Haldimand County Museum & Archives is hosting a number of programs this December, including its annual Christmas Tea, a Holiday open house, a talk on the history of Christmas traditions and a special lecture on toys from the past. All programs will be held at the new Cayuga Library & Heritage Centre; registration may be completed online or in-person at any County office.

Historically Speaking: Christmas Customs & Traditions – December 4 (1-3pm)
This year’s Christmas Tea theme centers around the many Christmas customs around the world. Attendees will learn the origins of holiday traditions we practice in Canada and explore unique holiday customs from around the world. Did you know that children in Holland receive presents from Sinterklaas on December 5 (not Christmas eve or day), and that Japanese children receive gifts on their pillow? Scones, a bottomless cup of tea and sweet treats will be provided. Pre-registration is required for this program; the cost is $10/person. Code: 10310.

Holiday Open House at the Cayuga Library & Heritage Centre – December 6 (4:30 to 7:30pm)
Before heading to Light Up Night at the Village Green, residents and visitors are invited to stop by the new Cayuga Library &+Heritage Centre for hot drinks (tea & apple cider), Christmas treats and festive activities. After checking out the new library, museum exhibit & archival space, kids can take part in a fun scavenger hunt and Christmas card craft. Tours of the new, state-of-the art facility will also be provided. No registration is required; just drop in.

Culture Club: Dickens of a Christmas – December 10 (6:30 to 8pm)
In 1848, Dickens published A Christmas Carol and it was an instant hit. His ideal Christmas was full of charity and good will to all. At this talk, attendees will discover the history of Christmas through the eyes of Charles Dickens – and the many Christmas customs and traditions that can be credited to him. Pre-registration is required for this program; the cost is $5/person. Code: 10311.

Heritage Series: Christmas Toyland – December 14 (1 to 3pm)
Every generation has a list of their ‘must have’ toys. In the mid 1800s dolls, wooden blocks, marbles, card games and yo-yos were all the rage. By the 1900s, teddy bears, erector sets and  Crayola Crayons were top of the list. Join museum curator Karen Richardson for a fun afternoon reflecting on the past through the world of play.  Pre-registration is required for this program; the cost is $5/person. Code: 10312.

For more information on these programs or other Museum offerings, contact the museum at museum.archives@haldimandcounty.on.ca or 905-772-5880. A comprehensive schedule of all Museum programs is available in the County’s Community Guide.