DECEMBER 2024 EVENTS NEWSLETTER
The Revolutionary Rumble
Deck the halls with boughs of holly and a dash of history! đ đ˝đ Our December events newsletter is filled with festive fun, from historical reenactments to holiday markets.
Through December 8
Albemarle County
Monticello’s annual Wreath Workshops are a time-treasured tradition to kickoff the holiday season in Charlottesville. Led by our expert team of floral designers, gardeners, and plant experts, participants will create and bring home a beautiful door decoration to last through the season.
Through December 23
Fairfax County
Visit Mount Vernon for an enchanted evening of festive lights and an 18th-century holiday experience. See the estate illuminated with brilliant lights and patterns set to holiday music. Visit a winter encampment, and meet holiday guest, Aladdin the Camel. You can also roast sâmores, play an âI Spyâ game to search for General Washington hidden among the lights, and chat with people from Washingtonâs world to learn about holiday traditions.
December 6
Alexandria
When the Marquis de Lafayette, French hero of the American Revolution, returned to America in 1824, thousands of citizens greeted him. In December 1824, Lafayette paid the first of several visits to Woodlawn, home of Eleanor Parke Custis and Lawrence Lewis. Learn more about Lafayette’s visits to Woodlawn, his relationships with the Custis and Lewis families, and how his progressive personal values impacted the National Tour and influenced those around him.
Charlotte County
Red Hill Rediscovered: Revolutionary Things
Hear from University of Miami professor Dr. Ashli White, author of “Revolutionary Things: Material Culture and Politics in the Late Eighteenth-Century Atlantic World.” Dr. Whiteâs new book examines how objects associated with the American, French, and Haitian revolutions drew diverse people throughout the Atlantic world into debates over revolutionary ideals. She explores the power of material things and visual images to express the fervor and fear of the revolutionary era.
Fairfax County
Craft an elegant holiday wreath using an assortment of evergreens and botanical accents â including some collected from Mount Vernonâs historic landscape â to create a one-of-a-kind holiday wreath.
December 6 – 7
Giles County
Andrew Johnston House Art Show and Open House
Immerse yourself in timeless charm during a special evening by candlelight at the Andrew Johnston House. This historical treasure opens its doors for a magical evening filled with warmth, nostalgia, and festive cheer. Step inside and be greeted by Mrs. Johnston’s Kitchen, where the air is filled with the mouthwatering scent of homemade treats. Also celebrate our 2nd Annual High School Art Contest. Students can interpret history through their artistic lenses, drawing inspiration from significant events, legendary figures, or architectural wonders.
Virginia Beach
Celebrate the season at the Thoroughgood House by stepping back in time to experience some favorite colonial Christmas traditions. Costumed guides will escort you by candlelight through the home of Argall II and Susannah Thoroughgood and share stories of the decorations, traditions, foods, and festivities of 18th century coastal Virginia. With live instrumental music provided in the house by members of the Itinerant Band, the interior will come alive with holiday charm. Hear how various members of the household would have experienced the holidays based on their role on the property and status in the community. Grab a hot drink while you write your wishes to burn on the Yule logs before you head home.
December 6 – 8
Colonial Heights
You’re invited to the annual Christmas Open House at the Violet Bank Museum. The first recorded settlement in Colonial Heights was by Thomas Shore. In 1775, he purchased 144 acres of land along the northern bank of the Appomattox River, across from Petersburg. He built his mansion and called it Violet Bank. While the original main building was burned, this remaining structure, built in 1815, is registered as a historic landmark.
December 6 – 13
Holiday Afternoon Tea at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant
This holiday season, savor afternoon tea as you enjoy the holiday ambiance of the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant and live harp music. Choose from 6 loose-leaf teas and dine on finger sandwiches, scones, and a selection of sweets.
December 6 – 20
Bedford County
Holiday Candlelight Tours
Celebrate the advent of the Christmas season in Jeffersonian style at Poplar Forest. Explore the presidentâs cherished hideaway by candlelight on this hour-long holiday tour. See how early Americans decorated with fresh greens for the holidays as your guide paints intimate portraits of the Jefferson familyâs celebration and Christmas at the Quarter Site, drawn from true stories and anecdotes discovered in Jeffersonâs letters and diaries. The tour is followed by refreshments in the Museum Shop.
