Celebrate the Holiday Season in America’s National Parks


OVERVIEW \| NEWS RELEASE\| HOLIDAY EVENTS
	Holiday Celebrations and Programs in the National Park Service - 2008 ARIZONA Chiricahua National Monument Faraway Ranch holiday open house Chiricahua National Monument staff will host a holiday open house at Faraway Ranch from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 13. Nestled at the entrance to Bonita Canyon, Faraway Ranch was one of Arizona’s first guest ranches. The home will be decorated in traditional Christmas flair. This will be a rare opportunity to see the second floor rooms. Light refreshments will be served. Chiricahua National Monument is located four miles east of the junction of Arizona Highways 186 and 181. The entrance fee is $5 per person with children 15 years and younger free. For more information, please call 520/824-3560 ext. 302 or visit www.nps.gov/chir. Petrified Forest National Park Holiday open house at Painted Desert Inn Petrified Forest National Park will celebrate its 102nd anniversary with a holiday open house on December 8 at the Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark. The park will provide hot drinks, cookies and holiday cheer. Activities planned include a cultural demonstration by Otto Lucio, a Zuni silversmith, and a tour of the inn. For more information, please contact Hallie Larsen at 928/524-6228, ext. 274. Saguaro National Park Holiday Cactus Caravan Visitors can experience a once-a-year opportunity to drive the park's historic Cactus Forest Loop Drive at night on Saturday December 27. Ranger guides will lead 90-minute tours with several stops along the way to explore the symbolism of desert plants, animals, and star-lit skies during the Christmas-Solstice-New Year season. These driving tours include a short walk, fully accessible, on paved trail. Tours will start evey half-hour beginning at 5:30 p.m. and ending at 8:00 p.m. COLORADO Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site Seasonal cheer at the trading post Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site invites visitors to witness the joys, pleasures and pastimes of the 1840s at an isolated trading post on December 5 and 6. The spirit of the season comes alive during this holiday celebration with wagon rides, games, toy making and other festivities. Events begin Friday evening with candlelight tours of the fort, continue through Saturday and culminate with another evening of candlelight tours. For reservations for the evening tours, phone 719/383-5026. Colorado National Monument Monumental Memories on display Colorado National Monument is hosting a Monumental Memories photo exhibit and holiday open house. The exhibit, to be unveiled during a holiday open house on December 13, will showcase photographs of people taken in Colorado National Monument, submitted by local residents. The park will display these photos in the visitor center through the month of December. On December 13 and 14 any purchases in the park bookstore will be discounted 20%. The Monumental Memories display is designed to honor local connections and community. For more information, please contact Joan Anzelmo at 970/858-3617, ext. 300. FLORIDA Canaveral National Seashore Holidays in Eldora Join Friends of Canaveral and seashore staff for an open house in Eldora on Sunday December 14 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Decorations are provided by Lindley’s Nursery and refreshments provided by Friends. Join us for an old fashioned holiday social and enjoy your seashore. GEORGIA Jimmy Carter National Historic Site Plains Community Christmas Sing The public is invited to join in sharing the joyous music of the holiday season and view the beautiful Christmas lights of Plains from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on December 7. Admission is free. For more information, please contact Katherine Brock at 229/824-4104. Fort Frederica National Monument Oglethorpe's Birthday Celebration On Saturday, December 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fort Frederica National Monument will celebrate James Oglethorpe’s birthday. Oglethorpe is the founder of Georgia and Fort Frederica. As part of the celebration cannon and musket will be fired, colonial-era music will be played and Oglethorpe will be present to receive well wishers. For more information, please contact Kim Coons at 912/638-3639. Fort Pulaski National Monument Candlelantern tours Fort Pulaski staff and volunteers will conduct the annual Candlelantern tours on December 12 and December 13 to re-create the Confederate Nog party of 1861. Share in the Christmas season with cookies and hot cider, music and merrymaking. Six consecutively running evening tours, approximately 45 minutes apiece, will begin at 6 p.m, with the last tour scheduled at 8:20 p.m. each night. Park Rangers and volunteers will dress in period clothing as visitors are treated to a tour of the fort and special programs. Advance reservations are required and there are limited spaces available. For reservations, please call the Visitor Center at 912/786-5787 before December 8 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Reservations cannot be accepted after this date. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site Holiday open house On Saturday December 6 join park rangers for a step back in time to a 1939 King Family Christmas. View replica holiday decorations that Rev. and Mrs. A.D. Williams, Daddy King, Mamma King and children, Christine, Martin and A.D., used to celebrate family traditions and the holiday spirit in their home at 501 Auburn Avenue. Birth Home tours will start at 10 a.m. and end at 4:30 p.m. To tour the festive home, visitors meet and line-up at the front steps of the Birth Home. For more information, please contact Faye Walmsley at 404/331-6922, ext.3625. IOWA *Effigy Mounds National* Monument** Open House The public is invited for refreshments and to experience crafts made from natural materials at the Effigy Mounds National Monument Visitor Center on December 6 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All bookstore items within the Visitor Center will be 10% off this day. Herbert Hoover National Historic Site A Christmas past West Branch, Iowa, the birthplace of Herbert Hoover, 31st President of the United States, will host “A Christmas Past” events from Friday, December 5 until Sunday, December 7. Horse-drawn wagon rides will take visitors through Herbert Hoover National Historic Site and historic downtown West Branch. The Herbert Hoover Birthplace Cottage, Blacksmith Shop, Schoolhouse and Friends Meetinghouse will be open to visitors on Friday and Saturday nights until 8:30 p.m. Park ranger Chuck Ping will demonstrate the art and craft of blacksmithing in the Blacksmith Shop both nights until 8:30 p.m. For more information, please contact Adam Prato at 319/643-7855. KANSAS Fort Scott National Historic Site Home for the holidays Renowned Western artist, Gary Hawk, will display his artwork from 1-3 p.m. on December 6 & 7 at Fort Scott National Historic Site. He will share stories of his visit to the White House last year, where the ornament he designed for the National Historic Site hung on the White House Christmas Tree, along with ornaments from all units of the National Park Service. There will be a multimedia presentation featuring all the National Park ornaments that hung on the White House tree last year; also ornaments designed by area youth, similarly featuring numerous National Parks, will be displayed on Fort Scott’s holiday tree. For more information, please contact Kelley Collins at 620/223-0310. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve Old-fashioned holiday The historic ranch house and headquarters area at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve will be decorated with natural objects and greenery representing an 1880s historic holiday setting through December 31. The preserve staff encourages you to come out and see the decorations beginning on November 29 with an old-fashioned holiday party from noon to 4 p.m. The preserve’s historic ranch headquarters is open daily from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. For more information or to make group reservations, please visit the preserve’s website at www.nps.gov/tapr, e-mail tapr_interpretation@nps.gov, or call the preserve at 620/273- 8494. LOUISIANA Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve Sharing the holidays Several events are scheduled for December at Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Join the staff on December 5 at the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center in Thibodaux for a holiday open house from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The staff promises music, crafts, toys and fun! Free. For more information, please call 985/448-1375. On December 6 at the French Quarter Visitor Center, Join members of the German American Cultural Center of Gretna for a marzipan cookie-making demonstration and stories of German contributions to Louisiana. Free. For more information, please call 504/589-2636 ext. 1. On December 13 and 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. the public is invited to participate in grand re-opening events at Malus-Beauregard House at Chalmette Battlefield. For more information, please call 504/281-0511. New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park