Enjoy Christmas traditions in Washington-Wilkes

Living History at Callaway Plantation
It’s the best season of all to visit beautiful Callaway Plantation just outside historic Washington GA. Experience days gone by at this restored 17^th century plantation and its magnificent 18^th century Greek Revival mansion all decked out in Christmas finery. You’ll step back in time in Wilkes County Georgia history as the household prepares for the holidays¾the cooking, cleaning and decorating and even a little dancing! The home is open for holiday tours November 30, 2024.

Callaway Plantation was originally established in 1785 as a 50-acre farm. Its plantation home, completed in the 1860’s, is designated as a national historic landmark in Georgia.


Winter Wonderland Shopping and Entertainment
Be sure to visit historic downtown Washington GA and its selections for spirited dining and an assortment of charming shops and boutiques. Take time for some Christmas shopping and browse shops like Boxwood Cottage Mercantile, The Genny, Lola and Rose and many other antiques and specialty shops to find the perfect gift for your special someone.

The holiday season in Washington is sure to fill you with the holiday spirit. The annual Christmas Tour of Homes and Museums presented by Washington’s Iris Garden Club on December 7 ushers in the festive season. At Robert Toombs House and Museum historic site, don’t miss an Evening of Christmas Ghost Stories to be read in front of the Christmas tree, December 20 and 21. Get your tickets early.

The Washington Little Theater and their production of A Christmas Carol brings Ebenezer Scrooge’s visit from the ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Yet to Come to life. December 6,7,8 and 13,14,15. Tickets are available at WashingtonLittleTheater.org.

As beautiful as Christmas lights and decorations, original Tiffany and other stained-glass windows still adorn the Mary Willis Library, the first public library in Georgia where some of the original furnishings are still in use. Built in 1889 it has an invaluable source for Wilkes County Georgia genealogy with a collection of rare books on Wilkes County and Georgia history.

You’ll want to stay a few days to take in the charm of Washington. To round out your plantation experience, Chantilly Plantation, not far from Washington’s square, is a lovely B&B surrounded by beautiful grounds. Or you could book yourself into the Fitzpatrick Hotel for another step back in time.

Washington GA, with its history, heritage and over 100 antebellum and historic homes, is an utterly charming way to start your holiday season.

Just a short drive from Atlanta, Athens and Augusta, Washington GA has many places to explore history and to enjoy the beauty of this historic small town.  You’ll want to visit over and over.