December 6 – 30
Prince William County
Holidays Through The Ages At Rippon Lodge
Stroll through seasonal celebrations of the past at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. With interiors and exteriors richly decorated for the holidays, guests enjoy an in-depth exploration of seasonal festivities over the centuries.
December 7
Albemarle County
Participants can explore Highlandâs newly-opened Community Research Center and Archaeology Lab and have coffee and conversation with an archaeologist. Guests can also visit the presidential guesthouse and other exhibits, including the new “A Window to a New America” exhibition. As a special treat, local bagpiper Cooper Wamsley will perform outdoors to complete the celebration of a Highland holiday.
Alexandria
Visit Old Town to enjoy Alexandriaâs rich Scottish heritage and see the Scottish Walk Parade march past Alexandriaâs oldest stone building, Carlyle House. After the parade, enter the museum gates and step back in time for a free open house in the spirit of the holiday season.
Chesterfield County
Christmas Through the Centuries
The 17th through 20th centuries in England, the American colonies, and the United States transformed Christmas into what we know today. Explore what Christmas looked like, smelled like, and sounded like to Virginians throughout these centuries. Your journey through time will end with a greeting from Father Christmas!
Fairfax County
Join a special visit to Christmases of yore. Peek into holiday celebrations at Gunston Hall in the 1920s and the 1780s with games, live music, crafts, a visit from Santa and more! Investigate what Christmas meant for all the different peopleâenslaved, indentured, wealthy, and poorâat 18th-century Gunston Hall.
Isle of Wight County
Fort Boykin has been a part of American history since 1623 when a fort known as the Castle was constructed following the 1622 Indian Attack. Today, Fort Boykin constitutes an example of military architecture of the Civil War era. Join a free walking tour through history.
Williamsburg
The Founders Illuminated Symposium
Join a Grand Illuminating Symposium where expert historians will discuss six essential American founders. Speakers include Christian Di Spigna, Dr. Edward G. Lengel, Elizabeth Mauer, Dr. Gordon Steffey, Dr. Bruce Venter, and Stephen Wilson.
December 7-8
Chesapeake
Battle of Great Bridge Reenactment
Chesapeake Parks, Recreation and Tourism is hosting a free living history event celebrating the 1775 patriot victory over British Crown forces at the Battle of Great Bridge. All are welcome at this family-friendly event including a Reenactment of the pivotal battle, historic trade demonstrations, educational displays, a sutler marketplace, food trucks, childrenâs colonial crafts and games.
Fairfax County
Learn about Mount Vernon’s many connections to Scotland past and present. Explore Scottish foodways, learn about whiskey production, make your own tartan, and hear from Washington’s Scottish Farm Manager “James Anderson” and doctor “Dr. James Craik.”
December 8
Botetourt County
Buchanan Historic Christmas Home Tour
Tour 4 elegant homes in the Buchanan area, beautifully decorated for Christmas. Three of the homes are over 100 years old and one is nearly 200. End your tour at the historic Wilson Warehouse for delicious refreshments.
Gloucester County
Waiting For Washington at The Edge Hill House
Christmastide is a time when families gather and there is nothing more Lady Washington wants than to have her general home from the war. Join Martha Washington and her daughter-in-law, Eleanor, in December of 1783, as they wait for the general and discuss Christmastide traditions, family, and Eleanorâs marriage to David Stuart.
King and Queen County
Tavern Museum Christmas Open House
The perfect way to start your holiday season. Join indoor and outdoor festivities. There will be childrenâs activities, including decorating gingerbread cookies, a visit from the Fossil Man, music and a visit from Santa. Food, shopping and exhibits are on display. Visit the latest display focusing on King and Queen schools with photographs, artifacts, student and teacher remembrances, descriptions of the Rosenwald schools, and teacher duties.
King and Queen County
2nd Annual King and Queen County Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Join us for songs and stories.
December 10
Virtual
Battle Brief – The Battle of Brandywine, 1777
In September 1777, General George Washington posted his army along Brandywine Creek west of Philadelphia to defend the capital city from an enemy attack. British and American forces battled for hours along the winding stream in one of the largest and bloodiest engagements of the Revolutionary War. Learn from museum educator and historian John Maass about this key battle on the long road to independence.