December Performances Bring a little Yule tide cheer into your life with jazz. We hope you can join us for one of our free ranger programs or jazz concerts, many in the spirit of the Holidays, during the park’s Christmas New Orleans Style schedule. On Wednesdays in December from noon to 1 p.m. John Royen displays the piano lineage in jazz music during these hour long performances. All these events will take place in the park’s Visitor Center. Don’t miss the musical rangers, Bruce Barnes and Matt Hampsey as they perform a jazz roots program on December 16th, 18th and 30th. Each ranger musical demonstration will last from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. and will highlight a significant musical development in the evolution of New Orleans jazz. On Saturday, December 20 children are invited to bring their own instruments for a hands-on traditional jazz workshop with members of the Storyville Stompers Brass Band at 11 a.m. At 2 p.m. Lars Edegran & the Riverwalk Jazz Band featuring Big Al Carson will present a traditional New Orleans jazz Christmas featuring all the Holiday classics performed with a distinctively local flavor. The following Saturday, December 27, Shara’s New Orleans Jazz Band performs at 2 p.m. For more information, call 504-589-4841, Tuesday through Saturday, or visit us online at www.nps.gov/jazz. MARYLAND Clara Barton National Historic Site Victorian greeting card workshops Imagine dressing up in Victorian-era clothing, having your photo taken and using it to create a personalized holiday card to send to your family or friends. If this sounds like fun, plan to attend one of the free Victorian Greeting Card Workshops, scheduled on December 6 and 7 at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. each day. The workshops, which require advance reservations and are open to all ages, will take place at Clara Barton National Historic Site, 5801 Oxford Road, in Glen Echo. To make reservations, please call 301-320-1410. For more information, please contact Dana Dierkes at 301/320-1402. Hampton National Historic Site Yuletide Weekend Visitors are invited to celebrate a yuletide weekend, December 12–14, at the Hampton National Historic Site. The site has planned carriage rides, dances, storytelling, sing along sessions and many more activities. Hampton mansion, decorated in seasonal splendor, will be open for evening tours on Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday. Daytime programs, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, will include period craft activities for all ages: create a punched tin lantern, fashion corn husk dolls & toy “wool” sheep. Spice up the holiday season by making pomander balls! Full schedule information can be found online at http://www.nps.gov/hamp . For more information, please contact Vincent Vaise at 410/962-4290, ext. 224. Thomas Stone National Historic Site Christmas at Haberdeventure Come experience a traditional colonial Christmas on December 13. The park will be open until 7 p.m. and will be illuminated by candle light. Rangers and volunteers in authentic colonial costumes will present special programs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Step back in time to the year 1782 and see how the Stone family celebrates Christmas. Staff and volunteers will lead free tours throughout the house where you will meet such famous individuals as Thomas Stone, Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer and others. The historic house will be decorated in traditional colonial style with wreaths, greenery and lanterns lighting the landscape. For your enjoyment, a horse and carriage will transport you from the Visitor Center to the house or from the 21st to the 18th century in a blink of an eye. Light refreshments will also be served. MASSACHUSSETTS Longfellow National Historic Site Holiday Open House with Henry W. Longfellow Step back in time and meet 19th century poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow on December 6 and 7, as portrayed by Ted Zalewski, professional actor. Mr. Longfellow will be joined by other past residents of the historic colonial mansion, portrayed by the Concordant Volunteers, a group of middle and high school students who do extensive research into the lives of the persons they represent. Between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. visitors can meet residents from the 18th through 20th centuries. The Longfellow house library will be decorated for the season with holiday greens and other adornments, including children`s toys, dolls, and a miniature sleigh. Free guided tours will be conducted every 20 minutes beginning at 1 p.m., but reservations are required! Please call the site at 617/876-4491 to make a reservation. MISSISSIPPI Natchez National Historical Park Christmas at Melrose Join costumed interpreters at Natchez National Historical Park as they re-create the holiday season of 1849 at the Melrose estate. Evening events are planned from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on December 12 and 13, paying tribute to the first Christmas after the McMurrans move into Melrose. Visitors are encouraged to walk the estate grounds by the light of luminaries and view the slave quarters, dairy and carriage house. Many activities will be available throughout the estate grounds such as children’s crafts, children’s games and special exhibits. Light refreshments will be served in the Carriage House. For more information please contact Jennifer Clemetson at 601/446-5790. MISSOURI Jefferson National Expansion Memorial 19th century holiday traditions at the Old Courthouse The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial will present the annual 19th Century Holiday Traditions at the Old Courthouse through December 20. On Thursday December 4, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. the Courthouse will hold a Holiday candlelight tour with Victorian era decorations, music and dancing by the Booneslick String Band. Programs at The Historic Old Courthouse are free. For those wishing to participate in the full Downtown Historic Holiday Candlelight Tour a ticket is required. Please call 314/421-4689 for ticketing information. Wednesday Noon Concert Series are scheduled December 3, 10 and 17. On December 6 enjoy performances by the Resound Community Youth Chorus First Baptist Church at 2 p.m. On December 13, an 1807 Missouri frontier Christmas is scheduled from noon to 4:30 p.m. with frontier music, dance, and celebration traditions by the Peacocks, Les Petits Chanteurs and the Sperreng Fiddlers. On December 20, join staff for an 1858 Victorian Ball from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by dance lessons from noon to 4:30 p.m. with music by the Independent Silver Band. Harry S Truman National Historic Site Christmas with the Trumans The annual Christmas exhibit, on display at the Harry S Truman National Historic Site, features holiday decorations and household artifacts used by the Truman family at their Independence home. From the nine foot tree in the living room to the turkey for dinner, Christmas at 219 North Delaware was much like Christmas at any home in America. Presents were wrapped, holiday cards sent and the tree was trimmed with colorful lights, glass ornaments and tinsel. Like many of us, the holidays were a chance for the Trumans to spend time with family and friends in the comfort and warmth of home. The exhibit will be on display until January 9. For more information, please contact Kristen Stalling at 816/254-2720. MONTANA Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site Victorian Holiday Open House The elegant Kohrs family ranch house will be decorated to reflect a Victorian Christmas. The open house is scheduled at the Ranch from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on December 7. A pianist will play holiday music on the Kohrs piano, and artifacts previously unseen by the public will be displayed. Activities include house tours, wagon rides, blacksmithing, children`s crafts and activities and assorted refreshments. NEBRASKA Agate Fossil Beds Boxing Day open house Agate Fossil Beds will host the tenth annual Boxing Day Open House with refreshments and entertainment from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 26 in the Visitor Center conference room. Boxing Day, originally an English holiday, was celebrated by James Cook's granddaughter when she and her family lived in Canada and after they moved to Agate Springs Ranch. Agate Fossil Beds National Monument continues the tradition in honor of the ranch and its historic role as a gathering place. For more information, please contact Lil Mansfield at 308/668-2211. Homestead National Monument of America Winter festival of prairie cultures Displays and special programs celebrating the traditions of the prairie pioneers are planned everyday through December 31 at the Heritage Center and Education Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A Native American feast is planned on December 14 at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Ioway tribal members will demonstrate a traditional feast including a talk from a hunter and a woman fixing meals. Historical context will be created by the former Director of the Native American Heritage Museum of Highland, Kansas. For more information, please contact Merrith Baughman at 402/223-3514. NEW JERSEY Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Victorian