Saturday, November 22, 2025

Williamsburg named among Good Housekeeping's best U.S. travel destinations for 2026

Nov. 21, 2025

Good morning, Historic Triangle!

Another warm fall day is in store as highs reach the upper 60s this afternoon. More rain is expected through midday, according to Forecaster Derrah Getter of WTKR News 3.

Sunday will be sunnier but cooler, with highs struggling to reach 60 degrees.

The 7-day forecast. (Image by Derrah Getter/WTKR)

Warmer temperatures will return on Tuesday and Wednesday as rain chances increase.

A cold front will move through on Wednesday night, leading to cooler temperatures on Thanksgiving.

Now to the news.

-Christin

Good Housekeeping names Williamsburg among the best travel U.S. destinations for 2026

An interpreter awaits visitors at the William Pitt Store at Colonial Williamsburg. (Photo by C. Spencer van Gulick)

Williamsburg is the recipient of another prestigious honor, this time from one of the nation's most well-known magazines.

The city was selected as a Good Housekeeping 2026 Travel Award winner.

Visit Williamsburg announced the honor on Wednesday, citing the area's history, charm and appeal to families as reasons for the honor.

"This recognition reinforces what families have known for generations – Williamsburg is a place where history, discovery and connection come together," said Edward Harris, President & CEO of Visit Williamsburg.

The accolade comes as the Historic Triangle prepares to take center stage for the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

As one of America's most notable historic destinations, Virginia's former colonial capital will play a leading role in America250 commemoration initiatives.

Major events planned for 2026 include a Great American Birthday Quilt collaborative art project and Sail250 America, a gathering that will bring a fleet of tall ships from across the world to dock in Yorktown.

Another initiative titled Colonial Williamsburg's Path to 2026 will commemorate the 100th year of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, inviting scholars, museums and civic leaders to reflect on America's founding.

Several new attractions and community experiences are also slated to launch next year, according to Visit Williamsburg. From Feb. 19-22, the city will host the Virginia Black Film Festival, recognizing diverse voices in film through screenings, panels and community events.

In April, Colonial Williamsburg will welcome the new Colin G. and Nancy N. Campbell Archaeology Center. The state-of-the-art educational facility will aim to further strengthen the nation's understanding of colonial America.

Other events on the horizon for 2026 include the return of the family-friendly Pancake Festival and the debut of the Williamsburg African American Heritage Trail, which will share untold stories of the local Black community through art and immersive interpretation.

"Williamsburg is where America's story began, and we're honored to lead the nation's celebration of our shared story," Harris said. "From hands-on experiences that bring history to life to initiatives like The Great American Birthday Quilt and Sail250 America, Williamsburg continues to inspire visitors of all ages to explore the rich history and wide range of new attractions that create lasting memories."

Good Housekeeping's editors highlighted not only Williamsburg but also "its neighbors Jamestown and Yorktown," noting that the three localities are "packed with activities that bring the Revolutionary War... to life."

An artillery firing at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. (Photo courtesy of the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation)

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown was among the area's featured destinations, receiving a nod for its outdoor encampment that brings into focus the ways soldiers lived, traveled and survived during the Revolution.

This year's award winners were determined based on the assessments of hundreds of travel experiences spanning five continents.

More than 125 travel testers, comprised of industry experts, editors and consumer evaluators, rated destinations according to their attractions, accessibility, lodging variety and safety, as well as the overall appeal and quality of the travel experience.

The full list of Good Housekeeping 2026 Travel Award winners can be found at goodhousekeeping.com/travel2026. For more information about Williamsburg and its upcoming 2026 programming, visit visitwilliamsburg.com.

Lawsuit: James City County supervisors violated Virginia code by proceeding with $189M government center without referendum

A rendering of the proposed James City County government center. (Photo courtesy of James City County)

A group of James City County residents has filed a lawsuit to block further construction on the new county government center until a referendum can be held.

Christopher Woodfin, an attorney representing the citizens, announced the suit during a Board of Supervisors meeting last week.

Woodfin, a resident of the county himself, said the supervisors violated state law by "taking on a long-term debt that's going to saddle a future board" with the cost burden.

According to Virginia code 15.2-2638(A), "no county has the power to contract any debt or to issue its bonds unless a majority of the voters of the county voting on the question at an election... approve contracting the debt, borrowing the money and issuing the bonds."

The seven plaintiffs named in the suit are Charles and Sandra Colgrove, Kathleen Rothschild, Karen Rollins, Agnes Manzie, Michael Joseph and Linda Wise.

Each of the residents spoke out against the proposed center during previous meetings, Woodfin said.

Some background: A facility space needs assessment was conducted for the county's administration buildings in 2020. Two years later, officials entered into government center negotiations with developer Henderson/Gilbane. Over the last four election cycles, the board has declined to allow taxpayers to weigh in on the proposed project via referendum, Woodfin said.

