The Luzerne County Historical Society is proud to announce an all new holiday program. On Saturday and Sunday, December 7th and 8th, 2024, the Society will host “Christmas Past and Present” at the historic Swetland Homestead, 885 Wyoming Avenue in Wyoming. The event will feature both modern and historic takes on the holiday season.

Inside the house, guests will be transported to 1824 and will learn all about the holiday season 200 years ago. See what passed for decorations, and learn all about the traditions of this new celebration, Christmas Day. See how what at the dawn of America had been literally “just another day” is now, 50 years later, is beginning to shed its religious roots and is slowly turning into the celebration we all know today.

Outside the house, present day Christmas features heavily, with Santa Claus and his helper, live animals from Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge, and a selection of local food trucks. Bring your letters for Santa, and get present from his helper, and after visiting the animals and taking photos, visit the Darling House (onsite) for a wide array of last-minute gift ideas in our gift shop. Finally, grab lunch at one of the food trucks onsite, selling smoked meats, Caribbean cuisine, and more.

The event runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Thanks to a generous donation from Berkshire Asset Management, tickets for LCHS Members and children 12 and under are FREE. Tickets for nonmembers are just $10 each. Tickets include tours of the house, visits with Santa, and access to the animals. To purchase tickets in advance or to become a member, call 570-823-6244 ext. 3 or email reservations@luzernehistory.org. No reservations are required, tickets can be purchased at the door.