white christmas tour 2022

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Two talented song and dance men (Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye) team up after the war to become one of the hottest acts in show business. One winter they join forces with a sister act (Rosemary Clooney and VeraEllen) and trek to Vermont for a white Christmas. The result is stuff dreams are made of.

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Jay McGuiness and Lorna Luft lead cast of White Christmas 2022 Tour

Jay McGuiness, Lorna Luft, Michael Starke, Dan Burton, Jessica Daley and Monique Young to star in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas 2022 Tour.

Casting has been unveiled for Made at Curve’s production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas touring the UK this winter. The production will star Jay McGuiness (Big the musical, Sleepless – a musical romance) as Bob Wallace, Lorna Luft (Promises, Promises on Broadway, Snoopy!) as Martha Watson, Michael Starke (Waitress UK Tour, Channel 4’s Brookside) as General Waverly and Dan Burton (White Christmas, Gypsy West End), Jessica Daley (An Officer and a Gentleman UK Tour, Mamma Mia! West End) and Monique Young (Mary Poppins, 42nd Street) returning in their roles as Phil Davis, Betty Haynes and Judy Haynes respectively.

A romantic comedy to warm hearts of all ages, White Christmas features the beloved songs “Blue Skies”, “Sisters”, “I Love A Piano”, “Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep)” and the most famous festive song of all… “White Christmas”.

White Christmas the musical has Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin and a Book by David Ives and Paul Blake. It is based on the original production by Curve Artistic Director Nikolai Foster (Annie, Breakfast at Tiffany’s). It is directed by Ian Talbot OBE (High Society, Anything Goes) and choreographed by two-time Olivier Award-winning choreographer Stephen Mear CBE (Mary Poppins, Gypsy). Set Design is by Michael Taylor and Costume Design is by Diego Pitarch. Musical Supervision is by Stephen Brooker, Lighting Design by Mark Henderson and Sound Design by Tom Marshall. Orchestrations are by Larry Blank with New Musical arrangements by Jason Carr.

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White Christmas Tour 2022 – Irving Berlin’s classic musical live

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Douglas Mayo has had a life long love affair with musical theatre. He has authored several books on publicity and marketing for amateur theatre groups. He is in the process of developing a musical based on his original story concept.

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Cast announced for White Christmas musical tour this winter

Casting has been announced for the upcoming festive tour of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.

The Made at Curve production will open at Truro Hall for Cornwall (12 – 19 November) before visiting the Nottingham Theatre Royal (22 – 26 November), Sunderland Empire (28 November – 3 December) and Liverpool Empire (6 – 31 December).

White Christmas 2022 tour cast

The production will star Jay McGuiness as Bob Wallace, Lorna Luft as Martha Watson, Michael Starke as General Waverly, Dan Burton as Phil Davis, Jessica Daley as Betty Haynes and Monique Young as Judy Haynes.

The cast is completed by Simon Anthony, Tom Bales, Lydia Bannister, George Beet, Imogen Bowtell, Isabel Canning, Gabrielle Cocca, Joseph Craig, Beth Devine, Steve Fortune, Ashton Harkness, Connor Hughes, Owen McHugh, Benjamin Mundy, James Revell, Sadie-Jean Shirley, Matthew Sweet, Lucy Warway, David Winters and Alex Wright.

White Christmas Musical tour tickets, dates & venues »

A romantic comedy to warm hearts of all ages, White Christmas features the beloved songs Blue Skies, Sisters, I Love A Piano, Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep) and the most famous festive song of all… White Christmas.

The musical has songs by Irving Berlin and a book by David Ives and Paul Blake.

The tour is based on the original production by Curve Artistic Director Nikolai Foster. It is directed by Ian Talbot OBE and choreographed by two-time Olivier Award-winning choreographer Stephen Mear CBE. Set Design is by Michael Taylor and Costume Design is by Diego Pitarch. Musical Supervision is by Stephen Brooker, Lighting Design by Mark Henderson and Sound Design by Tom Marshall. Orchestrations are by Larry Blank with New Musical arrangements by Jason Carr.

More on: Jay McGuiness Jessica Daley Monique Young Sadie-Jean Shirley Simon Anthony White Christmas News

Josh is Stageberry's editor with over five years of experience writing about theatre in the West End and across the UK. Prior to following his passion for musicals, he worked for more than a decade as a TV journalist.

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White Christmas previous Touring Company 2021 credit Grahame Larter

White Christmas to Return for New Tour in Winter 2022

Jamie Wilson, Mark Goucher, Gavin Kalin and Kevin McCollum have announced the return of Made at Curve’s production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas for 2022.

The much-loved stage adaptation of the timeless classic will embark on a brand-new UK tour for the festive season, opening on Tuesday 22 November 2022 at Nottingham Theatre Royal, before visiting the Sunderland Empire and Liverpool Empire. Full casting will be announced in due course.

A romantic comedy to warm hearts of all ages, White Christmas features the beloved songs “Blue Skies”, “Sisters”, “I Love A Piano”, “Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep)” and the most famous festive song of all… “White Christmas”.

Join veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis as – fuelled by love – the all-singing, all-dancing duo follow the stunning Haynes Sisters, Betty & Judy to a Vermont lodge for a special Christmas show. Their journey takes a misstep, and their rhythm is thrown off when they discover the lodge happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s old Army General, who is in desperate need of their help.

