With roots that date to 1778, when visitors first came to the Allegheny Mountains of what was then Virginia to “take the waters” of the natural springs, America’s Resort, The Greenbrier has an unparalleled history. That incredible story – which includes major sporting events, presidential visits, a stint as an Army hospital, a makeover from an iconic decorator, a secret bunker and some of the world’s best culinary creations – will be celebrated Jan. 10-12, 2025, with Wintertime History Weekend.
“The Greenbrier was recently voted as ‘Best Historical Hotel’ by Newsweek, and we believe that’s reason to celebrate,” said The Greenbrier president, Jill Justice, D.O. “It’s truly an unrivaled story, and there’s so much to explore. Our Wintertime History Weekend will highlight some of the great moments of the past and celebrate the continued legacy that is happening every day at America’s Resort.”
Included in the weekend’s festivities are question and answer sessions on various aspects of the resort, including design, culinary, golf and the Cold War bunker. The Greenbrier’s Historian Emeritus, Dr. Bob Conte, and former Vice President of Golf, Robert Harris, will be among the presenters at these entertaining and informative discussions.
Additional programming features displays of resort artifacts, trivia competitions, workshops, cooking classes, property tours and much more.
“If you’re a fan of The Greenbrier’s history, American history or simply of learning more about an incomparable story, this is a weekend you don’t want to miss,” said Justice. “There’s something for everyone, and I’m thrilled that our guests will be able to celebrate almost 250 years of history with us.”
The two featured events of the weekend are the 1948 Ball in the Cameo Ballroom on Friday, Jan. 10, and the Historical Dinner on Saturday, Jan. 11.
Friday’s 1948 Ball is a recreation of the “Diamond Ball,” which occurred on April 17, 1948. After closing to serve as an Army hospital during World War II, The Greenbrier received a complete makeover from renowned New York decorator Dorothy Draper, and on that April evening, a reopening ball was held to celebrate The Greenbrier’s return. Life Magazine called the party, “The most lavish on-the-house party of the century,” and guests included the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Bing Crosby and members of the Kennedy, DuPont and Vanderbilt families. Those festivities will be recreated during Wintertime History Weekend, with a ball that includes music, dancing, fine fashion, drinks and celebration.
Saturday’s Historic Dinner is an elegant four-course meal that is a tribute to the first meal served in The Greenbrier’s Main Dining Room on September 28, 1913. Dinner guests will also receive complimentary admission to a pre-dinner cocktail reception.
“Looking back at these menus and recreating some of these iconic flavors has been so much fun for me and our culinary team,” said The Greenbrier Executive Chef, Bryan Skelding. “You can’t work in these kitchens without appreciating the history that has been made here, and I’m anxiously anticipating what should be an unforgettable weekend.”
For more information, visit Greenbrier.com.
