Holidays at Reynolda
For more than a century, the holidays have been a special time at Reynolda. Katharine and R.J. Reynolds, along with their four children, moved in just before Christmas in 1917. Decorated as Katharine wished, the 34,000-square-foot bungalow was transformed with lit trees, fresh wreaths, and holly-filled vases.
Today, Reynolda continues to honor the tradition and warmth of the season with programs and events for the whole family. The tranquil 170-acre setting that comprises Reynolda House Museum of American Art, Reynolda Gardens and Reynolda Village will offer a variety of experiences to enjoy, including Christmas-themed historic house tours, caroling, festive art-making activities, and antique decor.
Authentic early 20th-century glass ornaments—a recent gift from the North Carolina Museum of Art—will adorn the Christmas trees in the historic house beginning Nov. 16. The collection of antique ornaments encompasses nearly 400 figural glass ornaments including Santas, fruits, candies, animals, miniature lamps and tobacco pipes.
To make the most of the holiday season in the Reynolda Historic District and Winston-Salem, plan an overnight trip and enjoy boutique shopping at the Museum store and in Reynolda Village. No ticket is needed to shop in the Museum store during regular operating hours.
Festive Events
See full calendar
Nov 18, 2023, 3:00pm
Kick off your holiday season with a stroll through historic Reynolda Village. Enjoy carolers, free carriage rides, and beautiful decorations throughout the Village. Visit your favorite shops to get fi…
Ongoing, 3:30pm
Gather in the Reception Hall of the Historic House to share the Christmas cheer through song and community. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required — nor is singing experience! …
Dec 9, 2023, 5:00pm
Join us this holiday season for a special Christmas tour at Reynolda House. Docents, costumed interpreters, and festive decorations bring to life the stories and traditions that make Reynolda at Chris…
Dec 14, 2023, 2:00pm
Gather in the Reception Hall of the Historic House to listen to familiar Christmas songs played on the 1917 Aeolian Organ. Free with general museum admission. Pre-registration is encouraged, though no…
Sleigh Your Christmas List
New for the season, this Bungalow ornament is one special blown glass bauble you will be excited to hang year after year.
This reproduction Christmas card, originally sent by Katharine Smith Reynolds in 1919, is perfect for sending holiday cheer to loved ones.
Hang an original, 1917 Reynolda roof tile, removed during the once-in-a-century preservation project, on your tree this year.
Stories & Activities
During the holiday season, Mary Reynolds Babcock hosted extravagant and (often) boisterous parties.
Manager of School and Family Learning Julia Hood shares how to wrap presents like people used to in the early 1900s.
Lead Horticulturist Michelle Hawks shares tried-and-true tips for decorating your holiday wreaths.