Williamsburg VA Things to do near me in Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown and James City County with kids
April 15, 2023: from Dusk until 9PM – All are welcome for the Watermen’s Museum Easter Vigil on the Beach – Free to the Public! More info
Yorktown Beach – Watermen’s Museum
309 Water St, Yorktown VA 23690
New The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Board of Trustees include Geoff Bennett, Antonia Hernández and John Charles Thomas
Best Parks and Playgrounds in Williamsburg, James City County & York County
The Burg Weekender & The Burg Weekly – our big list of events for the weekend and the week
Where to Park in Colonial Williamsburg – Parking in Williamsburg VA for Free and for a Fee
Grand Illumination in Colonial Williamsburg December 2023 include Father Christmas, Lighting Cressets, Fireworks and more…
Yorktown Christmas Market on Main – Dec 2 & 3, 2023 – Yes, Santa will be there!
Holiday & Christmas Events in Yorktown – December 2023
An Enchanted Evening on Main Street in Historic Yorktown – Friday, December 8
Win a family 4 pack of tickets to see A Christmas Carol at Williamsburg Players
Win tickets to the Bodacious Bazaar at Hampton Roads Convention Center (CLOSED)
Enter to win family 4 pack of tickets to Disney`s FROZEN The Broadway Musical at Altria Theater (CLOSED)
Win a Family 4 pack to Blue Talon Bistro Turkey Trot (CLOSED)
Grand Illumination at Colonial Williamsburg for 2023 will be three weekends of illuminations! Continue Reading
Geoff Bennett, Antonia Hernández and John Charles Thomas join The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Continue Reading
Looking for Playgrounds in Williamsburg and Parks in Williamsburg and surrounding towns? Looking Continue Reading
Christmas Market on Main in Yorktown - Yes, Santa will be there! Saturday, December 2 | 10 a.m. Continue Reading
Holiday and Christmas Events in Yorktown December 2023 December is a special time of year with Continue Reading
An Enchanted Evening on Main Street in Historic Yorktown Friday, December 8, 2023 | 5 - 9 Continue Reading
The Burg Weekly just went out! It is for the following dates: Nov 27 - Dec 1 , 2023 This edition Continue Reading
This list is being updated for 2023 - if you would like your home or business listed please fill out Continue Reading
Ford's Colony Model Railroad Show Free Admission. Fun for all ages!Saturday, December 2, 2023 Continue Reading
Christmas Tree Lighting - Victory Monument & Yorktown Waterfront Friday, Dec. 1, 2023Monument Continue Reading
november
30nov9:00 am5:30 pmThe Santa ExperienceKids, Families and Pet Photos with Santa
The Santa Experience in Williamsburg – Photos with Santa with your kids (and pets)! Book your spot today! Dates: Select dates
The Santa Experience in Williamsburg – Photos with Santa with your kids (and pets)! Book your spot today!
Dates: Select dates November 24, 2023 through December 23, 2023
Pre-Booking is required
Need that perfect picture of your child, family or pet with Santa? Then this event is for you!
How does it work? Sign up for a session. A handful of sessions are scheduled every 30 minutes. (Only 1-2 families will be allowed in the studio at a time). Families over 6 people will need to purchase two time slots back-to-back in order to accommodate the size). Sundays are to be an allergy free day so Santa’s suit will be animal hair free and the studio is as pet free as possible for families with extreme allergies.
Fee and what is included: $65 fee + $3 processing fee includes high resolution digital copies of all photos taken during your session. This is not per child or per pet – it is per session. So you can get multiple shots of each child with Santa, a family picture, kids, pets and Santa…well, you get the picture!
When: This event runs from November 24th through December 23rd and is both kid and pet friendly.
Pet Photos: “Santa Paws” pet portraits will be on select days so please be aware when booking that pets may be present. Families without pets can book on any day. Pets can have photos all week EXCEPT on Sunday. But you have to pre-book (here).
Bathroom: There is a small bathroom onsite but they suggest you come dressed in your clothes prior. It is not large enough for any outfit changes. Guests can use the bathrooms for potty breaks.
Location: Santa’s workshop and photo studio will take place at 439 Prince George Street, Williamsburg VA 23185 which is two doors down from Aromas in downtown Williamsburg and near the Henry Street parking garage.
You might recognize this beloved local “Santa,”…it is Jim Hines, who has been known to thousands of families as the “Yankee Candle Santa” from his years at Williamsburg’s former Yankee Candle location.
Proceeds: All proceeds from this photo event will go back into our wonderful community.
