Head to Historic Williamsburg, Virginia, for a Holiday-Filled Getaway

There’s never a better time for family travelers to visit historic Williamsburg, Virginia, than winter. From holiday decorations to Christmas markets to winter entertainment, make Williamsburg part of your family’s winter travels.

© Visit Williamsburg

Markets

On Dec. 2 and 3, head to Yorktown’s Christmas Market on Main, where nearly 100 vendors line the street selling paintings, handmade soaps, Christmas wreaths and more. The Town Crier rings in the market, followed by the Fifes and Drums of York Town. Keep an eye out for Santa Claus who’s sure to make an appearance.

Back in Williamsburg, the Williamsburg Christmas Market sees dozens of vendors sell holiday gifts and décor. Visitors also enjoy live entertainment, photos with Santa, craft beers and gluhwein (warm spiced wine) for adults, fire pits and delicious market food from local restaurants.

© Visit Williamsburg

Entertainment

From Nov. 11, 2023 to Jan. 8, 2024, Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Williamsburg returns with holiday shows and classics like Santa’s Workshop, Christmas Town Express, an ice-skating show and more.

On Dec. 9, head to Jamestown to enjoy At Christmas be mery: A Special Evening at Historic Jamestowne. Visitors will enjoy an early Virginia Christmas celebration with costumed interpreters, madrigal singers, seasonal bonfire and caroling. And don’t miss out on Christmastide in Virginia at Jamestown Settlement, Dec. 16–31, to see how the holidays were celebrated back in the 17^th and 18^th centuries.

© Visit Williamsburg

Lights and Decorations

See the Yorktown Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 1 at Victory Walk and Riverfront Landing. The next day, the Yorktown Holiday Boat Parade takes place, where a series of decorated boats navigate the York River.

On Dec. 2, 9 and 16, Colonial Williamsburg’s Grand Illumination lights the sky. Walk the streets and enjoy musical performances on multiple stages throughout the area, complete with firework displays from the Capitol and Palace.

All up and down the streets, historic hotels, inns and estates are adorned with traditional lights and décor.