Begin the holiday season with Texas’ earliest residents and see how holiday traditions were celebrated in the late 1800s on December 14 and 15, 3 - 9 p.m., at the 42nd Annual Candlelight Celebration at Dallas Heritage Village, 1515 South Harwood, sponsored by Baylor Health Care System.
“Get Wrapped Up in Candlelight” will be this year’s theme, celebrating the beauty of holidays past with seasonal décor and traditional celebrations featured throughout the Village. Take a stroll and experience gleeful carolers, holiday storytelling, hand-weaving, blacksmithing, interpreters in traditional costume, and many other festive activities such as the American Flyer model train exhibit in the Depot, operated by the Lone Star Flyer Model Train Club.
“There are few places that get people in the holiday spirit like Candlelight, which sets a beautiful landscape for the season, honoring and creating memories,” said Melissa Prycer, Interim Executive Director, Dallas Heritage Village. “Candlelight is a magical event that has been a holiday tradition in Dallas for 42 years, and we welcome visitors from across the globe.”
During Candlelight, pioneer and Victorian Texas is brought to life by characters dressed in period costumes. Guests may explore 38 historic buildings, circa 1840 to 1910, traditionally decorated by area garden clubs. Don’t forget to visit a special 19th century guest, St. Nicholas, in the Depot and snap a photo with him.
Kids may participate in hands-on holiday crafts. Attendees may also ride around the Village in a surrey pulled by the Village’s loveable Mammoth Jack donkeys Nip and Tuck ($5 per rider) or a hay wagon pulled by a vintage tractor ($3 per rider). Local food trucks, such as Ruthie’s Grilled Cheese Truck, Tutta’s Pizza, Easy Slider, Good Karma Kitchen, and more will have delicious food available to purchase. Wine will be available for purchase from Times Ten Cellars.
All proceeds from Candlelight, the museum’s biggest annual public fundraiser, benefit museum programs at Dallas Heritage Village.
Candlelight corporate and family sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Lisa Simpson at 214-413-3662, lsimpson@dallasheritagevillage.org. Various sponsorship levels are available with benefits as well as area and activity sponsorships.