Why Schedule Times: They are scheduling times in an effort optimize families’ Santa experience. Event organizers don’t want long lines at this event and want to encourage families to spend more time shopping, dining and exploring all the wonderful businesses downtown instead. All of Downtown Williamsburg is aglow this season, so enjoy it before or after your session with Santa. Now, what are you waiting for? Book your photo session today!
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(Thursday) 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
Memorie Group Real Estate Office
439 Prince George Street
30nov9:00 am5:00 pm‘Twas the Night Before Christmas: An Exhibition of Christmas Critters
‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, several creatures were stirring,
‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, several creatures were stirring, including a mouse!
Join William & Mary Libraries in collaboration with the WRL Gallery at Stryker Center as they celebrate the many cute and colorful creatures of Clement C. Moore’s holiday classic, “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” This year’s annual exhibit of the Nancy H. Marshall Collection will feature a selection of artistic adaptations that include Santa’s animal friends, illuminating the wonderful creatures who make our houses feel like home.
Exhibit runs November 20, 2023 – January 5, 2024.
Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.
Closed weekends, November 23-24, December 24-26, 31, and January 1.
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(Thursday) 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Stryker Center
412 N Boundary St., Williamsburg, VA
30nov9:00 am5:00 pmSpecial Event: Clothing for the Indian Boys
Visit the Tailors as they recreate the clothing worn by the young men who attended Williamsburg’s Brafferton Indian School. Learn how these garments reflect the
Visit the Tailors as they recreate the clothing worn by the young men who attended Williamsburg’s Brafferton Indian School. Learn how these garments reflect the mission of the school and the experiences of its students. Day ticket, GNP or CW Pass needed for admission. More info
(Thursday) 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Historic Trade: Tailor
308 W. Duke of Gloucester
Colonial Williamsburg’s 2023 Christmas Decorations Walking TourDaily: Nov 24 – Dec 25 from 10 – 11 am &
Colonial Williamsburg’s 2023 Christmas Decorations Walking Tour
Daily: Nov 24 – Dec 25 from 10 – 11 am & 2 pm – 3 pm
Enjoy a guided look at Colonial Williamsburg’s picturesque building exteriors and streets decked out in holiday splendor. Discuss the materials and construction techniques of these traditional holiday decorations. For tickets and times visit here.
James Geddy House｜$15 per person | Learn more and get your tickets here
For more events at Colonial Williamsburg visit our Colonial Williamsburg events page, their Holiday Planner page and our Daily Calendar!
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(Thursday) 10:00 am - 11:00 am
James Geddy House
117 W Duke of Gloucester St
30nov10:00 am10:30 amPreschool StorytimeJames City County Library
Preschool Storytime is a program designed for preschoolers from
Preschool Storytime is a program designed for preschoolers from 3 to 5 years old and their caregivers featuring stories, rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and other activities.
(Thursday) 10:00 am - 10:30 am
James City County Library
30nov10:30 am12:00 pmPreschool Open GymWilliamsburg Gymnastics
Preschool Open Gym! Only $10 per child ages 12 mo to 5 years. Toddlers have the freedom to explore a variety of activities and obstacle courses that promote
Preschool Open Gym! Only $10 per child ages 12 mo to 5 years. Toddlers have the freedom to explore a variety of activities and obstacle courses that promote physical development, balance, coordination, and most of all, fun! Staff are on hand to ensure a safe environment for all.
Parental supervision required. Advanced registration guarantees a spot. Walk ins welcome, but admission is based on capacity. Register at www.williamsburggymnastics.com.
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(Thursday) 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Williamsburg Gymnastics
144 Tewning Road,
30nov10:30 am11:45 amHistorical Tram Tour
Chippokes welcomes you to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and stories of our park. Enjoy a relaxing tram ride as we explore the
Chippokes welcomes you to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and stories of our park.
Enjoy a relaxing tram ride as we explore the vast time-line and dive into the history of Chippokes. The historical tram ride will focus on the park’s historic buildings along Quarter Lane.
Space is limited to 16 participants/spaces and reservations are required and can be made in-advance at the Visitor Center OR call the Visitor Center at 757-294-3625 to reserve a space. MORE INFO
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(Thursday) 10:30 am - 11:45 am
Chippokes State Park
695 Chippokes Park Rd, Surry, VA 23883
30nov11:00 am6:00 pmSpecial Event: Decorated Wreath Sales
Nov 30 & Dec 1-3 and Dec 7 – 10 Don’t miss your chance to buy a Williamsburg-style wreath made
Nov 30 & Dec 1-3 and Dec 7 – 10
Don’t miss your chance to buy a Williamsburg-style wreath made by the same designers that create the decorations that adorn Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area during the holiday season. Fresh greenery, dried materials, and floral supplies will also be available. The landscape team will be at the Williamsburg Christmas Market the first two weekends of December.
