ECW Weekender: Historic Holiday Events In Prince William County
What historic sites in your area are hosting Civil War Christmas Events? We’d love to hear about them in the comments.
Our friends in Prince William County are hosting Civil War Christmas Events at two of their historic sites. Check out the details below!
Rippon Lodge Historic Site
15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192
(703) 499-9812
Holidays Through The Ages
December 6-8, 13-15, 20–22, 11am–4pm
$5, Ages 5+
Stroll through seasonal celebrations of the past at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. With interiors and exteriors richly decorated for the holidays, guests view seasonal festivities over the centuries as well as different religions, from the Colonial Period through the 1940s.
Candlelight Tours
December 7, 6–9pm
$7 , Ages 6+
For one night only, view Rippon Lodge by candlelight at Christmastime. Beginning with a special tree lighting ceremony with tree ornaments decorated by local schoolchildren, visitors will marvel at the beautifully lit historic grounds and buildings. Guests may tour the Holiday through the Ages decorations by candlelight, listen to music, see World War II reenactors on the grounds, enjoy making seasonal crafts, a warm beverage, and shopping and holiday cookies.
Santa Visits Rippon Lodge
December 14, 2019, 1–3pm
$3, All Ages
You better watch out! You better not cry! Santa Claus is visiting Rippon Lodge for one afternoon only. Be on your best behavior and keep your name on the “Nice” list. Parents will be given special “Things Santa Should Know” cards upon arrival. Bring your camera for pictures and dress appropriately for weather as some activities are outside.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre
12229 Bristow Road, Bristow, VA 20136
(703) 365-7895
Civil War Christmas & Concerts
December 14, 5–8pm, FREE EVENT
During the winter of 1861, Prince William County was home to nearly 70,000 soldiers who spent Christmas here instead of in their homes. Step back over 150 years to see how soldiers and civilians celebrated Christmas time during the Civil War. Walk through camps by candlelight and interact with soldiers to learn about Christmas customs of the past. Get your picture taken with a Civil War Santa and enjoy hot cider as you enjoy a musical performance by the Brentsville District High School Choir at 7pm and sing along!