White Christmas has Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin and a Book by David Ives and Paul Blake. It is based on the original production by Curve Artistic Director Nikolai Foster (Annie, Breakfast at Tiffany’s). It is directed by Ian Talbot OBE (High Society, Anything Goes) and choreographed by two-time Olivier Award-winning choreographer Stephen Mear CBE (Mary Poppins, Gypsy). Set Design is by Michael Taylor and Costume Design is by Diego Pitarch. Musical Supervision is by Stephen Brooker, Lighting Design by Mark Henderson and Sound Design by Tom Marshall. Orchestrations are by Larry Blank with New Musical arrangements by Jason Carr.

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First Look: White Christmas UK Tour in Rehearsal

Presented by special arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of R&H Theatricals.

White Christmas is produced by Jamie Wilson, Mark Goucher, Gavin Kalin and Kevin McCollum with Hunter Arnold, Jason Haigh-Ellery, Laurence Myers, InTheatre, Curve and Carlos Candal.

White Christmas Tour Listings:

Tuesday 22 November – Saturday 26 November 2022

NOTTINGHAM THEATRE ROYAL

ON SALE 17 DECEMBER 2021

Monday 28 November – Saturday 3 December 2022

SUNDERLAND EMPIRE

ON SALE 16 DECEMBER 2021

Tuesday 6 December – Saturday 31 December 2022

LIVERPOOL EMPIRE

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Jay McGuiness to Lead White Christmas Tour Cast

Jay McGuiness and Lorna Luft to star in White Christmas Tour

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White Christmas tour – full cast announced

As previously announced The Wanted’s Jay McGuiness ( Big The Musical , Sleepless-A Musical Romance ) will take on the role of showman Bob Wallace alongside veteran stage and screen star Lorna Luft ( Promises, Promises , Snoopy! ) who will reprise her performance as Martha Wilson after first playing the eavesdropping housekeeper in the UK premiere production in 2006.

The production will also feature Michael Starke ( Waitress , Hairspray ) as General Waverly along with three returning stars – Dan Burton, Jessica Daley and Monique Young. Olivier nominee Burton ( Gypsy , The Savoy Theatre, Guys and Dolls , Royal Albert Hall) will reprise his scene-stealing performance as Phil Davis – the role he previously played in the original 2018 Leicester Curve production, during a sold-out festive season at London’s Dominion in 2019 and on last year’s tour.

Daley ( An Officer and a Gentleman , UK and Ireland tour, Mamma Mia! West End) will return as Betty Haynes, the role she previously played on last year’s tour, while one of the stars of the original Curve production, Young ( Gypsy: A Musical Fable , Buxton Opera House, Mary Poppins , West End) will reprise her performance as Judy Haynes.

The cast is completed by Simon Anthony, Tom Bales, Lydia Bannister, George Beet, Imogen Bowtell, Isabel Canning, Gabrielle Cocca, Joseph Craig, Beth Devine, Steve Fortune, Ashton Harkness, Connor Hughes, Owen McHugh, Benjamin Mundy, James Revell, Sadie-Jean Shirley, Matthew Sweet, Lucy Warway, David Winters and Alex Wright.

Produced by Jamie Wilson, Mark Goucher, Gavin Kalin and Kevin McCollum, the 2022 festive tour will open at Truro Hall For Cornwall from 12-19 November. The seasonal show will then visit Nottingham Theatre Royal from 22-26 November, Sunderland Empire from 28 November until 3 December before playing a Christmas season at the Liverpool Empire from 6-31 December.

Reuniting Curve’s award-winning artistic director Nikolai Foster with double Olivier Award-winning choreographer Stephen Mear, the hit production debuted at Curve in December 2018. Set design is by Michael Taylor with costume design by Diego Pitarch, musical supervision by Stephen Brooker, lighting design by Mark Henderson and sound design by Tom Marshall. Orchestrations are by Larry Blank with new musical arrangements by Jason Carr.

Based on the much-loved 1954 Paramount Pictures film, White Christmas boasts music and lyrics by Irving Berlin and a book by David Ives and Paul Blake. Written for the screen by Norman Krasna, Norman Panama and Melvin Frank, the stage version debuted in 2000 in St Louis. Curve’s production is based on the original 2008 Broadway stage production directed by Walter Bobbie.

Angela Thomas

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Dan Burton , Jay McGuiness , Jessica Daley , Lorna Luft , Made At Curve , Michael Starke , Monique Young , Nikolai Foster , Stephen Mear , White Christmas

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Christmas at the White House

This post covers all of the ways you can celebrate Christmas around the White House in Washington, DC and has been updated for 2022.

For more ideas on what to do during the holiday season in our nation’s capital, be sure to check out our Christmas in DC--Holiday Lights and Markets post.

• Plan Your Visit
• What You'll See
• National Christmas Tree

WHITE HOUSE CHRISTMAS TOURS

The White House is very active during the holiday season and is beautifully decorated to celebrate Christmas.

White House Christmas Tours are available throughout the month of December (though any tour can be canceled at any time without notice) when visitors are given the opportunity to see how the public rooms have been festively decorated.

The White House has very limited public tours in December- you can still however see the White House decorations and National Christmas tree on your own or on our Downtown Holiday Lights tour . (We offer a walking tour AND a bus tour!)

Tip:  In addition to planning a White House Christmas Tour, check out our  free, self-guided tour  of the White House area and Lafayette Park!

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Free, public tours are available for US and foreign citizens for  White House Christmas Tours .

Self-guided tours are available from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays (excluding federal holidays or unless otherwise noted) and revolve around the White House schedule.

These tours are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis and can be obtained through contacting your US Member of Congress up to three months in advance and no less than 21 days in advance of requested tour date. Foreign visitors are encouraged to contact their Embassy in order to secure a White House tour.

