Private tours of the historic Durkee Mansion begin November 30
The Kemper Center has announced that it will cancel the 2020 Gallery of Trees and Opening Night Gala to ensure the health and safety of the community, volunteers and staff of the Kemper Center.
"We extend our sincere appreciation to our generous sponsors who have gone above and beyond to support us during this difficult time, as well as our creative decorators and volunteers who give freely of their time to ensure a beautiful event," Executive Director Ed Kubicki said.
"Our priority continues to be the safety of our guests, staff, and supporters, and as such we are following the recommendations of our local and national health experts."
The Christmas at Kemper Gallery of Trees Opening Night Gala was scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 28, and the Gallery of Trees was to continue through Sunday, Dec. 6.
In addition, the historic Durkee Mansion will not be open to the public for the holidays, but the Kemper Center will offer private tours for families by appointment only on weekdays Nov. 30 through Jan. 6.
The cost is $25 for a one-hour tour and photo opportunity for a family in the Durkee Mansion's decorated parlor. Tours will also include the decorated Kemper Center Chapel. Everyone must wear masks while in the building, and there will be a 10 person maximum per group. For more information, call (262) 925-8040 or visit www.kempercenter.com.
After Thanksgiving, a virtual tour of the decorated historic Durkee Mansion will be available online.
This year's Durkee Mansion theme is "Magical Lantern Glow," in honor of the 150th year of Kemper Hall, when alumnae carried lanterns in procession.
Each year, the Durkee Mansion is decorated by volunteers in a different theme incorporating period accurate holiday decor from the 1860s. All decorations are either handmade or antique.
The Anderson Arts Center will remain open from 1-4 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays with its current Winter Juried Exhibition. The Arts Center will also be decorated for the holiday and feature a collection of nutcrackers. Admission is always free.
The Kemper Center is at 6501 3rd Ave., Kenosha, Wisconsin.
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