Christmas in Colonial Virginia

"Christmas Customs," by Emma L. Powers, reprinted from The Colonial Williamsburg Interpreter, vol. 16, no. 4, winter 1995-96.
"Another Look at Christmas in the Eighteenth Century," by David Desimone, reprinted from The Colonial Williamsburg Interpreter, vol. 16, no. 4, winter 1995-96.
Holiday Wassail and Gingerbread
-from Recipes from the Raleigh Tavern Bake Shop
Attention teachers–the above recipes are included in
"A Colonial Christmas in Williamsburg" lesson plan.

Multimedia and related links

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Professor Minnigerode lights a tree

Bob Doares talks about playing the part of the German professor who brought the tradition of the Christmas tree to Williamsburg in the mid-19th century. December 5, 2005

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Christmas Hymns You Thought You Knew

Colonial Williamsburg musician John Turner explains the origins of America's beloved Christmas hymns. December 25, 2006

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Curator of Historic Interiors

Curator Emily Roberts enjoys setting a proper Christmas supper for 10 in the Palace. December 19, 2005

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Christmas in Williamsburg

Doors are decked in Williamsburg's signature style to celebrate the holiday season. Laura Viancour describes the preparations. December 1, 2008

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An 18th Century Christmas

Historian Lou Powers traces the evolution of Christmas celebrations through the centuries. December 4, 2006

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Twelfth Night

Holiday celebrations culminate with Twelfth Night revelries. December 31, 2007

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