Join Us for the
65th Anniversary
Christmas Homes Tour
December 5, 2026
Presented by:
Green Spring Garden Club, Inc.
Tour Info
December 5th, 2026
9:00am-5:00pm
Tickets for sale online only
One Day Ticket- all 4 houses Price $41
Goodwin Building
The Goodwin Building serves as the majestic centerpiece of the Foundation’s administrative history and is named for the visionary Reverend Dr. W. A. R. Goodwin, who inspired John D. Rockefeller to preserve Williamsburg. Completed in 1940 this H-shaped Federal-style landmark is a blend of colonial-inspired architecture and Art Deco details. The journey from its 1926 beginnings to its centennial celebration this year, we are honoring the buildings enduring role as the official headquarters for those who continue to keep Williamsburg’s history alive.
The Timson House
The Timson House is one of the last
original buildings acquired by
Colonial Williamsburg and known to
be one of the earliest dwellings. It
was built in 1716 by William Timson.
A prosperous York County planter, he
acquired lot 323 from the trustees
of the City of Williamsburg.
The two original center front rooms
had a west wing added in the mid
18th century and the east side was
added in the19th century. In 1937,
the house was purchased by Rev.
W.A.R. Goodwin and then his son
purchased the house in 1954. In
1996, Maureen and Jim Gorman
of Maine accepted an invitation
to underwrite the restoration.
The Palmer House
The Palmer House is one of Colonial Williamsburg’s eighty-nine original 18th century buildings. This two-story brick home was built by John Palmer, lawyer and bursar at William and Mary. During the Civil War, it was occupied as headquarters for both the Confederate and Union Army at different times between 1862-1865. The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation purchased it in 1927and restored it to its original appearance. During the restoration, the original “Putlog” holes were discovered. These are holes where bricklayers left spaces to support scaffolding. They were never filled with half bricks. At Christmas, the holes often display apples as a holiday decor and is often called “the Apple House”.
The Benjamin Waller House
Benjamin Waller was born in King William County, Virginia in 1716 after his family arrived in the colony in the seventeenth century. He attended William and Mary and studied law using Sir John Randolph’s law library. He was a lawyer and his career included clerking for the General Court and serving on the bench for the First Court of Appeals which were important Offices for the Crown. He was appointed by Governor William Gooch as Judge of the Court of Admiralty in Williamsburg, Virginia. Waller and his wife had 10 children and when his grandson married President John Tyler’s daughter, they lived in the Benjamin Waller house.
Williamsburg Christmas Homes Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are tickets?
Tickets are $41.
Tickets go on sale in early September 2026.
What is the date?
Saturday, December 5, 2026
9:00am-5:00pm
Where can I pick up a brochure about the homes on the tour this year?
You can view a description of the homes on the tour on this website. You may also pick up a brochure at each of the individual homes on the tour.
Where do we go first? Where do the tours start?
Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area - You can download a map of the Restored Area which locates the homes on the Christmas Homes Tour and important points like bus stops and restrooms. You can do this either from this website or the website of Colonial Williamsburg. You may visit the homes in any order.
Where do we park?
The best place to park is the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor’s Center. By showing proof of ticket purchase, you may board a shuttle bus which is included in the cost of your ticket. The bus will take you to the Restored Area and then you may walk to all of the homes on the tour. In addition, paid lots are scattered around the Historic area, including the Visitor Center.
Are tickets available on tour day?
To avoid disappointment, purchase your tour tickets early via our website. If tickets are still available, they may be purchased online.
May I purchase a ticket to see only one home on the day of the tour?
Single house tour tickets will be available on the day of the tour at each specific house (if space allows) for $16.00, via the website, or via cash or check only (no credit cards accepted).
Where will tickets be sold?
Tickets will be sold online only and Day of Tour only, a ticket can be purchased for cash or check, at the home sites , no credit cards. No tickets sold at CW Visitors center or Williamsburg Lodge.
Are there restrooms available on tours?
There are NO public restroom facilities at home tour properties, but restrooms are available in the Restored Area.
Is photography allowed?
Photography of any kind, including via cell phone, is prohibited inside tour home properties, but exterior photography is welcomed.
What if it rains? What is your refund policy?
The Christmas Homes Tour will go on rain or shine. Therefore, there will be no refunds.
Is the Christmas Homes Tour accessible for people with disabilities?
All of the Christmas Homes Tour properties are private and therefore are not accessible for visitors with disabilities, or those with physical limitations.
May children attend the Christmas Homes Tour?
Children under 12 years old, accompanied by parent or adult are Free of charge
Safety
For your comfort and safety, please wear flat walking shoes, no spiked heels, and watch for steps and uneven surfaces as you visit the homes and gardens
- Pets — except service animals — are not permitted.
- No smoking.
- No strollers, backpacks, or large bags.
- The Green Spring Garden Club, Inc. and owners of the properties are not responsible for accidents occurring on the tours.