An Old Virginia Christmas at Booker T. Washington NM- December 5, 2025
Step back in time into an 1860s holiday as Dr. Booker T. Washington described it in “Christmas Days in Old Virginia.” The event will take place on Friday, December 5, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Booker T. Washington National Monument.
Guided tours will examine what Christmas time was like for Booker and the nine other enslaved people on the Burroughs plantation, including Washington’s own memories about his childhood holidays during the Civil War era. Children’s crafts will be available at this family friendly event.
The afternoon portion of the event kicks off at 3 p.m. with a special archeology presentation by The Ottery Group, Inc. showcasing the discoveries of recent archeological excavations. The group will also discuss plans for the 2026 phase of excavations around the former Booker T. Washington Elementary School. The local community and those with ties to the Booker T. Washington Elementary School (1954-1966) is invited to come and share information that might help inform further research into the post-Washington era of the park.
The full day of programming will include:
11 a.m.- Guided Tour- Christmas through Booker’s Eyes
3 p.m. to 5 p.m.- Archeology program
3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.- Children’s holiday ornament craft activity
5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.- Candlelight Guided Tours- Christmas through Booker’s Eyes. Tours will be offered every half hour beginning at 5 p.m. and going until 6:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided while supplies last.
All programs are free, open to the public, and are subject to change. For additional information, please contact Booker T. Washington National Monument at (540) 682-0173.
