Williamsburg, Virginia: A Family-Friendly Winter Getaway Filled with History, Adventure and Festive Fun
Looking for a seasonal escape that combines holiday traditions, history, and unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages? Williamsburg, Virginia, offers families plenty of reasons to stay and play in the destination this winter.
From festive celebrations and dazzling light displays to waterfront wonders and interactive programming, the Historic Triangle of Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown provides a mix of activities sure to inspire, excite and make memories merry and bright. Brimming with charm and known for its historic attractions, guests will also find an array of upscale spa, shopping, golf, and dining options to enrich the travel experience this season and beyond.
Discover Holiday Traditions and Celebrations from Virginia’s Past in Jamestown
From November 5 through January 4, visitors can stroll through glowing trails at the Winter Lantern Festival at Jamestown Settlement and be wowed by 1,000 handcrafted lanterns illuminating three unique themes: Christmas, Jamestown Settlement, and America 250. On November 21, families can explore cultural traditions during The Seven Sips of Kwanzaa at Jamestown Settlement and enjoy additional events including At Christmas Be Mery at Historic Jamestowne on December 12 and Christmastide in Virginia at Jamestown Settlement from December 19–31.
Guests can also take advantage of winter stay packages from Kingsmill Resort such as Breakfast with Santa or the Firewood and Frills Package, which includes complimentary firewood and a s’mores kit for roasting at the outdoor fire pit.
Enjoy Markets, Music, and Merriment in Williamsburg
Holiday happenings abound around town including the beloved Busch Gardens Williamsburg Christmas Town, running November 13 through January 3. Guests can take in the shimmering landscape decorated with more than 10 million sparkling lights, ride roller coasters at night, and watch a synchronized light show every 30 minutes at this Christmastime spectacle. Colonial Williamsburg also hosts some of the destination’s most treasured traditions, The Grand Illumination at the Governor’s Palace and Capitol on December 5, 12 and 19, and the Community Christmas Tree Lighting at the Courthouse on December 5.
Additional highlights include the History of Williamsburg Holiday Traditions at Kimball Theatre on November 5, Williamsburg Christmas Market at Bicentennial Park from November 27- Dec 20 (Thurs – Sun), Holiday Pops, Williamsburg Symphony at Kimball Theatre on December 5 and 6, Twinkle Through Time Christmas Parade along Duke of Gloucester Street on December 6, Classical Christmas at William & Mary Music Arts Center on December 6, Holiday Brass and Vienna Boys Choir Christmas in Vienna at Saint Bede Catholic Church on December 9 and December 16, Williamsburg Players Present: A Christmas Carol at Colonial Williamsburg from December 10-20, and Decorating the Private Homes at the Art Museum of Colonial Williamsburg on December 12.
At Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, families can experience its annual Snowland celebration from November 23 through January 5. Not only can patrons make memories with the return of beloved traditions like seasonal crafts, games, and daily snow flurries in the Grand Lobby, but also enjoy a new and exclusive Surfing Santa experience and its first-ever Howl-iday Swimwear Collection, a waterproof take on the beloved ugly Christmas sweater designed to keep the holiday spirit afloat.
Waterfront Wonderland Brings Coastal Holiday Cheer at Yorktown
On December 5, families can enjoy the Christmas Tree Lighting at Riverwalk Landing, followed by the Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade where a fleet of decorated boats compete for best in show. The festivities also include a beach bonfire, caroling, and musical performances. The following day, the Christmas Market on Main takes place along Historic Main Street, while Cookies with Santa at the Gallery at York Hall offers younger visitors an opportunity to snack and chat while parents browse a collection of one-of-a-kind pieces for sale from local artists.
Additional shopping experiences include An Enchanted Evening on Main Street on December 11 and Yorktown Market Days’ Mistletoe Market at Riverwalk Landing on Dec 12, where shoppers can also find roasted chestnuts, hot cider and more.
History takes center stage on December 19 with Christmastide in Virginia at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, offering another opportunity to discover the region’s centuries-old holiday heritage.
From February 19-28, foodies can look forward to delicious deals from independent dining establishments during York County Restaurant Week.
Make Your Getaway Even Merrier with the FREE Historic Holiday Pass!
Families planning a winter stay can also sign up for the mobile-exclusive Historic Holiday Pass, running from Black Friday, November 27, through December 31. Passholders receive special discounts at participating restaurants, lodging properties, shops, and attractions. Those who check in at local businesses also earn a festive holiday ornament!
Whether booking a visit over the holidays or in the New Year, Williamsburg is certain to warm hearts during the cooler months with its unmatched lineup of family-forward celebrations, timeless traditions, and historic happenings.