• psst … I’m a Realtor! Thanks for stopping by my website. I would love to help you find your dream home and community in the Hampton Roads or Williamsburg area or to sell your existing home. This website is authored by local resident and REALTOR, John Womeldorf. John is known around town as Mr. Williamsburg, for both his extensive knowledge of Hampton Roads and the historic triangle, and his expertise in the local real estate market. His websites, WilliamsburgsRealEstate.com and Mr Williamsburg.com were created as a resource for folks who are exploring a move to Williamsburg, VA , Hampton Roads VA and the surrounding areas of the Virginia Peninsula. On his website you can search homes for sale , foreclosures, 55+ active adult communities, condos and town homes , land and commercial property for sale in Williamsburg, Yorktown, New Kent, Poquoson, and Gloucester, VA as well as surrounding markets of Carrolton, Chesapeake,Gloucester, Hampton, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth Mathews, Newport News Norfolk, Poquoson, Smithfield, , Suffolk, Surry, Va Beach, Yorktown and York County Virginia You can reach John by email John@MrWilliamsburg.com or phone @ 757-254-813

Williamsburg VA Christmas Events December 1-7th 2014

Grand Illumination 2014
Dec 7
Light Up Your Evening with fireworks, bonfires, and the lighting of candles in the windows or cupolas of public buildings and private homes. Celebrate as live musical performances and a dazzling display of fireworks cap off a weekend of holiday events.

Williamsburgs Annual Christmas Parade!
Dec 6, 8:30 am

This years Christmas Parade theme: A Storybook Christmas.  Our community parade promises to be a great family event featuring floats, bands a mnage of animals and the jolly ole Elf himself, Santa Claus! 

Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade
Dec 6, 7 pm

The Yorktown waterfront is bedazzled with holiday sights and sounds, including a spectacular floating parade of lights starting at 7pm, caroling around a roaring beach bonfire, musical performances and complimentary hot cider.

A Colonial Christmas at Jamestown Settlement & Yorktown Victory Center
Dec 1 – Jan 4, 2015 

Holiday traditions of the 17th- and 18th-centuries are recalled through special interpretive programs and, from Dec. 26-31 and Jan. 2-5, musical entertainment of the period.

Christmas Tree Lighting
Dec 5, 7:30 – 8:30 pm

Evening highlights include a 7 pm performance by The Fifes and Drums of York Town at the Victory Monument, festive music at Riverwalk Landing.

The Williamsburg Symphonia presents Holiday Pops
Dec 6 – 7, 1:30 pm & 3 pm

The Williamsburg Symphonia presents Holiday Pops, all your favorite music of this festive season. At the Kimball Theatre.

Kimball Theatre Hurrah For the Holidays
Dec 5, 7 pm

The excitement of Radio City Music Hall comes to Williamsburg in a festive experience for the entire family. This lively musical revue features precision kick line dancers and holiday favorite.

Wine & Design presents: Holiday Snowman Wine Bottle Painting Project
Dec 5, 6:30 – 8:30 pm

Holiday Snowman Wine Bottle Painting Project. You must register and pay online for this special class. We will be using our regular acrylic paints and also textured paints too.

Christmas Market on Main
Dec 6, 10 am – 3 pm

Whether you are searching for a holiday gift for family, friends, or as a treat to yourself, youre sure to find it at the Christmas Market on Main.

Yankee Candle Holiday Tree Lighting
Dec 7, 10 am – 7 pm

Join Yankee Candle Village as we light up the holidays! Sing along with Christmas carolers as Santa lights the Village Christmas Tree at 5pm 6pm.

Green Spring Garden Club Christmas Homes Tour
Dec 6, 9:30 am – 5:30 pm

The 55th Annual Christmas Homes Tour, presented by the Green Spring Garden Club, Inc., will take place on Saturday, December 6, and features houses decorated with holiday florals.

Centuries of Christmas at Berkeley Plantation
Dec 6 –  Jan 1

The mansion will be decorated with fresh greenery from Berkeleys gardens. Costumed guides will add a special touch to your holiday season with stories of Christmas at Berkeley.

New Town Welcomes the Holidays
Dec 5, 5:30 – 8 pm

Bring the family and ring in the Holidays in New Town. At 7:30. the lights will come on welcoming the Holiday Season. 

Holiday Music in New Town
Dec 1 – 18 (see website for times)

Come enjoy holiday music in New Town! We will have various groups performing throughout the month.

Exquisite pottery by local ceramic artist, Russell Turnage
Dec 1 – 31

New work by ceramic artist, Russell Turnage . Exquisite and functional pieces for everyday use and special occasions.

New Town presents Where Holiday Wishes Come True
Dec 2 – 4, 5 – 8 pm

Get a chance to win $50 to your favorite New Town establishment! See website for details.

Celtic Night at the Kimball
Dec 6, 7:30 pm

Delight in an entertaining evening of Celtic music and fun. Popular local group Poisoned Dwarf performs solely on acoustic instruments for their own brand of Irish traditional music. 

A Candlelight Christmas Historic Homes in Charles City offer Progressive Tours during the Holiday Season
Dec 6, 3:15 – 7 pm

Partake in a progressive candlelight tour of Edgewood, Shirley and Berkeley Plantations.

Watermens Museum Annual Oyster Roast
Dec 6, 12 – 3 pm

Reminiscent of Chesapeake Bays Golden Days, when our shores contained billions of oysters. At the Yorktown Waterfront.

Berkeley Plantation Christmas Wreath Workshop and Tour
Dec 6

Begin your afternoon touring the 1726 manor house, decorated with fresh arrangements and wreaths cut from Berkeleys trees.

This Century Art Gallery Holiday Wreath Making Workshop
Dec 5, 12:30 – 3:30 pm

Join us to explore the wonderful world of Living Wreaths perfect for the Holidays.

A Christmas Carol Street Theater Merchants Square
Dec 5, Times Vary

Enjoy a hilarious 30-minute street theater production of the Christmas classic from the Virginia Theatre Machine.

Yankee Candle : Make Your Own Blown Glass Ornament!
Dec 6 – 7, 11 am – 6 pm

Create a blown-glass holiday heirloom with the help of the Chrysler Museum Mobile Glassblowing Studio Team.

Father Christmas Strolls the Square Merchants Square
Dec 6, see website for details.

Greet Father Christmas in the Square on weekends throughout the season.

Auntie Ms American Cottage: Art Workshops Felted 3D Santa Head with Artist Valerie Johnson
Dec 6, 9 am or 12:30 pm

Come join us to create a needle felted 3D Santa Head just in time for the Holidays.

Colonial Williamsburg: Wine, Wit & Wisdom: British Fortifications
Dec 6, 2 – 4:30 pm

Join Executive Chef Rhys H. Lewis for a flavorful study of sherry, port, and madeira.

This Century Art Gallery Holiday Workshop Glass Etching
Dec 4, 2 – 4:30 pm

Etching glass is easier than you think and makes the perfect gift!

Historic Organ Recitals at the Wren Chapel
Dec 4 – 6, 10 am

All are welcome to join us for a recital on the historic 18th-century organ in the Wren Chapel.

WILLIAMSBURG CHORAL GUILD CAROLS AND HOLIDAY SONGS
Dec 6, 1 – 3 pm

Sing carols and holiday songs with members of the Williamsburg Choral Guild.

Make Your Own Ceramic Ornament (Youth)
Dec 6 – 7, 10 – 11 am

Everybody likes homemade gifts for Christmas!

Annies Needle Arts Festival
Dec 4 – 7, 8 am – 5:30 pm

Annies Needle Arts Festival is a four-day cross-stitch and needle art event sponsored by Just CrossStitch magazine.

 

Click here for Christmas in Williamsburg Information

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Ice skating returns to Williamsburg at Mid County Park

James City County Parks and Recreation welcomes winter with cool fun at Mid County Park! The County’s seasonal synthetic ice rink, previously located in New Town, has moved to Mid County Park to offer users more space and an improved skating surface.

Iceburg, the Skate Rink at Mid County Park, opens for the winter season Nov. 15-March 1. To accommodate more guests, the operating season was expanded. The relocation to Mid County Park also offers rink visitors access to more amenities including picnic tables and shelters, indoor restrooms and heated facilities, more ADA accessible parking and walking routes as well as full use of the popular and nearby Kidsburg playground as another fun recreational offering. All park facilities will remain open during skate rink operating hours.

There are weekday, weekend and winter break hours. The rink is open daily – weekdays 5-9 p.m. and weekends noon-9 p.m. The rink is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Operation hours may be adjusted based on weather conditions, participation numbers and special events. Also check out jamescitycountyva.gov/iceburg regularly for the complete list of themed skating nights and festivities.

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Skating is $8/adult and $7/youth ages 6-17, and the fee includes the skate rental. James City County and Williamsburg residents can skate for $7/adult and $5/youth ages 6-17, including skate rental. Youth ages 5 and younger skate for free. Season passes are also available for families, adults, youth and seniors ranging from $30-65 per person depending on residency. The rink will maintain a supply of skates ranging from children’s 9 to women’s 10 to men’s 13.

There is no age requirement, but everyone entering the rink must wear skates. Children under 12 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times.

The surface of the open-air skate rink is made of an EZ Glide 350 synthetic ice surface, offering a smooth surface suitable for all skating activities. Synthetic ice has a similar surface to ice, and almost anything that can be done on refrigerated ice can be performed and perfected on this synthetic ice. While synthetic ice is about 65 percent of the speed of real ice, there is risk of injury from falls and collisions. Skaters of all ages and abilities will find the surface as a safe and enjoyable alternative to refrigerated ice.

