Candlelight Christmas House Tour

Candlelight Christmas at Historic Rosedale: Guided House Tour

December 19, 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

One night only special event!

Come experience Historic Rosedale as it was seen by residents and visitors past–by candlelight. Candlelight makes everything more magical. Throughout history, items like clothing, dinnerware, and furniture were designed to enhance the darkness that night brought without the benefit of electric lighting. Add holiday decorations, and you have an exceptionally special experience.

Historic Rosedale has been home to the Frew, Caldwell, and Davidson families, along with both enslaved and freed African Americans, for over 200 years.  As such, it has experienced many joys (as well as sorrows) during the holiday season. Come visit our 1815 historic home and gardens, lit by a combination of candles and minimal electric lighting and decorated in a variety of Christmases past: a Victorian Christmas dinner in the Great Hall, a 1940s wartime Christmas in the family parlor, the master bedroom decked in period mourning commemorating residents who passed at the holiday season, and our cellar kitchen sharing traditions of the African American community at Rosedale.

This festive guided tour of our historic home  will also feature a holiday performance by strolling carolers courtesy of Queen City Groove (https://www.queencitygroove.com) and light holiday treats—coffee, tea, and sweets–in our pavilion. Gates open at 5:00 to allow for a leisurely stroll through our gardens and grounds, and the guided house tour begins promptly at 6:00.

Tickets are by advance reservation only, and can be purchased online.

Ticket prices:

Members:  $20.00

Discount tickets:  (K-12, University students with ID, Military, Seniors):  $23.00

Regularly priced tickets:  $25.00

In the spirit of giving, we will have “snack packs” available to purchase in support of our local elementary school, Highland Renaissance Academy.  These snack packs are an important part of helping to fight hunger in our community by providing nourishment outside of school for children in need.

For more information or additional assistance, contact our office at 704-335-0325.  Come celebrate part of your holiday season with us, and take a holiday-inspired walk through history at the Queen City’s second oldest home!