Homes for the Holidays: Seasonal Events at NYC Historic Houses

By Troy Segal

‘Twas the month before Christmas, and all through the house(s)…

Amid the neon flash and digital sparkle that characterizes New York City this time of year, step back in time to celebrate the holiday the old-fashioned way—by visiting some of the town’s oldest surviving mansions. All decked out in their seasonal best, they’ll welcome you into a different century with old-time entertainments, tours and activities.

Party like it’s 1839 at the Mount Vernon Museum & Garden, whose tours by candlelight feature period music, baked treats and costumes to snap a selfie in. Dec. 5 & 6.

Photo: H.L.I.T. — Flickr

Historic Richmond Town really goes to town on Dec. 7; a visit from Santa Claus kicks off a day of carolers, carriage rides, a crafts fair and a choral concert throughout the cluster of 30 structures, which date from the late 17th to the early 20th centuries. It all culminates in a traditional tree lighting.

Photo: Mathiou J-A — Creative Commons

Kingsland Homestead, an example of a Colonial Era structure unique to these parts, is one of the key stops on the Annual Holiday Historic House Tour offered by the Queens Historical Society (the Flushing Town Hall and the Louis Armstrong House Museum are also on the bill). Dec. 7.

Music fills the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum on Dec. 13 & 14, when the Bronx Arts Ensemble presents holiday afternoon concerts. On the evening of the 13th, Victorian-costumed carolers and docents guide visitors through the imposing 1836 Greek Revival house and its various decorated trees.

Photo: NatalieMaynor — Flickr

You are cordially invited to an annual 19th-century holiday party, held at the Merchant’s House Museum. It features performances from a one-man version of A Christmas Carol, Dickensian food and drink, music, and tours around this townhouse, the best-preserved in Manhattan. Dec. 16.