Holiday Hoopla at Hill-Stead Museum!

Visitors to Hill-Stead Museum this December will journey back in time to the holiday season of 1921, when Theodate Pope, Hill-Stead’s architect and founder, and her husband John Riddle were planning their trip to Argentina, John’s new diplomatic posting. Come Meet the Family on December 8, from 12 – 4 pm, as the museum  welcomes visitors in the style of the Popes. Interrpreters in period garb will portray members of the family, their household staff and guests. History buffs and holiday enthusiasts will revel in an era and place of gracious living as they leisurely tour Hill-Stead’s festooned parlor, libraries, dining room and bedrooms. “One of the highlights of this event,” commented Director of Interpretations and Programs, Melanie Bourbeau, “is that guests hear true stories, straight from the mouths of famous and not-so-famous characters. It is a real insider’s perspective on life in the Pope household.”  The program is free to members or with museum admission.

For those with the holiday shopping bug, Hill-Stead presents its popular Holiday Boutique in the Makeshift Theater. On December 7 & 8, 10 am – 4 pm, visitors will enjoy browsing over 25 artists and crafters displaying unique gifts for any occasion. Homemade treats will tempt even the most intent shopper to take a refreshment break. Admission to the boutique is free. For more information, call 860.677.4787 or visit www.hillstead.org.

Celebrated holiday programs continue into the New Year:

November 26 - January 5, 2014, Tuesday – Sunday  10 am – 4 pm, visitors can enjoy Christmas Memories: Tales & Traditions of an Early 20th Century Holiday, offering a rare glimpse into the holiday environment of a wealthy New England family at the turn of the 20th century. 

For more information about these and other activities, call 860.677.4787 or visit www.hillstead.org.