December 12
Arlington County
Sojourner Truth, formerly enslaved, was a renowned activist and abolitionist. In 1851, in Akron, Ohio, she delivered what is now recognized as one of the most famous abolitionist and womenâs rights speeches in American history. She continued to speak out during the Civil War, helped newly free residents find employment, advised them on their rights, taught women domestic skills, and served as a spiritual mentor for many. Her lessons resonate today. Karen Bostic will reenact or historically interpret Sojourner Truth. Afterwards, Wakefield High School educator, Antoinette Waters, will answer your questions and give details about Sojourner Truthâs life and impact in history and today.
James City County
Conflict Between Church & State: An Audience with King Henry VIII
The year is 1542 and the King, newly a widower following the execution of his fifth wife, contemplates his actions and their outcomes. Come face-to-face with the King as performer John White explores the conflict between church and state in this first-person theatrical experience.
Virtual
Virtual Book Talk – “George Washington in the French and Indian War”
George Washington has frequently been criticized for his first military campaign, which sparked the French and Indian War. In 1754 Washington was an ambitious yet inexperienced young officer, eager to carry out his orders on behalf of Virginia and the British king. While his campaign failed to meet its objectives, Washington experienced his first taste of military command, dealing with situations that ultimately proved beyond his control, and learned lessons that made him into the man who led the Continental Army to victory in the Revolutionary War. Historian Scott Patchan delves deep into Washingtonâs correspondence to tell the story of his training as an officer.
December 13 – 15
Colonial Heights
Join a periodic, festive Colonial style dinner at the historic Violet Bank Museum. The evening’s menu will consist of ham, turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, and rolls, dessert cobbler, tea and water. Tickets are $30 per person.
December 13 – 30
Albemarle County
Join a rare opportunity to experience Monticello after dark, decorated with the style of holiday greenery found during Jeffersonâs era. This tour offers an intimate look at how all people who lived on the Monticello mountaintop â enslaved and free â celebrated the holidays. Journey through public and private rooms including Monticelloâs upper floors and the iconic Dome Room.
December 14
Albemarle County
Highland and the Virginia Cooperative Extension invite you to Holly Days at Highland a morning of crafts and holiday cheer. Enjoy warm beverages and a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. At this holiday-themed event, can can create a seasonal centerpiece while learning about native Virginia plants, craft a felt ornament and try their hand at wool felting, stop by the colonial games table and make a set of historic toys to take home, and enjoy holiday reading and coloring activities.
Alexandria
Experience the holiday season with Carlyle House focusing on how the Carlyles and their enslaved workers observed the holidays during the 18th century. Tours offered of the first floor with the last entry at 3:45pm. Enjoy music throughout the day and an 18th century style mocktail after your tour. Advanced registration not required.
Arlington County
George Washingtonâs Forest Guided History Walk: 250th Commemoration
Walk in the footsteps of George Washington on a guided walking tour to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Washingtonâs purchase of 1168 acres of land in what is now Arlington. After the Revolutionary War, Washington returned home and surveyed his property. Youâll visit a survey marker used by Washington, an 18th century home with connections to Washington, a historic spring likely visited by Washington, the site of a mill built by Washingtonâs step-grandson, and more.
Chesapeake
Travel back in time at the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum for our Christmas Past & Present Family Fun Day. Learn about holiday traditions in three different time periods, get a stamp in your time-travelers passport, enjoy crafts at each station, and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Hanover County
This magical event returns to the Hanover Courthouse Complex, bringing the magic of the season for the whole family. Winter on the Green is free to attend, with vendor merchandise and concessions available for purchase. Experiences include cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus, Hamlet meets Charlie Brown Christmas Improv in the historic Hanover Courthouse, horse-drawn carriage rides, make & take holiday gift, North Pole Cocoa, Pamunkey Regional Library activities, RVA Express trackless train, visit with Santa Claus in the museum, Winter character photos, and more.
Lynchburg
Plaque Dedication & Revolutionary Christmas
Join in the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, recognizing the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, and the Patriots at rest on our grounds. Then, celebrate with us as we invite artisan vendors to sell their wares at our Christmas market, and enjoy music and historical interpreters from the 18th Century.
Virginia Beach
Two-Fif-Tea-Th Tavern: A Historic Holiday Event
Join the Virginia Beach History Museums for an early celebration of the nationâs upcoming 250th birthday as we commemorate the 1774 Yorktown Tea Party. Immerse yourself in the 18th century at the Lynnhaven Colonial Education Center. Play authentic games from the time period and discover the role that taverns and coffee houses played during the American Revolution. Event includes food and drink services, and a tour of the historic Lynnhaven House. Period attire is encouraged.