During the seasonal operation of the Skate Rink, the park’s basketball courts will be closed through March 7. Please visit the County parks offering basketball court options: Ironbound Park, 150 Magazine Rd., Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 1350 John Tyler Memorial Hwy. and the Warhill Sports Complex, 5700 Warhill Trail which features four courts with lights. Two indoor courts are also available at the James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Rd. For a one-time fee of $10, County residents can purchase a Daily Card, good for two years. The Card provides free access to the Center fitness equipment and courts on three days – Thursdays, 1-3 p .m.; Fridays, 6-8  p.m.; and Saturdays, 2-5 p.m.

For more information on skating, group rates or to schedule private functions, please call 757-259-5360.

$12 CHRISTMAS TOWN™ TICKET THE BEST DEAL OF THE SEASON

Lock in the best deal Busch Gardens Williamsburg Christmas Town™ deal of the season during Busch Gardens’ 12 Days of Christmas special offer. This $12 single-day Christmas Town ticket represents a $20 savings off the regular $32 one-day ticket price.
     The limited-time, online-only sale starts Nov. 12 and runs through Nov. 18.  The Christmas Town $12 single-day ticket is redeemable on any one of the following dates: Nov. 21, 22, 23, 30, Dec. 7, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22 or 30.
     “The $12 Christmas Town ticket is the best deal of the Christmas Town season,” said Marketing Vice President Dan Dipiazzo. “Pick one of the 12 days to visit and discover why Christmas Town is the place where Christmas shines brightest.”
     Visit ChristmasTown.com/VA to take advantage of the offer. 

Lock in the best deal Busch Gardens Williamsburg Christmas Town™ deal of the season during Busch Gardens’ 12 Days of Christmas special offer. This $12 single-day Christmas Town ticket represents a $20 savings off the regular $32 one-day ticket price.

Grand Illumination 2014 at Colonial Williamsburg

imageIlluminations—firing guns into the air and lighting fireworks—were commonly used during the 18th century to celebrate major events such as great military victories, the birthday of the monarch or the arrival of a new colonial governor. To usher in the season, Colonial Williamsburg carries on this tradition  with its annual Grand Illumination on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2014

The celebration begins at 5 p.m. when candles are lit in the windows of public buildings, shops and homes. Live entertainment also begins at 5pm on four outdoor stages at Palace Green, Market Square, the Gaol and Capitol building.

.At 6:45 p.m. the Fifes and Drums march down Duke of Gloucester Street, and guests are invited to join in.

At 7 p.m., fireworks will fill the sky over the Historic Area from four locations: the Governor’s Palace, Market Square, and the north and south sides of the Capitol building.

Colonial Williamsburg Ambassadors, wearing special badges, will be available to assist guests, making it easier for guests to get the most out of their holiday experience. The Ambassadors will be stationed in the Historic Area, Visitor Center and other high traffic areas to hand out broadsides, answer questions, and guide and direct guests.

 

Schedule of Events 2014

Come to experience the Revolutionary City dressed in timeless natural decorations on a walking tour or take in a live auction on the Market House stage. Then, enjoy a relaxed dining experience and musical performances before the fireworks light up the sky

Choose from more than 20 guided and self-guided tours throughout the Revolutionary City—all included in a Colonial Williamsburg admission ticket.

10:30 a.m.–
8:15 p.m.
Guided tours, dining events, live music, and shopping throughout the Revolutionary City, historic taverns, and resort restaurants
12 p.m. Market House Auction begins
4 p.m. Grand Illumination Supper at the Williamsburg Lodge
5 p.m. Candles are lit in public buildings and homes
5 p.m. Entertainment begins on outdoor stages at Palace Green, Market Square, Gaol, and the Capitol
6:45 p.m. Fifes and Drums play Grand Tattoo
7 p.m. Fireworks at Governor’s Palace, Market Square, and the Capitol
8 p.m. A Grand Medley of Entertainments at the Kimball Theatre
9:30 p.m. Buses to the Revolutionary City resume operations until 10 p.m

Parking and Transportation

Please park at the Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitor Center and take the shuttle buses to the Revolutionary City.

Shuttle Schedule

9 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Every half hour from the Visitor Center to all regular stops
5:30–6:45 p.m. Express service ONLY from the Visitor Center to the Palace stop
6:45–9:30 p.m. NO SERVICE*
9:30–10 p.m. Regular service to all stops

More info here

Christmas Town at Busch Gardens opens Nov 21 for 2014 season

Yes, I know Halloween isn’t even here yet but Busch Gardens Williamsburg is already putting away Howl O Scream and making preparations to open Christmas Town on Nov 21st

The Williamsburg theme park’s annual Christmas celebration starts Nov. 21, 2014 and runs select days through Dec. 31. Guests can feel the warmth of the holidays while strolling along paths lit by more than eight million twinkling lights. image
     A night at Christmas Town lets guests take a break from the hustle-and-bustle of the holidays and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. True to its European heritage,Busch Gardens pulls out the stops for its annual Christmas event with idealized representations of the world’s best Christmas traditions.
     Guests are invited to celebrate the opening of Christmas Town at a special Christmas Town Tree Lighting Ceremony on Nov. 21. The lighting ceremony celebrates the arrival of the holiday season and will culminate with the synchronized lighting of the park’s eight million Christmas lights. An aerial photographer will capture the moment when Busch Gardens Christmas Town transforms into the place where Christmas shines brightest.
Scrooge No More! ™, is coming to Busch Gardens’ Globe Theatre for Christmas Town. Join Scrooge live on stage in an all-new musical at the Globe Theatre as he is swept away by the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future, who teach him the importance of family and friends being together at Christmas.
     Guests can create their own Christmas Town holiday traditions with a $32 Christmas Town Fun Card that offers unlimited admission for the 2014 Christmas season.
     Annual pass members can save even more with an exclusive offer designed just for them.  Active annual pass members can purchase a Christmas Town pass for $25 and receive unlimited admission to Christmas Town for the 2014 season along with regular pass member benefits like free parking and discounts on park purchases.  Visit www.bgwpass.com for complete details.
     Visit christmastown.com for complete Christmas Town details, including ticket information and an operating schedule. While there, sign up for Busch Gardens’ email updates and be the first to know about upcoming special offers on Christmas Town tickets and other exclusive holiday deals.

Christmas Events in Williamsburg Dec 1-8 ,2013

December 1 – 8 (Grand Illumination)

Grand Illumination 2013
Dec 8, 4 – 8 pm

In the 18th century, illuminations were held to celebrate major events!  Join us in Colonial Williamsburg for this very special event.

A Colonial Christmas
December, 9 am – 5 pm
Holiday traditions of 18th-century Virginia are recalled through special interpretive programs.

Christmas Market on Main
Dec 7, 10 am – 3 pm

Whether you are searching for a holiday gift for family, friends, or as a treat to yourself, youre sure to find it at the Christmas Market on Main. Historic Main Street. Free.

Williamsburg Symphonia Holiday Pops Concert
Dec 7 – 8, 2 pm (Sat); 1:30 & 3 pm (Sun)

The Williamsburg Symphonia presents its 2013 Holiday Pops concert at the Kimball Theatre during Grand Illumination weekend.

Holiday Tree Lighting at Yankee Candle
Dec 1, 10 am – 7 pm

Join Yankee Candle Village as we light up the Holidays!  See website for complete information.

Christmas Tree Lighting in Yorktown
Dec 6, 7 – 8 pm

Evening highlights include a performance by The Fifes and Drums of York Town, festive music and the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus. Free.

Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade
Dec 7, 6 – 8 pm
The Yorktown waterfront is bedazzled with holiday sights and sounds, including a spectacular floating parade of lights starting and complimentary hot cider.

New Town Art Gallery Holiday Season Party
Dec 6, 5 – 8 pm

Join us for our Holiday Season party.  We will have musical entertainment, hors doeurvres, wine and other refreshments.

Father Christmas Strolls the Square
Dec 7, 2:30 – 6 pm & Dec 8, 4 – 5 pm

Feel the spirit of the past with Saint Nicholas who will stroll the streets of Merchants Square until Christmas.

Williamsburg Christmas Parade
Dec 7, 9 am

This year’s theme is Christmas Trees and Memories. The parade runs right down Duke of Gloucester Street.

Holiday Skating in New Town
Through Jan 26, 2014
James City County Parks & Rec is teaming up with New Town again this year to offer skating on Sullivan Square!  It will be bigger and better than last year! 

String Winds Williamsburg Christmas
Dec 6, 1:30 & 4 pm

Enjoy the dynamic and joyous sounds of Timothy Seaman and Phillip Skeens as they celebrate the holidays with their unique instruments.

Cookies with Santa
Dec 8, 1 – 4 pm

Christmas is alive at York Hall where children and parents can visit with Santa Claus, enjoy some tasty treats, and shop for holiday gifts in The Gallery at York Hall. 301 Main Street.

Groaning Board
Dec 8, 4 – 6 pm

Celebrate the season with a grand feast of holiday favorites and a variety of traditional entertainment, including balladeers, fifes & drums, and madrigal singers.  Reservations required.

Grand Illumination Wine & Dine Dinner
Dec 8, 4:30 – 9 pm

Celebrate Colonial Williamsburgs Grand Illumination with a fabulous dinner.  At the Williamsburg Lodge.

Grand Illumination Dinner Chownings Tavern
Dec 8, 4:15 – 7:30 pm

A wonderful way to begin a spectacular evening!  Reservations required.

