Christmas at Historic Richmond Town 2026: Candlelight Tours & Tree Lighting

Historic Richmond Town is a living history village on Staten Island with more than 30 historic buildings spanning three centuries. In December, the village hosts some of the most atmospheric holiday events in New York, including a tree lighting, a holiday festival with crafts and costumed interpreters, and its famous Candlelight Tours, where guides lead small groups through historic homes lit only by candles and lanterns.

Quick Facts

The Candlelight Tours

These evening tours are the highlight. Costumed interpreters bring visitors through decorated historic houses and workshops, telling stories of how Staten Islanders celebrated the holidays over the centuries. Groups are small and tickets sell out, so book as soon as they go on sale.

Christmas in Historic Richmond Town

The daytime festival features crafts demonstrations, period music and holiday treats in the village’s restored buildings. It’s a lovely family day out, and the tree lighting the night before is a charming small-town ceremony.

More Staten Island Holidays

Pair your visit with the Winter Lantern Festival at Snug Harbor and see our Christmas on Staten Island guide.

About Historic Richmond Town

Historic Richmond Town is a living history village and museum complex in central Staten Island, with more than 30 historic buildings, including the Voorlezer’s House, believed to be one of the oldest surviving schoolhouses in the country. Interpreters in period dress demonstrate crafts and daily life across three centuries of Staten Island history.

Tips

• Book Candlelight Tour tickets as soon as they go on sale; they sell out.
• Wear sturdy shoes; paths are uneven, especially after dark.
• Dress warmly; you’ll move between buildings outdoors.
• The holiday festival is the best option for young children.

Getting There

From the Staten Island Ferry terminal at St. George, take the S74 bus about 30 minutes to Historic Richmond Town. Driving is easiest, with parking on site.

More on Staten Island

See Christmas on Staten Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are the Historic Richmond Town candlelight tours in 2026?

December 11 and 12, 2026. Tickets are required and sell out quickly.

When is the Historic Richmond Town tree lighting?

Friday, December 4, 2026, starting at 5 p.m. with the tree lit at 6 p.m.