Christmas on the Homefront: A 1-Hour World War II Character Tour

Be transported back to Williamsburg in 1943 in this 1-hour character tour. Learn how the citizens of the town are dealing with rationing, blackout drills, and all the new servicemen in town during the

Be transported back to Williamsburg in 1943 in this 1-hour character tour. Learn how the citizens of the town are dealing with rationing, blackout drills, and all the new servicemen in town during the Holiday season. Please note that each tour is unique, so the advertised routes may vary. You will be guided through town by either a USO Hostess or an Air Raid Warden. However, for evening tours, the guide will solely be an Air Raid Warden. Routes may also be changed to accommodate activities in Colonial Williamsburg. Shades of Our Past is not affiliated with Colonial Williamsburg; therefore, this tour does not include entrance or admission into Colonial Williamsburg-owned buildings. Since the tour is through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg it is weather contingent. Please be prepared for all weather conditions. Please be aware that due to staff participation in other events, tours may be unavailable on certain days. For details about these programs, please visit our website.

From: $0.00

Location: Williamsburg

What's Included

Community Discussion

Q&A

Q: Can you reschedule if it rains? I want to get this as a gift for my parents, but I’m worried about the weather!

A: Yes, you can reschedule if it's raining! The tours are weather contingent, so if it looks like rain or severe weather, just check their website for available dates to move your tour. It's best to keep an eye on the forecast as the date approaches, though. My parents did it last year and loved it, so I’m sure your parents will enjoy it too!

Q: What should we wear for the tour? Is it casual or more dressy?

A: Casual is the way to go! Most people wear comfy clothes and shoes since you'll be walking around. It’s also a good idea to dress for the weather, so layers are key. I went in the winter and wore a warm coat and boots, and it worked out well. Just be ready to step back in time!

Q: Is this tour suitable for kids? My 10-year-old loves history!

A: Absolutely! This tour is great for kids who have an interest in history, especially WWII. My kids, ages 9 and 12, really enjoyed it last year. The guides do a fantastic job engaging the younger crowd, and the stories are really fascinating. Plus, it’s just an hour long—perfect for kids’ attention spans!

Discussions

Thinking of gifting the WWII tour in Williamsburg! Any tips?

I’m considering getting the Christmas on the Homefront tour for my parents who love history and live in VA. I think they’d enjoy the character aspect and learning about WWII. Has anyone done this? What was your experience like? Any tips on the best time to go?

Just got back from the WWII tour—what an experience!

Wow, I just did the Christmas on the Homefront tour in Williamsburg yesterday and it was unforgettable! Our Air Raid Warden guide was so knowledgeable and funny. I loved learning about the rationing and seeing how people coped during the war. I think I might get the replica Christmas card framed! Who else has done this? Any thoughts?