Tuesday, November 18, 2025

25th Annual Holiday Bazaar to benefit Williamsburg area homeless pets

Nov. 18, 2025

25th Annual Holiday Bazaar to benefit Williamsburg-area homeless pets

Heritage Humane Society's 25th Annual Holiday Bazaar will be held on Nov. 22. (Photo courtesy of Jenny Sellers, The Heritage Humane Society)

The Heritage Humane Society is inviting the community to step into the holiday season by celebrating the 25th anniversary of the shelter's Holiday Bazaar, which returns on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Bruton Parish Hall in Colonial Williamsburg's Merchants Square.

The traditional holiday event will fill downtown Williamsburg with the scent of fresh baked goods, the glimmer of handcrafted gifts and the joy of helping homeless pets in need.

What began as a small volunteer-driven fundraiser has become one of the community's most cherished seasonal events, drawing thousands each year, according to the organization.

"Seeing our Holiday Bazaar flourish after 25 years fills our Heritage Humane Society team and volunteers with gratitude for our community's kindness," said executive director Kimberly Laska.

Guests will find handmade crafts, holiday décor, festive treats, unique pet-themed items and exclusive raffle prizes, all donated by local artisans, restaurants, chefs and volunteers.

A fan-favorite "Gift Card Extravaganza" will also return with more than 30 gift cards to local restaurants, shops and attractions.

Proceeds support shelter pets through food, medical care and adoption services.

"Every item purchased at the Holiday Bazaar is a lifeline that provides shelter, food and much-needed medical care for pets right here in Greater Williamsburg who deserve a second chance," Laska said.

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This weekend also marks the return of the Chesapeake Bay & Western Railroad Club's Fall Model Railroad Open House.

Attendees will get up close to Virginia's premier permanent HO scale layout, which features two levels of trains and handmade scenery. A white elephant table will offer model trains for purchase.

The family-friendly open house will be held on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 23, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

Additional highlights this week include a free presentation on the history of Williamsburg's holiday traditions at the Kimball Theatre, the annual CW Employee Arts & Crafts Show at the Williamsburg Community Building and a concert by the Ken and Brad Kolodner Band at Williamsburg Library Theatre.

See below for our curated guide to things to do around the Historic Triangle, Nov. 19 - 23.

EVENTS THIS WEEK

Each week, we scour event calendars from across the region and send readers a list of local events and activities worthy of their time. For additional event details, click on the bolded, hyperlinked titles.

Wednesday, Nov. 19

Renowned author Rick Atkinson will lead a discussion at Jamestown Settlement on Nov. 19. (Photo courtesy of the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation)

SPECIAL EVENT

Director's Series: Rick Atkinson | Jamestown Settlement | Attend a virtual discussion featuring Rick Atkinson, renowned historian and award-winning author of "The British Are Coming: The War for America, Lexington to Princeton, 1775-1777." In-person tickets for this event are sold out, but tickets to attend online are still available for $10. 7 pm.

TEENS

Teen Creative Writing | Williamsburg Library | Teens are invited to write creatively in a relaxed, supportive environment. For ages 13-18. No registration required. Free. 6 - 8 pm.

Thursday, Nov. 20

The York River Concert Band. (Courtesy photo)

KIDS

Gobble Gobble | James City County Recreation Center | Kids will celebrate Thanksgiving by creating a festive clay turkey. Attendees must be accompanied by a caregiver. Ages 18 months - 6 years. See the website to register. $16. 10 - 11 am.

FILM

Throwback Thursday "The Age of Adaline" | Williamsburg Library | This film series screens classic and contemporary movies for an adult audience. The feature this week is "The Age of Adaline" (2015). Starring Blake Lively, Harrison Ford and Michael Huisman. See the trailer here. 1hr 52min. Free. 2 - 4 pm.

TEENS

W&M Wordshop Juniors | Williamsburg Library | This creative writing club, for ages 8 - 14, is run by W&M students. Participants will learn how to advance their craft and express themselves through creative writing. Free. 5:30 - 6:30 pm.

Teen Holiday 3D Printing | Williamsburg Library | Teens will create and design their own Thanksgiving pieces for their holiday table in this 3D printing program. No registration required. For ages 13-18. Free. 6 - 7:30 pm.

