges he faced.

Performance: Visit with Martha Washington

Step into the past with Martha Washington, our Nation’s first First Lady. Through stories and questions, explore the hopes, choices, and challenges she faced.

Performance: Visit with Patrick Henry

Step into the past with Patrick Henry, the Revolution’s son of thunder. Through stories and questions, explore the hopes, choices, and challenges he faced.

Performance: Visit with Reverend Gowan Pamphlet

Step into the past with Gowan Pamphlet, revolutionary Black Baptist preacher. Through stories and questions, explore the hopes, choices, and challenges he faced.

Performance: Visit with Thomas Jefferson

Step into the past with Thomas Jefferson, The Rebellious Philosophe.

Performance: Visit with Young Gowan Pamphlet

Step into the past with young Gowan Pamphlet. Learn more about his contribution to the founding of our nation.

Performance: Washington and the Shawnee War

Washington had a long history with the Shawnee as allies and enemies. Come hear his perspectives on the war against the Shawnee in the frontiers of Virginia in 1774.

Performance: Washington’s Road to Revolution

Join George Washington before he leaves for Congress in 1774 to learn about how the year’s events affected life both publicly and privately on the Road to Revolution.

Performance: Winter Revels at Pemberley

The halls of Pemberley have witnessed years of winter revelry and today, preparations for yet another ball are underway!

Presentation: Deed Without a Name

Discover the tale of this musical theater playwright, who lost his career due to public exposure of his homosexuality. Mature subject matter, audience discretion advised.

Presentation: Firing of the Noon Gun

The noon gun signaled a cessation of morning drills and work parties and a start to preparing the midday meal.

Presentation: Good Stories about Great Stuff

Join a curator, conservator, educator, archaeologist, or historian to discover who created an object, who owned it, and how it ended up in the Colonial Williamsburg Collection.

Presentation: History of the Holidays Series

In this presentation series, learn about a variety of topics highlighting the history of the holidays in Virginia.

Presentation: Midwinter Stories

Celebrate American Indian life and culture through stories and traditions.

Presentation: Musket Demonstration

Military Programs staff will demonstrate the loading and firing of the musket. Experience the sounds and smells a soldier experienced during the Revolution.

Presentation: Order in the Court

After a short exploration of the Courthouse and its surroundings, participate in a local court session where lives, liberties, and property are contested.

Presentation: Researching Indigenous History

Join the American Indian Initiative team as they share their research, programming, and outreach efforts as the initiative turns twenty years old.

Presentation: The Necessity of Order in Battle

Witness a demonstration of tactics that are crucial to success in combat.

Presentation: The Shawnee and Dunmore at War, 1774

Discover how Indigenous alliances, the Proclamation of 1763, and settlers’ quest for land contributed to the 1774 Shawnee-Dunmore War and why choosing a winner isn't always clear.

Presentation: To Decorate a Christmas Tree

Discover the history of the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Christmas Tree with Christina Westenberger, co-author of The Art-Full Tree.

Presentation: To Paint for War

Discover the warfare of the Eastern Woodlands tribes and nations and its lasting legacy in the United States.

Presentation: Two-Spirits in American Indian Life

Join a member of our American Indian Initiative as they explore the lives of two-spirit indigenous people who embody both female and male spirits.

Public Auction

Take part in an exciting auction! Bid on selected items from Colonial Williamsburg stores as well as exclusive items not available elsewhere.

Regency Room Christmas Grand Buffet

Visit the Regency Room for a traditional Williamsburg Inn feast featuring culinary delights that will please all your senses!

Regency Room Thanksgiving Grand Buffet

Visit the Regency Room for a traditional Williamsburg Inn feast featuring culinary delights that will please all your senses!

Rockefeller Room New Year's Eve Early Dinner

If you are searching for an early evening dinner to celebrate the New Year, the Rockefeller Room at the Williamsburg Inn has just what you want.

