PWHPF: December 2019 Events

December 2019

December Events and Programs

The grounds of the historic sites are open daily from dawn until dusk and the sites are open for tours during special events and by appointment. Call (703) 792-4754 to schedule your tour today.

Upcoming Event at Old Manassas Courthouse 9248 Lee Avenue, Manassas, VA (703) 792-4754

Annual Historical Christmas Dinner: 1944 Dec 7 | 6–8pm | $75 | Ages 14+ Experience the holidays of years past with a historical Christmas dinner at the Old Manassas Courthouse. This year, experience Christmas in the 1940s where in the midst of World War II, rationing and the war efforts affected the foods and beverages served. While you learn the history of the time, enjoy some of the unique foods and beverages typically found and partake in some of the distinctive traditions of the holidays during the war. Reservations are required for space is limited. Additional Information and Registration

Upcoming Event at Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre 12229 Bristow Road, Bristow, VA 20136 (703) 365-7895

Civil War Christmas & Concerts Dec 14 | 5–8pm | FREE EVENT During the winter of 1861, Prince William County was home to nearly 70,000 soldiers who spent Christmas here instead of in their homes. Step back over 150 years to see how soldiers and civilians celebrated Christmas time during the Civil War. Walk through camps by candlelight and interact with soldiers to learn about Christmas customs of the past. Get your picture taken with a Civil War Santa and enjoy hot cider as you enjoy a musical performance by the Brentsville District High School Choir at 7pm and sing along!  Additional Information and Registration

Upcoming Events at Rippon Lodge Historic Site 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192 (703) 499-9812

Holidays Through The Ages Dec 6-8, Dec 13-15 & Dec 20–22 | 11am–4am | $5 | Ages 5+  Stroll through seasonal celebrations of the past at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. With interiors and exteriors richly decorated for the holidays, guests view seasonal festivities over the centuries as well as different religions, from the Colonial Period through the 1940s. Candlelight Tours Dec 7 | 6–9pm | $7 | Ages 6+  For one night only, view Rippon Lodge by candlelight at Christmastime. Beginning with a special tree lighting ceremony with tree ornaments decorated by local schoolchildren, visitors will marvel at the beautifully lit historic grounds and buildings. Guests may tour the Holiday through the Ages decorations by candlelight, listen to music, see World War II reenactors on the grounds, enjoy making seasonal crafts, a warm beverage, and shopping and holiday cookies. Santa Visits Rippon Lodge Dec 14 | 1–3pm | $3 | All Ages  You better watch out! You better not cry! Santa Claus is visiting Rippon Lodge for one afternoon only. Be on your best behavior and keep your name on the “Nice” list. Parents will be given special “Things Santa Should Know” cards upon arrival. Bring your camera for pictures and dress appropriately for weather as some activities are outside.

Historic Preservation Spotlight

Ben Lomond Historic Site   Originally a farmhouse built in 1832 by the Chinn family, Ben Lomond was drastically affected by the Civil War in Prince William County. The Confederate Army converted the house into a hospital twice, most notably in the aftermath of First Manassas, and a headquarters. Ben Lomond's walls still bear the graffiti of visiting Union and Confederate soldiers throughout the war. Ben Lomond Historic Site 10321 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas, VA (703) 367-7872

Visit Prince William County Historic Preservation Website