If you’re visiting Williamsburg around Christmas time, you’ll find a lot of options to soak in the holiday spirit. One experience that caught our eye is the Guided Colonial Christmas Tour in Williamsburg. It’s designed to blend history and holiday cheer in a way that’s engaging and informative, without feeling overly commercial or touristy.
What we really like about this tour is how it offers authentic storytelling from a costumed guide who clearly knows their stuff—and it’s not just dry history but stories that bring the town’s holiday traditions to life. Plus, the small group size means you get a friendly, personalized experience. A small but notable downside is that some visitors felt the decorations weren’t as prominent as they’d hoped, but overall, it’s best suited for those who love learning about history and enjoy festive atmospheres.
This tour is perfect if you’re after a more intimate, educational experience that highlights Williamsburg’s holiday customs. Families, history buffs, or anyone wanting a relaxed way to explore the town’s charm will likely enjoy it. Just keep in mind the tour lasts around an hour and a half, so it’s a manageable and comfortable outing.
Key Points
- Authentic storytelling from guides dressed in period costumes adds to the holiday vibe.
- The itinerary covers key sites like Bruton Parish and the Capitol, with stories about their Christmas traditions.
- A candle is included, enhancing the festive feeling and making the experience memorable.
- The tour’s small group size (max 35) encourages interaction and personalized attention.
- It offers a great balance of history and holiday traditions, suited for those who want more than just decorations.
- Booking in advance is recommended, with most guests reserving about a month ahead.
A Closer Look at the Williamsburg Colonial Christmas Tour
If you’re curious about what this tour actually involves, here’s a detailed look at what you can expect. From the moment you meet your guide on Blair Street, you’re stepping into a scene that feels a little like stepping back in time. The guide, always in period costume, sets the tone, sharing stories of Christmas past and present in Williamsburg, which helps make the experience more immersive.
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The Walk Through Historic Williamsburg
The tour kicks off with a stroll through the beautifully decorated streets and homes, exactly how they would’ve looked in the 18th century. You’ll see notable sights like The Geddy House, St. George Tucker House, and the Palmer home. The guide shares stories about how the residents used to celebrate Christmas, including some fun tidbits about pirates and their holiday traditions. One review mentions, “Our guide was prompt, friendly, and very informative,” which seems to be a common sentiment among those who’ve experienced the tour.
Exploring Holiday Traditions and Decorations
While the decorations are historically inspired, some visitors have expressed disappointment that not all the homes are decorated as they might have expected, noting that Williamsburg decorates after Thanksgiving. That said, the stories behind the decorations and the customs of the colonists provide plenty of insight into how Christmas was celebrated in colonial times.
The Church and Colonial Customs
Next, the tour visits Bruton Parish Episcopal Church, where you’ll learn about the religious aspects of colonial Christmas celebrations. The guide shares how traditions have evolved and what customs persisted over the centuries. The stories make these old buildings and their histories feel a little more alive, especially when paired with the festive atmosphere created by the guide’s storytelling.
The Candle and Festive Atmosphere
A small but special feature is the candle handed out to each participant, which adds a warm, festive glow to the experience. This simple element helps create a memorable moment and a sense of shared holiday spirit. It’s these little touches that make the tour more than just a walk through town.
Why the Guides Matter
Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides—people like Tom, who share personal experiences and pride in Williamsburg’s history. Guests frequently mention how much they appreciated the guides’ storytelling abilities. One reviewer says, “Tom was an excellent guide. He knew so much about Williamsburg and was really entertaining and fun.” That personal touch really helps make the tour engaging and enjoyable.
Practical Details: What Traveling With This Tour Looks Like
The price point of $25 per person makes this a reasonably priced way to experience Williamsburg’s Christmas traditions. Since most travelers book about 31 days in advance, it’s clearly popular among those planning ahead.
The duration of around 1 hour 30 minutes fits well into a day of sightseeing without feeling like a long commitment. The tour starts at Blair Street & East Duke of Gloucester Street, a convenient location near public transport, making access straightforward.
Group size is capped at 35 travelers, which feels intimate enough to ask questions and engage with your guide. The mobile ticket system makes check-in simple and contactless, adding to the convenience.
The tour is perfect for most travelers, with accessible features like service animals being allowed. Keep in mind that weather can impact the experience, especially if there’s rain or snow—be sure to check the forecast and dress accordingly.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts who want a festive twist, as well as casual visitors looking for a relaxed, engaging way to explore Williamsburg during Christmas. If you love hearing stories from local residents and enjoy a personal touch, you’ll likely appreciate the guides’ storytelling.
It’s also suited for those who enjoy small-group experiences, as the intimate setting encourages questions and conversation. Families with older children might find it a charming way to introduce kids to colonial history and holiday customs, but it’s not specifically designed as a family-focused tour.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
If you’re after a well-paced, informative, and festive look at Williamsburg’s Christmas traditions, this tour offers a lot of value. The stories told by knowledgeable guides in period costumes add to the holiday atmosphere, making it a memorable experience. The inclusion of a candle creates a special touch that elevates the entire outing.
The fact that it’s praised in reviews for the depth of storytelling and the friendliness of guides makes it clear that this isn’t just a cookie-cutter tour. It’s a chance to connect with Williamsburg’s past through engaging narratives and charming sights.
However, if you’re expecting elaborate holiday decorations to be the star of the show, you might find the decor less impressive than anticipated. Still, the historical context and personal stories provide meaningful insight into colonial Christmas celebrations.
This tour is best suited for travelers who love history, enjoy small-group settings, and want a cozy, story-driven experience that captures the spirit of the season in Williamsburg.
Guided Colonial Christmas Tour in Williamsburg
“Our guide was prompt, friendly, and very informative. He engaged our group, and was very knowledgeable about the history of Colonial Williamsburg. …”
FAQs
How long is the Colonial Christmas Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a nice, manageable length for most visitors.
What is included in the price?
The fee of $25 covers the guided tour itself and the Christmas candle handed out to each participant. No additional tickets are required for sites visited along the route.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 31 days ahead, especially during the busy holiday season, to secure their spot.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically geared toward children, older kids who enjoy history and storytelling might find it engaging. The small group setting allows for questions and interaction.
Are decorations part of the tour?
Decorations are generally set up after Thanksgiving, but some visitors found there were fewer decorations than expected. The focus is more on stories and traditions.
Is the tour accessible?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers, with service animals allowed and easy meeting points.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Blair Street & East Duke of Gloucester Street and concludes back at the same meeting point.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and be prepared for whatever weather the season brings. Since it’s an outdoor walking tour, sturdy shoes and appropriate layers are recommended.
This guided Colonial Christmas Tour offers a warm and informative way to experience Williamsburg’s holiday traditions. It’s a thoughtful choice for those who love history, storytelling, and a touch of festive spirit—without the overwhelming crowds or commercial hustle.