The Old Independence Regional Museum is inviting families to step back in time as it prepares to host its 18th annual Christmas Family Day on Saturday, Dec. 13. The free event, running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., features crafts, demonstrations, and holiday activities celebrating what organizers call an “old-fashioned” Christmas.
Museum Director Taylor Fitterling said staff and volunteers will dress in historic costumes, Christmas sweaters, and festive attire as visitors enjoy treats, music, and hands-on activities.
This year’s event will feature antique tractors displayed on Ninth Street by the Tri-County Antique Tractor Club. Some tractors will be decorated for the holiday, and visitors can vote for a “Best of Show” trophy, club member Eric Reed said.
Volunteers will demonstrate taffy-making, allowing attendees to pull and sample fresh taffy. A butter-churning demonstration will also be held, with visitors invited to help churn and taste the finished product. Guests may also decorate sugar cookies, sip hot chocolate and holiday punch, and enjoy fresh popcorn from Riley’s Traveling Treats.
Living history interpreter Nelson Barnett will give visitors a look at holiday shopping traditions at the former Barnett Brothers Store and introduce guests to the museum’s general store exhibit. Children and adults can also try their hand at traditional Christmas crafts, including salt-dough ornaments, tin-punch decorations, yarn-doll angels, jingle-bell bracelets, and popcorn strings.
Santa will be on site throughout the day for photos and to hear wish lists, with alternating backdrops inside the museum and beside decorated tractors outdoors. Children may also write letters to Santa.
The Batesville Brass Society and the museum’s longtime performer, Mr. Casper, will provide live Christmas music. Free holiday face-painting will be offered for children.
The museum gift shop will feature “Santa’s Helpers” to assist young shoppers with budget-friendly gift selections. Volunteers will wrap items at no cost, and the gift shop will offer pre-wrapped mystery boxes for purchase.
Fitterling said the annual event is made possible by museum volunteers, donors and community sponsors. Those interested in volunteering or learning about upcoming programs may contact the museum at 870-793-2121 or visit oirm.org.
Image: Gena Tate, White River Now
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