• Bruton Parish Episcopal Church - The guide will delve into the Church’s significance during Christmas, the colonists’ perspectives on the Christmastide season, and their holiday decorations.
• George Wythe House - The guide will offer a concise history of the house, highlight the Colonial appreciation for symmetry, its influence on contemporary Christmas decorations, and the origins of the decoration contest.
• St. George Tucker House - The guide will present a brief history of the house, discuss its decorations, and explain the beginnings of modern Christmas traditions, including the first documented Christmas tree in Virginia.
• Peyton Randolph House - The guide will discuss the house’s history, its festive decorations, and the contrasting Christmas experiences of the family and enslaved individuals.
• Prentis Store - The guide will provide a brief history of the Ludwell-Paradise House, its contribution to the restoration of the historic area, and its decorations.
• Raleigh Tavern - The guide will give an overview of the building’s history, examine the importance of taverns in colonial times, and describe the thematic decorations.

• Souvenir button
• All fees and/or taxes

• Admission to Colonial Williamsburg buildings: $49.99/adult; $28.99/youth
• Gratuities

Have you ever been curious about the origins of our modern Christmas customs? Join a 1-hour walking tour through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg, where a guide will unveil the colonial Christmas festivities that have influenced today’s traditions. Discover how the Colonial Williamsburg decorating style has impacted decorations nationwide.

Shades of Our Past is not associated with Colonial Williamsburg; therefore, this tour does not include access to any buildings owned by Colonial Williamsburg. The tour is conducted through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg and is dependent on weather conditions. Please be prepared for different weather scenarios. Additionally, the advertised tour route may change based on activities in the Historic Area.

Please be aware that tours may not be available on certain days due to staff involvement in other events. For more information about these programs, please visit our website.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.