Despite the fact that I’ve lived in Southern California my entire life, I still find myself discovering something new on a regular basis. There is something about having kids that has stimulated my desire to explore and venture out. Perhaps it’s because I want to show them the world…or at least this tiny corner of the world where we live. Or perhaps it’s because I believe that children can learn from a variety of experiences and I want them to experience life outside of the classroom.
Last night we were treated to a nighttime preview of Christmas at Heritage Hill. This gem of a Historic Park is tucked away in Lake Forest, right in the midst of this suburban city. The park, which spans over 4 acres, contains four full restored and furnished historic buildings and associated structures. The park has a rich history with roots dating back to 1863.
Visitors can take a guided tour through the buildings which includes information about the history of the property, it’s artifacts, events, and people. The buildings are impeccably maintained to preserve the authentic history of the property. My children really enjoyed exploring the buildings and while there wasn’t a lot of time, I spoke with my son about the history of the property. I can’t wait to come back and visit the park during the day.
During this time of year, each of the buildings are decorated for Christmas, complete with lights and holiday decor. On Saturday, December 3rd, Heritage Hill’s 30th annual Victorian Christmas celebration will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Highlights include handicraft vendors, festive holiday entertainment, free children’s crafts, living history demonstrations, historical exhibits, tours through the buildings, and visits with Santa Claus. Additionally, there will be an old-fashioned marionette puppet theatre on Bennet Lawn, a demonstration/display of wood toys and carvings by the OC Chapter of the California Carvers Guild, and old-fashioned children’s activities like churning butter, candle dipping, holiday crafts, and cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus. Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for children and tickets can be purchased at the entrance on the same day.
On Saturday, December 10th and Sunday December 11th, Heritage Hill will host the 26th annual Candlelight Tour which will feature more than 1,000 luminarias lighting the park’s pathways as strolling carolers and musicians fill the air with holiday music. Children can visit with Santa and sit inside the El Toro Grammar School for a special holiday story time. Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for children and tickets can be purchased at the entrance on the same day.
Heritage Hill Historical Park is located at the following address:
25151 Serrano Road
Lake Forest, CA 92630-2534
(949)923-2230 or (949)923-2232
For more information regarding their holiday activities, just visit the website.
No compensation was received for this post. We were invited to a media preview of the holiday activities which helped facilitate this review.
Photo Credit: Rockin’ Mama. All rights reserved.
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