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The Night Awaits in Williamsburg

Now that sweater weather is officially here, you might be tempted to stay inside when the sun goes down. But in Colonial Williamsburg, you’d be seriously missing out… the night awaits in Williamsburg!

Take your pick of these seven evening events that promise beauty, excitement, and even a few goosebumps to make you feel alive! 

 

What: Revel at Chowning’s Tavern
When: Every Friday from 7-9 p.m. through November 18

Why we love it: This first-come, first-served evening of merrymaking is a great way to end a work week. Watch history meet up with modern times, connected by the human need to eat, socialize and unwind. Enjoy the delicious food on the menu, but also watch out for historic figures (played by amazing actor-interpreters) who drop in to converse, con, woo, share stories, ignite a little treason, or lead the room in boisterous song!

 

What: To Hang a Pirate at Capitol General Court

When: Wednesday and Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Why we love it: If you love history and theater, you will find this one-hour reenactment of the trial of one of Blackbeard’s pirates totally fascinating. Truth is often more strange and interesting than fiction, and that’s certainly the case here! In 1718, an English Royal Navy expedition dispatched from Virginia killed Blackbeard the pirate off the coast of North Carolina. At the same time, over a dozen members of his crew were captured and brought to Williamsburg and were tried for piracy in 1719. It’s not often we get to watch the recreation of a famous trial, hear the evidence and make a judgment! Due to the subject matter, this program is not recommended for young children. Tickets can be purchased online.

 

What: Haunted Williamsburg in Colonial Williamsburg 

When: Nightly at 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., now through November 23

Why we love it: When a place has a lot of history, that means it has a lot of ghosts. This is the official ghost tour of Colonial Williamsburg, and if you love hearing authentic spooky stories told by amazing costumed guides, this tour is for you. This one-hour candlelit walking ghost tour takes you strolling through town, into gardens, and beyond the barriers to the area’s most haunted sites!

If you have little ones in tow, try Ghost Walk Junior! This 45-minute tour includes all of Colonial Williamsburg’s traditional spooky stories without being too scary. Click here for tickets and times.

 

What: Palace Concert
When: Tuesday evenings from 7-8 p.m. through November 22
Why we love it: Nothing makes us come to life like music, and experiencing something like the regal music of the 17th and 18th centuries feels extra special. We feel so lucky to be able to attend an event that showcases this elegant chamber music by Colonial Williamsburg’s early music ensemble, the Governor’s Musick. The program includes music known in Virginia as well as music from Europe. Enjoy the sounds of harpsichord, voice, flute, and strings. Click here for tickets! 

 

What: Revolutionary Points of View
When: 7 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday evenings through November 22
Why we love it: Next on the list for the night that awaits you in Williamsburg… Imagine: it’s the eve of the American revolution, and there are just as many opinions about war and independence as we hear about in politics today. We love that Colonial Williamsburg gives us an opportunity to step back in time and see what life was like for our predecessors. The best part? You can engage in the most important debate in our nation’s history—should we remain British, or become Amerians? See the full schedule and ticket information here.

 

What: Lighting of the Cressets
When: Thursday-Saturday evenings through November 26 and December 23 & 24 from 6-9 p.m.
Why we love it: First of all, the Lighting of the Cressets is free and open to the public—what a lovely way to spice up an evening! Head to the historic Duke of Gloucester Street to watch the street come to life with 18th-century lighting. You’ll also encounter strolling musicians and other evening programs like the ones listed here! A street lined with firelight is truly rare and breathtaking. Enjoy with a loved one, or treat yourself to this lovely sight all on your own.

 

After experiencing a global pandemic, we know that memories are an important part of our time here on this planet! Williamsburg, Virginia, is one of those hard-to-find places where all you have to do is show up—the ideas and the fun are already planned out for you (even in the evening hours!). We hope you have a chance to explore what’s happening with the night awaits you in Williamsburg!

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