Have you ever wondered how our modern Christmas traditions began? Join us for a 1-hour walking tour through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg, where your guide will reveal the colonial Christmas celebrations that shaped our current traditions. You'll also learn how the decorating style of Colonial Williamsburg influenced decorations across the nation.
Shades of Our Past is not affiliated with Colonial Williamsburg; therefore, this tour does not include entry to any buildings owned by Colonial Williamsburg. The tour takes place through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg and is subject to weather conditions. Please be prepared for various weather scenarios. Additionally, the advertised tour route may change based on activities in the Historic Area.
Please note that tours may be unavailable on certain days due to staff participating in other events. For more details about these programs, please visit our website.
201 W Duke of Gloucester St, (Next to Palace Green), Williamsburg, United States
Our guide will explore the Church's role during Christmas, the colonists' attitudes towards the Christmastide season, and how they decorated for the holiday.
Palace Green Street, Williamsburg, United States
Our guide will explain a brief history of the house, the Colonial love of symmetry, how it is incorporated into modern Christmas decorations, and the origin of the decoration contest.
113 W Nicholson St, Williamsburg, United States
Our guide will provide a brief history of the house, discuss the decoration, and explain how our modern Christmas traditions began, including the first recorded Christmas tree in Virginia.
ces between Christmas for the family and for the enslaved individuals.
its role in the restoration of the historic area, and its decorations.
icance of taverns during colonial times, and describe the thematic decor.
Our tour guide will meet you on the corner of West Duke of Gloucester Street and Palace Green beside Bruton Parish Church. If you want to use a GPS to find the location, please enter the following address into your device: 201 W. Duke of Gloucester Street.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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