Holidays at Greenwich Historical Society
Holiday Tours of the Bush-Holley House
Celebrate the holiday season at the Greenwich Historical Society! Visit our newly arranged period rooms and explore the holidays celebrated in the 18th century.
Guests will tour the first floor of Bush-Holley House, festively decorated for the 1780s. See how the Dutch English Bush family welcomed family and friends for a traditional New England Thanksgiving; celebrated the arrival of St. Nicholas, the precursor of Santa Claus, with gifts and treats for the children; and marked the last night of the Christmas holiday season with a feast on Twelfth Night.
Holiday tours are offered Tuesday, November 17 through Sunday, January 10. Tours are available Tuesday-Sunday at 11:00, 1:00, 2:00, & 3:00. Reserve your tour in advance by following the link below.
Candlelight Tours of the Bush-Holley House
New this year are evening Candlelight Tours of Bush-Holley House. Guests will take part in a lantern walk to the historic house, where the rooms and hearths will be glowing with candles and firelight.
Guests will tour the first floor of Bush-Holley House, festively decorated for the 1780s. See how the Dutch English Bush family welcomed family and friends for a traditional New England Thanksgiving; celebrated the arrival of St. Nicholas, the precursor of Santa Claus, with gifts and treats for the children; and marked the last night of the Christmas holiday season with a feast on Twelfth Night.
Festive refreshments will be served after the tours in the Barn, beautifully decorated for the holiday season with lights and greens.
Candlelight Tours are offered Friday, November 27 through Sunday, December 13, on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. Tours depart at 4:00, 4:45, 5:30, and 6:15. Space is limited, and advance registration is required. Click on your desired tour date below to be directed to the registration page.
Special Holiday Events
8th Annual Festival of Tabletop Trees
Did you know that in the 1800s, Americans placed modest-sized Christmas trees on tables and sideboards and even occasionally hung them upside down from the ceiling? Our 8th annual Festival of Trees celebrates the roots of this popular holiday tradition. Local retailers, organizations, and designers hand-craft and decorate trees that can be bid on and won at the end of our festival. Come marvel at the beautiful and whimsical creations from our community members. Purchase or bid on a tree via the on-site silent auction.
Trees will be on display in the Historical Society museum lobby November 19 – November 22
Wreath Making Workshop
In this seasonal hands-on workshop, floral designer Colin Stark guides you in creating your very own holiday wreath using fresh seasonal greens and holiday florals and trims. Create a wreath that reflects your personal style and that you can enjoy all season long. All materials will be provided, along with some festive cheer to celebrate the season.
Thursday, December 3
6:30-8:00
This event has reached capacity.
Holiday Market
Join us at the Greenwich Historical Society for our Holiday Market!
Holiday Markets have been popular for centuries. While most happen outdoors, you can shop at the Greenwich Historical Society Holiday Market in the comfort of our Museum Lobby for a curated collection of foods and gifts for everyone on your list. Embrace the holiday spirit at our opening night. This festive evening celebration kicks off the boutique with cheer, and of course, shopping!
Market Opening Night:
Thursday, December 3 – 5:30-8:00
Market Day:
Friday, December 4 – 9:30-4:00
Holiday Tea with the Holleys
Cozy up in the barn to enjoy a festive holiday tea party inspired by the traditions of the Holley family. Savor delectable food, tea, and live harp music to put you in a merry mood. Afterwards, enjoy our award-winning exhibition Fashioning America: 250 years of Greenwich Style. If you would like to end your afternoon with one of our Candlelight Tours, please register separately for that event.
Friday, December 4
1:00-3:00 PM
This event has reached capacity.