Grand Illumination Dinner Kings Arms Tavern
Dec 8, 4:15 – 7:30 pm

A wonderful way to begin a spectacular evening!  Reservations required.

Grand Illumination DinnerCampbells Tavern
Dec 8, 4:15 – 7:30 pm

A wonderful way to begin a spectacular evening!  Reservations required.

Dean Shostaks Crystal Carols
Dec 2, 1:30 pm; and Dec 4, 11:30 am & 1:30 pm

Join us for this popular Christmas concert!  At the Kimball Theatre.

Deck the Halls
Dec 2, 4 – 5 pm

A rousing Christmas show filled with humor, anecdotes, and singing.  See website.

VLMChristmasStar

Star of Wonder: Mystery of the Christmas Star
Through Dec 31

Experience the journey of the Magi around you in the Virginia Living Museums state-of-the-art digital planetarium theater!

VLMrudyrose

Laser Holidays at the Virginia Living Museum
Through Dec 31

Get into the holiday spirit with the music of the season and dazzling laser effects! Featuring classic holiday favorites  and unique reimaginings.

Poisoned Dwarf presents Celtic Night at the Kimball
Dec 7, 7 pm

Join Poisoned Dwarf for an exciting evening of Celtic music and fun. Known for its upbeat, rollicking performances of Irish traditional music

MAD Chocolart Party!
Dec 8, 1 – 4 pm

There will be chocolate (of course!), other sweets, savory bites, still and bubbling wine, plus book signings and art by Connie.  Must RSVP by Dec 4.  See website.

54th Annual Christmas Homes Tour
Dec 7, 10 am – 6 pm

Presented by the Green Spring Garden Club, features private residences beautifully decorated with holiday floral arrangements; some are open for the first time for this years tour.

Steinbach Signing Event
Dec 8
The Steinbach family started their business by purchasing a timber yard and operating a wood sawmill. There, they began to craft nutcrackers and other wooden products.

After Thanksgiving Sale
Through Dec 1

Join us at Williamsburg Premium Outlets for its annual After-Thanksgiving Weekend Sale featuring Midnight Madness!  See website for more info.

Watermens Museum Oyster Roast
Dec 7, 1 – 3 pm

Enjoy oysters, clam fritters, clam chowder and a variety of beverages. Watermens Museum. Admission. Tickets Required.  See website.

Around the World with Santa
Dec 7, 11 am – 3 pm

Bring the family and participate in make-and-take crafts and learn about traditions from around the world plus a special visit from Santa!  Mariners’ Museum.

Holiday Breakfast Kings Arms Tavern
Thursdays, Dec 7 – 28, 8 am

Begin your historic day with fellow patriots and enjoy delicious fare, spirited conversation, and 18th-century music. Reservations required

Winter Wonderettes
Through Dec 2, 7:30 pm (Dec 1, 2 pm)

When Santa turns up missing, the Wonderettes must use their talent and creative ingenuity plus some great holiday tunes to save their holiday party.  See website.

32nd Holiday Antiques Show
Through Dec 1
Thirty-five dealers feat. furniture and decorative accessories from the 18th, 19th & early 20th centuries including silver, antique jewelry, ceramics, fine glass & more.

Thomas Jefferson Wine Dinner
Dec 7, 7 pm

Dine in the company of Thomas Jefferson for a delightful combination of his favored fare and international wines while he reflects on his world travels. Reservations required

Wine, Wit & Wisdom Old World Roots, New World Wine
Dec 7, 2 – 4 pm

Sample some of Virginias best wines paired with some of the best products from local farmers and artisan food crafters.

Songs and Stories of the Yuletide
Dec 4, 4 – 5 pm
Lee Welch and Doug Austin present a delightful program of carols, tales, and tunes celebrating the Yuletide.

Christmas Decorations
Dec 1, 3 – 4 pm
Gather for an afternoon exploring Christmas traditions from around the Old Dominion.

Christmas with the Hampton Roads Mandolin Ensemble
Dec 7, 1:30 & 4 pm
Around the turn of the 20th century, mandolin ensembles were all the rage. Even the College of William and Mary had its own Mandolin and Glee Club!

Christmas Brass
Dec 7, 10:30 – 11:30 am
Celebrate the season with a unique concert by talented balladeers Gabe Stone and Stephen Christoff — offering a fascinating and tuneful show featuring rare brass instruments.

Free Holiday Concert USAF Heritage of America Band
Dec 6, 2013 at 7:30 pm

USAF Heritage of American Band free holiday concert.  At Jamestown High School.  See website.

Un-Civil Christmas: Holiday Music of the Civil War
Dec 7, 7:30 & 9 pm

Soldiers and their families looked to familiar traditions to remind them of better times & the ideals for which they were fighting.

A Christmas Concert for Williamsburg
Dec 4, 7:30 – 9:15 pm

The Sound Investment proudly presents A Christmas Concert for Williamsburg,  the second in its series of Music to Remember concerts.

Constitutional Conversations
Dec 4, 6:30 – 8:30 pm

The award-winning nine-month long examination of our nations founding document. Features breakout sessions for adults and students.

First Thursdays: Tacky Sweater Party
Dec 5, 5:30 – 8:30 pm

Looking for something fun to do after work on the first Thursday of every month?  Join us at the Mariners’ Museum!

Just CrossStitch – 27th Annual Christmas in Williamsburg Needlework Seminar
Dec 6 – 8

Come celebrate 30 years of Just CrossStitch at the 27th annual Christmas in Williamsburg needlework seminar.

Santa Claus Visits the W&M Bookstore
Dec 1 & 8, 12 – 3 pm

Delightful encounters await children of all ages when they visit Santa in his sleigh at the College of William & Mary Bookstore!

Thursday Afternoon Film Series
Dec 5, 2 pm

December is request month for the Williamsburg Regional Librarys Thursday Afternoon Film Series.  This week:  Moonstruck (1987). 

Book Signing: David Baldacci
Dec 6, 6 – 8 pm

Join bestselling author David Baldacci at the bookstore as he signs copies of his latest book, King and Maxwell.

Book Signing: Newt & Callista Gingrich
Dec 7, 2 – 4 pm

Newt & Callista Gingrich return to Merchants Square over Grand Illumination weekend.

Botanical Garden Fundraiser
Dec 7 – 8

Go Ape in Freedom Park will donate $10 of every ticket sold to the Williamsburg Botanical Garden and the Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association.

Comedy Club of Williamsburg presents Pat Dixon with Noah Gardenswartz
Dec 6 & 7, 7:30 pm

At the DoubleTree by Hilton, 50 Kingsmill Rd. For more info and ticket purchase visit the website or call 757-286-9448

Book Signing: Jane Hampton Cook
Dec 8, 12 – 2 pm

Join author Jane Hampton Cook for a signing of her book about John Quincy Adams, American Phoenix.

Brought to you by the Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce..

54th Annual Williamsburg VA Christmas Homes Tour Saturday, December 7, 2013

The 54th Annual Williamsburg Christmas Homes Tour, presented by the Green Spring Garden Club Inc., features houses decorated with holiday floral arrangements. All are located in and around The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s Revolutionary City.

imageVisit six private residences in and around Colonial Williamsburg’s Revolutionary City, open to the public for the Green Spring Garden Club’s Christmas Homes Tour, several for the first time. Each will be beautifully decorated with holiday floral arrangements.

The houses include three charming residences on the Duke of Gloucester Street near Merchants Square: the Bryan House, the Catherine Blaikley House and the Blaikley Kitchen. Also on the Duke of Gloucester Street, but near the Capitol, is the Edinburgh Castle Tavern, home of Bill Barker who portrays Thomas Jefferson for Colonial Williamsburg. Featured will be Mr. Barker’s extensive collection of Jefferson memorabilia along with Jefferson’s favorite wines. Nearby on Waller Street, the Elizabeth Carlos House contains the current residents’ collection of English antiques and treasures. One additional home, located on North Henry Street close to Merchants Square, dates to the early 1900s. It is the recently-renovated Newell home showcasing period architectural features and furniture.

Tickets will be sold at the Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitor Center and the Williamsburg Lodge on December 6 from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm and on December 7 from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. During Tour hours tickets will also be sold at each of the Houses.

Ticket Prices: $30 for a Full Tour ticket and $10 for a Single House admission. Parking at the Visitor Center is free; a ticket enables you to ride the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation buses on tour day.

Time:10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Date:December 7, 2013

Christmas Town Opens This Friday at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

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Nov. 19, 2013—All throughout Busch Gardens®, hundreds of “elves” are scurrying to prepare the park for Christmas Town™, which opens Friday, Nov. 22.  They may not have pointy ears and jingle bells on their feet like the elves recently featured in the #sELFies hashtag on the park’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels, but their work is equally as important.

 

In late October, Busch Gardens wrapped up its annual Howl-O-Scream event and now the park has taken on a stunning new look for the holidays. Teams of fast-paced “elves” began illuminating the park’s 300 acres of holiday fun. Down came the spider webs and pumpkins and in their place, park employees  began assembling  more than six million lights, hundreds of wreathes, garlands and lighted trees, including O Tannenbaum, a fifty-foot tree whose  many twinkling lights dance in time to music.  From big changes to tiny details, it takes help from all park teams to get Busch Gardens into the holiday spirit.

clip_image004[4]Shops full of toys for good girls and boys start to sparkle with a little “magic” from the Merchandising team, including Assistant Visual Merchandiser Allison Duncan. Duncan, who recently moved to Virginia from North Carolina, is directing a team who is in charge of store decorations in the England, Italy, Scotland and New France areas of the park.