Christmas celebrations at Millbrook Village Join the National Park Service and the Millbrook Village Society from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, for a Victorian Christmas celebration at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Village buildings, decorated in Victorian style, will be open for tours and demonstrations. Park rangers and volunteers will host a number of children’s activities in the Van Campen farmhouse, including hands-on period toys, games and many crafts. Light refreshments will be available. A caroling program is scheduled from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Millbrook Church. An annual Christmas Carol Service will take place at 5 p.m. December 7 in the Millbrook Church. Light refreshments will be available following the service. All events are free and open to the public. Victorian-era books and gifts will be available for purchase at the hotel bookstore. For more information, please visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/dewa or call the park headquarters on weekdays at 570/426-2452. Morristown National Historical Park Holly Walk 2008 Washington’s Headquarters at the Ford Mansion at Morristown National Historical Park is one of four sites featured in this year’s Holly Walk, a popular Morris County tradition. Holly Walk 2008 offers guests the opportunity to experience two centuries of Christmas customs in a single weekend. On December 6 and 7, four historic house museums in Morristown will be decorated in styles typifying the time in which those homes were built. The sites will be open from noon to 5 p.m. each day. A single $15 ticket (children under 12 free) is good for all four sites on both days. In the event of cancellation due to inclement weather, tickets will be honored at the individual sites during regular museum hours in December and January. From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, hear members of The Practitioners of Musick, John Burkhalter, on the English and small flutes, and Donovan Klotzbeacher, on the harpsichord, present a program of music as heard in 18^th-century America. For more information about Holly Walk or in case of inclement weather, please call 973/267-3465. Visitors are invited to the Cross Estate at Morristown National Historical Park on Sunday, December 7 for a holiday wreath workshop. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. horticulturist Carolyn Lydon will assist guests in creating unique wreaths using natural branches, dried seedpods, flowers, fruits and pine cones. Sponsored by the New Jersey Historical Garden Foundation whose members maintain the Cross Estate Gardens, the event costs $60 for members and $70 for non-members. Registration is required. For registration information, please call 973/376-0348. NEW MEXICO White Sands National Monument A night at the Sands The public is invited to join in a holiday open house on Friday evening, December 12, at White Sands National Monument. In what promises to be a spectacular one night holiday display, 1,000 luminarias, along with the full moon, will illuminate the historic adobe Visitor Center. Felipe Ruibal will play live acoustic guitar. Complimentary light hors d’oeuvres, hot cider and hot chocolate will be served in the Visitor Center and gift store. In addition, last minute holiday shoppers can take advantage of a major sale at the park’s gift shop and bookstore throughout the day and during the open house. White Sands also plans to offer special ranger-led programs. The holiday open house is scheduled from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., allowing visitors to enjoy a winter night with a full moon among the dunes. Normally at this time of year the monument is open from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. For more information, please call the park at 575/679-2599, ext 236. NEW YORK African Burial Ground National Monument Kwanza celebration African Burial Ground National Monument will host a special day-long workshop on December 30 in honor of Kwanza, an African American and Pan-African holiday which celebrates family, community and culture. Celebrated from December 26 through January 1, its origins are in the first harvest celebrations of Africa from which it takes its name. The name Kwanza is derived from the phrase "matunda ya kwanza" which means "first fruits" in Swahili, the most widely spoken African language. The workshop will feature hands-on activities that celebrate the cultural traditions of the African Diaspora. For more information, please contact Mindi Rambo at 212/668-2208 or 646/341-2825. Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site Franklin D Roosevelt National Historic Site Holiday open house Christmas open houses at both Roosevelt sites are scheduled from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on December 13. Both the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt`s Val-Kill will be decorated according to Roosevelt family tradition. At the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, an FDR impersonator will be reading excerpts from Charles Dickens`s A Christmas Carol. For more information, please call 845/229-6214 or 845/229-5320 Ellis Island National Monument Immigration Museum World Tree During December, the Ellis Island World Tree display provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the ethnic, cultural and religious holidays celebrated around the world and the National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C. The exhibit sheds light on what detained immigrants experienced at the Immigration Station and also how the image of the Statue of Liberty has been used during the holiday season. For more information, please contact Mindi Rambo at 212/668-2208 or 646/341-2825. Fire Island National Seashore Holiday hikes and programs at Fire Island National Seashore Fire Island National Seashore is hosting several free events this holiday season. Come prepared and dressed for the weather, and enjoy your park throughout the year. Rangers will guide visitors on 3-hour holiday hikes, starting at 9 a.m. at the Wilderness Visitor Center on the following Fridays: November 28, December 26 and January 2. On January 1, a New Year's Day hike will start from the Fire Island Lighthouse at 10 a.m. Reservations are required for some hikes. The annual tree trimming program at Fire Island Lighthouse will take place Saturday, November 29 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The sixth annual re-enactment of the Flying Santa Program takes place at Fire Island Lighthouse at noon on Saturday, December 13. Santa arrives at the Lighthouse for a great photo opportunity! Come early. Additional information, including program contact numbers, is available online at: www.nps.gov/fiis/parknews/newsreleases.htm . For more information please contact, Paula Valentine at 631/687-4759. Martin Van Buren National Historic Site Kinderhook Village Birthday Observance and Winter Celebration Visitors are invited to observe the 226th anniversary of Martin Van Buren’s birth in his home town. The annual community-sponsored event is conducted at the Kinderhook Reformed Cemetery beginning at 9:30 a.m. on December 5. Later that afternoon, the Martin Van Buren National Historic Site will start its Winter Celebration, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Warm yourself with hot cider while socializing in the winterized tent. Then enjoy Lindenwald especially adorned for the season! Plan to visit from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in conjunction with Kinderhook Village`s Candlelight Walk. For more information, please contact Jim McKay at 518/758-9689. St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site Holiday happenings at the church December 13: Opera in the Historic Church – Join St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site for a 2 p.m. performance by the Bronx Opera Company, featuring favorite excerpts from classic operas as well as performances and a sing-along of some traditional seasonal carols and holiday favorites. December 21: Holiday Organ Concert – A recital by Jan Piet Knijff featuring classical music on the historic 1833 pipe organ, including some traditional Holiday favorites will begin at 2 p.m. Refreshments will be served. Arrive at 1 p.m. to hear local storyteller Stephanie Mita share seasonal tales and legends. December 22, 23, 26, 29-31: Family Holiday Program – Historic games, activities, music and demonstrations, designed for children on vacation from school, as well as parents, adults, and others. Schedule is subject to change. For more information, please contact Mindi Rambo at 212/668-2208 or 646/341-2825. OHIO Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park A children’s holiday craft-making event Come prepare for the holiday season and learn about the traditions of Christmas, Chanukah and Kwanzaa at Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park as you make and take home crafts for the holidays. Stop in at the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center any time from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., Saturday, December 6 or December 13. Activities are free and open to the public. For more information, please contact Judi Hart at 937/225-7705. Cuyahoga Valley National Park Celebrate the season On December 19 come light up the darkest day of the year