Yosemite’s Bracebridge Celebration at the Ahwahnee Hotel

Join A 17th Century English Christmas Celebration

The Bracebridge Dinner has become an Ahwahnee Christmas tradition. This grand Christmas event has been held annually since the hotel opened in 1927. During this time in December the Ahwahnee is transformed into a 17th century English manor for a feast of food, song and mirth. The inspiration for this ceremony was Washington Irving’s Sketch Book that described Squire Bracebridge and English Christmas traditions of that period.

A spectacular Christmas pageant takes place in The Ahwahnee’s grand Dining Room, which becomes the majestic Hall of American author Washington Irving’s legendary “Squire Bracebridge” as tables glow with candlelight, and the room is filled with the warmth and spirit of this special time of year. The program abounds with a profusion of food and the ringing sound of voices. The cathedral windows look out onto Yosemite Valley, and the spirit of all things beautiful cannot help but be felt, as guests become enveloped in the joy of the season.

The event consists of a four-hour pageant of classic carols in an elegant and artistic fashion. You will enjoy Renaissance rituals, Middle Age music and sumptuous food. Over 100 players recreate the roles of the Squire and his family, their servants, the Lord of Misrule, minstrels and other performers. Decked with magnificent wreaths, an elaborate Squire’s table, large banners and traditional Yuletide decorations, the Ahwahnee Dining Room transforms into the Great Hall and is the stage for the festivities.

We ask that all guest leave their cameras, cell phones and video cameras in their room during the performance and meal. Due to the length of the Bracebridge Dinner, it is not recommended for young children to attend. Children four and under not permitted. Thank you.

Bracebridge Lodging Packages

Ahwahnee Hotel’s great Bracebridge Dinner lodging package makes celebrating this event exceptionally easy. The Bracebridge lodging package includes 2 nights lodging for two adults and dinner for two at the Bracebridge Celebration on the second night of your package.