 

“It’s my first time at Christmas Town so I don’t know what to expect,” said Duncan, “but I think our team’s done a good job executing the designs we’ve developed .”

 

Some stores, like the Emporium shop will be getting yuletide makeovers. “This year it’s going to be very Victorian and just gorgeous,” said Duncan, hinting that the store is likely to be her favorite and a hit with guests as well.

 

In the bakery, the culinary teams are preparing to bake cookies for Santa as well as park guests who will visit Christmas Town.

 

“We’re doing a whole lot of cake and baked goods testing,” said Durell Council, a supervisor at the bakery. “We have newclip_image006[4] menus in our restaurants and Christmas Town breads and cakes to prepare.”

 

Along with gingerbread cookies, snowman cupcakes and red velvet cake, guests visiting Christmas Town will be able to satisfy their sweet tooth with a new Black Forest cake dripping with chocolate ganache and topped with a chocolate-covered cherry.

 

For Maria Rubino, an entertainment technician from New York working on the installation of Christmas Town, a day’s work may require hanging wreaths and stringing garland or checking light bulbs on Big Ben.

 

“During Christmas Town I also maintain the lights by walking through the park troubleshooting and repairing decorations,” said Rubino, “so I get to see Christmas Town from a guest perspective too.”

 

clip_image008[4]Rubino said she is most looking forward to guest’s reactions to the holiday celebration, “because as fun as it is putting up all these decorations, I love the reactions from people when they see everything, especially the kids.”

 

“I’m so happy to be here now working with this team,” said Rubino, “because we really do feel like little elves.”

 

Allison Duncan, Durell Council and Maria Rubino represent the hundreds of the team members involved in transforming the scares of Howl-O-Scream into the winter wonderland of Christmas Town.  The lights of Christmas Town turn on Nov. 22 and twinkle select days through Dec 31. 

 

Pay for a day and enjoy unlimited access to the holiday celebration with a Christmas Town Fun Card.  For more information, including a complete operating schedule, visit www.christmastown.com/va.

 

Christmas Tree lighting in Colonial Williamsburg

imageA special reading and traditional carols highlight this year’s annual Christmas Eve tree lighting ceremony on Market Square in Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 24.  The community is invited to gather at the Courthouse on Duke of Gloucester Street for the special program.

Prior to the tree lighting, guests can witness an 18th-century holiday tradition at 5 p.m., the firing of the Christmas guns. During the 18th century, it was customary for guns to be fired in salute to the holiday season and as an expression of joy and celebration. Actor-interpreter Stephen Seals will read the classic “Twas the Night Before Christmas” at 5:25 p.m.

Members of the Kiwanis Club of Williamsburg will participate in the tree lighting ceremony. City of Williamsburg Mayor Clyde Haulman officially turns the switch to light the live evergreen tree with 6,000 lights installed by Colonial Williamsburg operations staff.

Colonial Williamsburg and the Kiwanis Club of Williamsburg have cosponsored the lighting of a Christmas tree on Market Square since 1959. 

No tickets or reservations required for either event.

imageLooking for other things to do in Williamsburg at Christmastime ?

Download the holiday planner here

Visit Christmas Town at Busch Gardens

Read more about Christmas traditions in Colonial Williamsburg

Holiday events tonight in New Town-Williamsburg VA

New Town is a 365-acre mixed-use development in Williamsburg (James City County), Virginia, that includes an open air shopping mall with lots of free parking, national retailers and local shops, entertainment venues and a 12-screen theater, fine restaurants and quick eating spots, medical and dental offices, banks, credit unions and other financial institutions, business and personal service providers, accounting and legal firms, not-for-profit and educational entities, post office, courthouse and other government offices, parks and walking trails, and residential homes, apartments, townhomes, and condominiums. We are located at the corner of Ironbound Road and Monticello Avenue, 1/2 mile east of Route 199.

Read more about New Town here

Seven Inspiring Ways to Discover America’s Historic Triangle This Holiday Season

imageThe festive and timeless allure of Greater Williamsburg creates unforgettable holiday memories. Consider these seven ways to experience the region this year:

Carol through the Past: Join an evening of caroling with Governor Yeardley at Historic Jamestown’s A Christmas Be Merry evening program before witnessing the firing of the Christmas guns on Jamestown Island.

Dance Minuets: Visit the historic Governor’s Palace ballroom for A Collection of Colonial Dance, a special evening performance of colonial minuets, country, and theatrical dances accompanied by live music played on period musical instruments.

Experience Colonial Traditions: During A Colonial Christmas at Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center, discover through historical interpretation the holiday traditions of 17th- and 18th-century colonial Virginia.

Take Tea with Charles Dickens: Create family memories on December 17 at Holiday Tea with Charles Dickens, featuring a delightful one-man performance of A Christmas Carol by Gerald Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens, at the Williamsburg Inn, celebrating its 75th anniversary this year.

Travel through Europe: Christmas Town: A Busch Gardens Celebration transforms America’s most beautiful theme park into a winter wonderland with six million twinkling lights, dazzling Christmas-themed shows, culinary masterpieces and artisan-made gifts. 2012 brings new experiences with Holiday Hills, a nostalgia-inducing Americana Christmas-themed section of the park. Celebrate a time gone by when holiday traditions were bold, flashy and warm as apple pie.

Uncover Decorating Secrets: New for 2012, learn Colonial Williamsburg techniques for making the wreaths, swags, centerpieces, and traditional decorations using fresh fruit, greens and other natural material that decorate historic properties in the Revolutionary City.

Toast to the New Year: Join Williamsburg Lodge Executive Chef Rhys Lewis for Wine, Wit & Wisdom, the interactive wine tasting experience, as he pairs some of the world’s greatest wines with artisan cheeses and chocolates for New Year’s Eve in “Champagne” and Other Sparkling Places.

For more information on visiting Greater Williamsburg and the holiday offerings, go to www.visitwilliamsburg.com.

Grand Illumination–Colonial Williamsburg 2012

Colonial Williamsburg kicks off the holiday season with its annual Grand Illumination on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2012Colonial Williamsburg kicks off the holiday season with its annual Grand Illumination on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2012

through expanded hours and more immersive celebrations to herald the start of the 2012  holiday season.

The celebration begins at 5 p.m. when candles are lit in the windows of public buildings, shops and homes. At 5:15 p.m., live entertainment begins on four outdoor stages at Palace Green, Market Square, the Gaol and Capitol building.

The public can participate in the lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. when thousands of guests will be invited to activate glow sticks simultaneously to illuminate the town.

Following the lighting ceremony, Colonial Williamsburg’s Fifes and Drums play Grand Tattoo on all four outdoor stages to signal the beginning of Colonial Williamsburg’s holiday season.

imageAt 7 p.m., fireworks will fill the sky over the Historic Area from four locations: the Governor’s Palace, Market Square, and the north and south sides of the Capitol building.

At 7:30 p.m. the Fifes and Drums march down Duke of Gloucester Street, and guests are invited to join in.

Colonial Williamsburg Ambassadors, wearing special badges, will be available to assist guests, making it easier for guests to get the most out of their holiday experience. The Ambassadors will be stationed in the Historic Area, Visitor Center and other high traffic areas to hand out broadsides, answer questions, and guide and direct guests.

Illuminations — the firing of guns into the air and lighting fireworks — were commonly used during the 18th century to celebrate major events. The tradition of Grand Illumination originated in 1934 with a “White Lighting.” The first re-creation of an 18th-century Christmas in Williamsburg featured single candles in the windows of the Historic Area’s restored and reconstructed buildings, as well as garlands and greens on the outside of the buildings.

For more information, visit www.colonialwilliamsburg.com.

 Schedule of Events 2012

On Sunday, December 2, come early and stroll the Revolutionary City and decide which decorations you like best. Then, enjoy a relaxed dining experience and musical performances before the fireworks light up the sky.


10:30 a.m.–8:15 p.m.
Guided tours, dining events, live music, and shopping throughout the Revolutionary City, historic taverns, and resort restaurants


5 p.m.
Candles are lit in public buildings and homes


5:15 p.m.
Entertainment begins on outdoor stages at Palace Green, Market Square, Gaol, and the Capitol


6:30 p.m.
Guests illuminate the Revolutionary City with glow sticks


6:40 p.m.
Fifes and Drums play Grand Tattoo


7 p.m.
Fireworks at Governor’s Palace, Market Square, and the Capitol


8 p.m.
A Grand Medley of Entertainments at the Kimball Theatre


9:30 p.m.
Buses to the Revolutionary City resume operations until 10 p.m.

 Parking & Transportation

Please park at the Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitor Center and take the shuttle buses to the Revolutionary City.

Shuttle Scheduleimage

9 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Every half hour from the Visitor Center to all regular stops

5:30–6:45 p.m.
Express service ONLY from the Visitor Center to the Palace stop

6:45–9:30 p.m.
NO SERVICE*

9:30–10 p.m.
Regular service to all stops


*Note: Historic Area Buses will not run during the fireworks. Please plan to arrive early. Bus Stop locations are available on the interactive map at the bottom of this page.