LIVE MUSIC

Band Concert: York River Concert Band | Bruton Parish Church | Enjoy a candlelit holiday band concert with the York River Concert Band, directed by Jeff Haney. Free; donations gratefully accepted. 8 - 9 pm.

Friday, Nov. 21

A Colonial Williamsburg historic interpreter adds fuel to a cresset. (Image by David M. Doody, The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation)

SPECIAL EVENT

Lighting of the Cressets | Colonial Williamsburg | Nov. 21 & 22 | Head to Duke of Gloucester Street for the Lighting of the Cressets: a fan-favorite tradition. Colonial Williamsburg's 18th-century streets will come to life at night with strolling musicians. Free. 6 - 9 pm.

TEENS

Teens Night Out | James City County Library | Teens are invited to celebrate the end of the month with friends, games, snacks, music and more. No registration required. For ages 13-18. Free. 6 - 8 pm.

Saturday, Nov. 22

A program highlighting the history of Colonial Williamsburg's holiday traditions will be held at the Kimball Theatre on Nov. 22. (Image by Jerry McCoy for The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation)

SPECIAL EVENTS

Heritage Humane Society's Holiday Bazaar | Bruton Parish Hall | This traditional holiday event features something for everyone on your holiday shopping list-- including pets! You'll find baked goods, fabric creations, themed baskets, jewelry, children's gifts, stocking stuffers and more. Soups from over 30 restaurants are available for sale online and close Nov. 19 at 5 pm. All proceeds benefit the homeless pets at The Heritage Humane Society. The Holiday Bazaar runs from 9 am to 3 pm. Free admission.

CW Employee Craft Show | Williamsburg Community Building | Colonial Williamsburg's annual employee craft show returns to the Williamsburg Community Building on Nov. 22. The event features a variety of media, from jewelry and textiles to woodcrafts and photography, allowing shoppers to find a unique gift. Baked goods will also be available for sale. Free admission. 11 am - 6 pm.

Re-Thinking Thanksgiving: A Native American View | Jamestown Settlement | Master storyteller Perry Ground, a Turtle Clan member of the Onondaga Nation, will provide an overview of the history of this misunderstood holiday. This event is included with museum admission. Residents of James City County, York County and the City of Williamsburg receive free admission with proof of residency. 2:30 - 4 pm.

History of Williamsburg Holiday Traditions | Kimball Theatre | Learn about the history of Colonial Williamsburg's holiday traditions, decorations and other beloved customs. Celebrate Williamsburg history and the people who have brought these special programs to life. Free and open to the public. 4 - 5:30 pm.

Lighting of the Cressets | Colonial Williamsburg | Nov. 21 & 22. | Historic Duke of Gloucester Street will come to life with lighted cressets and strolling musicians during this fan-favorite event. Free and open to the public. 6 - 9 pm.

KIDS

Scratch & Sniff Thanksgiving | James City County Recreation Center | Kids will use a mix of materials and ingredients to sculpt a slice of pumpkin pie that smells as delicious as it looks. For ages 4-9. $16. 10 - 11 am.

Harvest Hands | James City County Recreation Center | In this fun seasonal pottery workshop, children will decorate their own autumn-inspired clay creations. $25 plus a $20 supply fee. For ages 7-12. 9 am - noon.

The Nutcracker Suite | Williamsburg Library | Attend a performance of The Nutcracker Suite presented by The Concert Ballet of Virginia. This program is designed for children of all ages and their families. Free admission; first-come, first-served. There will be two performances: one at 11 am and one at 1 pm.

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Walk This Way: Williamsburg Walking Club | Warhill Sports Complex Trailhead | Walking coaches guide participants through the trails of James City County during this monthly program. For ages 14+. See the website to register. Free. 9 - 10 am.

Three Rivers & Three Peoples Hike | York River State Park | This hike honors the shared history of African, European, and Native Americans who made their homes along the Mattaponi, Pamunkey, and York Rivers. Registration required. Included with standard park admission. 10 am - 12 pm.