York County
Enjoy an evening of 18th-century Christmas cheer with a blend of modern traditions. Hear festive sounds of holidays past with music and caroling and see how soldiers and colonists may have prepared for a holiday evening. Children can meet Santa, make holiday crafts and decorate the lobby Christmas tree.
December 14, 19, 21
Bedford County
Enjoy Poplar Forest decked out for the holidays on this special daytime tour that focuses on holiday traditions of the Jefferson time period. These hour-long, docent guided tours explore how Jefferson and his family celebrated the holidays and takes a look at how the holiday season impacted the enslaved community.
December 14, 21
Bedford County
Step back in time to experience the magic of Christmas past at a seated holiday dinner in Thomas Jeffersonâs Poplar Forest villa. Join Mr. Jefferson, as portrayed by actor Bill Barker, to celebrate the season with a multicourse dinner with wine pairings. Following dinner Mr. Jefferson will regale his guests with stories about the holiday traditions popular during his time.
December 15
Loudoun County
Patrick Henry “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” Reenactment
Stephen P. Wilson, Executive Director of the St. Johnâs Church Foundation, will focus on the historic events that led to Patrick Henry’s immortal speech and will report on plans to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the speech next March. He will also discuss the 120 delegates who attended the Second Virginia Convention at St. John’s Church, including the two who represented Loudoun County. The program will include a dramatic performance of the nine-minute speech.
December 17
Albemarle County
AÂ series of dynamic conversations with leading thinkers exploring Jefferson’s world, ideas, and legacy. Working in disciplines and genres ranging from biography to political history to young adult fiction, this fall’s speakers discuss their work and approaches to engaging the past in the present.
December 20 – 22
Fairfax County
Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon
Join Mount Vernon for a family-friendly celebration of the holiday season with an enchanted evening of Christmas Illuminations. Enjoy the atmospheric setting of an 18th-century winter encampment, a working blacksmith shop, and Christmas carolers. Visit with Aladdin the Camel, and watch stunning holiday fireworks over the Potomac River. Plus, shop a winter market featuring vendors that produce 18th-century wares and crafts.
December 20, 26 – 27
Albemarle County
Take advantage of a small-group evening experience at Highland. Visitors will enjoy a curator-led, exclusive tour of the 1818 Presidential Guesthouse and exhibits amid festive holiday decorations and music. Wear your holiday best for a little extra cheer.
December 20 – 31
James City County
Christmastide in Virginia at Jamestown Settlement
Enjoy historical holiday fun with hands-on interpretive programs, cooking demonstrations and musical entertainment. At Jamestown Settlement, learn about the English tradition of the Lord of Misrule â âgrand captain of all mischiefâ â followed by festive music each day.
York County
Christmastide in Virginia at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
Enjoy historical holiday fun with hands-on interpretive programs, cooking demonstrations and musical entertainment. At the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, enjoy the festive recipes and sounds of Christmas through traditional carols and music each day.
December 21 – 22
Fairfax County
Try your hand at popular card games of the period, learn about the music of the enslaved, and hear from George Washington’s closest friends about how the season was celebrated at his home.
December 28
James City County
Stories from the People of the Longhouse
Through vivid descriptions, rhythmic voice and guest interaction, storyteller Perry Ground shares traditional Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) legends that have been told for hundreds of years, teaching about the beliefs, customs and history of the Haudenosaunee people.
December 28 – 29
Fairfax County
Make a pomander ball to fill your home with holiday scents, listen to the music of the season, and participate in a holiday story time. Included with admission and free for members.
Looking Ahead to January
As we ring in the new year, we’ll turn our attention to a darker chapter in the history of Virginia’s capital. Join us January 2-5 as we commemorate the infamous raid on Richmond by Benedict Arnold.
In January, 1781, General Benedict Arnold led British troops in capturing the new capital of Virginia. This annual event returns, focused on the Revolution in Richmond and the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. Four days of activities will take place at four different locations.
Arnold’s Raid Encampment & Skirmish
Drop in throughout the day to experience life in a local Patriot militia encampment. What’s a powder magazine and why does it need to be guarded? Learn about the local militia’s defense as British troops fought their way through Henrico County into Richmond. Engage with reenactors as they demonstrate how to load and fire weapons.
