Grand Illumination-Group Christmas Holiday Tour Before Fireworks

Williamsburg , United States

Grand Illumination-Group Christmas Holiday Tour Before Fireworks

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About this experience

This group walking tour before Grand Illumination explores Colonial Williamsburg's Christmas traditions and picturesque holiday decorations of our historical area. This tour provides insight about the materials, crafts people, construction and design of the wreaths and garlands adorning the exterior of most 18th Century buildings, exhibits and private homes and different judging categories. We meet at the corner of the Duke of Gloucester St and Nassau St (Bryan House) to begin our journey along the Duke of Gloucester. We'll discuss how holidays were celebrated in 17th and 18th Centuries here in Virginia including plantations, our Capital cities and during the Revolutionary War (e.g., Continental Army).
Note: Grand Illuminations are the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Saturdays of December (7pm fireworks).

Available options

Grand Illumination Group Tour

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

What's included

Sanitized wireless Whisper headset to easily hear guide

Guide

Detailed itinerary

Walk along Merchant's Square to appreciate our holiday tree and meet us near the ice skating rink. If you have time, take a quick trip out on the ice while you wait for your tour to begin or enjoy a hot beverage.

Enjoy photos near the Williamsburg Capitol building and admire the holiday decorations.

Stop 3

Stop for a holiday selfie. The Governor's Palace was the home of seven Royal Governors and Virginia's first two elected Governors, Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson.

Stop 4

Stop to hear how early Virginian's celebrated the Christmastide season.

What's not included

Gratuities for guides, if you enjoy your guide, we recommend a 20% tip

Tickets to Colonial Williamsburg

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Note: we do not provide transportation. This is a walking tour.

Meeting point

Meet on the Duke of Gloucester in front of the Bryan House (ice skating rink will be nearby and cross street is Nassau). Our guide will have an holiday hat and bag of Whisper headsets. The address is technically 105 North Nassau Street, but our guide will meet you on the Duke of Gloucester side.

About Williamsburg

Williamsburg, Virginia, is a historic city that brings the American Revolution to life. It is home to Colonial Williamsburg, the world's largest living history museum, where visitors can experience 18th-century life firsthand. The city is also part of the Historic Triangle, along with Jamestown and Yorktown, offering a rich tapestry of American history.

Top Attractions

Colonial Williamsburg

The world's largest living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg, brings the 18th century to life. Visitors can explore historic buildings, interact with costumed interpreters, and experience the daily life of colonial America.

Historical Full day Moderate/Expensive

Jamestown Settlement

A short drive from Williamsburg, the Jamestown Settlement offers a fascinating look at the first permanent English settlement in America. Visitors can explore re-created ships, a Powhatan Indian village, and a colonial fort.

Historical Half day Moderate

Yorktown Battlefield

The Yorktown Battlefield is where the American Revolution effectively ended with the surrender of British General Cornwallis. Visitors can explore the historic battlefield, visit the Yorktown Victory Monument, and learn about the pivotal role Yorktown played in American history.

Historical Half day Free/Moderate

Bush Gardens Williamsburg

Bush Gardens Williamsburg is a popular theme park featuring thrilling roller coasters, live entertainment, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The park is known for its European-themed areas and seasonal events.

Entertainment Full day Moderate/Expensive

College of William & Mary

Founded in 1693, the College of William & Mary is the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. The historic campus features beautiful architecture, scenic gardens, and the famous Wren Building.

Historical Half day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Peanut Soup

A creamy and savory soup made with peanuts, vegetables, and sometimes chicken or other meats. It's a classic Southern dish with colonial roots.

Soup Contains peanuts, can be made vegetarian or vegan

Fried Green Tomatoes

Sliced unripe green tomatoes, coated in cornmeal and fried until crispy. Served with various dipping sauces, such as remoulade or spicy mayo.

Appetizer Vegetarian, can be made gluten-free

Ham Biscuits

A popular Southern snack consisting of a flaky biscuit filled with slices of Virginia ham. It's a quick and delicious bite, often enjoyed for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Snack Contains meat, can be made with gluten-free biscuits

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Zip-lining Spa treatments Wine tasting Scenic walks Museum visits Live theater

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This is the best time to visit Williamsburg for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The historic sites are fully operational, and various festivals and events take place.

15-32°C 60-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5 (Eastern Standard Time, EST) or GMT-4 (Eastern Daylight Time, EDT)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Williamsburg is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should still take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night

Getting there

By air

Richmond International Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
Norfolk International Airport • 90 km (56 miles)

By train

Williamsburg Station

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station in Williamsburg

Getting around

Public transport

WAT provides affordable and convenient public transportation with multiple routes serving the city and nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Area Merchants Square Williamsburg Village

Day trips

Jamestown and Yorktown

10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Full day

Jamestown and Yorktown are two of the most important historic sites in the United States, marking the beginning and end of the American Revolution. Visitors can explore the historic sites, museums, and battlefields that bring these pivotal moments in history to life.

Richmond

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Richmond, the capital of Virginia, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene. Visitors can explore historic sites, museums, and galleries, as well as enjoy the city's diverse dining and shopping options.

Chesapeake Bay

50-100 km (30-60 miles) • Full day

Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, offering a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching, as well as exploring the charming towns and villages along the bay.

Festivals

Virginia Wine Expo • April Yorktown Day • October 19 Grand Illumination • December

Pro tips

Visit Colonial Williamsburg early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more immersive experience
Purchase tickets for popular attractions, such as Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens, in advance to save money and skip the lines
Take advantage of free shuttles and public transportation to get around the city and nearby attractions
Explore the city's historic sites and museums on foot or by bike to fully appreciate their beauty and significance
Try local specialties, such as peanut soup, fried green tomatoes, and ham biscuits, at historic taverns and restaurants