Download the 2012 Colonial Williamsburg holiday planner here

53rd Annual Williamsburg VA Christmas Homes Tour

The Green Spring Garden Club Homes Tour will feature six houses in and around Colonial Williamsburg, open to the public only for the tour, several for the first time. Each will be beautifully decorated with holiday floral The Green Spring Garden Club Homes Tour will feature six houses in and around Colonial Williamsburg, open to the public only for the tour, several for the first time. Each will be beautifully decorated with holiday floral arrangements. Four houses are private residences; two are used for special functions.The houses include the Custis Tenement, on Duke of Gloucester Street, now serving as the newly-renovated and decorated gathering place for Bruton Parish Church; the Unicorn’s Horn, a charming private residence also on Duke of Gloucester Street; and the Coke-Garrett House on Nicholson Street, furnished with adaptations, reproductions and antiques from the Colonial Williamsburg collection.Three additional homes are located close-by on South England and Tyler Streets.The Seymour Powell Tenement is one of the 88 original buildings from 18th-century Williamsburg, filled with the residents’ collection of lovely antiques. The Richardson home is a completely-renovated and enlarged “cottage-style” house built in 1910. The Brooks home, built in 2009, is a contemporary home with traditional touches, an outdoor kitchen and lovely gardens.

Tickets are $30 for a full Tour ticket and $10 for a Single House admission. Tickets will be sold at the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center and the Williamsburg Lodge on November 30th from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm and on December 1st from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. During Tour hours tickets will also be sold at each of the Houses on the Tour.

Want to go ?

SATURDAY  DECEMBER 1, 2012   10AM to 6 PM

Parking at the Visitor Center is free and a ticket enables you to ride the Colonial Williamsburg buses on Tour day.

Williamsburg Home Wins WAVY TV Holiday Light Contest

imageThe Emory family won the 2011 WAVY.com Holiday Lights contest with their winter wonderland home in Williamsburg.

The home, located at 112 Timberwood Drive, boasts 150,000 lights.

As you stroll through the amazing display, you’ll find yourself at the North Pole, catch penguins playing and you may even spot Santa. In fact, some tell the homeowner he resembles jolly St. Nick.

2011 marks the third year Elaine and Randy Emory have asked visitors to donate to the local food bank.( FISH)  They are hoping to double last year’s food total.

Christmas Events in Williamsburg VA

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Find more events here

Grand Illumination in Williamsburg VA Dec 5, 2010

grand illumination williamsburg vaIlluminations—firing guns into the air and lighting fireworks—were commonly used during the 18th century to celebrate major events such as great military victories, the birthday of the monarch or the arrival of a new colonial governor.

Colonial Williamsburg carries on this tradition on Dec. 5 with Grand Illumination. The tradition of Grand Illumination originated in 1934 with a “White Lighting.”  The first re-creation of an 18th-century Christmas in Williamsburg featured single candles in the windows of the Historic Area’s restored and reconstructed buildings, as well as garlands and greens on the outside of the buildings. 

Guests can be part of Colonial Williamsburg’s holiday season that features fireworks, music and candlelit buildings. The celebration begins in the late afternoon with a variety of entertainment, starting at 4:45 p.m. on multiple outdoor stages throughout the Historic Area. The Colonial Williamsburg Fifes and Drums provides 18th-century music appropriate to the season. Other performers present holiday entertainment found in Williamsburg two centuries ago and today.

CW Christmas PlannerAt 5:45 p.m. the Fifes and Drums signals the beginning of Grand Illumination, from all four stages. At 6:15 p.m., candles are lit in public buildings, shops and homes, and fireworks are launched at three Historic Area locations: the Governor’s Palace, Magazine and Capitol. After the fireworks, entertainment resumes on the outdoor stages and continues until 7:30 p.m.

Guests will have the opportunity to continue the celebration of Grand Illumination with tours of the Governor’s Palace and Capital by candlelight. These walking tours are held every 15 minutes from 7:30-8:30 p.m.  A Historic Area admission ticket that includes the Governor’s Palace or Capitol is required. For more information, call (757) 229-2141 or 1-800-HISTORY.

Download the 25 page Christmas Planner from Colonial Williamsburg


Here are a few other Holiday Events in the Williamsburg/ Yorktown areas of Virginia for 2010

Since so many people plan in advance I wanted to post a few highlights of the  Christmas Season events for the Williamsburg and Yorktown area of Virginia for the upcoming 2010 Holiday Season.  This list is by no means complete. You can find more info on the Colonial Williamsburg Christmas page and the Christmas in Williamsburg website

Christmas Town at Busch Gardens

ChristamsTownNovember 26 – December 31 (Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays; daily December 17 – 31, except Christmas Day) Experience Busch Gardens in a whole new light during Christmas Town: A Busch Gardens Celebration. Holiday traditions, dazzling shows and one-of-a-kind gift ideas will make everyone say, "Now this is Christmas." Gaze at more than two million twinkling lights while enjoying Busch Gardens’ signature peppermint fudge hot chocolate. A complete Christmas Town experience includes a visit to Santa’s workshop and the park’s 50-foot tall, light-animated Christmas Tree. This year Christmas Town has been enhanced with additional operating days and the inclusion of the Italy village. For more information, including a complete operating schedule, visit the website or call 800-343-7946.

Master Thespian’s "A Christmas Carol"
Thanksgiving – Christmas (two performances each weekend)
This 20-minute version of Charles Dickens’ classic returns to Merchants Square!

Candlelight Concerts at Bruton Parish Church
Every Saturday in December, 8 pm

Continuing a tradition begun in the 18th century, Bruton Parish Church each Saturday presents recitals by instrumental and choral groups, interspersed with organ and harpsichord recitals by the church’s own splendid musicians. Concerts are held at 8 p.m. every Saturday. On Duke of Gloucester Street in the Historic Area. Free (freewill offerings accepted). Call 757-229-2891 for additional information.

Annual Holiday Celebration at the Williamsburg Winery
December 5, 12 – 4 pm
Enjoy Grand Illumination like never before! Come out to the Williamsburg Winery as seven great chefs prepare their signature dishes for you — all paired with a Williamsburg Winery wine. This event includes round-trip transportation from the Williamsburg Winery to the Historic Area starting from 3 pm – 9 pm. Cost is $30/person. Holiday Celebration tickets ONLY cost $18/person (non-drinkers and children are $10/person). Partial proceeds from this event benefits the American Red Cross. Call 757-229-0999 for additional information. Overnight packages are available.

Illumination and Christmas Tree Lighting Yorktown
December 3, 7:30 p.m.

The holiday lights go on and the festive season begins at 6:30 p.m. with entertainment at the Victory Monument followed by the process of light through historic Yorktown to Riverwalk Landing. The ceremony includes holiday entertainment and a visit from Santa. 757.890.3500

College of William and Mary Symphony Orchestra Winter Concert
December 2, 8 pm
In its 82nd season, the Symphony Orchestra combines the talents of undergraduate, graduate and community musicians. Tickets are $8; free for children under 12. Call (757) 221-2674. At Phi Beta Kappa Memorial Hall.

College of William and Mary Wind Symphony Holiday Concert
December 3, 8 pm

Founded in 1929, the William and Mary Wind Symphony is the artistic cornerstone of the William and Mary Band program, presenting the finest in symphonic wind music. Comprised of both music majors and non-music majors, the Wind Symphony brings together talented wind, brass and percussion players to perform wind ensemble and symphonic band music from a repertoire that spans the 16th through the 21st centuries. Tickets are $8; free for children under 12. Call (757) 221-2674. At Phi Beta Kappa Memorial Hall.

Colonial Christmas Show
December 4 – 5
Head to the Colonial Christmas Show — at Trinkle Hall on the College of William and Mary campus. Live music provided by Ardie Boggs. Exhibitors from 6 different states will be showing and selling the best in handcrafted work, fine art, jewelry, folk art, wearable art, paper, baskets, pillows, photography, quilts, Christmas decor, food, gifts and much more! Show is from 9 am – 5 pm on Saturday and 10 am – 5 pm on Sunday. Trinkle Hall is located at the corner of the Campus Center, across from the Wren Building.

Christmas Night Concert – Presented by Cantori Vocal Ensemble
December 5, 3 pm
Established in the fall of 2005, Cantori is an auditioned choral ensemble composed of professional musicians and singers with extensive vocal and choral experience. It has earned a reputation for musical excellence, clarity of tone, and singular blend of voices. This concert will celebrate the Christmas season with music both joyful and reflective. Music to be performed will include excerpts from Monteverdi’s Christmas Vespers and traditional English carols arranged for choir by Sir David Willcocks, John Rutter, and Norman Luboff. The second half of the program will feature the entertaining extended work, A Musicological Journey Through the Twelve Days of Christmas, by Craig Courtney, in which each "day" is set in the style of a different composer, with many tunes which will be familiar to the audience. The concert will be held at Walnut Hills Baptist Church, 1014 Jamestown Road in Williamsburg. The concert is free, but an offering will be received in support of Cantori.

Christmas Carol Concert
December 5, 4 pm

The Virginia Chorale, the 20-voice professional choral ensemble, will present their Christmas Carol Concert at the Williamsburg Presbyterian Church on Sunday afternoon, December 5. Tickets for the concert or for the season are available at the door or by calling 757-627-8375. This marks the 4th year of Virginia Chorale concerts in the new sanctuary at the church!

College of William and Mary Choirs Holiday Concert
December 4, 2 pm and 8 pm

The Choir of the College of William and Mary, a 70-member mixed choral ensemble, celebrates 88 years of choral singing at the second oldest institution of higher education in the United States. Tickets are $9; free for children under 12. Call (757) 221-2674.

