Naper Settlement celebrates the holidays
Naper Settlement, Naperville's living-history museum at 523 S. Webster St., is gearing up for the holidays.
General museum admission is at a reduced winter rate of $5.25 for adults, $4.75 for seniors 62 and older and $4 for youths ages 4-12. Naperville residents with proof of residency, children younger than 4 and members are free.
For details on events, visit www.NaperSettlement.org.
<h3 class="leadin">… And It Makes a Great Christmas Gift: The History of Popeil and Ronco is presented through Dec. 24. Discover the story of the inventions and products created by the Popeil and Ronco companies that were heavily marketed as great Christmas gifts in the 1950s, '60s and '70s. </h3>
Chicago Cultural Historian Tim Samuelson, author of the book "But Wait, There's More," presents the world of kitschy products. Produced by the Elmhurst History Museum, the interactive exhibit features products from several decades, including The Pocket Fisherman, The Chop-O-Matic, Veg-O-Matic, Mr. Microphone and more.
<h3 class="leadin">Santa @ the Settlement: Begin a tradition and get in the holiday spirit by visiting Santa and Mrs. Claus from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturdays, Dec. 1, 8 and 15. Registration is required and tickets are $13 for members and $15 for others. </h3>
Visitors will be able to share their wishes in a letter to Santa, craft two ornaments in Santa's Workshop, and prepare a magical treat for Santa's reindeer in the Reindeer Food Factory. Be sure to visit Mrs. Claus's bakery to help her decorate cookies, then gather around for story time.
<h3 class="leadin">History Speaks Lecture Series: "But Wait, There's More!" is presented at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. Tickets are $8 for members and $10 for others; less for youths. </h3>
Hear the history and stories behind those fantastically crazy and kitschy Popeil and Ronco products marketed from the 1950s to the 1970s. The lecture will be held in Century Memorial Chapel.