With its rich history, Merchants Square, adjacent to historic Colonial Williamsburg, brings the full spirit of the holidays together with an atmosphere that delivers the whole holiday package—unique shopping, fine dining and entertainment and events for the entire family. A full schedule of the entertainment and events in Merchants Square can be found at www.merchantssquare.org.
The Square brings the magic of the holidays alive with traditions for children of all ages. For the seventh year, the Virginia Theatre Machine brings its witty production of the Charles Dickens classic “A Christmas Carol,” performed in less than 30 minutes. Each year, director Mark Lerman crafts a new twist for the old script, and this year’s production is no exception. The fun, new musical take on the show debuts on Thanksgiving Day.
Visitors can forget the stress of shopping with the specialty boutiques and delightful selection of eateries while strolling musicians and choral groups further enrich this one-of-a-kind experience. Santa greets little ones at the William & Mary Bookstore on Saturdays and Sundays, with a professional photographer available to capture that special moment. On November 28 and December 13, Santa will arrive early to enjoy milk and cookies and story time with his young fans.
Most retail stores open at 10 a.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday. Individual store hours will vary. A detailed schedule of performances and Santa appearances can be found on www.merchantssquare.org/holiday. The Merchants Square Facebook page will contain any schedule changes and further contact information. Event descriptions and schedules are also available online as a PDF document here.
Events include:
A Christmas Carol – There is nothing more delightful than the Victorian-era Dickens tale to bring the essence of Christmas. Appealing to young and old alike, this refreshingly funny version of the timeless tale of the power of forgiveness is a welcome reminder of the magic the holiday brings. Conceived and brought exclusively to Merchants Square seven years ago by the Virginia Theatre Company's Mark Lerman, this lively, entertaining and interactive 30-minute version of “A Christmas Carol” is sure to have the entire family laughing.
Holiday Farmers Markets – Visit this open-air market filled with fresh and organic produce, home-baked specialties, flowers and greens, herbs, demonstrations, music and more. Be sure to get some fresh pumpkin butter, apple butter and other items for your holiday feasts. Holiday markets will be held on Dec 13 and 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
It’s Santa Time! – It’s not Christmas until you hear the old holiday jingles and you see the jolly old man with the red coat.
Strolling musicians – Encounter the enticing performances of colonial balladeers, College of William & Mary choral groups and brass ensembles. The music that spans different musical eras and styles will make your experience truly magical.
Blue Talon Bistro Turkey Trot 5K – What better way to start the holidays than a healthy activity for the whole family? This race celebrates a traditional holiday – highlighting the importance of involvement in our communities. A beautiful 5K in historic Downtown Williamsburg and through the campus of The College of William & Mary is the perfect venue for a great outing for the whole family. Enjoy wonderful coffee and croissants as you wait for the race results in the company of 3,000 fellow participants! This year's event supports Avalon: A Center for Women and Children.
Merchants Square, the shopping and dining district adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg’s renowned Historic Area, is home to more than 40 shops and restaurants. Built between 1928 and 1935, Merchants Square is recognized as one of the first planned shopping malls in the United States. In 2005 Merchants Square was added to the National Register of Historic Places along with the Williamsburg Lodge and the Williamsburg Inn to make up the Merchants Square and Resort Historic District. Merchants Square properties are owned by Colonial Williamsburg with the majority leased to private business owners. Revenue from Colonial Williamsburg’s commercial property initiatives supports the educational programs of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, the not-for-profit center for history and citizenship that oversees and operates the restored 18th-century town of Williamsburg. For more information on Merchants Square, visit www.merchantssquare.org.