from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Cuyahoga Valley Environmental Education Center. Learn why many cultures observe seasonal days of celebration during December. Enjoy a warm feast followed by a winter walk through woods filled with fun, history, and lights. Reservations required. Meals will be served at 6 and 7:30 p.m. Costs are $16 per person ages 12 and older, $13 CVNPA members, $10 children ages 5-11. Vintage train excursions are scheduled throughout the month of December. Saturday Christmas Tree Adventures and Mr. Jingeling’s Holiday Express (Saturdays and Sundays) are scheduled from December 6 to 14. More information regarding schedules and costs are posted at http://www.nps.gov/cuva/planyourvisit/ . To register, please call 800/468-4070. William Howard Taft National Historic Site Christmas Holiday/New Year`s Open House Arts and crafts along with refreshments and candy canes are planned on December 13 from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sit and chat with Father Christmas himself. Get your picture taken with Father Christmas. For more information, please contact Reginald Murray at 513/684 -3262, ext 307. PENNSYLVANIA Eisenhower National Historic Site Eisenhower Christmas Celebrate Christmas in the tradition of Gettysburg`s First Family at the Eisenhower National Historic Site through December 31. The Eisenhowers` home is decorated as it was during their presidential years in the 1950s: poinsettias, boughs of pine and holly, a tree surrounded by presents, and the dining room table set for Christmas dinner with the Eisenhower Wedgwood china and silver. In the living room, park rangers regale visitors with tales of Eisenhower Christmas` past while holiday music from the Eisenhowers` album collection provides background accompaniment. Original Eisenhower decorations are on display in the home and Eisenhower Christmas cards are on exhibit in the Reception Center. The Christmas celebration includes a holiday reception featuring refreshments on December 13. During the reception, shuttle buses depart for the site from the National Park Service Visitor Center every hour, 9 am to 4 pm. Entrance fee charged. For more information, please contact Carol Hegeman at 717/338-9114 Hopewell Furnace NHS Iron Plantation Christmas Activities are planned on from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 6 in the historic village and Bethesda Church. Through the decades that Hopewell Furnace was in operation, workers called it home as well as work. On holidays, workers celebrated while the activities of the business of iron making continued. During "Iron Plantation Christmas" visitors will be able to glimpse holiday activities at the furnace across the course of 100 years. The "Belsnickel" will give out treats or punishments to children who he judges deserve them. Historical Christmas songs will be played in the historic Bethesda Church and visitors are invited to join in their singing. An entrance fee is charged. For more information, please call 610/582-8773. TENNESSEE Great Smoky Mountains National Park 33rd Annual Festival of Christmas Past Great Smoky Mountains National Park invites visitors on December 13 to the Sugarlands Visitor Center for the 33^rd annual Festival of Christmas Past. This cultural event depicts the Christmas holiday season as it was celebrated by mountain people in the southern Appalachians in the early 1900s. The festival will feature a blend of traditional mountain music, storytelling and crafts and skills demonstrations such as blacksmithing, quilting, weaving, and fabric dyeing. For more information, please contact Nancy Gray at 865/436-1208. TEXAS Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park Christmas tree lighting & evening ranch tours Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site and Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park invite everyone to the 39th annual Christmas tree lighting and evening ranch tour on Sunday, December 21, 2008 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Members of the Johnson family participate in this special celebration of the season. The festivities provide something for everyone: a joyful open house at the Sauer-Beckmann German farm, a children`s nativity scene, and a relaxing ride through the famed LBJ Ranch to view Christmas displays and decorations. Yuletide music, lighting of a native cedar tree and Santa are all included. In the spirit of the season, all activities are free of charge. For this night only, all merchandise in the Center`s bookstore and gift shop will be discounted 15% between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. In conjunction with the Johnson City Community`s celebration of "Lights Spectacular", the LBJ Boyhood Home will be open for lamplight tours from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on December 6, December 13 and December 20. National park rangers will provide tours of this historic house and explain life in Johnson City before rural electrification. For more information, please contact Sherry Justus at 830/868-7128, ext. 245. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park Los Pastores This Hispanic folk play, scheduled for December 27, depicts the shepherds' journey to worship the Christ Child and the obstacles the devil puts before them. This traditional play has been presented each year at Mission San José since 1947. For more information, please call the Visitor Center at 210/932-1001. VIRGINIA Booker T. Washington National Monument Do you hear what I hear? The sounds of an 1860 Christmas will carry throughout Franklin County and the Smith Mountain Lake area during the annual Old Virginia Christmas Event at Booker T. Washington National Monument on Saturday, December 6 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. You are invited to visit the Burroughs Plantation where famous educator, Booker T. Washington, celebrated Christmas as a slave child. Listen to whispered conversations among Burroughs Plantation residents as they discuss the election of 1860, John Brown’s raid, secession and the “fearful state of agitation” that many had leading up to 1861. Discover how Christmas was celebrated on the eve of the American Civil War while enjoying sights, smells and tastes of an antebellum Christmas with candlelit costumed tours, children's activities and hot apple cider and gingerbread. The afternoon program will include a “Hunt for the Yule Log” starting at 3 p.m. Children’s activities are scheduled from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Evening activities will begin at 5 p.m. with a special reading of Booker T. Washington's "Christmas Days in Old Virginia.” Costumed tours will start at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Join us for programs about a Christmas of long ago. Admission is free. The park is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission, parking and all programs are free. Visit us on the web at: www.nps.gov/bowa or call 540/721-2094. Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park Santa is scheduled to arrive at Chatham on December 21. An 1860`s Santa Claus will explain Santa in the mid 19th Century and pose for pictures with the kids. For more information, please contact Stacy Humphreys at 540/373-6122. WASHINGTON Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Whispers of Christmas pastGet a glimpse of Christmas past on Saturday December 6 at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Joe Pritchard, local tour guide, is returning for the second year with a Christmas presentation complete with photos of antique Christmas cards and Christmases in Seattle from the mid 1800’s to the present day. This presentation, the first of the 2008-2009 Northwest Notes Speaker Series, will take place at 2 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, please contact Ruth Kerr at 206/220-4238. WASHINGTON, DC Annual Lighting of the National Christmas Tree The opening ceremony for the 85^th Annual Lighting of the National Christmas Tree will take place at 5 p.m. on Thursday, December 4, 2008. This event marks the opening of the three-week event sponsored by the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation, the official charitable partner of America’s National Parks. The gates will open for all ticket holders at 3:30 p.m., and all guests must be in their seats by 4:30 p.m. WEST VIRGINIA Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Prospects of peace: a soldier’s prayer Harpers Ferry National Historical Park visitors are invited on December 6 and 7 for a weekend that focuses on Yuletide 1864, when U. S. soldiers attempted to create their own Christmas at the front while recalling happier ones at home. With Abraham Lincoln re-elected, the nation looked toward a new year, the conclusion of war, prospects of peace and freedom for 4 million enslaved African Americans. Programs and activities, scheduled from noon to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, feature local citizens and soldiers preparing for the Yuletide, a Grand Military and Citizen's Ball, Yuletide confections, and guided walking tours. Fees for Harpers Ferry Historical Park are $6 per vehicle for 3 days or $4 per person on foot, bicycle or motorcycle. For further information please call 304/535-6029.
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Holiday Celebrations and Programs
in the National Park Service - 2008

