Colonial Christmas in Williamsburg
Grand Illumination Weekend Experience
Rekindle the Christmas of yesteryear on this holiday trip! Experience centuries old holiday traditions in Colonial Williamsburg, where handmade decorations and wreaths don the doorways, candles twinkle in the windows, and carolers in historical costume wander the streets. Visit during one of the Grand Illumination weekends, when the Revolutionary City lights up with fireworks and bonfires, fifes and drums provide 18th-century holiday music, balladeers and musicians perform, and celebratory activities abound. Enjoy dinner in an historic tavern for a true colonial pub experience! Stay in Colonial Williamsburg a stone’s throw from all the action! Tour the site of the first official Thanksgiving held in 1619; Berkeley Plantation, also the birthplace and former home of William Henry Harrison, our country’s ninth president.
Enjoy a full day of free time in Colonial Williamsburg to explore. An optional visit to popular Christmas Town at Busch Gardens will be offered—an amusement park turned winter wonderland, full of brilliant displays and top-rated entertainment!
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
PACKAGE INCLUDES
Note: This itinerary includes activities where moderate walking, possibly on uneven terrain, is required. Some of the most unique sightseeing can be restrictive to motorcoaches, especially in historic areas.
Itinerary
Thu, Dec 7: Fly to Richmond, Virginia and transfer to historic Merchant’s Square in Colonial Williamsburg, where a local guide will join us to give an overview of the area before checking into the Williamsburg Lodge Autograph Collection, your hotel for the next three nights. Nestled in the heart of all the action, the Lodge is an official Colonial Williamsburg hotel and a hallmark of American folk art. Guest room furnishings are inspired by the collections of the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum and include modern amenities. Just steps from the hotel lobby, the Historic Area is bustling with costumed interpreters throughout the colonial homes and businesses. Refresh and rejoin the group for a Welcome Dinner at an historic tavern in the Revolutionary City, and have some time to enjoy the grounds—full of merriment and enchanting holiday programs. (Meal: Dinner)
Fri, Dec 8: Following a hearty breakfast at the hotel, take a delightful and informative Christmas decorations walking tour, then have the day at leisure to explore and do as you please in Colonial Williamsburg. This evening, the Revolutionary City glows with Christmas illuminations, festive musical performances, warm bonfires, and fireworks displays during the grandest time of the year! (B)
Sat, Dec 9: Venture out to Berkeley Plantation this morning for an informative historical discovery. The Georgian mansion on the grounds is the birthplace of William Henry Harrison (“Old Tippecanoe,” governor of the Indiana Territory and ninth President of the United States), and is the ancestral home of his grandson, Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd President of the United States and U.S. Senator from Indiana. Tour the mansion and enjoy some traditional hot cider and cookies. Return to Colonial Williamsburg for lunch on your own before an optional excursion to Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s Christmas Town, offering one of the largest Christmas light displays in North America, as well as festive food, drink, holiday shopping, and heart-warming, top-rated shows! Those not taking the optional excursion are free to enjoy more leisurely time in Colonial Williamsburg. (B)
Sun, Dec 10: Visit the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown to revisit the story of the nation’s founding, from the twilight of the colonial period to the dawn of the Constitution and beyond. Exciting indoor galleries feature period artifacts, immersive environments and films, including “The Siege of Yorktown,” with a 180-degree surround screen and dramatic special effects. Enjoy a farewell lunch before heading to the airport in Richmond to return home. (B,L)
Hotel
Williamsburg Lodge Autograph Collection, Williamsburg, Virginia. Experience a Marriott trusted luxury and comfort, blended with with 18th-century style and modern amenities at this relaxing retreat in the heart of historic Williamsburg. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker, refrigerator, microwave • complimentary WiFi Internet access • two restaurants • bar • indoor pool • hot tub • fitness center • gift shop.
Pricing
*Subject to change due to fuel surcharge. Air cost is estimated and final package pricing will be confirmed in February 2023.
**Land only prices will be available after February 2023.
Documents Required: Valid U.S. government issued REAL I.D.