51st Annual Christmas Homes Tour
December 4, 10 am – 6 pm
Christmas at CWPresented by the Green Spring Garden Club. Enjoy touring five homes and buildings decorated for the holidays by garden club members and professional floral designers. Visit the Lightfoot House on East Francis Street, home of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation presidents; and the President’s House at the College of William and Mary. The Tayloe House and the Grissell Hay Lodging House, both on Nicholson Street in Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area, are also included. All four are original buildings from the 1700s. The fifth location is the Williamsburg Masonic Lodge built in 1931 on the site of the "Old Mason’s Hall." It is across from the Lightfoot House. Tickets are $25 (or $7 to tour a single building). Ticket price includes use of Colonial Williamsburg buses from the Visitor Center and around the Historic Area. This is a fundraising project. All proceeds benefit local horticultural projects and provide scholarships for area students. Please see the Garden Club website for details or call 757-903-2161.

Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade
December 4, 7 pm

Yorktown Lighted Boat ParadeDecorated in holiday spirit, area boaters parade the York River in competition for "Best of Show." Waterfront events begin at 6 p.m. Enjoy hot cider and musical performances in the glow of a beach bonfire while awaiting the magnificent parade of lights. Yorktown waterfront. Free

Williamsburg Community Christmas Parade
December 4
Come out to the annual Christmas Parade

Christmas Town Dash
December 5
Chick-fil-A and Busch Gardens are partnering together to bring you Christmas Town Dash 8K – a run that will travel throughout the park! This event will help raise money for Toys for Tots. See website for complete information!

Williamsburg Symphonia – Holiday Pops
December 4 & 5, 1:30 & 3 pm
Seasonal music to delight the young and the young at heart, at the Kimball Theatre, Williamsburg; performances each day at 1:30 p.m. & 3:00 p.m. Visit the website or call 757-229-9857 for updates and ticketing info.

Candlelight Concerts at Bruton Parish Church
Every Saturday in November & December, 8 pm

Continuing a tradition begun in the 18th century, Bruton Parish Church each Saturday presents recitals by instrumental and choral groups, interspersed with organ and harpsichord recitals by the church’s own splendid musicians. Concerts are held at 8 p.m. every Saturday. On Duke of Gloucester Street in the Historic Area. Free (freewill offerings accepted). Call 757-229-2891 for additional information.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 24, 5:30 pm

Colonial Williamsburg and the Kiwanis Club of Williamsburg co-sponsor the lighting of an evergreen on Market Square. More than 2,000 guests will gather at the steps of the Courthouse on Duke of Gloucester Street in the Historic Area. A local resident shares a recollection from her great-grandmother, Martha Page Vandegrift, who in 1842 witnessed the first Christmas tree in Williamsburg at the George Tucker House. The president of the Kiwanis Club and the mayor of Williamsburg deliver holiday remarks and ask that the Christmas tree lights be turned on. Following the tree lighting, the audience lights individual candles.

Christmas Town Returns to Busch Gardens for 2010

Christmas Town returns to Busch Gardens Williamsburg for 2010. It’s a season-long celebration, now extended through December 31, with millions of twinkling lights, where the spirit of Christmas comes alive. See the world’s most beautiful theme park transformed into a Christmas wonderland featuring stunning shows, Santa’s bustling workshop and a marketplace brimming with local artisans.

This year, Busch Gardens Williamsburg is expanding the event into its Italy village and adding to the European-themed park’s Christmas Town offerings. Guests will experience the flair of a traditional Italian Christmas, featuring a golden color scheme, traditional Italian holiday fare and graceful angels as far as the eye can see. Guests will leave with a feeling of peace on earth as they walk among a million lights in the Italy village alone, increasing the park-wide Christmas bulb count to two million twinkling lights.  At Ristorante della Piazza, chefs are busy preparing Italian holiday favorites like fresh pasta and Busch Gardens’ signature sauces. At Il Teatro di San Marco, guests can enjoy Miracles, Busch Gardens’ newest Christmas-themed production that will leave the audience believing anything is possible. Stop by Artisans of Italy after the show and watch as master painter Antonio Aprea demonstrates the delicate artistry of capodimonte on hand-crafted porcelain poinsettias and other works of floral art made exclusively for Busch Gardens. 

“The addition of Italy to Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town lineup completes the park’s transformation into a holiday wonderland,” said Busch Gardens’ President Carl Lum. “Guests can now walk a complete loop around the park and experience all of Busch Gardens’ holiday offerings.”

Also new this year, guests can experience Christmas Town while relaxing 80 feet in the air aboard one of Busch Gardens’ high-flying gondolas. Flight of Lights offers breathtaking views of Christmas Town’s themed villages and showcases Busch Gardens’ holiday decorations.

Guests with discerning taste can peruse the wares on display from local artisans at Mistletoe Marketplace, Busch Gardens’ traditional outdoor German market.

Christmas Town also includes park favorites from last season, including the stage productions of the Christmas-themed Rejoice and Deck the Halls. Guests can enjoy a cup of the park’s signature peppermint fudge hot chocolate while visiting Santa in his North Pole workshop, then stroll over to Oktoberfest for O Tannenbaum, featuring the park’s iconic 50-foot, light-animated Christmas Tree.

Busch Gardens is extending its Christmas Town operation through New Year’s Eve. Christmas Town open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 3 – 10 p.m. starting Nov. 26, and will open every day except Christmas Day from Dec. 17 through Dec. 31. The park will close at 9 p.m. on Nov. 28, Dec. 5, Dec. 12 and on Christmas Eve.

Christmas Town admission tickets are available for $21.99. Guests with active Busch Gardens’ passes save 50 percent on Christmas Town tickets receive free parking and enjoy in-park discounts.

Find out more here

 

Watch this short video

Merry Christmas 2009

Christmas 2009

I’m not sure why  so many are fearful of offending others by saying Merry Christmas or Christmas Tree. All  I hear  anymore are“Happy Holidays” and “Seasons Greetings” on the street, in the stores, on radio, on television and in the press.

Is the spirit of Christmas fading? Are we being too PC ? If this offends anyone please don’t read it.

I  wish everyone a Merry Christmas and much health and happiness during this most joyous time of the year. May your heart and home be overflowing with the love and warmth of Christmas. May 2010 bring you health, happiness, and love !

Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Colonial Williamsburg

Christmas Eve in Williamsburg, Virginia the Fife and Drum Corps marches down the Duke of Gloucester, costumed interpreters fire Christmas guns, and the crowd gathers at the Courthouse steps. Men and women, boys and girls, take what warmth they can from the fatwood burning in the cressets, their candles lit, listening to the mayor’s speech, bowing for a prayer, singing carols, and waiting for the moment when the switch is thrown, and the old evergreen across the street twinkles again alight.
Today, Williamsburg’s annual community Christmas tree packs four centuries of holiday traditions into one sparkling Christmas present.

Continue reading

Williamsburg VA Tacky Light Contest

As Christmas rapidly draws near, I am asking for all local residents of Williamsburg VA and Hampton Roads VA to nominate your favorite house that  has been decorated for Christmas. Although Williamsburg is known for it’s traditional decorations there are a few homes scattered around the area that are overChristmas lights the top. You know the ones I’m talking about. Thousands of Christmas lights, props, and inflatable figures crowd the lawn so that it is nearly impossible to even walk. Decorations so bright that you get a free tan if you stand too close.

I am offering a grand prize of a $100 gift certificate to Prime Outlets in Williamsburg to the home voted #1 by our panel. Contest will end on December 28th, 2009.

Winner to be selected and announced on Jan 29th.

You can post a photo and address for any home you want to nominate in the area in the comment field below.

Check out some other Tacky Xmas sites on the web:
Lightasmic – 30 displays and 2 million lights in Bakersfield, CA. As seen on America’s Greatest Christmas Decorations
Planet Christmas – Decorated houses, how to do it yourself, where to buy decorations and more
Holly’s Recommended Christmas Lights – The best of Fairfax County/Northern Virginia
Global Christmas Lights Tour
Christmas Lights in Central Texas
Clot Family Xmas
Kevin’s Christmas Display
Let There Be Lights – an art car!

 

Williamsburg VA Christmas Parade- Cancelled

 

URGENT MESSAGE RE: Christmas Parade 2009

The Greater Williamsburg Chamber and Tourism Alliance has canceled tomorrow’s annual Christmas Parade due to forecasted rainy conditions.

 Christmas Parade Williamsburg
The 2009 Williamsburg VA Christmas Parade theme is  Christmas Town  celebrating parade sponsor Busch Gardens’, newest attraction.
In celebration of the opening of Christmas Town the parade will include Christmas Town carolers, dancers, and elves.

Continue reading

Santa arrives at Busch Gardens from St Louis

santa625nov232009 Warren Moellenhoeff combs out his beard every morning to keep it looking sharp. The former Grant’s Farm Santa will be performing as Santa this year at Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Virginia. (Elie Gardner/P-D)

As Santa says, everything happens for a reason. Especially when it comes to the holiday season.
Earlier this month, the former Grant’s Farm Santa flew — by plane — to Virginia, from St Louis to prepare for a new Christmas program at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg. He is working for the same man who came to St. Louis in 2005 to help set up the Grant’s Farm program.
n161065423547_3523 Santa takes the stage in Williamsburg on Friday. He has spent the last three weeks perfecting his telling of "’Twas the Night Before Christmas." The theme park wanted Santa to tell it without a script.

Read the rest of the story here in the  ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH

Explore Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Williamsburg here

Colonial Williamsburg VA Christmas Homes Tour

49th Annual Christmas Homes Tour

Saturday, December 6th, 2008, 10 AM to 6 PM
(Note:  Stable closes at 4 PM)

 

Bring along your family and friends to the annual Christmas Homes Tour presented by the Green Spring Garden Club in Colonial Williamsburg. Walk along the cobblestone roads, lined with lampposts and greenery. Doors to private residences are opened and the general public is allowed to leisurely stroll through homes in and around the Historical area. 