ARIZONA

Chiricahua National Monument

Faraway Ranch holiday open house

Chiricahua National Monument staff will host a holiday open house at Faraway Ranch from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 13. Nestled at the entrance to Bonita Canyon, Faraway Ranch was one of Arizona’s first guest ranches. The home will be decorated in traditional Christmas flair. This will be a rare opportunity to see the second floor rooms. Light refreshments will be served. Chiricahua National Monument is located four miles east of the junction of Arizona Highways 186 and 181. The entrance fee is $5 per person with children 15 years and younger free. For more information, please call 520/824-3560 ext. 302 or visit www.nps.gov/chir.

Petrified Forest National Park

Holiday open house at Painted Desert Inn

Petrified Forest National Park will celebrate its 102nd anniversary with a holiday open house on December 8 at the Painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark. The park will provide hot drinks, cookies and holiday cheer. Activities planned include a cultural demonstration by Otto Lucio, a Zuni silversmith, and a tour of the inn. For more information, please contact Hallie Larsen at 928/524-6228, ext. 274.

Saguaro National Park
Holiday Cactus Caravan
Visitors can experience a once-a-year opportunity to drive the park's historic Cactus Forest Loop Drive at night on Saturday December 27. Ranger guides will lead 90-minute tours with several stops along the way to explore the symbolism of desert plants, animals, and star-lit skies during the Christmas-Solstice-New Year season. These driving tours include a short walk, fully accessible, on paved trail. Tours will start evey half-hour beginning at 5:30 p.m. and ending at 8:00 p.m.

COLORADO

Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site

Seasonal cheer at the trading post

Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site invites visitors to witness the joys, pleasures and pastimes of the 1840s at an isolated trading post on December 5 and 6. The spirit of the season comes alive during this holiday celebration with wagon rides, games, toy making and other festivities. Events begin Friday evening with candlelight tours of the fort, continue through Saturday and culminate with another evening of candlelight tours. For reservations for the evening tours, phone 719/383-5026.

Colorado National Monument

Monumental Memories on display

Colorado National Monument is hosting a Monumental Memories photo exhibit and holiday open house. The exhibit, to be unveiled during a holiday open house on December 13, will showcase photographs of people taken in Colorado National Monument, submitted by local residents. The park will display these photos in the visitor center through the month of December. On December 13 and 14 any purchases in the park bookstore will be discounted 20%. The Monumental Memories display is designed to honor local connections and community. For more information, please contact Joan Anzelmo at 970/858-3617, ext. 300.

FLORIDA

Canaveral National Seashore

Holidays in Eldora

Join Friends of Canaveral and seashore staff for an open house in Eldora on Sunday December 14 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Decorations are provided by Lindley’s Nursery and refreshments provided by Friends. Join us for an old fashioned holiday social and enjoy your seashore.

GEORGIA

Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

Plains Community Christmas Sing

The public is invited to join in sharing the joyous music of the holiday season and view the beautiful Christmas lights of Plains from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on December 7. Admission is free. For more information, please contact Katherine Brock at 229/824-4104.

Fort Frederica National Monument

Oglethorpe's Birthday Celebration
On Saturday, December 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fort Frederica National Monument will celebrate James Oglethorpe’s birthday. Oglethorpe is the founder of Georgia and Fort Frederica. As part of the celebration cannon and musket will be fired, colonial-era music will be played and Oglethorpe will be present to receive well wishers. For more information, please contact Kim Coons at 912/638-3639.

Fort Pulaski National Monument

Candlelantern tours

Fort Pulaski staff and volunteers will conduct the annual Candlelantern tours on December 12 and December 13 to re-create the Confederate Nog party of 1861. Share in the Christmas season with cookies and hot cider, music and merrymaking. Six consecutively running evening tours, approximately 45 minutes apiece, will begin at 6 p.m, with the last tour scheduled at 8:20 p.m. each night. Park Rangers and volunteers will dress in period clothing as visitors are treated to a tour of the fort and special programs. Advance reservations are required and there are limited spaces available. For reservations, please call the Visitor Center at 912/786-5787 before December 8 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Reservations cannot be accepted after this date.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

Holiday open house

On Saturday December 6 join park rangers for a step back in time to a 1939 King Family Christmas. View replica holiday decorations that Rev. and Mrs. A.D. Williams, Daddy King, Mamma King and children, Christine, Martin and A.D., used to celebrate family traditions and the holiday spirit in their home at 501 Auburn Avenue. Birth Home tours will start at 10 a.m. and end at 4:30 p.m. To tour the festive home, visitors meet and line-up at the front steps of the Birth Home. For more information, please contact Faye Walmsley at 404/331-6922, ext.3625.

IOWA

Effigy Mounds National Monument

Open House

The public is invited for refreshments and to experience crafts made from natural materials at the Effigy Mounds National Monument Visitor Center on December 6 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All bookstore items within the Visitor Center will be 10% off this day.

Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

A Christmas past

West Branch, Iowa, the birthplace of Herbert Hoover, 31st President of the United States, will host “A Christmas Past” events from Friday, December 5 until Sunday, December 7. Horse-drawn wagon rides will take visitors through Herbert Hoover National Historic Site and historic downtown West Branch. The Herbert Hoover Birthplace Cottage, Blacksmith Shop, Schoolhouse and Friends Meetinghouse will be open to visitors on Friday and Saturday nights until 8:30 p.m. Park ranger Chuck Ping will demonstrate the art and craft of blacksmithing in the Blacksmith Shop both nights until 8:30 p.m. For more information, please contact Adam Prato at 319/643-7855.

KANSAS

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Home for the holidays

Renowned Western artist, Gary Hawk, will display his artwork from 1-3 p.m. on December 6 & 7 at Fort Scott National Historic Site. He will share stories of his visit to the White House last year, where the ornament he designed for the National Historic Site hung on the White House Christmas Tree, along with ornaments from all units of the National Park Service. There will be a multimedia presentation featuring all the National Park ornaments that hung on the White House tree last year; also ornaments designed by area youth, similarly featuring numerous National Parks, will be displayed on Fort Scott’s holiday tree. For more information, please contact Kelley Collins at 620/223-0310.

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Old-fashioned holiday

The historic ranch house and headquarters area at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve will be decorated with natural objects and greenery representing an 1880s historic holiday setting through December 31. The preserve staff encourages you to come out and see the decorations beginning on November 29 with an old-fashioned holiday party from noon to 4 p.m. The preserve’s historic ranch headquarters is open daily from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. For more information or to make group reservations, please visit the preserve’s website at www.nps.gov/tapr, e-mail tapr_interpretation@nps.gov, or call the preserve at 620/273- 8494.

LOUISIANA

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

Sharing the holidays

Several events are scheduled for December at Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Join the staff on December 5 at the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center in Thibodaux for a holiday open house from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The staff promises music, crafts, toys and fun! Free. For more information, please call 985/448-1375. On December 6 at the French Quarter Visitor Center, Join members of the German American Cultural Center of Gretna for a marzipan cookie-making demonstration and stories of German contributions to Louisiana. Free. For more information, please call 504/589-2636 ext. 1. On December 13 and 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. the public is invited to participate in grand re-opening events at Malus-Beauregard House at Chalmette Battlefield. For more information, please call 504/281-0511.