Rockefeller and W&M Libraries Joint Open House

Celebrate American Archives Month with a look inside Colonial Williamsburg’s Rockefeller Library and William & Mary Libraries’ Special Collections Research Center!

Social Terrace Fall Bash

Bring your fall scarves, boots, and warm-up around the fire pits on the Social Terrace. We will have fall inspired food and cocktails and live music.

Special Event: "Celebrity in Print" on the Stage

Meet some famous faces of the 18th century and explore how the market for portrait prints played a role in the genesis of our modern concept of "celebrity."

Special Event: A Celebration of the Yule Log

Follow the Yule Log, hauled by wagon, from Capitol Circle to Market Square, accompanied by music, festivity, and the community of 18th-century and present-day Williamsburg.

Special Event: A Veterans Day Salute & Procession

Join us this Veterans Day weekend for a march and ceremony honoring America's veterans.

Special Event: Artful Winter Evenings

Celebrate the holidays in this magical after-hours event at the Art Museums.

Special Event: Celebrating Lafayette

A celebration of the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s 1824 Return Visit to Williamsburg with music, pomp, and military salutes.

Special Event: Cherokee History and Culture

Join John Tooni for an evening of history and storytelling from the Cherokee culture.

Special Event: Community Christmas Tree Lighting

Join us for our annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, co-sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Williamsburg. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. in front of the Courthouse.

Special Event: Decorated Wreath Sales

Visitors can buy Williamsburg-style decorations made by the designers that decorate the Historic Area at the Christmas Market the first weekend in December. Weather permitting.

Special Event: Dye Day at the Weaver

Join us as we recreate natural dyes and dye recipes of the 18th century to achieve a spectrum of dazzling colors.

Special Event: Firing of the Brick Kiln

Fall is time to fire the bricks! Come see the kiln fires rage as the bricks reach a temperature of over 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

Special Event: Firing of the Christmas Guns

In the 18th century, guns were customarily fired in salute to the Christmas season. Join us on Duke of Gloucester Street for a re-creation of this event.

Special Event: Ghouls, Ghosts, and Gleeful Gloom

Sing along, shiver, and quake during this delightful family-friendly program of spooky tunes and songs from these veteran performers.

Special Event: Grand Illumination

Enjoy musical performances, Lighting of the Cressets, storytelling on Palace Green, and fireworks displays from the Capitol and Palace. Fireworks begin at 7 p.m.

Special Event: Holiday Handbell Concert

Enjoy the ethereal sounds of holiday music played by combined Handbell ensembles from Bruton Parish and First Baptist Church.

Special Event: Il Était Une Fois-Once Upon a Time

In this dramatic presentation, the Marquis de Lafayette returns to Williamsburg on October 20, 1824, and reflects upon the people and events that he experienced in his life.

Special Event: Indigenous Gown in a Day

The Mantua-makers are making a gown in a day! See what prominent northern Indigenous nations would have considered the height of fashion made with European trade goods.

Special Event: Lafayette's "Homecoming"

Commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s Honorary Degree of Laws from William & Mary.

Special Event: Lighting of the Cressets

Join us on the historic Duke of Gloucester Street as we bring our 18th-century streets to life at night.

Special Event: Millinery for the Holiday Bride

Discover the world of 18th-century bridal wear as our mantua-makers and milliners make a gown and other fineries worn for that happiest "day of days" and beyond.

Special Event: Public Archaeology Day

Join us at Custis Square for a day of archaeology, featuring exhibits and hands-on activities with archaeologists from across Virginia! Open to the public from 10am-4pm.

Special Event: Regency Music of Barraud & Beyond

Step into the Making Music in Early America exhibit with Kyle Collins for a Classical concert on the organized piano, one of the few playable keyboards of its kind in the world.

Special Event: Salute to the Heroes

A lone bagpiper plays from the Governor's Palace in a heartfelt tribute to honor those men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Special Event: Salute to the Presidents

The pageantry of fifes, drums, cannon, and remarks from Colonial Williamsburg Nation Builders salute our nation’s Presidents on Market Square.

