The Luzerne County Historical Society will present its holiday-themed Festive Traditions program at the Swetland Homestead on Saturday and Sunday, December 7 and 8, 2019, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Travel through time as you tour the house with costumed guides and explore how Christmas traditions evolved from the late 1700s through 1877. See a demonstration of period hearth cooking and learn about late-1700s and early-1800s favorite dishes. New this year is Festive Wreaths, a silent auction of traditional and contemporary holiday wreaths donated by local businesses and individuals. Proceeds benefit the programs, collections and exhibitions of the Luzerne County Historical Society.
Guests will meet various members of the Swetland family as they journey through Christmases gone by, and learn about their lives and the history of the Wyoming Valley. Bids on the Festive Wreaths will be accepted through Sunday at 4 p.m.; winning bidders get to take home their wreath! Hot cider and cookies will be provided. The Society appreciates the support of Community Bank NA.
Tours run from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Tickets for the tours are $8 for members, $12 for non-members and $5 for kids 5-17; admission to Festive Wreaths is free. To purchase tickets in advance or to become a member, call 570-823-6244 ext. 3 or email reservations@luzernehistory.org. No reservations are needed, tickets can be purchased at the door.