New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park
December Performances
Bring a little Yule tide cheer into your life with jazz. We hope you can join us for one of our free ranger programs or jazz concerts, many in the spirit of the Holidays, during the park’s Christmas New Orleans Style schedule. On Wednesdays in December from noon to 1 p.m. John Royen displays the piano lineage in jazz music during these hour long performances. All these events will take place in the park’s Visitor Center.

Don’t miss the musical rangers, Bruce Barnes and Matt Hampsey as they perform a jazz roots program on December 16th, 18th and 30th. Each ranger musical demonstration will last from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. and will highlight a significant musical development in the evolution of New Orleans jazz. On Saturday, December 20 children are invited to bring their own instruments for a hands-on traditional jazz workshop with members of the Storyville Stompers Brass Band at 11 a.m. At 2 p.m. Lars Edegran & the Riverwalk Jazz Band featuring Big Al Carson will present a traditional New Orleans jazz Christmas featuring all the Holiday classics performed with a distinctively local flavor. The following Saturday, December 27, Shara’s New Orleans Jazz Band performs at 2 p.m. For more information, call 504-589-4841, Tuesday through Saturday, or visit us online at www.nps.gov/jazz.

MARYLAND

Clara Barton National Historic Site

Victorian greeting card workshops

Imagine dressing up in Victorian-era clothing, having your photo taken and using it to create a personalized holiday card to send to your family or friends. If this sounds like fun, plan to attend one of the free Victorian Greeting Card Workshops, scheduled on December 6 and 7 at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. each day. The workshops, which require advance reservations and are open to all ages, will take place at Clara Barton National Historic Site, 5801 Oxford Road, in Glen Echo. To make reservations, please call 301-320-1410. For more information, please contact Dana Dierkes at 301/320-1402.

Hampton National Historic Site

Yuletide Weekend

Visitors are invited to celebrate a yuletide weekend, December 12–14, at the Hampton National Historic Site. The site has planned carriage rides, dances, storytelling, sing along sessions and many more activities. Hampton mansion, decorated in seasonal splendor, will be open for evening tours on Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday. Daytime programs, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, will include period craft activities for all ages: create a punched tin lantern, fashion corn husk dolls & toy “wool” sheep. Spice up the holiday season by making pomander balls! Full schedule information can be found online at http://www.nps.gov/hamp . For more information, please contact Vincent Vaise at 410/962-4290, ext. 224.

Thomas Stone National Historic Site

Christmas at Haberdeventure

Come experience a traditional colonial Christmas on December 13. The park will be open until 7 p.m. and will be illuminated by candle light. Rangers and volunteers in authentic colonial costumes will present special programs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Step back in time to the year 1782 and see how the Stone family celebrates Christmas. Staff and volunteers will lead free tours throughout the house where you will meet such famous individuals as Thomas Stone, Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer and others. The historic house will be decorated in traditional colonial style with wreaths, greenery and lanterns lighting the landscape. For your enjoyment, a horse and carriage will transport you from the Visitor Center to the house or from the 21st to the 18th century in a blink of an eye. Light refreshments will also be served.

MASSACHUSSETTS

Longfellow National Historic Site

Holiday Open House with Henry W. Longfellow

Step back in time and meet 19th century poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow on December 6 and 7, as portrayed by Ted Zalewski, professional actor. Mr. Longfellow will be joined by other past residents of the historic colonial mansion, portrayed by the Concordant Volunteers, a group of middle and high school students who do extensive research into the lives of the persons they represent. Between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. visitors can meet residents from the 18th through 20th centuries. The Longfellow house library will be decorated for the season with holiday greens and other adornments, including children`s toys, dolls, and a miniature sleigh. Free guided tours will be conducted every 20 minutes beginning at 1 p.m., but reservations are required! Please call the site at 617/876-4491 to make a reservation.

MISSISSIPPI

Natchez National Historical Park
Christmas at Melrose
Join costumed interpreters at Natchez National Historical Park as they re-create the holiday season of 1849 at the Melrose estate. Evening events are planned from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on December 12 and 13, paying tribute to the first Christmas after the McMurrans move into Melrose. Visitors are encouraged to walk the estate grounds by the light of luminaries and view the slave quarters, dairy and carriage house. Many activities will be available throughout the estate grounds such as children’s crafts, children’s games and special exhibits. Light refreshments will be served in the Carriage House. For more information please contact Jennifer Clemetson at 601/446-5790.

MISSOURI

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

19th century holiday traditions at the Old Courthouse

The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial will present the annual 19th Century Holiday Traditions at the Old Courthouse through December 20. On Thursday December 4, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. the Courthouse will hold a Holiday candlelight tour with Victorian era decorations, music and dancing by the Booneslick String Band. Programs at The Historic Old Courthouse are free. For those wishing to participate in the full Downtown Historic Holiday Candlelight Tour a ticket is required. Please call 314/421-4689 for ticketing information. Wednesday Noon Concert Series are scheduled December 3, 10 and 17. On December 6 enjoy performances by the Resound Community Youth Chorus First Baptist Church at 2 p.m. On December 13, an 1807 Missouri frontier Christmas is scheduled from noon to 4:30 p.m. with frontier music, dance, and celebration traditions by the Peacocks, Les Petits Chanteurs and the Sperreng Fiddlers. On December 20, join staff for an 1858 Victorian Ball from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by dance lessons from noon to 4:30 p.m. with music by the Independent Silver Band.

Harry S Truman National Historic Site

Christmas with the Trumans

The annual Christmas exhibit, on display at the Harry S Truman National Historic Site, features holiday decorations and household artifacts used by the Truman family at their Independence home. From the nine foot tree in the living room to the turkey for dinner, Christmas at 219 North Delaware was much like Christmas at any home in America. Presents were wrapped, holiday cards sent and the tree was trimmed with colorful lights, glass ornaments and tinsel. Like many of us, the holidays were a chance for the Trumans to spend time with family and friends in the comfort and warmth of home. The exhibit will be on display until January 9. For more information, please contact Kristen Stalling at 816/254-2720.

MONTANA

Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site

Victorian Holiday Open House

The elegant Kohrs family ranch house will be decorated to reflect a Victorian Christmas. The open house is scheduled at the Ranch from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on December 7. A pianist will play holiday music on the Kohrs piano, and artifacts previously unseen by the public will be displayed. Activities include house tours, wagon rides, blacksmithing, children`s crafts and activities and assorted refreshments.

NEBRASKA

Agate Fossil Beds

Boxing Day open house

Agate Fossil Beds will host the tenth annual Boxing Day Open House with refreshments and entertainment from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 26 in the Visitor Center conference room. Boxing Day, originally an English holiday, was celebrated by James Cook's granddaughter when she and her family lived in Canada and after they moved to Agate Springs Ranch. Agate Fossil Beds National Monument continues the tradition in honor of the ranch and its historic role as a gathering place. For more information, please contact Lil Mansfield at 308/668-2211.

Homestead National Monument of America

Winter festival of prairie cultures

Displays and special programs celebrating the traditions of the prairie pioneers are planned everyday through December 31 at the Heritage Center and Education Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A Native American feast is planned on December 14 at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Ioway tribal members will demonstrate a traditional feast including a talk from a hunter and a woman fixing meals. Historical context will be created by the former Director of the Native American Heritage Museum of Highland, Kansas. For more information, please contact Merrith Baughman at 402/223-3514.