For all of the other information you need on visiting the White House for a Christmas tour including a virtual White House tour and information on the White House Visitor Center (where you can purchase the official White House 2018 Christmas ornament!) make sure to check out our master post on  Visiting the White House. 

INSIDER TIP: If you cannot get a reservation in advance, you may try to get a Congressional  Member's Pass  distributed monthly by the White House Visitors Office.  

WHAT DO YOU SEE ON THE WHITE HOUSE CHRISTMAS TOUR

For a sneak peek, you can look at the 2017 Program for the White House Christmas Tours.

• East Wing and Movie Theatre - here you'll get a glimpse of the family recreation option in the Movie Theatre, only opened for the first time on this public tour for 2017. In the East Wing, you'll also see the collection of official Christmas Cards sent by past First Families, a tradition started in 1953 under President Eisenhower.
• Library - a personal favorite of ours, keep an eye out for President Teddy Roosevelt's personal copy of Dickens' A Christmas Story which he read here to his family during the holidays.
• Vermeil Room and China Room - a festive display of gifts from around the world and centuries and the china dinnerwear that served those who brought them.
• East Room - this is the largest of the rooms, and the one historically used for entertaining - which began during the Christmas season under President John Adams.
• Green, Blue, and Red Rooms - From local artisans to the official White House Christmas Tree, and a collection of sweet treats, these are some of the most popular stops on the tour!
• State Dining Room - Do you like gingerbread houses? This is where you'll find the traditional White House gingerbread house but don't try to taste it, even though it is made by the White House pastry chefs it is not for eating!
• Grand Foyer - For your final stop, this sparking room marks your exit from the White House with a musical backdrop of patriotic and holiday music.

AND DON'T FORGET .... you can take photos on White House tours! Celebrate the holiday season with this festive and unique thing to do in Washington DC !

HOW TO SEE THE NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE

Getting to the National Christmas Tree

Located on the Ellipse section of the President’s Park on the south side of the White House, the National Christmas is easily accessible by Metro Rail. The nearest stations to the tree are McPherson Square or Federal Triangle (both Blue/Orange/Silver lines).  

You can use this Google map for directions to the tree .

Tip: The National Christmas Tree is on the way to our tour starting point! Our National Mall Tour starts a block away from the Ellipse, so this is a perfect thing to do before or after joining us on a tour.

Visiting the National Christmas Tree is always free and welcoming to people of all ages!

The tree will be lit daily from dusk to 11pm (though the walkway is closed at 10pm Sun-Thur) yet the tree is always open to visitors if you are unable to make it in the evening when it is lit up.

ADDITIONAL ATTRACTIONS + HISTORY

Surrounding the National Tree are 56 additional smaller pine trees; one for each US state, territory, and the District of Columbia. This year, there are 56 schools from across the country who are participating in decorating one-of-a-kind ornaments to adorn each tree.

For more information on the ornaments and a list of participating schools, click here .

The National Christmas Tree and its lighting have been a holiday tradition since 1923 when President Calvin Coolidge was in office. Be sure to read more about the tree’s colorful history here .

Tip: While visiting the National Christmas Tree don’t miss the adjacent National Menorah! More information is available here .

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Request tickets now: How to visit the White House at Christmastime

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

We have a long (and always growing) list of trips we want to take, from which we create and build our travel dreams. One dream that had been shining at the top of the list for quite some time was a Christmas visit to the White House. We love the holidays, and -- politics and partisanship aside -- admire the elegance and importance of the White House. We knew visiting while it is decked in its holiday finest would be a memorable treat.

But, as we have discovered in the past, wanting to visit the White House and getting to visit the White House are two very different things. Before we get to the holiday magic we saw inside The People's House, let's look at what it takes to get in the door.

How to visit the White House

To arrange a White House visit , you need to contact the office of your congressional representative. Requests can be submitted up to three months in advance of your anticipated travel dates, which means you may be booking your trip to DC before you know if you will get approved for a White House visit. However, the sooner you apply the better, because the tours only allow a limited number of people each day. If you want to take a tour at Christmastime, send in your request in September.

Your chances of securing a tour spot will be better if you can designate multiple days on your trip when you would be available for a tour. Once the request is submitted by the office of your representative, White House Tours will contact you for security information. Unfortunately for advance planners, the outcome of your request won't be known until 10 to 14 days before your date(s). If the White House visit is only a part of a planned DC visit, then it may not be a big deal. But if a White House tour is the sole or primary reason for your trip, that late notice could create some last-minute adjustments to your plans. Tours are typically scheduled for Tuesday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tours are free, but subject to change due to White House scheduling and events that cannot be foreseen.

Planning our holiday White House visit

The official White House Christmas tree is usually delivered the day after Thanksgiving, when decorating the property for Christmas is in full swing. The seasonal décor is ready for public viewing a few days after Thanksgiving. Our request for a Christmastime tour was submitted on Sept. 10 for a Dec. 11, 12 or 13 visit. We found out via email on Friday, Nov. 30 that we were approved and accepted for our visit.

With that approval in hand, we found a cheap Spirit Airlines flight into Baltimore for $64. Normally, we would have used 5,000 Spirit miles to cover the fare, but because we were so close to our travel date, reward booking fees were more than the actual cost of the flight, so that strategy didn't work. Thankfully, there are plenty of affordable hotels in Baltimore using points or cash. Since we arrived pretty late in the evening, we just booked a decent cash rate at the Aloft BWI Baltimore Airport and rested for the night. The same hotel (a Category 3 Marriott property) can be booked for 17,500 Marriott points.

