The famed, prosperous Victorian Era (1837- 1901) coincides with the rule of Queen Victoria in Britain. Elaborately decorated Christmas fir trees, Christmas cards, gingerbread decorations, ropes and ropes of evergreen garland, the Christmas turkey, toys in the stockings… Did you know that these beloved Holiday traditions began with Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in the early 19th century? The Prince brought his German traditions to Windsor Castle, and the Queen (whose mother was also German) popularized these family-centric customs. If you have strolled through Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa during the Holiday season, you are witnessing a recreation of a Victorian Christmas.
Music became a focal point of entertainment, with the advent of “caroling” and parlor singing. It was commonplace for families of means to have a piano in their homes. Be sure not to miss the lobby pianist!
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| Mmmmmm, can you smell it?? |
If you’ve read Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol, you know that the highlight of these romantic traditions was the family feast. Victoria & Albert’s recaptures this Victorian classic, and Queen Victoria’s Room is an absolute flashback to the royal banquet. Round out the Victorian experience with the classic tradition of British afternoon tea served on, what else, Royal Albert china in the Garden View Tea Lounge.
Charm, romance and Victorian tradition are alive and well in the 21st Century at Walt Disney World this and every Christmas!
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| You too can play king & queen on the lobby throne. |
That tree in the lobby is stunning! I can't wait to see that – hopefully next year!
I'll be watching for your posts Heidi!
Absolutely beautiful! Thanks for sharing this rich history. There's a lot I did not know. Btw, gorgeous family photo too! Thanks for linking up 🙂
Thanks Jodi- I finally got it together! So glad I could join Tiggerific Trivia today!
How beautiful! I have got to see this in person one year!
I'll meet you there for some hot cocoa. 😀
The beauty of the Grand at Christmas truly is stunning. It's hard to chose, but I think their décor is my favorite of all the resorts. Wilderness Lodge is a close second 🙂
While every resort gets a Christmas transformation, none that I have seen in Walt Disney World or Disneyland can compare. It IS grand!! 😉
I do love the look of this resort at Christmas. While it's not really my style for my home, I can truly appreciate it at WDW! Great post!
I agree Beth- the Victorian look absolutely works at this gorgeous resort!