Discover the Magic of Christmas at Black Creek Pioneer Village

-  Get into  the spirit of the season at holiday workshops, special holiday activities and Christmas by Lamplight  -

TORONTO, Dec. 3, 2014 /CNW/ -  In the 19^th century, life was simpler: people enjoyed eating together, sharing music, going for walks and enjoying the sentimental feelings associated with the season. It was also the time when many holiday traditions began. Santa Claus, sometimes called St. Nicholas, was making an annual appearance with gifts in tow by the 1860s. The first Christmas card appeared in 1843 and by the 1860s people in Toronto had come to see Christmas as a special time to be spent with family and friends. Black Creek Pioneer Village brings that world to life again with a rich program of holiday activities for a new generation of Canadians with special weekend programming, a gingerbread village, a classic Christmas story, Santa's Cottage and Christmas by Lamplight.

During the holidays the historic Village is dressed up in its seasonal best. Decorations make use of natural materials such as evergreens, dried fruits and flowers grown right in the Village.  Each heritage home reflects how different families celebrated Christmas in the 1860s. Guided walks on the weekends such as the "Tour of Christmas Traditions," provide a glimpse into the customs that underlie modern-day celebrations, and give visitors a chance to chat with historical interpreters in the Village. Other activities include creating a Christmas card and "Christmas Feasts & Flaming Puddings", a presentation at which visitors can experience the culinary delight for themselves.

Every year Black Creek Pioneer Village celebrates the season with its signature "Christmas by Lamplight" event. On these evenings the site's historic buildings will be lit by the glow of two hundred antique lamps placed throughout the Village, along with candles, and - in some homes - a roaring fire in the hearth.  To add to the Christmas spirit, musicians will be playing, carollers will be singing, stories will be told and traditional treats such as roasted chestnuts, mulled apple cider, mincemeat tarts, and handmade taffy will be served. 

Christmas at Black Creek Pioneer Village Event Details:

A Christmas Carol – December 17, 7:00 p.m.

Black Creek Pioneer Village is excited to host the Humber River Shakespeare Co.'s production of this classic piece. Five actors will transport you into Charles Dickens classic story with Victorian costumes, enchanting masks and an antique trunk of story-telling treasures. 

For tickets, visit http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/898856

Christmas at Black Creek Pioneer Village (weekends until December 23) 11:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.:

Enjoy the Village at its best, all dressed for Christmas.  Weekends are filled with flaming puddings, Christmas tours, holiday crafts and ballroom dancing. On weekends starting December 6th, visit with Santa in his cottage, or take a ride on a horse-drawn wagon! General admission fees apply. For a complete list of activities visit: http://www.blackcreek.ca/v2/events/activities.dot

Christmas by Lamplight - Saturdays, December 6, 13 & 20, 6:00 p.m.to 9:30 p.m.

For three magical evenings, Black Creek Pioneer Village invites visitors to join in the holiday festivities. Bathed in the glow of lamplight and dressed in its finest holiday decor, Black Creek comes alive with live music, food and activities. Program only or with dinner options available. This is a pre-ticketed event. To order tickets please contact Customer Service at416-667-6284 during business hours or via e-mail at: [email protected]

For more information about the program and prices, please visit: christmasbylamplight.ca

Christmas Dinners – December 7, 14 & 21 - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family.

Members: Adult $48.60/Children (4-12 years old) $24.30
Non-Members: Adult $54.00/Children (4-12 years old) $27.00 Children 0-3 years old are FREE*

Prices include parking & admission to the Village. Above prices do not include HST. Reservations required. Please call 416-667-6284

General Village Admission:

• Adults (ages 15 - 59) $15
• Children (ages 5-14) $11
• Seniors (ages 60+) $14
• Students (15+ with ID) $14
• Children 4 years and under (when accompanied with a parent) are FREE
• Members Free
• Parking $7 per car/day

About Black Creek Pioneer Village
Black Creek Pioneer Village is Toronto's premier outdoor living history museum. Visitors can explore heritage homes and buildings restored to re-create an 1860s Ontario village. Historic interpreters in period dress demonstrate how villagers lived, worked and played. The Village hosts learning programs and special events that highlight local heritage and culture. The tranquil setting, rural landscapes, heritage gardens and period farm animal breeds make Black Creek Pioneer Village the perfect place to break out of the modern world and journey into the past. Located in north Toronto, Black Creek Pioneer Village is owned and operated by Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA). For more information please visit www.blackcreek.ca.

Black Creek Pioneer Village acknowledges support from the City of Toronto, the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture, The Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto, and the public.

SOURCE: Black Creek Pioneer Village

Media Contact: Rick Sikorski, Black Creek Pioneer Village, 416.661.6600 ext 5414, [email protected]