Discover origins of holiday traditions at Naper Settlement

Why do we decorate Christmas trees or leave out stockings for Santa?

Take a step back in time and explore the origins of the holidays during Victorian Holiday Traditions that will be offered from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville.

"The holidays became much more meaningful for me after I learned the historical background of all the iconic symbols," said Barbara Rimmer, who has been presenting the program for the past five years.

Guests will first take a tour of the Martin Mitchell Mansion, a Victorian home built in 1883 by successful Naperville businessman George Martin. The home has been beautifully decorated by the Naperville Garden Club for the Cup of Cheer housewalk to reflect the year 1915.

After touring the mansion, guests will return to the historic Pre-Emption House Tavern for the presentation and to enjoy tea and treats.

In England, the tradition of holiday decorating did not become popular until the late 1840s when Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and their children were shown in an illustration gathered around an elaborately decorated evergreen tree.

After that, the Christmas tree became a fixture in almost every English household and eventually the tradition traveled to the U.S.

Other holiday traditions discussed will include cards, stockings and Santa.

"This presentation is a great way to relax for a few hours on a Saturday afternoon right before the holidays and to learn the origins of our traditions," Rimmers said.

The program is for teens to adults. Tickets are $18; $16 for Settlement-6 members and above. Registration is required; call (630) 420-6010.