NEW JERSEY

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Victorian Christmas celebrations at Millbrook Village

Join the National Park Service and the Millbrook Village Society from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, for a Victorian Christmas celebration at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Village buildings, decorated in Victorian style, will be open for tours and demonstrations. Park rangers and volunteers will host a number of children’s activities in the Van Campen farmhouse, including hands-on period toys, games and many crafts. Light refreshments will be available. A caroling program is scheduled from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Millbrook Church.

An annual Christmas Carol Service will take place at 5 p.m. December 7 in the Millbrook Church. Light refreshments will be available following the service. All events are free and open to the public. Victorian-era books and gifts will be available for purchase at the hotel bookstore. For more information, please visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/dewa or call the park headquarters on weekdays at 570/426-2452.

Morristown National Historical Park

Holly Walk 2008

Washington’s Headquarters at the Ford Mansion at Morristown National Historical Park is one of four sites featured in this year’s Holly Walk, a popular Morris County tradition. Holly Walk 2008 offers guests the opportunity to experience two centuries of Christmas customs in a single weekend. On December 6 and 7, four historic house museums in Morristown will be decorated in styles typifying the time in which those homes were built. The sites will be open from noon to 5 p.m. each day. A single $15 ticket (children under 12 free) is good for all four sites on both days. In the event of cancellation due to inclement weather, tickets will be honored at the individual sites during regular museum hours in December and January.

From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, hear members of The Practitioners of Musick, John Burkhalter, on the English and small flutes, and Donovan Klotzbeacher, on the harpsichord, present a program of music as heard in 18^th-century America. For more information about Holly Walk or in case of inclement weather, please call 973/267-3465.

Visitors are invited to the Cross Estate at Morristown National Historical Park on Sunday, December 7 for a holiday wreath workshop. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. horticulturist Carolyn Lydon will assist guests in creating unique wreaths using natural branches, dried seedpods, flowers, fruits and pine cones. Sponsored by the New Jersey Historical Garden Foundation whose members maintain the Cross Estate Gardens, the event costs $60 for members and $70 for non-members. Registration is required. For registration information, please call 973/376-0348.

NEW MEXICO

White Sands National Monument

A night at the Sands

The public is invited to join in a holiday open house on Friday evening, December 12, at White Sands National Monument. In what promises to be a spectacular one night holiday display, 1,000 luminarias, along with the full moon, will illuminate the historic adobe Visitor Center. Felipe Ruibal will play live acoustic guitar. Complimentary light hors d’oeuvres, hot cider and hot chocolate will be served in the Visitor Center and gift store. In addition, last minute holiday shoppers can take advantage of a major sale at the park’s gift shop and bookstore throughout the day and during the open house. White Sands also plans to offer special ranger-led programs. The holiday open house is scheduled from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., allowing visitors to enjoy a winter night with a full moon among the dunes. Normally at this time of year the monument is open from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. For more information, please call the park at 575/679-2599, ext 236.

NEW YORK

African Burial Ground National Monument

Kwanza celebration

African Burial Ground National Monument will host a special day-long workshop on December 30 in honor of Kwanza, an African American and Pan-African holiday which celebrates family, community and culture. Celebrated from December 26 through January 1, its origins are in the first harvest celebrations of Africa from which it takes its name. The name Kwanza is derived from the phrase "matunda ya kwanza" which means "first fruits" in Swahili, the most widely spoken African language. The workshop will feature hands-on activities that celebrate the cultural traditions of the African Diaspora. For more information, please contact Mindi Rambo at 212/668-2208 or 646/341-2825.

Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site

Franklin D Roosevelt National Historic Site

Holiday open house

Christmas open houses at both Roosevelt sites are scheduled from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on December 13. Both the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt`s Val-Kill will be decorated according to Roosevelt family tradition. At the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, an FDR impersonator will be reading excerpts from Charles Dickens`s A Christmas Carol. For more information, please call 845/229-6214 or 845/229-5320

Ellis Island National Monument

Immigration Museum World Tree

During December, the Ellis Island World Tree display provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the ethnic, cultural and religious holidays celebrated around the world and the National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C. The exhibit sheds light on what detained immigrants experienced at the Immigration Station and also how the image of the Statue of Liberty has been used during the holiday season. For more information, please contact Mindi Rambo at 212/668-2208 or 646/341-2825.

Fire Island National Seashore

Holiday hikes and programs at Fire Island National Seashore

Fire Island National Seashore is hosting several free events this holiday season. Come prepared and dressed for the weather, and enjoy your park throughout the year. Rangers will guide visitors on 3-hour holiday hikes, starting at 9 a.m. at the Wilderness Visitor Center on the following Fridays: November 28, December 26 and January 2. On January 1, a New Year's Day hike will start from the Fire Island Lighthouse at 10 a.m. Reservations are required for some hikes.

The annual tree trimming program at Fire Island Lighthouse will take place Saturday, November 29 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The sixth annual re-enactment of the Flying Santa Program takes place at Fire Island Lighthouse at noon on Saturday, December 13. Santa arrives at the Lighthouse for a great photo opportunity! Come early. Additional information, including program contact numbers, is available online at: www.nps.gov/fiis/parknews/newsreleases.htm . For more information please contact, Paula Valentine at 631/687-4759.

Martin Van Buren National Historic Site

Kinderhook Village Birthday Observance and Winter Celebration

Visitors are invited to observe the 226th anniversary of Martin Van Buren’s birth in his home town. The annual community-sponsored event is conducted at the Kinderhook Reformed Cemetery beginning at 9:30 a.m. on December 5. Later that afternoon, the Martin Van Buren National Historic Site will start its Winter Celebration, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Warm yourself with hot cider while socializing in the winterized tent. Then enjoy Lindenwald especially adorned for the season! Plan to visit from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in conjunction with Kinderhook Village`s Candlelight Walk. For more information, please contact Jim McKay at 518/758-9689.

St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site

Holiday happenings at the church

December 13: Opera in the Historic Church – Join St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site for a 2 p.m. performance by the Bronx Opera Company, featuring favorite excerpts from classic operas as well as performances and a sing-along of some traditional seasonal carols and holiday favorites.

December 21: Holiday Organ Concert – A recital by Jan Piet Knijff featuring classical music on the historic 1833 pipe organ, including some traditional Holiday favorites will begin at 2 p.m. Refreshments will be served. Arrive at 1 p.m. to hear local storyteller Stephanie Mita share seasonal tales and legends.

December 22, 23, 26, 29-31: Family Holiday Program – Historic games, activities, music and demonstrations, designed for children on vacation from school, as well as parents, adults, and others. Schedule is subject to change. For more information, please contact Mindi Rambo at 212/668-2208 or 646/341-2825.

OHIO

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park
A children’s holiday craft-making event
Come prepare for the holiday season and learn about the traditions of Christmas, Chanukah and Kwanzaa at Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park as you make and take home crafts for the holidays. Stop in at the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center any time from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., Saturday, December 6 or December 13. Activities are free and open to the public. For more information, please contact Judi Hart at 937/225-7705.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Celebrate the season

On December 19 come light up the darkest day of the year from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Cuyahoga Valley Environmental Education Center. Learn why many cultures observe seasonal days of celebration during December. Enjoy a warm feast followed by a winter walk through woods filled with fun, history, and lights. Reservations required. Meals will be served at 6 and 7:30 p.m. Costs are $16 per person ages 12 and older, $13 CVNPA members, $10 children ages 5-11.