Special Event: Secrets of the Chocolate Maker

Enjoy a demonstration of 18th-century chocolate-making methods.

Special Event: Thanksgiving Proclamation

Hear from President Washington on the 235th anniversary of this day of Thanksgiving.

Special Event: The Arts and Mysteries of Brewing

Enjoy this enlightening demonstration of the brewing process as it was practiced in the 18th century.

Special Event: The Bray School Opening

Join us in commemorating the reconstruction and opening of the historic Williamsburg Bray School site.

Special Event: The Crisis of 1798

How must a democracy work if it is to survive? How should citizens disagree? Join author John Ragosta, to learn about America's constitutional crisis in 1798.

Special Event: The Gonzales Sisters

Usher in the holiday season with the musical stylings of the Gonzales Sisters, classical cellist and violinist.

Special Event: The Three Tenors

Enjoy the celebration of the Christmas holidays with the sounds of traditional, spirituals, gospel, and contemporary music.

Special Event: The Williamsburg Symphony

The Williamsburg Symphony's brass quintet heralds the spirit of the season.

Special Event: Veterans Day Proclamation

Our Veterans Day begins at 10:00 a.m. with a ceremony on Palace Green honoring the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Special Event: We are Everywhere

Join Professor Greg Smithers to open new insights into histories of gender diversity and sexual fluidity in Native America.

Street Theater: A Joyful Heart

Join the community of Williamsburg and witness how the free and enslaved pursue freedom and find joy in the Christmastide season.

Street Theater: A Right to Freedom and Education

Join our 18th-century community and engage with the residents of Williamsburg as we explore multiple different perspectives about freedom, community, and education.

Street Theater: The Alternative of Williamsburg

Join the residents of Williamsburg as they consider the cost of pursuing a new government. What sacrifices would you make in support of your government?

Terrace Room Christmas Eve

Start your Christmas celebrations with an early dinner in the Terrace Room.

Terrace Room Fall Tea

Enjoy a delightful afternoon with your family and friends while indulging in the fine Afternoon Tea at the Williamsburg Inn with a Fall inspired menu.

Terrace Room New Year's Eve Dinner

Start your New Year's Eve celebrations with an early dinner in the Terrace Room.

Thanksgiving Dinner Shields Tavern

Mr. Shields invites you to Thanksgiving in 18th-century style and enjoy three courses of traditional favorites.

Thanksgiving Holiday Golden Smoke To-Go Pick-Up Menu

A Thanksgiving Day meal prepared by the Golden Horseshoe Clubhouse. Available for pick up November 25, 26, and 27 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tour: An Art-FULL Winter Evening

Discover objects and stories of wintertime past and present on a guided tour.

Tour: Arboretum Central Historic Area

Learn about some of Colonial Williamsburg's most asked-about trees, how the colonists used them, and how they continue to be important today.

Tour: Art Museums Overview

Join us on a 20-minute guided tour and enjoy some Museum favorites.

Tour: Art Museums Overview Tour-Holiday Edition

Celebrate the holiday season at the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg on a 30-minute guided tour.

Tour: Backstory

During this guided tour, explore the stories behind the objects on display.

Tour: Bassett Trace Nature Trail Walk

Take a leisurely stroll on Bassett Trace Nature Trail and learn about Virginia’s wildlife and native habitats. If you like nature and enjoy being outdoors, this walk is for you!

Tour: Black Artists and Artisans

Enjoy a guided tour of the exhibit “'I made this': Works by Black Artists and Artisans."

Tour: Bray School Community

Join our interpreters to explore and discover the communities connected to the Williamsburg Bray School on this one-hour walking tour.

Tour: Christmas Decorations

Enjoy a one-hour walking tour for a closer look at the Colonial Williamsburg decorations and a discussion of holiday traditions, past and present.

Tour: Custis Square Archaeology

Take a guided tour and talk with archaeologists in the field about the current archaeological investigations at John Custis IV’s four-acre home and early 18th-century gardens.