The Williamsburg Christmas Market is a village-like setting reminiscent of the traditional European Christmas market, with over 30 vendors and entertainment. Visit every Thursday through Sunday in December.
These decorations will only be sold the first weekend in December at the Christmas Market on Court Street, behind the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg. . More information
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(Thursday) 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Court Street in Colonial Williamsburg
30nov11:00 am6:00 pmWilliamsburg Christmas Market
The 4th annual Williamsburg Christmas Market, a European-Style Christmas Market will have 40 chalets with over 60 local, regional and national vendors throughout the
The 4th annual Williamsburg Christmas Market, a European-Style Christmas Market will have 40 chalets with over 60 local, regional and national vendors throughout the duration of the market. Some new vendors every week.
The market will be located on Court Street (Adjacent to Bicentennial Park/Behind the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg). Bring the kid for photo ops with Santa AND new this year a TRAIN RIDE! (more info to come). Everyone will enjoy live entertainment, while adults can indulge in gluhwein (warm spiced wine) and craft beers. Enjoy Christmas music, fire pits, & delicious market food from local restaurants.
Dates for the 4th Annual Williamsburg Christmas Market!
Nov. 24-26 (Friday-Sunday)
Nov. 30-Dec. 3 (Thursday-Sunday)
Dec. 7-10 (Thursday-Sunday)
Dec. 14-17 (Thursday-Sunday)
Dec. 21-23 (Thursday-Saturday)
Market Hours:
Thursdays: 11am-6pm
Fridays: 11am-7pm
Saturdays 10am-7pm
Sundays: 11am-6pm
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(Thursday) 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Court Street in Colonial Williamsburg
30nov12:00 pm8:00 pmColonial Williamsburg Ice RinkIce Skating in Merchant Square
Enjoy a family-friendly activity this holiday season on historic Duke of Gloucester St. Concessions and hot beverages available for purchase! You can walk from the
Enjoy a family-friendly activity this holiday season on historic Duke of Gloucester St.
Concessions and hot beverages available for purchase! You can walk from the rink to the concessions stand and get cider, coffee and other treats while you are skating. Or make it an evening with dinner at one of the 8 restaurants in Merchants Square just across the street.
Daily Passes are $15 for adults and $14 for kids 3 -12 years old. Skate rental is $6. Season Passes are $110 for adults and $95 for kids. Additional ticket information here.
You can purchase day tickets or if you know you are going to be going more than a few times between November 17, 2023, through February 27, 2024, including holidays! – consider getting a Skate Season Pass.
Good Neighbor Pass discounts are offered for weekday tickets!!
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(Thursday) 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Duke of Gloucester Street
30nov1:00 pm7:00 pmOpen Art StudioJames City County Library
Come paint, draw, create, and explore with a variety of materials in the Open Art Studio.
Come paint, draw, create, and explore with a variety of materials in the Open Art Studio.
(Thursday) 1:00 pm - 7:00 pm
James City County Library
30nov2:00 pm4:00 pmHoliday Tea
Celebrate the season with a festive holiday tea in the elegance of the Williamsburg Inn. Sample the Inn’s special holiday blend and enjoy cookies, pastries
Celebrate the season with a festive holiday tea in the elegance of the Williamsburg Inn. Sample the Inn’s special holiday blend and enjoy cookies, pastries and sandwiches served on the beautiful Churchill Tea China. Enhance this experience with the effervescence of French Champagne and sparkling cider.
Enjoy a delightful afternoon with friends or loved ones while indulging in the fine tradition of Holiday Tea at The Williamsburg Inn.
