It’s the most wonderful time of the year!
The community is invited to experience the simple warmth and beauty of Christmas past. Vermilionville Living History Museum and Folklife Park brings to life the holiday traditions of yesteryear with our annual Old Time Christmas Festivity. We have organized the Old Time Christmas Family Day on Saturday, December 16th for all ages to enjoy from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. However, the celebration begins on December 12-17 and resumes on December 19-23.
Visitors will have the opportunity to embark upon a self-guided tour to learn firsthand Christmas and New Year’s traditions from the 1700s and 1800s. Some traditions include making santons ("little saints"), candles, soap, Victorian paper ornaments, citrus pomanders and more. In order to help navigate your route, attendees will be given a guide that reveals various activities taking place throughout the village.
For example, the first stop along the tour is La Maison des Cultures where you’ll meet Chief John “Sitting Bear” Mayeux of the Avogel Tribe and Janice “Morning Sun” Mayeux of the Mississippi Philadelphia Choctaw Tribe. Janice will be conducting Native American storytelling while the Chief discusses tribal gift giving traditions.
On your next stop, you’ll meet Papa Noël, the French Santa Claus, in La Cabanage de Piégeur (The Trapper’s Cabin). Papa Noël would deliver presents such as candy, money or small toys to kids. And, guess how he knew where to find them? Well, you have to visit our historic village to find out. Bring the family to learn more fascinating facts on your journey.
During the season, our park is open Tuesday – Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a stroll through this joyous season from a different perspective. Regular admission rates apply. For additional information, please visit our website at Vermilionville.org. Or, give us a call at 337.233.4077 with questions.