Vintage train excursions are scheduled throughout the month of December. Saturday Christmas Tree Adventures and Mr. Jingeling’s Holiday Express (Saturdays and Sundays) are scheduled from December 6 to 14. More information regarding schedules and costs are posted at http://www.nps.gov/cuva/planyourvisit/ . To register, please call 800/468-4070.

William Howard Taft National Historic Site

Christmas Holiday/New Year`s Open House

Arts and crafts along with refreshments and candy canes are planned on December 13 from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sit and chat with Father Christmas himself. Get your picture taken with Father Christmas. For more information, please contact Reginald Murray at 513/684 -3262, ext 307.

PENNSYLVANIA

Eisenhower National Historic Site

Eisenhower Christmas

Celebrate Christmas in the tradition of Gettysburg`s First Family at the Eisenhower National Historic Site through December 31. The Eisenhowers` home is decorated as it was during their presidential years in the 1950s: poinsettias, boughs of pine and holly, a tree surrounded by presents, and the dining room table set for Christmas dinner with the Eisenhower Wedgwood china and silver. In the living room, park rangers regale visitors with tales of Eisenhower Christmas` past while holiday music from the Eisenhowers` album collection provides background accompaniment. Original Eisenhower decorations are on display in the home and Eisenhower Christmas cards are on exhibit in the Reception Center. The Christmas celebration includes a holiday reception featuring refreshments on December 13. During the reception, shuttle buses depart for the site from the National Park Service Visitor Center every hour, 9 am to 4 pm. Entrance fee charged. For more information, please contact Carol Hegeman at 717/338-9114

Hopewell Furnace NHS
Iron Plantation Christmas

Activities are planned on from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 6 in the historic village and Bethesda Church. Through the decades that Hopewell Furnace was in operation, workers called it home as well as work. On holidays, workers celebrated while the activities of the business of iron making continued. During "Iron Plantation Christmas" visitors will be able to glimpse holiday activities at the furnace across the course of 100 years. The "Belsnickel" will give out treats or punishments to children who he judges deserve them. Historical Christmas songs will be played in the historic Bethesda Church and visitors are invited to join in their singing. An entrance fee is charged. For more information, please call 610/582-8773.

TENNESSEE

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

33rd Annual Festival of Christmas Past

Great Smoky Mountains National Park invites visitors on December 13 to the Sugarlands Visitor Center for the 33^rd annual Festival of Christmas Past. This cultural event depicts the Christmas holiday season as it was celebrated by mountain people in the southern Appalachians in the early 1900s. The festival will feature a blend of traditional mountain music, storytelling and crafts and skills demonstrations such as blacksmithing, quilting, weaving, and fabric dyeing. For more information, please contact Nancy Gray at 865/436-1208.

TEXAS

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

Christmas tree lighting & evening ranch tours

Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site and Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park invite everyone to the 39th annual Christmas tree lighting and evening ranch tour on Sunday, December 21, 2008 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Members of the Johnson family participate in this special celebration of the season.

The festivities provide something for everyone: a joyful open house at the Sauer-Beckmann German farm, a children`s nativity scene, and a relaxing ride through the famed LBJ Ranch to view Christmas displays and decorations. Yuletide music, lighting of a native cedar tree and Santa are all included. In the spirit of the season, all activities are free of charge. For this night only, all merchandise in the Center`s bookstore and gift shop will be discounted 15% between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.

In conjunction with the Johnson City Community`s celebration of "Lights Spectacular", the LBJ Boyhood Home will be open for lamplight tours from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on December 6, December 13 and December 20. National park rangers will provide tours of this historic house and explain life in Johnson City before rural electrification. For more information, please contact Sherry Justus at 830/868-7128, ext. 245.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

Los Pastores
This Hispanic folk play, scheduled for December 27, depicts the shepherds' journey to worship the Christ Child and the obstacles the devil puts before them. This traditional play has been presented each year at Mission San José since 1947. For more information, please call the Visitor Center at 210/932-1001.

VIRGINIA

Booker T. Washington National Monument

Do you hear what I hear?

The sounds of an 1860 Christmas will carry throughout Franklin County and the Smith Mountain Lake area during the annual Old Virginia Christmas Event at Booker T. Washington National Monument on Saturday, December 6 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. You are invited to visit the Burroughs Plantation where famous educator, Booker T. Washington, celebrated Christmas as a slave child. Listen to whispered conversations among Burroughs Plantation residents as they discuss the election of 1860, John Brown’s raid, secession and the “fearful state of agitation” that many had leading up to 1861. Discover how Christmas was celebrated on the eve of the American Civil War while enjoying sights, smells and tastes of an antebellum Christmas with candlelit costumed tours, children's activities and hot apple cider and gingerbread.

The afternoon program will include a “Hunt for the Yule Log” starting at 3 p.m. Children’s activities are scheduled from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Evening activities will begin at 5 p.m. with a special reading of Booker T. Washington's "Christmas Days in Old Virginia.” Costumed tours will start at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Join us for programs about a Christmas of long ago. Admission is free. The park is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission, parking and all programs are free. Visit us on the web at: www.nps.gov/bowa or call 540/721-2094.

Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park

Santa is scheduled to arrive at Chatham on December 21. An 1860`s Santa Claus will explain Santa in the mid 19th Century and pose for pictures with the kids. For more information, please contact Stacy Humphreys at 540/373-6122.

WASHINGTON
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
Whispers of Christmas pastGet a glimpse of Christmas past on Saturday December 6 at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Joe Pritchard, local tour guide, is returning for the second year with a Christmas presentation complete with photos of antique Christmas cards and Christmases in Seattle from the mid 1800’s to the present day. This presentation, the first of the 2008-2009 Northwest Notes Speaker Series, will take place at 2 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, please contact Ruth Kerr at 206/220-4238.

WASHINGTON, DC

Annual Lighting of the National Christmas Tree

The opening ceremony for the 85^th Annual Lighting of the National Christmas Tree will take place at 5 p.m. on Thursday, December 4, 2008. This event marks the opening of the three-week event sponsored by the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation, the official charitable partner of America’s National Parks. The gates will open for all ticket holders at 3:30 p.m., and all guests must be in their seats by 4:30 p.m.

WEST VIRGINIA

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Prospects of peace: a soldier’s prayer

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park visitors are invited on December 6 and 7 for a weekend that focuses on Yuletide 1864, when U. S. soldiers attempted to create their own Christmas at the front while recalling happier ones at home. With Abraham Lincoln re-elected, the nation looked toward a new year, the conclusion of war, prospects of peace and freedom for 4 million enslaved African Americans.

Programs and activities, scheduled from noon to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, feature local citizens and soldiers preparing for the Yuletide, a Grand Military and Citizen's Ball, Yuletide confections, and guided walking tours. Fees for Harpers Ferry Historical Park are $6 per vehicle for 3 days or $4 per person on foot, bicycle or motorcycle. For further information please call 304/535-6029.

National Park Service - Office of Communications and Public Affairs

Last Update: December 16, 2008