Private Colonial Williamsburg Christmas Holiday Decorations Walking Tour

Williamsburg , United States

Private Colonial Williamsburg Christmas Holiday Decorations Walking Tour

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(22 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

This exclusive, private tour (only your group) highlights 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 Williamsburg Inn to admire the decorations and begin our journey to 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). Holiday biscuits by African descendants or traditional gingerbread cookies are offered. If before 7PM, we offer hot beverages.

Note: Grand Illuminations are the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Saturdays of December (7pm fireworks). The Yule Log lightings are the first, second and third Fridays of December.

Available options

Private Colonial Williamsburg Christmas Holiday Decorations Walking Tour

What's included

Parking pass

Guide will have 2 lamps for evening tours. However, guests may want to bring a flashlight/lantern

Optional hot chocolate, coffee or cider (if available as sometimes the products are sold out or unavailable if after 7pm).

Private certified guide familiar with holiday decoration rules and holiday celebrations

Colonial ginger cakes or African holiday biscuits (no vegan options)

Detailed itinerary

We will park our cars and meet in the lobby to orient ourselves to the holiday decoration rules, plan our walking route, set up lights if dark and begin our holiday journey. Parking is included.

Stop 2

Enjoy a private guided tour along the Duke of Gloucester of Colonial Williamsburg's exterior building holiday decorations and learn about the materials, construction techniques, categories for judging the decorations and types of participation for these 18th Century decorations.

At the end of Duke of Gloucester, we'll see the Colonial Williamsburg Capitol Building. We'll discuss some of the history of the Capitol and then turn and walk along the other side.

Stop 4

As we pass the Palace Green on Duke of Gloucester, we'll see the Governor's Palace. If visitors want to walk closer to the palace after the tour, they are welcome to go check out the holiday decorations on the Palace.

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).

Stop 6

We will end our tour near historical Bruton Parish Church built in 1715 and discuss some of its history and Reverend W.A.R. Goodwin who helped inspire the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg. The ice skating rink and Merchant's Square are close by for travelers to enjoy some refreshing treats and hot drinks as we conclude our tour. Hot beverages are offered at no charge before 7pm if the ice skating rink shop is still open.

What's not included

Bottled water

Gratuities

Warm clothing including gloves and hat for colder weather.

Tickets to Colonial Williamsburg

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Parking is available in nearby lots using the Passport App

Meeting point

Meet in front of the Williamsburg Inn. Passport zone is 75760.

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