08/09/2010

The traditional ‘The Keeping of Christmas' exhibition returns (Sat 27 Nov - Fri 31 Dec) giving visitors to the House a chance see the spectacular decorations based on evidence from the Georgian period. The new Christmas decoration commission for 2010 is an exotic dish of brawn created by food historian Ivan Day for the Fairfax House kitchen!

To celebrate the opening of this festive exhibition, there is the chance to join an exclusive *Christmas Twilight Tour (Thurs 2 Dec) led by York Civic Trust Director, Peter Brown, who will be talking about how the Georgians would have celebrated Christmas, including details of the foods they would have eaten. This will be followed by mulled wine and mince pies.

For families, there will be traditional Winter Tales (Sun 12 Dec 11.00am, Sun 19 Dec 11.00am and 4.00pm) read by storyteller, Jenna Drury. Molly, the scullery maid, will take visitors on a journey through the House, sharing festive stories and reading classic tales from Dickens and Wind in the Willows. She may even tell tales about secrets in the House too! To keep out the winter chill, hot chocolate, mulled wine and mince pies will be served offering a perfect Christmas treat.

Those interested in creating Christmas decorations will have the chance to make their own by joining a two-part special Christmas Floral Decorations Workshops. Talented florist Hazel Hall will share flower arrangement tips and share her knowledge enabling participants to make a stunning Christmas wreath (Tues 7 Dec, 1.30pm to 5.00pm) and a festive table centre piece (Sat 11 Dec, 1.30pm to 5.00pm) using a mixture of fresh and artificial flowers, foliage and decorations.

Hannah Phillip, Director of Fairfax House, commented: "We have a rich and varied Christmas programme this year with something suitable for all the family. The Christmas storytelling sessions and flower decoration workshops are new to our programme and we hope visitors will enjoy taking part.

"It's a magical time of year to be visiting Fairfax House and we look forward to welcoming everyone."

For more details and ticket prices for 2010 Christmas Events visit website at http://www.fairfaxhouse.co.uk/, ring 01904 655543 or call during House opening hours.

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