Hi Neighbor!
The holiday season is full of traditions from what we cook and bake to how we decorate, who we spend our time with, and what we do in and around town during this most joyous, yet hectic, time of year. Whether we need to blow off steam or entertain our out of town guests, there is plenty to do in and around the City of Brotherly Love (or Shove, if you are an Eagles fan!).
Last month I shared my tradition of planting amaryllis bulbs in time for a Christmas bloom (while I still have a few weeks to go, my bulb is slowly making its way toward Christmas). This month, I want to share another tradition I can’t do without, a visit to the beautiful, historic Woodford Mansion in Fairmount Park.
Yes, my Main Line Martha is at it again as her garden club decorates this mansion each December. She has created yet another perennial favorite pastime for me, and it never disappoints. Once we ooh and awe over the indoor decorations, as crazy as it sounds, we sit outside on one of the picnic tables for an al fresco lunch. Yes, we have had some glorious winter days for Christmas outdoor dining.
This year Woodford is decked out in a Nutcracker theme, full of the whimsical figurines in all colors, shapes and sizes, adding zest and pop to the rooms of the mansion. Typically there is a volunteer on hand to provide some historical background on the building, but visitors are free to tour on their own.
In addition to Woodford Mansion, four other Fairmount historic houses are decorated for the holidays, including Historic Strawberry Mansion, which will serve tea and cookies on a few weekend dates. If you have never experienced these hometown treasures, make this the season to visit as they shine in their holiday splendor.
Be sure to check the schedule because each mansion has specific dates and times when they are open.
Continuing with traditions,
Jackie