 

This Saturday December 6th. 2008 you can tour three private residences in the Historic Area plus two of Colonial Williamsburg’s most significant venues – the Colonial Williamsburg Stable and the historic St. George Tucker House which serves as Colonial Williamsburg’s donor reception center.  The private homes include the Coke-Garrett House, residence of Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s President and his wife; Peter Hay’s Shop; and the Timson House. Each of the houses and the Stable will be decorated with holiday floral arrangements.  The Colonial Williamsburg Stable will display the two carriages which carried Queen Elizabeth while visiting Colonial Williamsburg for the 350th and 400th Anniversary of Jamestown in 1957 and 2007.   Animals from Colonial Williamsburg Rare Breeds program will also be in the Stable for visitors to enjoy.

 

Cost: Tickets $25 ($7 to tour a single house) which includes use of the shuttle bus from the Visitor Center and around the Historic Area. Parking is available at the Visitor Center. 

Tickets will be available at the Visitor Center and the Williamsburg Lodge on Friday, Dec. 5 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  Tickets also will be available during tour hours on Saturday at the Stable and at each house on the tour.

All net proceeds will be allocated to ongoing and new philanthropies to include scholarships and horticultural beautification. For more information call (757) 565 – 9517.

 

Christmas is a season of wonder and joy – of whimsical decorations, caroling and frost covered windows. Share this special time with your family and friends in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia! Everywhere you look, find intricate decorations and holiday cheer set amidst historical flare. You will fall in love with Colonial Williamsburg at Christmas time.

Find miles of fresh pines strung around lampposts lining the cobblestone lanes, see the soft glow of candlelight in the storefronts, and witness the joy upon the faces of children as they stare in disbelief at the extravagant décor. While waiting in line to purchase your favorite Christmas dessert at the local bakery, enjoy the decadent smells of freshly baked apple pies and strudels. Celebrate the most cherished holiday of all in the most beautiful of settings – Williamsburg, Virginia!

Dating back to 1936, nicknamed the first “official” Christmas in Williamsburg, people have been coming to this magical town to celebrate the wonder of the season. Nothing quite compares to the sights, smells and sounds that one experiences. The Christmas season begins with the Grand Illumination – an elaborate display of fireworks outlining the sky over the Governor’s Palace in Williamsburg. Witness the spectacular event of glowing candles, fireworks and holiday music – enlighten your holiday spirit while having an unforgettable time with family and friends.

Sights, Smells…and Sounds! Christmas in Williamsburg means more than just enjoying delicious foods, splendid decorating techniques and frothy delights – it is also about music to the ears! Enjoy 18th century music and lore at the local taverns located throughout Colonial Williamsburg. While staying at your Williamsburg bed and breakfast, hotel or quaint inn, come celebrate Christmas with an evening filled with traditional tavern entertainment. Enjoy your home away from home with your family and friends this holiday season.

Fill your heart with cheer this Christmas! Williamsburg is home to the Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony held annually in Market Square. Gather your loved ones, bundle up and grab a steaming cup of hot cocoa, and watch as the great spruce illuminates joy on the surrounding faces. The time is here – It’s Christmas in Williamsburg! Rejoice and relive history in this stunning, historical area of Virginia.  Find out more about Colonial Williamsburg VA at www.History.org

 This informational update provided by Mr Williamsburg.com/ John Womeldorf . A local Realtor keeping you aware of events and happenings in the Williamsburg and Hampton Roads VA areas.

Contact me at John@MrWilliamsburg.com

Research the area at www.WilliamsburgsRealEstate.com

Or ask any questions about homes, neighborhoods, schools, amenities, recreation , shopping or anything else about the area.

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Colonial Williamsburg , Virginia Grand Illumination 2008 Holiday Season

COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG’S 74TH GRAND ILLUMINATION FEATURES FIRWORKS, MUSIC AND CANDLELIT BUILDINGS

Colonial Williamsburg , Virginia Grand Illumination  2008 Holiday Season

 

 

 

Colonial Williamsburg, Va. ― Grand Illumination held on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008 is a signature event of Colonial Williamsburg’s holiday season that runs from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. This unforgettable night features fireworks, music and candlelit buildings.

The celebration begins in the late afternoon with a variety of entertainment that starts at 4:45 p.m. on multiple outdoor stages throughout the Historic Area. The Colonial Williamsburg Fifes and Drums provide 18th-century music appropriate to the season. Other performers present a variety of holiday entertainments during the evening’s festivities.

At 5:45 p.m. the Fifes and Drums signal the beginning of the Grand Illumination. At 6:15 p.m., candles are lit in public buildings, shops and homes, and fireworks are launched at three Historic Area locaColonial Williamsburg Grand Illumination by skibradshaw.tions: the Governor’s Palace, Magazine and Capitol. After the fireworks, entertainment resumes on the outdoor stages and continues until 7:30 p.m.

          Illuminations were commonly used during the 18th century to celebrate major events such as military victories, the birthday of the monarch, arrival of a new colonial governor and the like by firing guns into the air and lighting fireworks. Written accounts of illuminations in Williamsburg, before the American Revolution, include descriptions of “candles in the cupolas of public buildings and windows of gentlemen’s houses.”

          The 2008 Grand Illumination schedule is:

·         8:45 a.m. Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center opens.

·         9 a.m. Colonial Williamsburg buses begin operations between the Visitor Center and the Historic Area.

·         9 a.m. Exhibition buildings, trade shops and museums open.

·         Noon. Francis Street closed from York Street to Henry Street.

·         4 p.m. Colonial Williamsburg buses limit operations. Buses will pick up and discharge passengers at the Governor’s Palace Bus Stop in the Historic Area and the Visitor Center only.

·         4:45 p.m. Entertainment begins on outdoor stages at Palace Green, Market Square, Goal and Capitol building.

·         5:45 p.m. Colonial Williamsburg’s Fifes and Drums play Grand Tattoo signaling the beginning of Colonial Williamsburg’s holiday season. Colonial Williamsburg’s buses temporarily cease operations.

·         6:15 p.m. Candles are lit in public buildings, shops and homes. Fireworks are launched at four locations: the Governor’s Palace, Market Square, and the north and south sides of the Capitol building.

·         8:30 p.m. Colonial Williamsburg’s buses resume operations.

 

Williamsburg City Police will close Francis Street from York Street to North Henry Street and South England Street from Francis Street to Newport Avenue at noon for Grand Illumination. The streets will be closed to all automobiles except for guests going to King’s Arms, Shields, Chowning’s, the Williamsburg Inn and the Williamsburg Lodge. The city does this to provide adequate parking for tours buses bringing guests to Grand Illumination.

 

Park at the Visitors’ Center, you can ride the shuttle bus to the Governor’s Palace stop for free. You don’t even need a pass. The shuttle runs all day until 5:45 p.m., then starts up again at 8:30, after the festivities are finished.

At the historic area, there are four stages and four identical fireworks performances. These are the old-fashioned lower fireworks, not the 4th of the July kind which explode way up in the air. So you’re likely to be very far back and, unless you’re tall, have your view partially blocked by the crowd.

There are actually two sets of fireworks shot off at the Capitol. There’s always a big crowd on the south lawn, but the crowd’s always smaller on the north side.

On Sunday, entertainment begins on the four stages at 4:45 p.m. At 5:45, the Fifes and Drums signal the beginning of Grand Illumination.

At 6:15, candles are lit in public buildings, shops and homes, and fireworks are launched from the Governor’s Palace, the Magazine and the Capitol.

 

 

Mr Williamsburg.com " Williamsburg VA. Real Estate

 This informational update provided by Mr Williamsburg.com/ John Womeldorf . A local Realtor assisting home buyers and sellers in the Hampton Roads and Williamsburg areas of Virginia.

Contact me at John@MrWilliamsburg.com

Research the area at www.WilliamsburgsRealEstate.com

Or ask any questions about homes, neighborhoods, schools, amenities, recreation , shopping or anything else about the area.

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THE LITTLE DRUMMER BOY ANNUAL Williamsburg VA COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARADE and other Christmas Acitivities

THE LITTLE DRUMMER BOY ANNUAL Williamsburg VA COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARADE

Saturday, December 6, 9 a.m. Big doings this year for the annual Greater Williamsburg VA Chamber and Tourism Alliance Community Christmas Parade sponsored by Busch Gardens.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Fifes and Drums of Colonial Williamsburg, a contingent of the corps will lead the parade with Stewart Pittman as the Drum Major. The Grand Marshals will be Tim Sutphin, Lance Pedigo and Amy Miller. Honorary Marshals will be members of the original corps from 1958: John “Evans” Harbour, Linc Peters, Jim Teal and Chuck Miller. The alumni corps will also participate, as usual. You won’t want to miss cheering on this celebrated corps of fifers and drummers who have traveled the world representing our community. Yes, Virginia, Santa will be there too!

Click here for a map to the parade route 2008-Williamsburg VA christmas-parade-map-route

Parade route: Duke of Gloucester Street turn right onto Richmond Road, then turn left onto Brooks Street (continue marching) to end at William & Mary Hall Parking lot..

   Colonial Williamsburg’s Holiday Season
November 26 – January 1
Nothing quite compares to spending the Christmastime in Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area. Special programs, dining, entertainment, workshops, decorations and much more.

