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 adorn the Christmas trees in R.J.’s Study as well as the Reception Hall. The collection of antique ornaments — gifted by the North Carolina Museum of Art — 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
Dec 1, 2024, 2:00pm — 4:00pm
It’s that time of year again! We’ll ink the leaves of evergreens to create paper prints using a printing press. Families with children in grades K – 6 will also create stamped and collaged c…
Dec 2, 2024, 6:00pm — 7:30pm
Get into the holiday spirit with Reynolda Gardens Horticulturist Michelle Hawks as she guides to wreath-decorating perfection during these festive DIY workshops. These workshops are a holiday season t…
Dec 3, 2024, 6:00pm — 7:30pm
Get into the holiday spirit with Reynolda Gardens Horticulturist Michelle Hawks as she guides to wreath-decorating perfection during these festive DIY workshops. These workshops are a holiday season t…
Dec 4, 2024, 10:00am — 11:30am
Katharine Smith Reynolds loved to decorate for the holidays using greenery from the estate, and now you can, too! Join Reynolda Gardens in the Barn at Reynolda Village to create festive eight-inch wre…
Dec 4, 2024, 6:00pm — 7:30pm
Get into the holiday spirit with Reynolda Gardens Horticulturist Michelle Hawks as she guides to wreath-decorating perfection during these festive DIY workshops. These workshops are a holiday season t…
Dec 6, 2024, 2:30pm — 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 8, 2024, 2:00pm — 3:30pm
Get into the holiday spirit with Reynolda Gardens Horticulturist Michelle Hawks as she guides to wreath-decorating perfection during these festive DIY workshops. These workshops are a holiday season t…
Dec 13, 2024, 2:30pm — 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 17, 2024, 5:30pm — 8:00pm
This after-hours family friendly event is sure to spark the magic of the season! Take a self-guided stroll through the historic house decorated in the style of the first Christmas at Reynolda in 1917 …
Sleigh Your Christmas List
New for the season, this Boathouse ornament is one special blown glass bauble you will be excited to hang year after year.
Nosh on Reynolda’s new Mingle Mix at your next holiday soiree! This sweet and savory snack mix is perfect for gifting, keeping or sharing.
New Reynolda merch is here! Available in khaki, this hat is super simple to style — making it a great addition to any wardrobe.
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.