Illustration of a family looking at old toys and Christmas decorations in museum glass cases (Monticello Holiday Evening Tours)

Monticello Holiday Evening Tours

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Step back in time with Monticello's Holiday Evening Tours, offering a rare glimpse of Thomas Jefferson's historic home after dark. Adorned with period-appropriate greenery, the tour illuminates how all residents, enslaved and free, celebrated the holidays. Journey through Jefferson's iconic rooms, including the famous Dome Room, for an intimate and unforgettable historical experience.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

monticello.org

Last year

Tickets

$99

Ages

Recommended for adults and children 7 and older

Parking

Parking at Monticello is free. There are spaces for buses, RVs, and trailers. Accessible parking spaces are located near the David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center and Carl and Hunter Smith History Center (handicapped license plate or tag required). Guests are advised to lock their vehicles. Monticello is not responsible for loss or damage incurred in the parking area. Overnight parking is prohibited. Six spaces at the visitor center are reserved for electric car charging.

Accessibility

This tour is not accessible and involves climbing steep stairs. Children must be able to climb and descend stairs unassisted by an adult.

Going?

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
Monticello · 1050 Monticello Loop, Charlottesville, VA 22902 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

History enthusiasts, families with older children

Vibe

Historic, intimate, educational

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Book tickets at least 48 hours in advance, as reservations are required for this popular evening tour.
  • Arrive on time, as late arrivals may receive an abbreviated tour due to the unique evening schedule.
  • Consider the accessibility notes; the tour involves steep stairs and is not suitable for those who cannot navigate them independently.
  • Dress warmly as you will be experiencing Monticello after dark, and check the weather forecast for Charlottesville.
  • While parking is free, be aware of bag size restrictions (11"x15"x6") and that all bags will be inspected.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Rare opportunity to experience Monticello after dark
  • Decorated with the style of holiday greenery found during Thomas Jefferson’s era

Links & Contact

Run by Thomas Jefferson Foundation

Website / Tickets Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the Holiday Evening Tour?

The tours last approximately 1.5 hours.

Are children allowed on the Holiday Evening Tours?

Yes, the tours are recommended for adults and children aged 7 and older, provided they can navigate stairs independently.

Is there parking available?

Yes, parking at Monticello is free and available for various vehicle types, including accessible parking. Electric car charging stations are also available.

Can I bring my pet?

Pets are not allowed on this evening program, with the exception of service animals.

What should I do if I arrive late?

As these tours begin and/or end outside of normal operating hours, guests arriving late may receive an abbreviated tour.

View More FAQs

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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