Once we headed to Washington, DC, we stayed at to the Hyatt Place White House, which we have visited in the past. It is within easy walking distance to the White House, includes free breakfast and only costs 15,000 World of Hyatt points per night. The nearby Grand Hyatt Washington is also a good choice at 15,000 World of Hyatt points per night, especially if you have access to its club lounge (which our daughter, Mommy Points, has scored for us on some trips). Either could be booked with a Hyatt Category 1–4 award from the World of Hyatt Credit Card, though we just used points earned from that card on this trip.

To avoid spending extra time, money and an additional night in the DC area, we ponied up $200+ each for a United nonstop evening flight home from Washington National directly to our home airport in Houston. It wasn't a great deal financially, but maximized our time and energy during the busy holiday season.

Visiting the White House at Christmas

As the precious few days passed from our approval to our departure, we held our breath that our tour would not be affected by a Christmas cancellation. Even as we approached the tour entrance, we kept one eye out for unusual Secret Service movement and the other eye scanning our phone looking for breaking news that might bear bad tidings. Fortunately, we were greeted by an open gate and a welcoming gesture and into the line we went.

The Secret Service officer checked our IDs and cross-checked the master list to verify if we were indeed on "the nice list." Three additional screenings later and we were ready to enter the White House.

The tour enters from the East Wing, where we passed through a hallway that led to the first of many grand Christmas trees. The initial tree was dedicated to the Gold Star families of our armed forces and was decorated in red and blue ribbons and rich gold ornaments.

As we turned the corner, we came up the East Colonnade, which was lined on both sides with bright red berry trees of varying heights naturally lit by the multiple large windows that look out into the Kennedy Garden. The trees had received some unfavorable reviews when first introduced, and we were curious as to what our impression would be in person. When standing in front of the trees, we found them to be colorful, festive and appropriate for the season. A muted green carpet provided a seasonal balance to the somewhat narrow walkway. Judging by the number of photos being taken of the trees, they seem to be a hit with the crowd. Fortunately, cameras (with some limitations) are permitted on the White House tour.

The next interesting encounter was the display of official White House Christmas cards from presidents over the past 91 years. Sixteen administrations were covered; their choices reflected not only each president's personal style and attitude, but also graphically illustrated the number of Christmases each experienced as the leader of our country. Eisenhower, Reagan, Bush 43, Clinton and Obama all had eight cards. Johnson and Nixon had five, Carter and Bush 41 had four, Ford had three, Kennedy only two and Trump also had two. We found this exhibit to be a poignant and educational history lesson with a direct seasonal correlation.

After this point we physically entered the White House proper and enjoyed rooms with familiar names: the China Room, the Vermeil Room and the Library. Of these three, the Library was my personal favorite. The room emitted a warm and comfortable glow, and one could easily imagine a classic Christmas carol playing quietly in the background.

Next, we ascended to the state floor via a significant wooden stairway to the East Room, the largest and most utilized room in the Executive Mansion. It has been the site of press conferences, Medal of Honor presentation ceremonies, entertainment, weddings, funerals and even a senior prom. Large chandeliers, grandiose garlanded mirrors and gold-hued drapes elegantly highlighted the room while two 14-foot fir trees flanked a traditional Nativity scene that was in its 51st year of display. The East Room traditionally is quite spacious and open with few furnishings.

After exiting the East Room, the famous Red, Green and Blue rooms were only steps away. The Green Room now serves as a parlor for small receptions. Its decorative theme for the holidays illustrated and highlighted the great work ethic of American farmers and the fruits of their labor. Harvested produce, grains and nuts were found in the garland on the mantle, the boughs of the tree and as accents on the tables.

The oval-shaped Blue Room is an elegant, handsome and inviting space that most would love to have in their own homes. It occupies the center of the White House, and its windows look out onto the South Lawn and toward the Washington and Jefferson monuments. The Blue Room is often used by the president to receive guests, but during Christmastime, this room proudly plays host to the official White House Christmas tree. When viewing the White House from outside, the 18-foot North Carolina-grown Fraser fir is easily seen through the South Portico.

The Blue Room just feels like what I think of when I envision the best of America, and the tree there was decorated to enhance this ambience. A long continuous blue velvet ribbon curled itself throughout the tree with the names of all the states and territories proudly embroidered with a rich gold thread. Red and gold ornaments filled the green branches that reached toward and touched the ornate ceiling medallion.

(As an aside, the Blue Room, due to its shape and position in The White House, might lead an outsider to assume this is where the Oval Office must be located. In reality, the Oval Office is not in the White House proper, but down in the West Wing in an area not visible to the public.)

The Red Room's bold color grabs your total attention as you enter its doorway. The centerpiece tree was adorned with ornaments depicting popular activities of American youth ranging from sports to drama to music. The contrast of the white Italian marble fireplace and mantle with the red, green and white garland spray was simply stunning and, in keeping with the spirit of the tree, fun.

A meal is sadly not included in the White House tour, but, if it was, the State Dining Room would be the logical place for it to be served. It can accommodate over 100 guests, but my blue jeans likely would have needed a serious upgrade. Eagles support the furniture and topped the trees in homage to one of our national symbols. A large edible gingerbread creation sat under one of the classic White House mirrors and depicted famous monuments and structures on the National Mall. The piece was made with almost 400 pounds of ingredients by the pastry team.

And, if the White House had not already impressed you enough with its Christmas trappings, when we passed the Kennedy portrait into the Entrance and Cross halls, we came upon an indoor forest of Christmas treasure.

