Learn About Victorian and Gilded Age Christmas Traditions at Ventfort Hall
It's interesting to see what traditions have followed us into the modern age, and what traditions seem simply bizarre nowadays.
Saturday, December 20 | 3:30pm
Ventfort Hall, Lenox, MA
Ventfort Hall Gilded Age Mansion & Museum in Lenox hosts a festive Holiday Tea & Talk exploring how Christmas was celebrated during the Victorian and Gilded Age. The afternoon features a presentation by Ventfort Hall docent and volunteer Bonnie Eastwood, who will delve into historic holiday traditions including decorating the home, the Christmas tree, Santa Claus, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day customs, gift giving, holiday meals, New Year’s Eve, and Twelfth Night. It's interesting to see what traditions have followed us into the modern age, and what traditions seem simply bizarre nowadays. It's easy to wonder what the Victorian and Gilded Age folks would think of our traditions today, and map the through lines.
A traditional tea follows the talk, with tickets also granting access to the mansion throughout the day. Reservations are strongly encouraged, as seating is limited. Tickets are $45.
Written by
Francesca Olsen is a writer, digital communications consultant and textile artist focuses on the heritage, ritual, magic, and the power held in objects and stories.