Gluten Free? They can accommodate your dietary needs! (When you register there is an option for Gluten Free) Learn more
Dates: Wednesday November 29, December 6, 13, 20 and 27
Thursday November 30, December 7, 14, 21 and 28
Friday, December 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29
Saturday, December 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30
Reservations required. Book here
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(Thursday) 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Williamsburg Inn
136 Francis St E, Williamsburg, VA 23185
30nov2:00 pm4:00 pmThrowback Thursday Film Series (click to see movie)
Now in its 20th year, the Throwback Thursday Film Series screens a variety of classic movies for an adult audience. November Theme: Second Chances November 2: All I Desire (1953)
Now in its 20th year, the Throwback Thursday Film Series screens a variety of classic movies for an adult audience. November Theme: Second Chances
November 2: All I Desire (1953) NR
In 1910, a show girl (Barbara Stanwyck) returns to the small town and family she had abandoned a decade earlier, shocking the residents and re-igniting old affairs and animosities. Richard Carlson, Maureen O’Sullivan, and Richard Long costar under the direction of Douglas Sirk. 1 hr 20 min
November 9: A Street Cat Named Bob (2016) NR
A recovering drug addict is adopted by a stray cat, transforming and enriching both of their lives. This true-life, feel-good story stars Luke Treadaway and features the actual Bob the Cat playing himself. 1 hr 43 min Watch trailer
November 16: Lord Jim (1965) NR
In the late 1800s, a merchant marine (Peter O’Toole), discharged from the service for cowardice, seeks redemption by protecting a Southeast Asian native tribe from a ruthless warlord. Based on the novel by Joseph Conrad, this epic adventure film costars James Mason, Curd Jurgens, and Jack Hawkins. 2 h 34 min
November 23: Library closed for Thanksgiving
November 30: A Woman’s Face (1941) NR
A woman’s badly scarred face leads her into a life of crime. Plastic surgery corrects this, giving her a second chance at life, if she can resist the malevolent scheme of her new beau. Joan Crawford, Melvyn Douglas, and Conrad Veidt star under the direction of George Cukor in this top-notch melodrama. 1 h 46 min
Free admission. Doors open 1 hour prior to showtime.
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(Thursday) 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Williamsburg Library Theater
515 Scotland Street, Williamsburg, VA 23185
30nov2:00 pm4:00 pmPop-Up Archaeology
Drop in for a special pop-up archaeology exhibit in the museum! Archaeologists will be on hand to talk with guests about archaeological excavations at the Public Hospital of
Drop in for a special pop-up archaeology exhibit in the museum! Archaeologists will be on hand to talk with guests about archaeological excavations at the Public Hospital of 1773, where they’ll be showing off unearthed artifacts discovered on the site. Talk with archaeologists, hear all about current excavations and where we’re headed next! More info
.Included in admission Art Museum of Colonial Williamsburg, your day pass or your annual membership or Good Neighbor Pass
From the Public Hospital of 1773 to Eastern State Hospital today, commemorate 250 years of Mental Healthcare.
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(Thursday) 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg
326 W Francis St Williamsburg VA 23185
30nov4:00 pm8:00 pmThe Cellar - walk-in experience
“The Cellar” at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern Step back in time and immerse yourself in
“The Cellar” at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the charm of Colonial Williamsburg’s newest walk-in experience. Down beneath the historic walls of Christiana Campbell’s Tavern, is The Cellar – this intimate space only allows only a limited number of guests to enjoy an evening of authentic 18th-century ambiance.
From Tuesday – Saturday, from 4 to 8, the doors swing open to welcome you for an enchanting twilight gathering. As you descend into The Cellar, you’ll be transported to an era of camaraderie and camarilla, where the echoes of merriment resonate through the air.
To accompany your drinks, indulge in a selection of delicate bites to savory treats, each dish is crafted with an artisanal touch, ensuring a delightful experience for your palate.
Please note, The Cellar experience is exclusively walk-up only, adding an element of spontaneity to your visit. Seating is limited, so be sure to arrive early to secure your place in this immersive journey through time. More info
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(Thursday) 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Christiana Campbell's Tavern
101 S Waller St
30nov5:00 pm5:30 pmCommunity Christmas Tree Lighting Colonial WilliamsburgColonial Williamsburg
2023 Community Christmas Tree Lighting in Colonial Williamsburg – Free & Open to the Public November 30, 20235
Free Event & Open to the Public
Ready to light up the town for the holidays? The Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, co-sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Williamsburg, will take place on Nov 30. The festivities begin at 5:00p.m. in front of the Courthouse steps with a special reading of The Night Before Christmas. Hear the story of the first Christmas tree in Virginia. Sing classic Christmas carols. Delight in the joys of childhood as Father Christmas helps illuminate the live, 40-foot spruce with over 7,500 twinkling lights on Market Square.
For more events at Colonial Williamsburg visit our Colonial Williamsburg events page, their Holiday Planner page and our Daily Calendar!
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(Thursday) 5:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Courthouse in Colonial Williamsburg
101 W Duke of Gloucester St
30nov5:30 pm7:00 pmIntroduction to 3D PrintingJames City County Library
This introductory class will walk through the basics of 3D printing, including downloading a design file, preparing
This introductory class will walk through the basics of 3D printing, including downloading a design file, preparing it to print using slicing software, and setting up the printer. Basic computer skills are required, so kids who need help using a mouse and keyboard may need a grownup to stay with them for the program. For ages 6-12.
Space is limited to 14 participants. To reserve a spot, pick up a ticket at the Youth Services desk starting an hour before the program.