"If it's a good deal, sell it to the people," Woodfin told the supervisors. "You've had four elections to do it, and you haven't wanted to do it."

The saga surrounding the $189.5 million government center has been building in recent months as residents have urged the board to allow the public to vote on the proposed project.

But Board Chair Jim Icenhour and County Administrator Scott Stevens have pushed back on those requests. They say ballot initiatives in Virginia are only necessary when a municipality plans to use general obligation bonds to fund new construction, which does not apply in this case.

The majority of county residents who spoke during public meetings this year have been skeptical about the large-scale project, which includes a $25 million library annex.

"I haven't heard anything that convinces me this [new center] is essential," plaintiff Karen Rollins said at a Board of Supervisors meeting on June 10. "I, for one, am totally against what appears to me to be unnecessary development."

County officials broke ground on the center on Wednesday, just hours before the suit was announced at the supervisors' meeting.

The 177,000-square-foot facility is in the beginning stages of construction on Longhill Road, next to the current James City County Recreation Center.

What county officials say: There is a general consensus among the supervisors that the existing county government complex, built 50 years ago on Mounts Bay Road, is falling into disrepair and should be replaced.

Stevens has argued that the cost of renovating the existing administrative buildings would be nearly equal to the price tag of building a new, consolidated government center.

Supervisor Ruth Larson said over the summer that a new facility is necessary to accommodate the county's growing population. That sentiment was echoed by Supervisor John McGlennon in an op-ed published last month.

Hipple suggested the backlash around the project is coming mostly from a small, vocal group of residents. He has defended the board's approach to building the facility, saying the supervisors have a solid track record of careful spending.

Supervisor Barbara Null was the sole "no" vote on a special use permit for the project, saying she heard "a lot of pushback" from constituents who are upset about the project.

What's next: Woodfin's request for an emergency injunction was filed on Nov. 12 in the Williamsburg-James City County Circuit Court. A hearing for the case has been set for Nov. 26, according to The Virginia Gazette.

Man dies after being struck by cement truck at Monticello Marketplace

James City County police responded to a pedestrian-involved collision in front of Monticello Marketplace on Wednesday. (Photo courtesy of JCCPD)

A 66-year-old James City County man has died from his injuries following a collision with a cement truck on Wednesday afternoon.

Perry Allen Mendel St. was crossing the street using a walker in front of Monticello Marketplace - where Publix and Target are located - when he was struck by the truck, according to police.

Mendel was found unresponsive at the scene and was transported to Riverside Regional Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries on Thursday.

According to preliminary evidence, the man was unlawfully crossing the roadway when the collision took place. The driver of the cement truck, also a James City County resident, has been exonerated and will not face charges.

The accident happened just one day after another serious collision occurred on Ironbound Road. On Tuesday morning at about 6 a.m., a 62-year-old man riding on an electric bicycle was struck by a sports utility vehicle.

Police say the man entered the intersection of Monticello Avenue and Casey Boulevard against a red light and was hit by a 2008 GMC Envoy. He was left in critical condition and had to be airlifted to VCU Medical Center in Richmond.

The driver was a 72-year-old York County man who had a green light, according to police. No charges have been filed against him.

Both crashes remain under investigation, authorities say.

VDOT seeks public input ahead of York County road safety study

The York County study location. (Photo courtesy of VDOT)

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is asking for public feedback surrounding issues of safety and traffic between Mooretown Road and Lightfoot Road in York County.

Through Nov. 24, the public can weigh in by filling out an online survey. Participants will be asked to rate concepts for an upcoming study so that VDOT can determine the best path forward for their research.

The goal of the study is to improve overall safety, ease congestion and enhance pedestrian, bicycle and transit access in the area. The initiative is part of the Commonwealth Transportation Board's Project Pipeline, which is designed to support cost-effective transportation solutions.

The study should be completed by next summer, according to VDOT.

CRIME REWIND

Tractor supply suspect caught following York County car chase: A man is in custody after he allegedly stole $500 in merchandise from a York County Tractor Supply store and then led police on a 3-mile chase. Investigators say a police dog tracked him down after he fled into the woods behind the store. The suspect, Charles Evans, 38, is charged with shoplifting and drug possession. (WAVY)

Man faces charges following Lowes robbery in York County: A man has been arrested in connection to the theft of more than $2,600 in power tools from the Lowes located on Rochambeau Boulevard. John Levy Dozier, 45, of Williamsburg, faces two counts of felony larceny and two counts of misdemeanor larceny. He is currently being held at the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail. (YPSO)

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

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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!

The Triangle exists thanks to the support of our generous readers.

Support Our Work

📰 Sign up to receive The Triangle's weekly newsletters here.

🖥️ Visit The Triangle's website to read previous newsletters.

📧 To reach out, email christin@thetriangle.news or reply to this email.