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
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Nov 21, 2026, 1:00pm — 3:00pm
Experience the sights, scents, and textures of the holidays with a special hands-on experience for families during Reynolda’s Holiday Village Stroll. Inside the Brown Family Conservatory, children a…
Nov 30, 2026, 6:00pm — 8:00pm
Reynolda Gardens Manager Michelle Hawks leads a creative and hands-on experience using seasonal greenery and natural materials gathered from Reynolda’s gardens and grounds as we create beautiful wre…
Dec 1, 2026, 6:00pm — 8:00pm
Reynolda Gardens Manager Michelle Hawks leads a creative and hands-on experience using seasonal greenery and natural materials gathered from Reynolda’s gardens and grounds as we create beautiful wre…
Dec 2, 2026, 10:00am — 12:00pm
Katharine Smith Reynolds loved decorating for the holidays with fresh greenery gathered from the estate—and now you can, too! Join us in the Brown Family Conservatory for a cozy celebration complete…
Dec 2, 2026, 6:00pm — 8:00pm
Reynolda Gardens Manager Michelle Hawks leads a creative and hands-on experience using seasonal greenery and natural materials gathered from Reynolda’s gardens and grounds as we create beautiful wre…
Dec 3, 2026, 6:00pm — 8:00pm
Reynolda Gardens Manager Michelle Hawks leads a creative and hands-on experience using seasonal greenery and natural materials gathered from Reynolda’s gardens and grounds as we create beautiful wre…
Dec 4, 2026, 2:30pm — 3:00pm
Sing along with us in the Reception Hall of the Historic House during our annual Caroling Fridays, accompanied by the melodious sound of the historic 1917 Aeolian organ. Enjoy holiday classics and exp…
Dec 4, 2026, 6:00pm — 8:00pm
Reynolda Gardens Manager Michelle Hawks leads a creative and hands-on experience using seasonal greenery and natural materials gathered from Reynolda’s gardens and grounds as we create beautiful wre…
Dec 5, 2026, 1:00pm — 3:00pm
Reynolda Gardens Manager Michelle Hawks leads a creative and hands-on experience using seasonal greenery and natural materials gathered from Reynolda’s gardens and grounds as we create beautiful wre…
Dec 6, 2026, 2:00pm — 4:00pm
Start the presses! In this workshop, participants can ink the leaves of evergreens to create wintry designs using a printing press. Participants will also create a variety of stamped and collaged card…
Dec 11, 2026, 10:00am — 11:00am
Join us on the woodland trail for a StoryWalk® featuring Jan Brett’s beloved tale, The Mitten. As you stroll along the path, the story will unfold page by page, inviting emerging readers to immerse…
Dec 11, 2026, 2:30pm — 3:00pm
Sing along with us in the Reception Hall of the Historic House during our annual Caroling Fridays, accompanied by the melodious sound of the historic 1917 Aeolian organ. Enjoy holiday classics and exp…
Dec 12, 2026, 5:30pm — 8:00pm
The Reynolds family moved into Reynolda House just in time for Christmas in 1917. Glass ornaments and electric lights adorned the trees in the grand Reception Hall, while greenery added festive charm …
Dec 15, 2026, 5:30pm — 8:00pm
The Reynolds family moved into Reynolda House just in time for Christmas in 1917. Glass ornaments and electric lights adorned the trees in the grand Reception Hall, while greenery added festive charm …
Dec 18, 2026, 2:30pm — 3:00pm
Sing along with us in the Reception Hall of the Historic House during our annual Caroling Fridays, accompanied by the melodious sound of the historic 1917 Aeolian organ. Enjoy holiday classics and exp…
Holiday Shopping at Reynolda
New for the season, this Playhouse ornament is one special blown glass bauble you will be excited to hang year after year.
Nosh on Reynolda’s Mingle Mix at your next holiday soiree! This sweet and savory snack mix is perfect for gifting, keeping or sharing.
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.