LIVE MUSIC

Dewey Decibel Concert: Ken and Brad Kolodner Band | Williamsburg Library Theatre | Attend a concert featuring dynamic father-son team Ken and Brad Kolodner. The band performs a unique soundscape of Old-Time, Bluegrass and American Roots, featuring the hammered dulcimer and clawhammer banjo. Tickets are available for sale online or over the phone by calling 757-741-3370. 7 - 10 pm.

Music for St. Cecilia's Day | Bruton Parish Church | Celebrate the feast of Cecilia, patron of music and musicians, with this special concert featuring JanEl Will and Rebecca Davy, organists at Bruton Parish. Free; donations gratefully accepted. 8 - 9 pm.

MARKETS

Williamsburg Farmers Market | 345 W Duke of Gloucester St. | Shop from the finest Virginia-grown and Virginia-made produce, plants and products. This farmers market features over 40 vendors, live music and children's programming. Rain or shine. Free admission. 8 am - 12 pm.

Toano Open Air Market | 7891 Richmond Road | Toano | Shop from various vendors selling their finest products. Located on the Village Green near Hohl. Free admission. 9 am - 12 pm.

Hilton Village Farmers Market | 10260 Warwick Blvd | Historic Hilton Village's weekly market on Main is held every Saturday, year-round. Free admission. 9 am - 12 pm.

Sunday, Nov. 23

Virginia Regional Ballet will host "Tea with Klara" on Nov. 23. (Photo courtesy of Virginia Regional Ballet)

SPECIAL EVENT

7th Annual Holiday Bazaar | Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church | Find unique gifts and enjoy traditional Greek foods and pastries. A raffle will also be held. Free admission. 10 am - 3 pm.

KIDS

Tea with Klara | Williamsburg Community Building | Attend a full afternoon tea featuring sweet treats, tea, crafts and dancing with Klara and her Nutcracker friends. A reading of The Nutcracker will also take place. Hosted by Virginia Regional Ballet. 3 pm. Tickets are $22 - $28 and are available here.

HISTORY

Becoming Marye Bucke: Researching a Woman From 400 Years Ago | Stryker Center | Virginia historian Rebecca Suerdieck will interpret Marye Bucke, a minister's wife who lived at Jamestowne. Attendees will learn about the life of Bucke and discover stories of faith in early Virginia. Free. 2 - 3 pm.

GAME DAY

Board Game Meetup | Tabb Library | Enjoy an afternoon of tabletop and board games. For adults 18+ of all skill levels. Teens may also join with an accompanying adult. Free. 1:30 - 4:30 pm.

Multi-Day

CB&W's fall open house returns Nov. 22 & Nov. 23. (Photo courtesy of CB&W).

SEASONAL EVENTS

CB&W Open House | 110-F Dare Road | Nov. 22 (10 am - 4 pm) and Nov. 23 (noon - 4 pm) | See the largest HO scale layout in Virginia during this family-friendly open house event. For updates and additional information, follow CB&W on Facebook. Free.

Winter Lantern Festival | Jamestown Settlement | Celebrate winter with an illuminated stroll featuring hundreds of Chinese lanterns and live performances. Local vendors will be offering food and drinks on site. Tickets are $18 - $24 and are available here.

Ice Skating at the Liberty Ice Pavilion | Colonial Williamsburg | Outdoor ice-skating returns to historic Duke of Gloucester Street for the season on Nov. 21. Refreshments, including hot cider, coffee and baked treats, will be available for purchase steps away from the ice. See the operating schedule here. Regular daily rates are $16 for adults, $14 for youth ages 3 - 12. Skate rentals are $6. Season ice passes are also available.

Veterans Art Show at Yorktown Library | In honor of Veterans Day, the Yorktown Arts Foundation is presenting a special exhibit at the Yorktown Library. The exhibit showcases artwork created by active duty and military veterans living in the Peninsula and Tidewater region. Oct. 27 - Nov. 21. Free.

Christmas Town | Busch Gardens Williamsburg | Holiday cheer returns to Busch Gardens Nov. 14 - Jan. 4. Enjoy more than 10 million twinkling lights, holiday shows, classic traditions like Christmas Town Express, seasonal shopping, photo ops with Santa and theme park rides and attractions.

