Monticello holiday lights

Know Before You Go: The 2024 Monticello Candlelight Tours

words by CharlottesvilleFamily Editors
An Unforgettable Family Holiday Outing

As the winter holidays draw near, Monticello’s Candlelight Tours bring a unique charm to Charlottesville’s historic landscape. Set against the softly glowing candlelight, this tour of Thomas Jefferson’s home offers families an intimate and magical way to celebrate the season. Filled with rich stories, historical ambiance, and festive touches, it’s a wonderful opportunity for parents to introduce their children (Age 7 and up) to a meaningful slice of Virginia history in a warm, inviting setting. Here’s everything parents need to know to make the most of the 2024 Monticello Candlelight Tours.

What Makes Monticello’s Candlelight Tour a Must-See for Families

The Monticello Candlelight Tour invites families into Jefferson’s world and provides a glimpse into the holiday traditions of the 18th century, providing an experience that’s both nostalgic and educational. As children step inside the softly lit rooms, they’ll see historical artifacts and period decor and hear stories of how Jefferson and his family might have celebrated winter nights in a simpler time. Candlelight flickers along the walls, casting warm shadows and bringing history to life in a way that’s particularly enchanting for young imaginations. 

For parents, it’s a chance to enjoy a quieter side of Monticello, away from the typical daytime crowds, making it easier to connect with the guides and to help kids engage more deeply with what they’re seeing. Smaller group sizes allow for a more personal experience, where guides have time to share not only the well-known details about Jefferson but also fun anecdotes that make the tour relatable for all ages.

Monticello windows decorated with wreaths fro the holidays

2024 Candlelight Tour Dates and Ticketing Tips

The Candlelight Tours are held on select evenings from late November to mid-December, so booking early is essential as these tours fill up quickly. Monticello recommends these tours for children 6 and up, as the tour’s quiet and intimate nature may be better suited to school-age kids. You can check the current schedule and secure your tickets directly through Monticello’s website. For local families, booking during weekday evenings might be a good way to avoid peak times and get a slightly quieter tour.

Insider Tip: If you’re a Charlottesville local, consider becoming a Monticello member! Membership not only supports the preservation of this historic site but also offers discounts and early access to events like the Candlelight Tours, making it a worthwhile investment for history-loving families.

 Family-Friendly Tips for a Smooth, Enjoyable Visit

1. Arrive Early to Explore the Visitor Center

Arriving 15-20 minutes early provides a perfect buffer for families to ease into the experience. The Visitor Center itself offers several engaging exhibits that introduce Jefferson’s life and the history of Monticello. There’s also a short film playing in the center’s theater, which can help set the stage for young visitors and build a sense of excitement about what they’re about to see. Browsing the interactive displays can be a wonderful way to encourage questions and get children interested in the stories they’ll hear on the tour.

2. Dress for Comfort in Winter Weather

Since the tour includes both indoor and outdoor elements, dressing in warm layers is a must. Cozy coats, hats, gloves, and comfortable shoes will keep everyone warm and focused on the experience rather than on the chill in the air. Outdoor pathways are lit, but a small flashlight can be helpful for little ones who feel more comfortable with a bit of extra light. You’ll be able to focus on enjoying the experience without any cold-weather discomfort.

3. Encourage Kids with Stories of Jefferson’s Life

For children, learning a few stories about Thomas Jefferson ahead of time can make the tour more interactive. Share some fun facts, like Jefferson’s love for gadgets and inventions—kids might be surprised to learn he designed a rotating book stand or that he had an unusual clock that relied on gravity. Knowing these bits of trivia can spark curiosity, helping them stay engaged as they explore each room and hear about the household’s holiday customs.

monticello holiday mantle

Exploring the Decor: How to Spot Holiday Touches of Jefferson’s Era

Monticello’s Candlelight Tours include subtle, traditional holiday decorations in line with Jefferson’s time. In the Parlor Room, for instance, greenery and simple natural elements adorn the room, showcasing the kind of holiday spirit that families in the 18th century might have enjoyed. Point out these decorations to children as you go through, explaining how different these celebrations were from the ones they know today. This can be an enlightening moment for children, especially if they’re used to modern holiday decor.

Insider Tip: Pay close attention to the guides’ explanations of Monticello’s seasonal customs, as they often highlight specific items or traditions in each room that you might miss otherwise. Guides may also share how Jefferson and his family spent their evenings during winter, adding depth to each room’s setting.

Monticello museum shop

 Post-Tour Treats: Visiting the Monticello Museum Shop

To round off your evening, the Monticello Museum Shop is a fun stop for children and parents alike. The shop has Jefferson-themed souvenirs, historical toys, puzzles, and books for kids, making it a great place to pick up a meaningful keepsake. Children might enjoy historical toys like wooden spinning tops or puzzles that harken back to Jefferson’s time, while parents can browse books or Jefferson memorabilia. The shop is also stocked with unique holiday gifts, so it’s a wonderful spot to grab something special to remember the night.

Insider Tip: If you have young history buffs, let them choose a memento from the children’s section; many of the books and colonial-era toys are designed to introduce kids to history in fun and accessible ways, perfect for budding enthusiasts.

 Frequently Asked Questions for Parents

Can we bring strollers?  

Due to the historical layout of Monticello, strollers aren’t permitted inside the house. If you’re bringing young children, consider a wearable carrier instead. This can help with mobility through the tight hallways and add to a smoother experience for parents. The tiny stairs up tp the dome room do not allow for holding a child’s hand – it is that snug. 

What about photos?  

Photography is generally allowed in certain areas, though flash and video are restricted. Encourage children to take mental “snapshots” of their favorite parts, a fun way to help them focus on special details in each room.

Is there a place for a snack or drink afterward?  

While food and drinks aren’t allowed inside the mansion, the Visitor Center Café offers a cozy spot to warm up with a hot chocolate or a quick snack before heading home. Stopping here can be a great way to unwind and talk over favorite moments from the tour. Confirm cafe hours when booking.

 Make Monticello’s Candlelight Tour a New Family Tradition

Monticello’s Candlelight Tours provide a magical way to celebrate the season, where children can experience history firsthand in a beautiful, festive setting. With a bit of planning, parents can create an evening that’s both educational and enchanting, offering children a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential figures. This winter, let the Monticello Candlelight Tour become a memorable family tradition, where history and holiday warmth blend seamlessly in one of Charlottesville’s most beloved historic sites. 

Ready to Experience the Magic?  

Visit Monticello’s website to check availability and secure your tickets for an unforgettable family outing at the 2024 Candlelight Tour! They host many other terrific holiday events including a very popular wreath making workshop. 

OUR CHARLOTTESVILLEFAMILY EDITORS are locals who care deeply about family and community. We are almost all parents who serve alongside our readers in the PTO and band boosters, coaching sports teams, helping with the school fun fair and more. Our insider perspective, combined with great research and expert input from our wonderful CharlottesvilleFamily Advisory Panel helps us to provide you with trustworthy advice as you raise the next generation of brilliant and compassionate kids.

 

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