Thousands of red ornaments lined the hallway and graced the trees' deep green branches. The scene was so rich with Christmas spirit that we fully expected Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney to come out from behind the trees singing "White Christmas" at any second. The projected light on the ceiling added sparkle and pizzazz to a room that was already a full holiday palette. The presidential seal rising above the multilayered décor was a popular photo op for all.

This space was about 2,500 square feet of elegance and color. It was hard to absorb it all in the time allotted, but easy to love. We were the last two to leave for the day, and we lingered and looked as much as we could. We could have easily spent longer reflecting on all we had seen, but the business of the White House had to go on.

It was such a privilege and thrill to tour "The People's House" at Christmas. Even though we are very common people, we felt special because we had this opportunity. It was a great Christmas gift, indeed.

Other holiday sights in Washington, DC

The White House tour was the reason for the trip, but since we were there, we also took full advantage of some other DC Christmas traditions and offerings that we would recommend to others, including visiting the trees at the US Capitol, the Supreme Court and Union Station.

The United States Botanic Garden had a beautiful display of scale model monuments made entirely of plant material. The same artistic skill and methods were used to build the famous American train depots that were central to the garden's themed "All Aboard" model train exhibit.

We spent part of one evening at the National Christmas Tree located on The Ellipse between the White House and Washington Monument. The tree is surrounded by 56 smaller trees that border a winding walkway and represent each state and territory. Trains are also an integral part of the National Tree display, with multiple sets surrounding the tree's base. Live entertainment is frequently offered, and at dusk, the atmosphere is magical as the red and green lights of the tree glow in the foreground with either the lights of the White House or the evening sky in the background.

Overall, we were blessed with good weather, grand sights and memorable moments. We departed for the trip full of Christmas spirit and came back with even more.

And as an epilogue, our congressman was, coincidentally, on our Thursday evening flight home and our window seat paid dividends as we witnessed two shooting stars as we looked to the north. Or perhaps it was Santa making some practice runs before the big day? Anything is possible.

White Christmas

The snow has melted in White Christmas the Musical and the tour is over. Sign up to our mailing list and we will let you know when the show goes back on the road.

WHITE CHRISTMAS UK TOUR

This tour has now concluded.

Official Website: https://www.whitechristmasthemusical.co.uk

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WHAT IS WHITE CHRISTMAS THE MUSICAL ABOUT?

It's the perfect family musical…

Make it a magical family Christmas in 2021 as the spectacular, brand-new production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas lights up theatres, direct from the West End.

Join veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis as – fuelled by love – the all-singing, all-dancing duo follow the stunning Haynes Sisters, Betty & Judy to a Vermont lodge for a special Christmas show.

Their journey takes a misstep, and their rhythm is thrown off when they discover the lodge happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s old Army General, who is in desperate need of their help.

“This terrific dose of pure escapism” (The Times) is brought to life by acclaimed Curve artistic director Nikolai Foster and two-time Olivier Award-winning choreographer Stephen Mear. A timeless romantic comedy to warm the hearts of all ages.  White Christmas features the classic songs ‘ Blue Skies' , ‘ Sisters',  ‘Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep)', ‘I Love A Piano'  and the most famous festive song of all… ‘ White Christmas' . 

WHITE CHRISTMAS CAST & CREATIVE - UK TOUR

The cast for the White Christmas 2022  tour is as follows:

• Bob Wallace –  Jay McGuiness
• Martha Watson – Lorna Luft 
• Phil Davis – Dan Burton
• Betty Haynes – Jessica Daley
• Judy Haynes – Monique Young
• General Waverly – Michael Starke

The cast is completed by  Simon Anthony ,  Tom Bales ,  Lydia Bannister ,  George Beet ,  Imogen Bowtell ,  Isabel Canning ,  Gabrielle Cocca ,  Joseph Craig ,  Beth Devine ,  Steve Fortune ,  Ashton Harkness ,  Connor Hughes ,  Owen McHugh ,  Benjamin Mundy ,  James Revell ,  Sadie-Jean Shirley ,  Matthew Sweet ,  Lucy Warway ,  David Winters  and  Alex Wright .

• Music & Lyrics – Irving Berlin
• Book – David Ives and Paul Blake
• Director – Ian Talbot / Nikolai Foster
• Choreographer – Stephen Mear

WHITE CHRISTMAS UK TOUR VIDEO TRAILER

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• Bournemouth
• Derry / Londonderry
• High Wycombe
• Kingston upon Thames
• Milton Keynes
• Newcastle Upon Tyne
• Northampton
• Peterborough
• Southampton
• Southend-on-Sea
• Stockton-on-Tees
• Stoke-on-Trent
• Wolverhampton

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White House Christmas

Immerse Yourself in the Seasonal Magic of White House Christmas 2023 51 Photos

Jonathan and Drew Scott Will Host HGTV's White House Christmas 2023

Tune in on December 10.

About The Show

Every year, hundreds of volunteers from across the nation decorate the White House for Christmas in just 72 hours. HGTV documents the process in the annual White House Christmas special — which is hosted by one or two hand-picked HGTV hosts who ensure the First Lady's chosen theme comes to life. Featured designers from years past include Jonathan Scott, Drew Scott, Genevieve Gorder, Zooey Deschanel, Alison Victoria and Egypt Sherrod .

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Christmas & New Year Tours & Trips in USA

Imagine celebrating the festive season in USA over Christmas and New Year's Eve! With 120 Christmas and New Year adventures to choose from lasting 1 days up to 23 days, you're sure to find that enchanting USA Christmas tour you have always dreamt of.

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120 christmas & new year tour packages in usa with 943 reviews.

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Wild West – 5 days

Overall great trip and experience. Just one comment would be the Hotel on the second day could be improved.