The Gift of the Magi at the Kimball Theatre
December 2, 5, 12, 19 7:30 pm; Dec. 9 and 16 at 3 pm; and Dec. 10 and 17 at 5 pm. 
The Virginia Premiere Theatre, the Kimball Theatre’s resident professional company, presents a stage adaptation of O. Henry’s classic holiday tale.  Set in New York in the early 1900s, The Gift of the Magi is a story of love, devotion and the true meaning of giving.  A holiday treat for the entire family.  Admission is $25 for adults, $20 for seniors/students and $10 for children under 12. 

 

Yorktown VA Celebrate Christmas:  Illumination and Tree Lighting
December 5 at 7 pm
The holiday lights go on and the festive season begins at 7 pm with entertainment at the Victory Monument followed by the Procession of Lights through Historic Yorktown to Riverwalk Landing.  The tree lighting ceremony, which includes holiday entertainment and a visit from Santa, begins at 7:30 pm and concludes at 8:30 pm.  Free.   
From Dec. 6 through Jan. 1, the statues will be on display in the lobby of the Museum.  Would-be parents are invited to come in and touch them for FREE during regular hours. 

 

The Mystery of the Christmas Star Holiday Planetarium Show  Newport News VA
December 6 – 31
Experience a totally new version of the “Star of Wonder.” The Virginia Living Museum has presented the “Star of Wonder” since its inception, but never like this — all around you in the museum’s new state-of-the-art digital planetarium theater! Become immersed in the majesty and mystery of the scientific puzzle that is the Star of Bethlehem. See website for schedule details.

Yorktown VA Christmas Market
December 6 from 10 am – 4 pm
Join us for Yorktown’s 3rd annual Christmas Market. This event features demonstrations, musical entertainment, living history exhibits, roasted chestnuts and hot cider, arts and crafts and much more!

Williamsburg VA Symphonia Holiday Pops Concert
December 6 & 7, 1:30 and 3:00 pm
Williamsburg’s professional orchestra presents its annual program of holiday favorites sure to please the whole family.  Admission is $20.  Tickets are available through the Williamsburg Symphonia website or call 757-229-9857. 

Yorktown VA Lighted Boat Parade
December 6 at 6 pm
Decorated in holiday spirit, area boaters parade the York River in competition for “Best of Show.”  Waterfront events begin at 6 pm.  Enjoy hot cider and musical performances in the glow of a beach bonfire while awaiting the magnificent parade of lights.  Free. 

 Grand Illumination Colonial Williamsburg
December 7 from 4:45 pm – 7 pm
Grand Illumination is Colonial Williamsburg’s festive way of marking the beginning of the Holiday season, complete with music and fireworks throughout the Historic Area.

Merchants Square Holiday Markets
December 13 from 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
Located on Duke of Gloucester Street in Merchants Square.

A Kid’s Holiday Weekend
December 13 & 14, 20 & 21 and 27 & 28, from 9 am – 4 pm
On three weekends in December, Colonial Williamsburg welcomes children and their families for a journey back in time. During this time, sites around town will be focused on sharing fun, food preparation and festive entertainments.

Christmas in Williamsburg VA: A Magical Night on Duke of Gloucester Street
December 13 & 14, 2 and 5:30 pm (Dec. 13), 2 pm (Dec. 14)
A comforting blend of holiday classics with a modern-day story line to capture your heart!  Student from the Institute for Dance, company members of Williamsburg Ballet Theatre and local performers and artists, young and old, bring the melodies of the classics to life once again.  Join us for a night of music, dancing and celebration.  Admission is $20 for adults, $17 for seniors/children. 

A Colonial Christmas
December 20 – January 4
Holidays of centuries past are recalled through activities based on historical accounts. Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center.

Celebrate the Season: Don Irwin in Concert
December 20, 7:30 pm
Popular pianist and Steinway artist, Don Irwin returns to Williamsburg for his annual holiday concert.  Don’s unique style and passionate piano performances are known all over the world.   His holiday concerts are the crown jewels of his talented career, and this is sure to be one to remember!  All seats are $25.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Colonial Williamsburg
December 24
Colonial Williamsburg and the Kiwanis Club of Williamsburg co-sponsor the lighting of an evergreen on Duke of Gloucester Street in the Historic Area.

First Night Celebration Williamsburg VA
December 31
Williamsburg welcomes the new year with a variety of entertainment at Colonial Williamsburg and the College of William and Mary, concluding with a grand finale of fireworks at midnight. .

 

 Mr Williamsburg.com " Williamsburg VA. Real Estate

 This information provided my Mr Williamsburg.com . A local Realtor assisting home buyers and sellers in the Hampton Roads and Williamsburg areas of Virginia.

You can search all homes for sale in the area at www.MrWilliamsburg.com

Research the area at www.WilliamsburgsRealEstate.com

Or ask any questions about homes, neighborhoods, etc  John@MrWilliamsburg.com

“A Christmas Carol” Dress Rehearsal Colonial Williamsburg VA

An Invitation For Insiders Only:

“A Christmas Carol” Dress Rehearsal

Virginia Theatre Machine's A Christmas Carol

Coming this Sunday!


Be the first to preview this innovative new 15-minute street theater production coming to the Square for the holiday season.
Talk with the director and actor after the rehearsal in the bookstore cafe. Coupon for a free cup of coffee or hot chocolate to all who RSVP!

When: Sunday, November 23
12:30 p.m.
Where: Parking lot behind the Barnes & Noble College of William & Mary Bookstore

RSVP via email.

For a complete schedule of performances in the Square beginning Thanksgiving Day, see
www.merchantssquare.org.

Glorious Christmas Nights Richmond VA Christmas Play

It’s a bit of a drive from Hampton Roads or Williamsburg VA but well worth the trip. The annual Christmas productions put on by the West End Assembly of God  “Glorious Christmas Nights.” This year’s production is an exception; it is a repeat of a previous work done in 2003, brought back by popular demand. Last year over 25,000 tickets were sold.

I just checked the website http://www.gloriouschristmasnights.com/ and there are still tickets available bit they seem to be selling out very quickly.

Thank you to Lowell Qualls and his informative blog posting  http://lowellequalls.wordpress.com/2008/11/05/check-out-glorious-christmas-nights/

Four-hundred actors, stage hands, musicians and dancers combine their talents to pull off a holiday show that gets you “in the mood” for Christmas.  Take a look at the clip below (from 2005 – this happens to be my favorite show) to get a feel for the quality and scope of the production.

Bob Laughlin is the producer (the Music & Fine Arts pastor), Ron Klipp is the show’s musical composer, and Kathy Craddock is the director and primary writer.  When you combine Laughlin’s genius, Craddock’s imagination and Klipp’s original scores … well, let me put it to you this way:  if you’re lucky enough to get tickets … you will have a blast, and your heart will be touched.  It’s a Broadway quality show with a message that will stir you.  Taking children just adds to the experience.

This year’s story is about two bumbling angels – Ted and Randall – who are given an assignment:  to make sure the Wise Men make it to the stable so they can bring their gifts to Jesus.  They’re told by their boss – the archangel Michael – that they can locate the Wise Men at Herod’s palace during the reign of Caesar Augustus.  When they type the coordinates and data into their heavenly GPS (”HALO”) they get it all wrong.  Instead of Herod’s palace they wind up at Harrod’s Department Store in 1903 London.  There they pick up two kids – Patch and Runt – and the screwy angels take them to Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas before finally winding up in Bethlehem.

While the script isn’t biblically accurate (the Wise Men didn’t show up at the stable on the night Jesus was born, but about two years later), it reflects what has become “the Christmas story” told in most churches at this time of year.

Like I mentioned before, the clip below comes from another great Craddock/Laughlin story.  Santa decides to fore go delivering packages on Christmas Eve one year because he’s had it with selfish, demanding kids and their materialistic parents.  That all changes when he receives a letter from a young boy who “gets it.”  (Complicating matters … Mrs. Claus believes Santa’s in a funk because she’s not as young and beautiful as she once was.)  There are villains and drama and comedy galore … and the awesome Youth choir brings the house down during their number at every show.

Tickets for the shows (there’s 16 of them over two weeks) are usually hard to come by not long after the box office opens on-line and at the church.  However … if you try really hard, and you don’t mind if your entire family can’t sit together, tickets can be had.  (All proceeds go to the Mission Fund at WEAG … www.weag.org.)

Here are a few videos of past years performances.

Williamsburg VA Christmas Concert

 

Each year, one of the highlights of the Christmas season in Williamsburg is the annual Christmas concert at the Williamsburg Community Chapel. They graciously welcome all in the community to attend. Even if you don’t attend church there. Although admission is free you do need tickets to attend. The tickets normally go quickly. The concert isunder the direction of Minister of Worship, Ted Cornell, more than 100 voices combine with orchestra for a memorable night of music. Tickets are free; the concert is their gift to the community during the Christmas season. 

Five Concerts: Thursday, December 11, 7:00 p.m. Friday, December 12, 7:00 p.m. Saturday, December 13, 2:30 p.m. Saturday, December 13, 7:00 p.m. Sunday, December 14, 4:00 p.m.  the Chapel Student Ministry Worship Room

Questions ? All should be answered in the FAQ you can read here : wccchapelchristmas

Or explore the website for the Williamsburg Community Chapel here

How do I get tickets?

Two Days, Two Convenient Ways:

1. Online: www.wcchapel.org , beginning Friday,

November 21, 6:00 a.m., while supplies last.

2. In-person: Saturday, November 22, 9:00

a.m. – Noon, in the Chapel’s Student Ministry

Worship Room, while supplies last.

Address: Williamsburg Community Chapel
3899 John Tyler Highway
Williamsburg, Virginia 23185

Phone: 757-229-7152
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