Take in bedtime stories, tea at Colonel Palmer House

Step back in time and experience the holiday season at the Colonel Palmer House at 660 E. Terra Cotta Ave. The Federal and Greek Revival Style home built in 1858 will be decorated in holiday splendor, creating a perfect setting for "Classic Christmas Bedtime Stories" and a "Victorian Holiday Tea."

"Classic Christmas Bedtime Stories" will be from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays, Dec. 9-19. Cozy up in the front parlor of the Colonel Palmer House as Mrs. Claus reads Classic Christmas Bedtime Stories to children ages 2-7.

Kids should wear their PJ's and bring their favorite blanket and stuffed animal. Juice, milk and cookies will be served in the back parlor along with a surprise by Jolly St. Nick.

The fee is $15 for residents or $20 for nonresidents.

On Sunday, Dec. 14, the Colonel Palmer House will host a "Victorian Holiday Tea." Two seatings will be offered at 12:30 p.m. or 3 p.m. as costumed staff serves guests a luncheon tea. A special presentation by 4 Strings Attached, an accomplished group of youth violinists under the direction of Martin Lopez, will set the mood for this annual holiday event.

Resident fee is $15 for adults and $10 for ages 12 and younger. Nonresident fee is $23 for adults or $15 for ages 12 and younger.

Both events require registration in advance through the Crystal Lake Park District at www.crystallakeparks.org or in person at the Crystal Lake Park District Administrative Building at One Crystal Lake Ave. For more information on either program, call the park district at (815) 459-0680.