• Hiking & Trekking

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

My wife and I had a wonderful week and experience in Utah! Everything was handled and we had a great trip. Our tour guide, Dave Showalter, was very knowledgeable, helpful, and patient with us throughout the trip. We were able to see and experience the 5 national parks along with some extras thrown in as well. Our small group was comfortable, friendly, and everyone contributed to us having an amazing week!

Magnificent West – 8 days

Thanks a lot. I had a very good 8 days from 22nd of Jan till 29th 2024 with your team and literally suggest your company to all. Your tour leaders were responsible, respectful, helpful, and supportive. Goodness bless you guys.

Mighty 5 From Salt Lake City

Our Utah Mighty 5 Tour exceeded expectations in every category imaginable. This was our first guided travel tour and we felt spoiled in every respect. As close to an all inclusive hiking tour I think you could find. Our guide, Christopher, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the Utah National Parks-the geology, history and culture of each region and really catered to the needs of each guest on his tour. Every detail of our day was planned and well thought out. I would not hesitate to book another tour with Christopher. Amazing experience!

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Georgia History Trail to Nashville

USA - The Golden Experience

National Parks Winter Tour

Awesome trip, i had an amazing time ans will highly recommend.

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

USA – Best of WA – North Cascades Olympic Mount Rainier National Parks

Great experience getting to see many of the National Parks in Washington state. It was great not to have to find hotel accommodations and to have guides that are avid hikers to guide us on the hikes. It was a very relaxing and enjoyable experience!

USA - Wild West

Death Valley Day Tour from Las Vegas- Small Groups Tour

Awe inspiring landscape and great tour guide We would totally recommend this tour. Our tour guide Joel was fantastic; a great storyteller, clearly passionate and knowledgable about the whole area, its history, characters and fokelore. He also struck a great balance between giving us space and time to explore and being there to offer information or answers to questions, with humour and patience! The locations and landscape were breath taking - truly awe inspiring. Zabriske point was a highlight, as well as the opportunity to explore the cascade of colours at Artist’s Palette. It’s the perfect day tour from Vegas and offers a completely different experience from the noise and craziness of Las Vegas.

Hawai'i Big Island: Environmental Conservation, Cultural Preservation, and Snorkeling

Do it. Best experience of my life meeting the most incredible people and exploring a beautiful island. I learned so much about the land and how to be a responsible tourist.

Los Angeles, Las Vegas with National Parks ROT

Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and the Grand Canyon, Ending in LAX

California Panorama

Was well organized and very friendly people!!

Hawaii – Kauai & Maui Islands Adventure

What people love about christmas & new year tours in usa.

I love my tour guide Pasquale. He is the most sweetest, friendliest, kind, generous, and genuine tour guide I know. He really knows everything during my trip. He’s very easy going and I had the best experience ever in the 5 days I was traveling. Amazing experience and I would highly recommend Pasquale if you wanna travel with him and experience so much travelling for Wild West tour. Thank you so much an amazing and unforgettable experience.

Just couldn’t have been better. Extremely professional guides Robin and Sarah were highly knowledgable, friendly and organised. Accomodation was excellent in every location (most hotels even had hot tubs and pools!) and the food options were always good. Lovely comfortable Mercedes minibus. Highly recommended to everyone - would do another tour with South West Adventure Tours in a heartbeat.

Great tour, good group size too

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White House Christmas Tours

Christmas at the White House: Magic, Wonder, & Joy

The white house christmas tree arrival.

White House Christmas Photos

Every November, volunteers from across the country work diligently to decorate the White House for the holiday season. This is a tremendous effort by many dedicated and enthusiastic people. To get an idea of the amount of work involved, read this blog post or that blog post by former volunteers.

White House Christmas Decorations Video

White House Christmas Tour Booklet

The White House welcomes almost 50,000 visitors every year during the holiday season. Visitors receive an official White House Holiday guide. Scroll through the booklet below or download yours here :

White House Christmas Tour Tickets - 2024

White house holiday open house, national christmas tree lighting ceremony.

• +61 7 3368 1966

Home / Small Group Tours /

2024 White Christmas Tour of Japan

Top tour highlights.

Be mesmerized by illuminations

At this time of the year, experience Japan literally lit up with gorgeous Christmas decorations and illuminations.

Befriend the cute snow monkeys

Snow monkeys are enjoying their warm soak in an hot spring area of Nagano.

View the mighty Mt Fuji in clear winter air

Mt Fuji, the symbol of Japan, can be seen clearest in winter at the onsen town of Kawaguchiko.

Stroll around the historic town of Hakodate

Hakodate has a unique history in the modernization of Japan in the 19th century.

Enjoy snow field activities

The activities include snowshoe walks, snow rafting, making snowman and becoming a snow angel!

Visit Sapporo, the snow capital of Japan

Don't miss Sapporo with all its winter charms.

Tour Overview

The 2024 White Christmas Tour of Japan is an opportunity for one of the most memorable Christmas holidays you have ever had. Be part of the cultural and traditional rituals which can be experienced only at this time of the year. Although Japanese are mostly not Christians, Japan offers much of the traditional spirit associated with Christmas.

Snow sets the scene, but the coloured lights and decorations in the streets and shops add greatly to the season. The holiday feeling is in the air as the most important holiday in Japan is only a few days away – New Year’s Day.

Cities of Japan do not receive much snowfall in December. That is why we head to the mountains and the northern island of Hokkaido, to give you a real White Christmas experience . The snow-clad temples, shrines and Japanese castles all compete for attention with the stunning natural beauty of the countryside at this time of the year.

