Christmas by Candlelight

Christmas by Candlelight invites you to a 19th century Christmas! Take a candlelit tour of the 1838 Overholt Homestead. Enjoy historically accurate decor as you learn about some of our most beloved Christmas traditions and how the Overholts celebrated (or not!) in the 1800s. As you tour room to room, follow the Overholts’ traditions over the century and how they changed over time. Learn about Christmas in southwestern Pennsylvania as far back as 1800, the lore of gift givers like Belsnickel and Santa Claus, and the origins of other customs.

Also taste warm spiced cider and a sweet treat from the Overholts’ 1830s kitchen, visit the carriage house where our historic sleigh will soon be filled with gifts, and stop in the Educational Distillery for samples, bottle sales, and holiday-themed cocktails. 

In the Museum, partake in holiday traditions like decorating ornaments and making Christmas cards. Explore our award-winning exhibition, Forging Ahead and Falling Behind, about the history of West Overton’s villagers and industries.

Homestead tours are limited due to capacity in the house, so tickets must be purchased in advance.

Tours will be offered December 14, 15, 21, and 22. Tours will run on the half hour, the first tour beginning at 4:00 p.m. and the last beginning at 7:00 p.m.