The Civil War did not pause at Christmas time. There were still battles to be fought, though camp life consumed most of the soldiers’ time. On December 3, at Bristoe Battlefield Heritage Park, come experience how soldiers spent the holidays away from their families. Living history demonstrations and a visit from Civil War Santa Claus will accompany each tour. Nineteenth-century Christmas crafts will be available for children. Please come dressed appropriately for the weather. Register today.
Register for a 1-hour time slot.
11-12 p.m.
1-2 p.m.
3-4 p.m.
$5, you may need to create a log-in to register.
All ages welcome!
Register online by Dec. 2 at 7:50 p.m.
OTHER PARK & REC. EVENTS!
Christmas Traditions in Back of the Big House
On December 10, you can also learn what Christmas was like in plantation homes in 19th-century Virginia. This unique program at Ben Lomond Historic Site will explore what this holiday was like for enslaved men and women living on southern plantations and farms. More details can be found on page 29 of the fall Leisure magazine.
Historic Holidays & Christmas Concert at Brentsville Courthouse
If you’re looking for something free to do, check out our Historic Holidays & Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 10, from 5-9 pm at Brentsville Courthouse. Experience the holidays of years past at Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre as you explore each of Brentsville’s historic buildings decorated for the holidays. Learn how locals celebrated the holidays and how they enjoyed the winter weather through the years through crafts and activities. Have some hot cider as you enjoy a musical performance by the Brentsville District High School Choir. Santa will also make an appearance so bring your cameras for photos.
We hope to see you during the holidays!
Holidays Through the Ages
On select days starting December 2 through December 23, Holidays Through the Ages will also be taking place at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. Join us for an in-depth exploration of season festivities over the centuries. Interiors and exteriors will be richly decorated for the holidays to help you get into the holiday spirit.
Holiday Evenings at Rippon Lodge
If evenings are more your thing, on December 2 and 3 come out to Rippon Lodge to enjoy the ambiance of the season by viewing Holidays Through the Ages tours at night. These special evening tours include music and period lights inside the historic home and along the grounds making for great holiday photo opportunities. Click here for all dates and times available and to register.
Santa Comes to Rippon Lodge
Santa Claus is coming to town! More specifically, he’ll be coming to Rippon Lodge Historic Site on Saturday, December 10 from 12-3 pm. Register today and join us to get your photo taken with Santa.
Santa will be visiting Rippon Lodge for just this one afternoon so be sure to be on your best behavior and keep your name on the “nice” list. Parents will be given special “Things Santa Should Know” cards to fill out upon arrival. Bring your camera for pictures and dress appropriately for weather as some activities are outside. This is always a popular event so be sure to register promptly.
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