Thanksgiving and Christmas Traditions Series

Thanksgiving and Christmas Traditions Series

Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m.

You and your preschooler can experience the routines of a farm in fall through stories, games, and hands-on activities. Each week focuses on a different crop or tradition.

Details

• Time: 9:30-11:00
• Please arrive 5 minutes early so program may begin on time
• Location: Varies by date
• Dress for weather—program occurs indoors and outdoors

Registration Information

• Per person: $17 ($15.30 for members)
• Child(ren) must be accompanied by a paying adult
• Each ticket is for one session

Calendar

Program Descriptions

Thanksgiving on American Farm • November 20

• Location: Meet at the Murray Conference Center (12234 Douglas Parkway)

In 1842, Lydia Maria Child published her poem, “Over the River and Through the Woods.”  In the poem, she shares her memories of going to her grandparents’ farm in the winter.  We’ll use this poem to explore the traditions farm families used to celebrate and give thanks for the harvest.

Keepunumuk: A Time of Harvest • November 20

• Location: Meet at the Visitor Center (11121 Hickman)

There’s more than one side to every story. Come hear a story of Keepunumuk, a time of harvest, a Wampanoag tale of the first Thanksgiving. Learn about the Three Sisters and how the Wampanoag people had a role in helping the first settlers make a home. Make a craft and learn more about the Three Sisters.

Irish Christmas Traditions • December 4

• Location: Meet at the Visitor Center (11121 Hickman)

Martin and Ellen Flynn were born in Ireland and celebrated their Irish heritage. Travel to the Flynn House, read stories in the parlor, and see the house for Christmas. Travel back to the Visitor Center to do your Irish- and Christmas- themed crafts.

Norwegian Christmas Traditions • December 11

• Location: Meet at the Visitor Center (11121 Hickman)

What stories did Norwegian families tell at the holidays?  Hear these in the Tangen parlor, then explore the house. Learn about polar bears, nisse (trolls), and traditional Norwegian decorations for Christmas. Travel back to the Visitor Center to do your Norwegian- and Christmas- themed crafts.  

Christmas on American Farm • December 18

• Location: Meet at the Murray Conference Center (12234 Douglas Parkway)

“’Twas the Night Before Christmas” serves as the starting point for this program.  Written by Clement Moore as a gift for his children, the poem was first published in 1823.  This program will explore the history and traditions of the many different holidays that fall at the end of December.  Read stories in the parlor at the farm, see the farm decorated for the holidays, and travel back to the Conference Center to do your crafts.