Colonial Christmas traditions along with a Parade will combine to create a festive atmosphere for all on Saturday, December 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Halifax.
Costumed re-enactors of the 5th North Carolina Regiment of the Continental Line will depict life for Revolutionary War era soldiers which will include military drills, campfire cooking, and more at Halifax’s Tap Room, an 18th century tavern. Highlights include firings of 18th century muskets, and a hands-on recruitment and drill activity.
From 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., horse-drawn carriage rides through town will be offered for a nominal fee.
Adding to the holiday atmosphere, the horse will be outfitted with sleigh bells.
A soup and sandwich luncheon will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Halifax United Methodist Church for a small fee.
Visitors can tour the Tap Room tavern and the Owens House, a colonial merchant’s home, both will be decorated for the season with natural materials and will be open for guided tours.
Other historic site buildings will be decorated on the exterior.
The Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception will hold a special Mass service at 9 a.m.
Visitors can also tour other historic buildings that are not regularly open to the public. These include the Royal White Hart Masonic Lodge, No. 2, the Church of the Immaculate Conception, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, and Halifax Baptist Church.
For times and locations, stop by the historic site visitor center to pick up a schedule of activities and map.
For those interested in finishing their holiday shopping, a local nonprofit group, Preservation Halifax, will host a silent auction featuring holiday gifts and estate items from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the visitor center. The auction ends at 4 p.m., and items can be picked up until 5 p.m.
At 2 p.m., the Halifax Christmas Parade will take place along King Street. Santa Claus will be in the visitor center immediately following the parade.
