Frankfort is preparing for an enchanting holiday season as Ward Hall kicks off its annual Christmas Candlelight Tours. This beloved tradition, which features over 20 Christmas trees, celebrates the history of the holiday season.
The event takes place over two weekends: December 6-8 and December 12-15, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Additional appointments may be arranged outside these dates through the Ward Hall Preservation Foundation. Visitors are encouraged to experience the magic of a Victorian Christmas.
As part of the festivities, the Ward Hall Historic Dance Society will perform period dances at 6:30 p.m. tonight. “We’re doing the history of the Christmas tree again,” noted Ron Bryant, President of the Ward Hall Preservation Foundation. “From beginnings to modern. Nearly every room will have a Christmas tree in it.”
Highlights of the tour include a stunning 12-foot tall Victorian tree, a Queen Victorian tree, and even an Aluminum tree from the 1950s and 60s. “I think it’s going to be really pretty this year,” Bryant added. “We’re going to go all out.”
Bryant and his team, led by Anne Parker and Patrick Parker, aim to enhance the experience annually. The Christmas Candlelight Tours are the foundation’s largest fundraising event, with proceeds dedicated to the ongoing restoration of the historic estate. “We always put it toward the restoration of the house,” Bryant explained.
In addition to the festive decorations, guests can expect to participate in traditional dances as part of the show, including the classic Virginia Reel. The dance society holds four gatherings a year to bring the spirit of mid-19th century dancing to life.
Future restoration plans for Ward Hall include rebuilding the front steps, expanding the formal gardens, and reconstructing the Carpenter Gothic horse stable. “Everything we do here is presenting history and educating people about the things that went on during the 1800s, 19th century,” said Bryant. “You can actually have fun learning in a place like this.”
Community members are invited to embrace the holiday spirit by visiting Ward Hall for a step back in time and to appreciate the historical beauty of this celebrated venue.
