Williamsburg, Virginia, is known for its rich colonial history, preserved cobblestone streets, and beautiful historic buildings, which make for an enchanting Christmas setting. During the holiday season of 2017, Williamsburg transformed into a winter wonderland with a unique blend of historical charm and festive holiday decor. Here's everything you need to know about Williamsburg's Christmas decorations and events that year.
The Grand Illumination
The Grand Illumination, an age-old tradition, marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Williamsburg. In 2017, this event kicked off on:
- December 1st, 2017
This celebration was not just a light show but a full evening of music, carols, and fireworks, bringing the community together to light up the town in Christmas spirit. Attendees experienced:
- Choral performances by local and school choirs
- A historic parade featuring lanterns and 18th-century music
- A spectacular fireworks display lighting up the sky over Market Square
Historic Christmas Decorations
Williamsburgâs 2017 holiday decor was a study in historical accuracy. The town dressed in its traditional eighteenth-century finery, with:
- Candles and lanterns glowing in windows, casting a warm, inviting light
- Garlands of greenery, pine cones, and berries adorning doorways and mantels
- Fruit, nut, and dried flower wreaths hanging from buildings and fences
- Handmade paper chains and festive bows crafted by volunteers and local artisans
đ Note: Many of these decorations were crafted using techniques and materials from the colonial period, providing an authentic experience.
Christmas Market
Christmas wasnât complete without a visit to the Colonial Williamsburg Christmas Market, where:
- Colonial craftspeople sold traditional Christmas gifts like pottery, furniture, and food
- Vendors displayed handmade ornaments, toys, and period-inspired goods
- Visitors could purchase freshly baked gingerbread and other holiday treats
đ Note: The market opened on December 1st and continued until Christmas Eve, offering unique gifts not found in regular stores.
Annual Christmas Tours
The holiday season was an excellent time to explore historic homes and buildings through the annual Christmas tours:
- Christmas by Candlelight: Tours by candlelight showcasing historical homes adorned with period decorations.
- Christmas in the Governorâs Palace: Visitors could experience the grandeur of the palace during the holiday season, with special decorations and reenactments.
- The Holiday Carriage Tour: A magical ride through the festooned streets of Williamsburg with warm drinks and blankets provided.
These tours ran from December 1st through December 31st, 2017, providing a glimpse into how Christmas was celebrated in the eighteenth century.
Holiday Special Events
Williamsburgâs holiday season in 2017 was filled with unique events that captured the essence of Christmas:
- Grand Illumination Fireworks: The climax of the Grand Illumination was the fireworks show on December 1st.
- Fife and Drum Parade: Music from the Revolutionary era accompanied visitors during daily parades.
- The Holly Dogs: A Christmas tradition where costumed performers recite holiday poetry.
- Christmas Historical Presentations: Narratives about how Christmas was celebrated in the colonial era.
Williamsburg in December 2017 was an embodiment of what Christmas might have looked and felt like in America's earliest days. With its historic setting transformed into a festive tableau, the town offered an unparalleled holiday experience that combined history, tradition, and the joy of the season. Whether you were attending the Grand Illumination, wandering through the Christmas Market, or taking a candlelit tour, Williamsburg's Christmas decorations and events stood as a testament to the town's commitment to preserving its past while celebrating the present.
What was the significance of the Grand Illumination in Williamsburg?
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The Grand Illumination is a long-standing tradition marking the official start of the Christmas season in Williamsburg. It symbolizes the community coming together in celebration, reflecting the joy and spirit of the holidays with music, fireworks, and historical reenactments.
Were the decorations in Williamsburg historically accurate?
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Yes, Williamsburgâs Christmas decorations in 2017 were designed to be as historically accurate as possible, reflecting how Christmas would have been celebrated in the 18th century. This included using natural materials, traditional crafting techniques, and period-appropriate decor.
What were some of the unique holiday events in Williamsburg?
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Some unique holiday events in Williamsburg during 2017 included the Grand Illumination Fireworks, Fife and Drum Parade, The Holly Dogs poetry recitations, and various historical presentations focused on Christmas in colonial times.
How long were the Christmas Tours available?
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The Christmas Tours, including the Christmas by Candlelight, Christmas in the Governorâs Palace, and Holiday Carriage Tour, were available from December 1st through December 31st, 2017.
