Experience the holidays by candlelight at the Durant House Dec. 4-5

Posted November 29, 2021 10:00 pm

Submitted by Al Watts

Step back in time and enjoy the scents, sights, and tastes of the holidays in 19th-century Illinois at the Durant House Museum on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 4-5.

The Durant House, built in 1843, will be open from 2 to 6 p.m. and lit only by candlelight.

Visitors will enjoy holiday music, the aroma of fresh cut evergreens, the warmth of a crackling fire, and the flicker of candlelight as they stroll through the historic home.

Outside, visitors can stay warm by a bonfire and enjoy hot cider and light snacks.

The nearby Sholes School, built in 1872, will also be open with lessons and hands-on activities for kids.

Masks are required while inside the museums as per Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines.

The museum and school are located in LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St., just west of Randall Road in St. Charles.

Entry to this event will be timed at 1-hour intervals. Select one of the dates to reserve your entry time.

Cost is $3 per person or $1 for youth, age 18 or younger.

For tickets and more information, visit www.ppfv.org/candlelight.

Docent Susan Wukitsch shares food that families in the 19th century would have served during the holidays at the Durant House Museum surrounded by candlelight. Photo taken in 2014. Courtesy of Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley

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