Exploring ideas and engaging in conversation

Tag: plimoth plantation

Help Plimoth Plantation

Happy Thanksgiving to those who are celebrating today!

Museum professionals and students aren’t exactly two crowds known for having lots of extra money, but if you can spare anything, Plimoth Plantation needs your help.

On Saturday, November 19, the Francis Cooke house at the living history museum burned down during a hearth cooking demonstration. Those of us who went down on the Boston EMP visit to Plimoth two weeks ago may remember that fire is a distressingly authentic threat to historic village even today.

In the spirit of the holidays, please consider donating even a small amount of money to one of New England’s landmark museums to help them rebuild the Francis Cooke house.

Here and There: Holiday Fun, Museum-Style

Thanksgiving break is almost here and it’s time to start planning special holiday activities. I’ve done the research for you and narrowed it down to the six most promising events of the season. Please see museum websites for further details.

1. Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, December 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18 4-9pm

$14 for adults on Friday and Sunday and $15 on Saturday

Immerse yourself in good old fashioned Christmas cheer with holiday traditions talks, music, readings, crafts, a gingerbread house contest and sleigh  rides if the weather cooperates.

2. A Rich History: A Celebration of Chocolate at the Old South Meeting House Annual Holiday Open House

Friday and Saturday, December 2&3 11am-3pm

Free and open to the public

American Heritage Chocolate team members demonstrate Colonial chocolate making. Learn how chocolate, coffee and tea were served in the colonies.

3. Traditions of the Season at Paul Revere House

Saturday and Sunday, December 3&4 9:30am-4:15pm

$5 for adults, $4.50 for college students

Visit the Paul Revere House and Pierce Hichborn House to learn about celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day the 18th century way. Enjoy music, treats and mulled cider.

4. Annual Holiday Wreath Making Workshop at Plimoth Plantation

Sunday, December 4 1-3pm $55 for adults

Learn about the history of wreath making while making one of your own. Materials and refreshments will be provided.

5. A Holiday Soiree at Hancock-Clarke House (Lexington Historical Society)

Friday, December 9 7:30-9pm

$10 for adult nonmembers

Reserve by calling (781) 862-1703

Explore the roots of holiday traditions while enjoying refreshments and a performance by the Colonial Singers.

6. Winter Solstice in Legend and Song at the Loring-Greenough House

Friday, December 23 8-10pm

This evening event will feature live music and storytelling that illuminates the legends behind holiday traditions.