The holidays in Cleveland have always been a magical time of year. This holiday season the Cleveland History Center headquarters of the Western Reserve Historical Society (WRHS), located in the heart of University Circle, invites you to discover the nostalgic holiday traditions of Cleveland.
Now through January 6 guests of all ages can experience family friendly activities, seasonal vignettes and nostalgic décor when they visit the Cleveland History Center. The halls of the Bingham-Hanna mansion are decked for the holidays and feature clothing and traditional pieces celebrating Chanukah, while the Hay-McKinney mansion is Mad For Plaid with a Victorian Christmas flair. Holiday Victorian tours will also be occurring daily in the Hay-McKinney mansion and are included with museum admission. If more modern décor and traditions are what you’re looking for the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum is worth the visit. Amongst the historic collection of vehicles guests can find the largest indoor blow mold display in Cleveland.
Families are encouraged to bring their children in to experience the wonderful days of Cleveland past. Not only are there weekly hands-on activities for the kids, but on Saturday, December 15, the Cleveland History Center will host the annual breakfast with Santa. This crowd favorite will include a delicious breakfast and lap time with the man in the red suit, as well as a special appearance from a Cleveland icon and Santa’s “keeper of the keys” Mr. Jingeling.
Some may fondly remember the days of Higbees and Halle department stores with their beautiful holiday decorations, the sights, and the smells. Mr. Jingeling was the "Keeper of the Keys" to Santa's workshop and was originally sponsored by Halle Brothers department store. He served as the store's Christmas season spokesman on television and acted as Santa's representative in the store.
Celebrations! Holiday Traditions in Cleveland runs now through January 6, Tuesday through Sunday 10am to 5pm at the Cleveland History Center. Breakfast with Santa will be held on Saturday, December 15 from 9am – noon.
Additional information can be found HERE.