THEATRE

W&M Theatre Presents: "The Scarlet Pimpernel" | 601 Jamestown Road |W&M Theatre Presents The Scarlet Pimpernel, a swashbuckling musical with music by Frank Wildhorn and book & lyrics by Nan Knighton, based on Baroness Orczy's classic adventure novel. Nov. 20 - 22 at 7:30 pm and Nov. 23 at 2 pm. Tickets are $10 - $25 and are available here.

This newsletter was written by Christin Nielsen. Thanks for reading!

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Monday, November 17, 2025

New Jamestown Settlement exhibition offers 'new layers' of insights into the lives of America's early settlers

Jamestown Settlement exhibition offers 'new layers' of insight into the lives of America's early settlers

A collection of original Chinese Ming porcelain bowls and saucers on display at the "Following the Dragon" exhibition at Jamestown Settlement. (Photo by Christin Nielsen/The Triangle)

by Christin Nielsen

Nov. 17, 2025

JAMESTOWN - A new exhibition at Jamestown Settlement is offering a more nuanced look into the lives of some of America's earliest settlers.

"Following the Dragon: Chinese Ming Porcelain in Early Jamestown" highlights archaeological discoveries that reveal surprising cultural connections between colonial Virginia and Imperial China.

Presented by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation in partnership with the Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation, the items on view include rare Chinese Ming porcelain unearthed during excavations of the 1607-1625 James Fort at Historic Jamestowne.

The special exhibition, which debuted on Nov. 15, provides new context around longstanding narratives that depict the Jamestown colony as a bleak and muddy military establishment.

Merry Outlaw, senior curator at Jamestown Rediscovery, told The Triangle that while the initial years at Jamestown were "extraordinarily difficult" - bogged down by starvation, disease and high mortality - life in the isolated outpost still included elements of luxury.

"The people who were here lived in rough conditions," Outlaw said. "Yet, because of archaeology, we know they brought with them their most treasured possessions, including these rare and expensive porcelain bowls, wine cups and dishes made in Ming Dynasty China."

A porcelain bottle, ca. 1572-1617, from the collection of King Charles III. Fragments of an identical bottle were discovered during excavations at James Fort. (Photo by Christin Nielsen/The Triangle)

China's Ming Dynasty spanned from 1368 to 1644 and was known as a period of cultural restoration and expansion, according to The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

"Following the Dragon" reveals that some of Jamestown's early inhabitants were individuals of high social status who sought to display the most exquisite ceramics available during their time.

Regarded as "white gold" in the 17th century, Ming porcelain was seen as an exotic ware from the East. It was typically associated in England with royal and upper-class households because it was expensive and difficult to obtain.

Among the objects on display at Jamestown Settlement are fragments of an extremely rare porcelain bottle identical to one owned by King Charles III. Only 44 bottles of the kind have ever existed worldwide.

The settlers would have shown off such lavish porcelain as a symbol of their stature, according to Outlaw.

"Even as they struggled, the early Jamestown settlers hoped to portray themselves as worldly elites, worthy of leading the settlement to success," Outlaw said. "Archaeology continually adds new layers to our understanding of the past."

The exhibition was jointly curated by Outlaw and Jamestown Settlement's senior curator, Beverly "Bly" Straube, a founding member of the Jamestown Rediscovery Archeological Project launched in 1994.

Outlaw is also the author of a new book, "Following the Dragon: Late Ming Porcelain from James Fort, Jamestown, Virginia."

The illustrated book highlights connections between the porcelain found at Jamestown and the vast networks of global trade in the early 1600s. It is available in the museum shops at both Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne, or for preorder online.

A group tours Historic Jamestowne, where over three million artifacts have been unearthed since the 1990s. (Photo courtesy of the Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation)

The special exhibition will remain on view through July 12, 2026.

A total of 31 vessels discovered at the fort are featured alongside intact identical artifacts from English, Dutch and American museums, as well as private collections from across the world.

Entry to the exhibition is included with standard admission to Jamestown Settlement. Residents of James City County, York County and the City of Williamsburg, including William & Mary students, receive free admission with proof of residency.

Jamestown Settlement, located at 2110 Jamestown Road in Williamsburg, is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, visit jyfmuseums.org.

This week's event newsletter will be published tomorrow, Nov. 18. See our Community Calendar for a preview of upcoming events.

Sent to: godlyman@alexanderofyork.com

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