This December, Genesee Country Village & Museum invites families to begin a cherished tradition and step back in time for “Yuletide in the Country,” an unforgettable holiday experience blending immersive storytelling, local history, and festive cheer. On select nights – December 6, 7, 13, 14, 15, 20, and 21 – guests will be transported to an 1870s Christmas Eve, where the sights, smells, sounds, and stories of a 19th-century holiday come to life. The museum’s annual Yuletide in the Country Tours have become a beloved family tradition, but this year brings a fresh storytelling twist. Visitors will join a spirited guide, Joy, portrayed as a resilient 19th-century servant, leading them through the village and into homes, taverns, and churches filled with stories and celebrations from Western New Yorkers of Christmases past. Yuletide in the Country immerses guests in the traditions and warmth of our region’s past, from Swedish ornament-making to bustling preparations for Watch Night – a perfect opportunity for families to connect with the past and build a tradition of their own.
On this enchanting evening tour, families will experience the traditions of Christmas, Hanukkah, and other celebrations as they walk through candle-lit buildings adorned in authentic holiday decor. Marvel at snowy village streets, witness festive dances, and hear the whispers of local gossip—all while immersing in the rich stories of the season. Each stop is a new chapter, weaving together a celebration that brings the heart of the holiday season to life.
Visitors can elevate their Yuletide experience by pairing the tour with a cozy dinner in the Museum’s Meeting Center, where a delicious holiday buffet awaits. Indulge in traditional holiday dishes, both savory and sweet, in a warmly decorated setting that features a roaring fire, sweets, and a cash bar.
Ticket pricing for Yuletide in the Country Tours vary by day. Tour tickets and buffet dinner tickets must be purchased separately. Buffet Dinner tickets are $32 for adults, $20 for youth (ages 3-12), and free for children under 3. Tickets are available now, and advance purchase is strongly encouraged as these popular events sell out quickly.
Yuletide in the Country is sponsored by Cedar Street Sales & Rentals, NFP Telecom, and Valley Propane & Fuels. More information and tickets can be found at https://www.gcv.org/event/yuletide-in-the-country-tours-dinner/.
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