Tour: Good Stories about Great Stuff

Explore the galleries with a curator, conservator, educator, archaeologist, or a historian on this guided tour.

Tour: Nassau Street, Past, Present, and Future

Join us for a walking tour and learn how a century of archaeology is contributing to a dynamic past, present, and future on Nassau Street.

Tour: Stables Behind-The-Scenes

Get a behind-the-scenes look at our modern stables and learn more about our carriages.

Tour: Talk of the Town Christmastide

With an 18th-century resident as your guide, walk about Williamsburg and experience the Christmastide season through their eyes.

Tour: Williamsburg Lost & Found

Explore the history of Williamsburg through objects on exhibit during this guided tour.

Traditions Christmas Dinner

Celebrate Christmas Day at Traditions in the Williamsburg Lodge with a specialty-themed dinner buffet.

Traditions Christmas Eve Dinner

Join us at Traditions in the Williamsburg Lodge for our annual Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet and indulge in a festive feast from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Traditions Grand Illumination Dinner

Savor a buffet dinner at Traditions in the Williamsburg Lodge before experiencing the Grand Illumination Fireworks.

Traditions Nutcracker Buffet

Join us for an enchanting Nutcracker Buffet at Traditions, located in the Williamsburg Lodge.

Traditions Seafood Buffet

Join us on select dates in November and December for our Seafood Buffet at Traditions in the Williamsburg Lodge.

Traditions Taste of the Holidays Sunday Brunch

Join us on select Sundays during the holidays to celebrate the tastes of the season with culinary delights from the chefs in Traditions at the Williamsburg Lodge.

Traditions Thanksgiving Dinner

Join us for our Thanksgiving Day buffet in Traditions, located at the Williamsburg Lodge.

Valentine's Day at Sweet Tea & Barley

Sweet Tea & Barley at the Williamsburg Lodge offers a delightful couple’s dinner for Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Whiskey and Chocolate Experience

Join us at Traditions in the Williamsburg Lodge for an elegant dining experience featuring live jazz and coursed chef created culinary delights.

Virginia Ballroom Christmas Day Brunch

Join us for a Christmas Morning Brunch featuring Atlantic seafood treasures, shrimp cocktail, house-smoked salmon, artisan cheeses, and an array of antipasto and marinated salads.

Virginia Ballroom Thanksgiving Day Feast

Join us for a traditional Thanksgiving feast at The Williamsburg Lodge Virginia Room.

W&M Homecoming Weekend Tailgate Party

Join us at the Sweet Tea & Barley Patio on Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the ultimate W&M Homecoming Tailgate Party!

Williamsburg Inn Brunch with Santa

Join us for brunch with Santa and enjoy our fabulous Christmas-themed buffet featuring your favorite breakfast and lunch items.

Williamsburg Inn Christmas Day Dinner

Savor your Christmas with a long-standing tradition of well-crafted offerings from the kitchen of the Williamsburg Inn.

Williamsburg Inn Holiday Tea

Begin your holiday season with the newly reimagined Williamsburg Inn Holiday Tea featuring the beautiful patterns of Churchill Tea China.

Williamsburg Inn New Year's Eve Gala "Studio 54"

Bring in the New Year with the incredible staff of the Williamsburg Inn's Culinary team as we go back in time into the Disco Era.

Williamsburg Inn Thanksgiving Day Meal

Savor your Thanksgiving with a long-standing tradition of well-crafted offerings from the kitchen of the Williamsburg Inn.

Winston Churchill: Defending Liberty

This stirring, inspirational “Theatrical Keynote” brings Winston Churchill’s keen, incisive message of hope to the 21st Century.

Winston Churchill: Man of the Century

Journey with Winston from his 18th Century upbringing through his various careers and ultimately exploring his lasting legacy of leadership and its meaning in the 21st Century.

Winston Churchill: The Blitz

London 1940. Never have so many been so inspired by one man heroically leading the British people to Victory from a Rooftop. The audience lives through one night with Winston.