The 2024 White Christmas Tour of Japan includes some of the must-see destinations such as Snow Monkeys playing in the hot springs; Kawaguchiko for the best views of Mt Fuji; Takayama and Shirakawa-go in picturesque deep snow; and of course Hokkaido for its famous powder snow and special winter experiences.

Welcome to Japan! On arrival at one of Tokyo’s international airports, you will be met by a Journey to the East guide and escorted to your hotel by public transport (train or airport coach). After a good night’s sleep, you will be ready to start the first full day of your 2024 White Christmas Tour of Japan .

Orientation of Tokyo by your guide precedes a guided tour at Asakusa along with Sensoji Temple (the oldest temple in Tokyo built in 628) and Nakamise merchant street. This old part of Tokyo retains the charms of Japan of a bygone era - a whole world away from the images of the advanced technology and modern city. These old areas are busy preparing for the New Year events and you will catch the vibe of the most important event in the Japanese calendrer.

After a group lunch your guide will take you to a modern commercial district of Tokyo to show you some fascinating contrasts of old and new. December is the biggest month for retail in Japan. The beautiful window displays and shop decorations will instantly get you into the mood for this very special holiday!

In the evening, we will have a "Welcome Japan" dinner .

This morning, you leave Tokyo and take shinkansen (bullet train) and local train into the snow country to Yudanaka via Nagano and its Snow Monkey reserve.

Here you will encounter the serene beauty of visiting the reserve where the Snow Monkeys live. (Note: you need to walk for around 30 minutes to get to where monkeys play.) You will never forget seeing these cute snow monkeys soaking in the hot springs.

Tonight’s accommodation is in the atmospheric old onsen town of Shibu Onsen near the Snow Monkey reserve. A favourite pastime of the Japanese people is soaking in an onsen (mineral hot spring spa), especially in the cold season. Today, you too can enjoy soaking in a hot tub as you take in the beautiful 3,000 m class snow-capped mountains. After a kaiseki banquet dinner , you will be sleeping in a Japanese style bedroom .

On the way to your next destination, Takayama , you will make a brief stop at the city of Matsumoto today. Matsumoto’s beginnings go back to the 8th century, later becoming an important castle town ruled by a powerful clan in the 1600s. Its feudal past is best exemplified today by the impressive castle that dominates the city’s skyline. Your guide will take you on a tour of Matsumoto’s castle , Japan’s oldest wooden castle and one of the nation’s five castles designated national treasures. The black wooden structure is a strong contrast against the white snow. To explore the castle’s wooden interior, we climb to the top of its distinctive black-and-white turret.

In the afternoon, you will travel in a private minibus to Takayama.

Today you will learn about the history of this central Japan's city of Takayama . You will visit Jinya , an Edo period government office when Takayama was directly controlled by the Edo shogunate government. Along the way, pausing to visit Festival Float Museum where ornate festival floats are kept.

In the afternoon, a private minivan takes you to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go , in the heart of the rugged Hida region. The view of exquisite rural village features the traditional thatched-roof farm houses unique to Japan’s alpine regions.

With their steeply-slanted roofs built to withstand heavy snowfalls, they resemble “hands clasped together in prayer” (hence their name, gasshozukuri ). A walk through the village allows us to experience the magic of the farmhouses in the snow, and learn more about the construction of these houses and the traditional life of the villagers.

Today you will experience local life and tradition in Takayama . Firstly, a walking guided tour of Takayama's Edo period streetscapes , including the 200 years old morning market. You will then have a cooking lesson from a local lady and learn the traditional foods of the area.

Enjoy free afternoon to pursue your personal interests such as cycling , walking , visiting a sake brewery or small museums to learn more about Takayama.

This evening is free for you to explore Takayama for its abundant selection of places to eat. Takayama is famous for Hida brand wagyu beef and you may like to visit one of the local restaurants serving this succulent local marbled beef.

Today you leave Takayama and the Hida region, transferring by coach and train to your next destination Kawaguchiko . This small town is located in the lakes district in the foothills of Mt Fuji . Kawaguchiko offers some breathtaking views of the majestic Mt Fuji and its lakes, and hosts a number of boutique museums and galleries.

Tonight, you will stay at a traditional Japanese inn, and sleep on a futon bedding in a tatami matted Japanese style bedroom . Here you have the chance to soak in a hot-spring onsen bath with dramatic views of Mt Fuji across the lake (weather permitting of course!).

Dinner will be a multi-course Japanese kaiseki banquet.

This morning you experience a traditional Japanese-style breakfast – a nutritious mix of grilled fish, miso soup, rice and pickles!

In Kawaguchiko, you will see panoramic views of Mt Fuji and the lake at the top of Kachi Kachi Yama mountain . A visit to Itchiku Kubota Art Museum is a must, where you see superb examples of kimono art using the centuries-old “shibori” tie-dyeing technique.

In the afternoon, you circle back to Tokyo by local coach, and prepare for the second half of your adventure in the northern island of Hokkaido. Tonight would be a great opportunity to go out and look around the beautiful Christmas illumination around your hotel, too.

After a few days exploring the central Honshu (main island), you take a domestic flight to Hakodate in Hokkaido for the second half of 2024 White Christmas Tour of Japan.

This historic port city with its 19th century streetscapes has a distinctly European feel. It was designated one of Japan’s two foreign trade ports that could legitimately engage with foreign traders, and that foreign influence and architecture make this city so intriguing. On the guided tour of Hakodate, you will visit a number of historical sites in Motomachi district as well as the heritage Red Brick Warehouse district down on the waterfront (along with the the beautiful harbour views. The Ainu Museum included in the tour provides information on the diversity by celebrating the history and culture of Hokkaido’s indigenous people.