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(Thursday) 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
James City County Library
7770 Croaker Rd Williamsburg VA 23188
30nov5:30 pm8:00 pmSpecial Event: Artful Winter Evenings
Special Event: Artful Winter Evenings Thursdays, Nov 30, Dec 7, 14, 21, & 28 from 5:30 – 8
Thursdays, Nov 30, Dec 7, 14, 21, & 28 from 5:30 – 8 p.m. Included in admission
Art Museum of Colonial Williamsburg
Celebrate the holidays in this magical after-hours event at the Art Museums. Take a guided tour through the galleries to discover Christmas trees themed to the artwork around them, attend a holiday performance in the Hennage Auditorium (separate ticket required), enjoy warm winter treats and crafts, and experience the wonder of the Art Museums at night. Don’t miss the centerpiece of the Museums — our 16-foot Folk Art Christmas tree decorated with over 2,000 hand-crafted ornaments.
Artful Winter Evening Concerts at 7:00 p.m. (Separate Ticket Required)
November 30 – The William & Mary Accidentals
December 7 – Holiday Handbell Concert
December 14 – The Williamsburg Symphony
December 21 – The Magic of Christmas
December 28 – The Gonzales Sisters
For this event there is no extra fee you simple need your museum ticket, day pass, member pass or Good Neighbor Pass. Learn more about this event here
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(Thursday) 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg - Hennage Auditorium
326 Francis St. W, Williamsburg, VA
30nov5:30 pm10:00 pmCelebration in LightsNewport News Park
31st Annual Celebration in Lights November 23, 2023 – January 1, 2023 Celebration
Celebration in Lights, opens for its 31st season on Thanksgiving night (November 23, 2023). Relish in the two miles of over one million lights in their dazzling holiday light displays set amongst the beautiful woods and waterways at Newport News Park. The event will be open nightly from 5:30 – 10:00 p.m.
New this year, a salute to the USS Newport News (CA-148), a ship named after our hometown and built by Newport News Shipbuilding! This impressive lighting installation presents a beautiful silhouette of the “Top Gun” awarded ship and stands 36 feet tall. Other new installations include the new City of Newport News logo, furry friends, sea life and more!
Over 350 individual display pieces, 50+ arches, and over three miles of rope lighting enhance the natural beauty of the two-mile drive along Newport News Park’s main road. All new display pieces added since 2007 use LED lights which result in a savings of approximately 30% on electrical cost compared to incandescent bulbs and last 100,000 hours versus 3,000 hours for incandescent. Older (pre 2007) display pieces are being refitted with LED lights.
Admission:
$15.00 per car on weeknights (Monday – Thursday)
$18.00 per on weekends (Friday – Sunday)
$85.00 per bus (any night)
Cash, credit cards Visa/MC, and checks made payable to the City of Newport News are accepted at the gate. Advance purchase tickets may be purchased (good any night) for $12.00 at the Newport News Visitor Center at the entrance of Newport News Park.
Newport News Park is located at the intersection of Ft. Eustis Blvd. and Jefferson Ave. in Newport News, VA. Directions: Eastbound I-64 use Exit 247 (Lee Hall), Westbound I-64 use Exit 250 B (Ft. Eustis). For more information, call 757-886-7912.
Venue:
Newport News Park
13560 Jefferson Avenue
Newport News, VA 23606
Phone: (757) 926-1400
Looking for Christmas Lights? Be sure to visit our Best Christmas Lights list for home, neighborhoods and public light displays!
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(Thursday) 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Newport News Park
13560 Jefferson Ave, Newport News, VA 23603
30nov6:00 pmSewing Machine 101
Join us for this introduction where we break down the parts of the sewing machine, how
Join us for this introduction where we break down the parts of the sewing machine, how to thread it, and make basic stitches. For ages 13 , no registration required.
(Thursday) 6:00 pm
30nov7:00 pm8:30 pmSpecial Event: The William and Mary Accidentals
Special Event: The William and Mary AccidentalsUsher in the holiday season with a concert in the Special Event: Artful Winter Evenings Series, a magical after-hours event
Special Event: The William and Mary Accidentals
Usher in the holiday season with a concert in the Special Event: Artful Winter Evenings Series, a magical after-hours event at the Art Museums. Get in the holiday spirit a cappella style with the William & Mary Accidentals. This all-treble-voice a cappella group, founded in 1992, brings complex arrangements, musicality, and trademark red scarves to the stage for a delightful program. Enjoy holiday standards and crowd favorites that the Accidentals love to share with the Williamsburg community, on and off campus. Tickets and more info
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(Thursday) 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg - Hennage Auditorium
326 Francis St. W, Williamsburg, VA
