If you are looking for an inexpensive holiday activity to do with your family, one of Long Island’s grandest holiday traditions, “Candlelight Evenings” at Old Bethpage Village Restoration (OBVR) will take place December 26 – 30, and began on December 19 and 20. Entrance fees are $7 for children 5 - 12 (those under 5 are free), seniors and volunteer firefighters; and $10 for adults.
Candlelight Evenings takes place inside the Village’s historic homes, along with 19th-century holiday decorations and entertainment, all set within the confines of the darkened property. Among the forms of 19th-century entertainment offered will be the “Magic Lantern” show, featuring displays of hand-colored glass slides of famous persons, places and events.
There will also be musical entertainment, including a brass quartet playing popular seasonal tunes and traditional American dancers, and readings of classic holiday children’s stories in the Manetto Hill Church. In addition, visitors can warm up around the bonfire in the Village’s crossroads and enjoy hot, mulled cider and ginger cookies at the Noon Inn, for a small fee. This year’s event includes a small holiday crafts fair on December 19 - 20, in the Visitor’s Center.
“This is a wonderful family tradition on Long Island that continues to provide a unique holiday experience,” says OBVR Site Director and Local 830 member Jim McKenna. “We encourage visitors to bring their own safe lighting devices, though no open-flame candles or propane devices.” Local 830 members are instrumental in the preparation and success of this event.
OBVR will be closed during its regular daytime hours on Candlelight Evenings dates; it will also be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The Village will close for the winter following the Festival, reopening in the Spring of 2010.
OBVR is located on Round Swamp Road in Old Bethpage; for more information, call 516-572-8400.