In the evening we head up Mount Hakodate . From the hill-side restaurant, there is a panoramic view of Hakodate all lit-up at night, considered one of the top three views in Japan.

This morning is all about playing in snow ! You will head to a nearby snow field from Hakodate and try s nowshoe walking and more great panoramic views. All the clothing and shoes are available for rent and it caters for every fitness level.

There is so much to see the afternoon and evening are free for you to relax in Hakodate and stroll around red brick district checking out local souvenirs and special winter food and more.

The Hakodate Morning Market trades a wide array of seafood in a relatively casual environment and many small restaurants allow you to sample the local delicacies. Next is a visit to the fascinating remains of Goryokaku Fort . The fort was built in five-sided star shape, designed by a samurai, Takeda Ayasaburo who was influenced by a French military engineer Vauban. The fort, in the center of Hakodate, was completed in 1864 as Japan's first Western-style fortification.

In the afternoon, you will transfer to your final destination, the capital of Hokkaido, Sapporo , by express train.

There is no shortage of Christmas atmosphere here. Especially the gorgeous Christmas illumination against white snow is everywhere in Sapporo.

In the morning your guide will take you on a walking tour of central Sapporo.   Your guide will help you understand the unusual story behind the development of Sapporo. You stop to have a look at the historic Clock Tower , a former agricultural college built in 1878. Wander past other early brick buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries on your way to Odori Koen , the 1.5km-long stretch of public park in the city’s heart.

For lunch, you may choose to try Sapporo's most famous dish, Sapporo ramen ! You will have some free time this afternoon and evening . It is Christmas Eve today. Sapporo has a great Christmas Market and perhaps you will find memorable souvenirs there.

It is Christmas Day today, and we will start late this morning. You may like to have some peace and quiet or talk to your family back home.

There is no more desirable place to be on Christmas Day in Japan than the picturesque canal town of Otaru . In the afternoon, your guide will show you the charming town of Otaru. It was once a vibrant trading centre where the indigenous Ainu people, Japanese, Chinese, and Russian traders mingled to exchange goods. Otaru retains many of the grand stone and brick buildings from its late 19th century boom times. Many of the warehouses from its trading past have been converted into attractive museums and cafes along its canals. Today you wander down Otaru’s iconic central canal with its Victorian-era style street lamps.

Back in Sapporo, and it is your last time to get together as a group and you will have a group Christmas dinner .

After breakfast, your 2024 White Christmas Tour of Japan concludes. You can fly out of Sapporo or stay in Japan a little longer. We will be delighted to make arrangements for your personal transfer whether it is a flight to Tokyo, extra stay in Hokkaido or travel onto a different part of Japan. Please see our Extension Model Itineraries for inspirations.

Note: The cost of a transfer(s) to your departure airport are not included in our Small Group Tours to add flexibility to each guest as we find many guests choose to stay in Japan a bit longer. Please see our FAQ for more details.

Dates & Prices

Per person twin share:, single supplement.

Each guest is personally looked after with one-on-one interactions with our hand-picked, expert tour guides. As part of your investment, this tour includes:

• First-class wisdom and higher standard of individual care and attention
• 13 nights’ accommodation (including traditional Japanese inns)
• All breakfasts
• 3 lunches (9 free choice lunches)
• 9 dinners (3 free choice dinners)
• Airport meet & greet and hotel transfer by public transport on arrival
• All local transport (train, bus and private minivans)
• Domestic flight from Tokyo to Hakodate
• Suica card pre-loaded with starter credit
• Expert English speaking tour guides (Locally licensed)
• Cultural activities and entry fees included in itinerary
• Luggage transfers (1 piece per person)

DISCLAIMER: Unless otherwise stated, this tour does not include the costs of international and domestic airfares, transfers on the last day, travel insurance, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, transport during free time, personal expenses (laundry, internet, telephone, coin lockers etc.) and Visa (if required).

Who this Japan tour is for...

This is a perfect tour for people who:

• Want to be surrounded by snow at Christmas time in Japan
• Wish to experience traditional events leading up to New Year’s Day in Japan
• Enjoy local culture in remote regions of Japan in Honshu and Hokkaido in winter
• Like to join a small group tour (maximum 8) professionally organised by a specialist tour operator
• Be up-close and  interact with locals  through public transport
• Experience a  variety in style , and typically 4 star  boutique accommodation  with private bathroom

It’s one of the best tours we been on and great value for the money. You will not be disappointed.

Michael Burrows

Qld, australia.

The tour exceeded our expectations in every way and we would recommend it to anyone who wishes to experience a White Christmas. Although we were away from home, we still experienced the Christmas spirit through all the beautiful illuminations, decorations, snow, and most of all the wonderful Christmas Eve dinner in an amazing location with fantastic food. A special Christmas that we will always remember!

Victoria, Australia

We loved our White Christmas Tour of Japan with Journey to the East. If you want to experience snow at Christmas without long travel to Europe or Canada this is the trip for you. Everything is well organised, the guides are brilliant – knowledgeable, helpful and fun! Such a new cultural experience! Highly recommend!

Gail Hewton

Thank you for the impeccable standard of customer service you and the whole team provided to us, from my initial enquiry to our last day. If you are considering a trip to Japan – Journey to the East should be your 1st consideration, you won’t be disappointed.

This tour changed our perceptions of what group tours can offer. The quality of accommodation, tour guides, food and the overall itinerary were professional and individualised. I cannot praise enough, the professionalism of the tour guides who managed to navigate our small group around Japan.

Deborah Armour

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