The Arms Family Museum is sparkling for the holiday season! Memories of Christmas Past, the annual holiday spectacular, is in its 12th year in the 1905 Arts & Crafts mansion of Olive and Wilford Arms. The theme for 2019 is “By the Fireside”. Inspired by the museum’s mix of fireplaces from the Arts and Crafts Design Movement and later architectural styles, the fireside theme represents the heart of the home and an icon of holiday celebrations.
The Mahoning Valley Historical Society will be bringing its 12-year tradition of all new design themes for each of the main floor’s 7 period rooms. The exhibit, as well as the gift shop, will feature a blend of new and vintage objects, making the museum visit a distinctive holiday experience. From European to Asian influences, 19th century to Mid-Century Modern, and vibrant color palettes to nature’s hues, each room will be designed to showcase the many ways Christmas is celebrated. Anthony Worrellia, Memories of Christmas Past Designer since 2008 and avid vintage Christmas collector, plans the exhibit and searches for artifacts throughout the year. He and his team of volunteers and staff begin the installation in late-September.
The exhibit is open November 23-January 5, 2020. Hours for the museum are Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00pm-4:00pm; and Thursday 12:00pm-7:00pm. There will be special hours on Monday, December 23 from 12:00pm-7:00pm. The Arms Family Museum will be a featured venue at the First Night Youngstown celebration on Tuesday, December 31 from 12:00pm-7:00pm. The Museum is closed Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Admission costs for this season will be $10 for Adults, $9 for Seniors (60+) and College Students (with I.D. card), and $8 for Children (3-18). Admission is free for Toddlers (under 3), MVHS Members, and new for 2019, Active Military and Military Veterans (with I.D. card). The admission fee covers visits to both the Arms Family Museum and the Tyler History Center for that particular day.
The Hands On History Room at Arms Family Museum will once again be transformed into a Christmas-themed experience for visitors of all ages. Santa’s Village, sponsored by MACY’s GIVES, will be an interactive space to enjoy photo opportunities with new holiday dress-up props, crafting activities, and a Santa Showcase. Also new this year will be Santa’s Story Hour on Sundays, starting at 2:00pm. Classic Holiday stories will be read aloud in a special reading nook. MVHS staff and volunteers will also be serving hot cocoa during this reading time. Additionally, local MACY’s employees will be assisting staff at Memories of Christmas Past as their way of supporting the Mahoning Valley during the holidays.
There will be an Ornament Making Workshop on December 8; and Behind the Ropes tours on December 10 and 17.
For more information, visit the Memories of Christmas Past website.
Joy of Christmas Light Display