Ford House is thrilled to announce the return of its much-anticipated annual holiday celebration, Home for the Holidays at Ford House, along with several beloved holiday experiences for everyone to enjoy. The historic estate invites families and friends to immerse themselves in the joyous spirit of the season through a series of delightful events starting on November 30 and running through December 29, 2024.
“The holiday season at Ford House is truly a magical time,” says Ford House President & CEO, Mark J. Heppner. “And we’re thrilled to welcome families and guests to share in the joy and wonder of this special place. It’s a privilege to continue the Ford family tradition of celebrating the holidays with warmth, beauty, togetherness, and love. From the festive lights to our cherished events, we are honored to create experiences that brings people together and makes lasting memories.”
Kicking off the holiday extravaganza is Home for the Holidays at Ford House, an evening holiday stroll through the glittering grounds as thousands of lights illuminate the estate, guiding you on a one-mile walking tour throughout the property. Marvel at weeping willows dripping in lights, the Rose Garden all aglow in rich hues, and the Main Residence decked in ribbons of starry lights. Step inside the home, decorated in Eleanor Ford’s signature style of “understated elegance,” showcasing original ornaments and décor from when the family resided here. Friends of Ford House and the media are invited to an exclusive Preview Night on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. where Santa Claus himself will throw the switch and illuminate the estate for the first time. Home for the Holidays at Ford House continues every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from December 6 through 29, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
New this year: Santa Claus, who has been delighting children for four generations at Ford House, and Mrs. Claus will greet guests for photos. Along the way, each guest will warm up with a complimentary hot chocolate, or, for adults, you may upgrade your cocoa with a splash of the Christmas “spirit” for a festive treat. It’s a captivating blend of history and holiday magic that invites guests to embrace the wonder of the season.
Tickets for “Home for the Holidays at Ford House” are $28 for adults and $14 for children. Children who are two years old or younger are free. Friends of Ford House enjoy a discounted $20 admission on adults and a discounted $10 admission on children 15 years of age or younger. Timed entries ensure an intimate experience, so guests are encouraged to purchase tickets early to guarantee their preferred date and time. Tickets go on sale to the public on Tuesday, November 5, at 10 a.m., with discounted advance sales for Friends of Ford House starting Tuesday, October 22, also at 10 a.m. Join Friends of Ford House today to take advantage of this presale opportunity and enjoy the numerous perks of your Friendship, including 20% off dining and shopping and access to exclusive discounts and events.
Create lasting memories with Cookies with Santa! Families are invited to meet Santa Claus, share Christmas wishes, and capture the moment with personal photos. Each child receives a special cookie from Mrs. Claus herself! Available on Saturdays, December 7, 14, and 21, and Thursdays, December 12 and 19, this beloved experience sells out quickly, so book early. Tickets are $30 per child including time with Santa and a cookie. Friends of Ford House enjoy a discounted $20 ticket per child.
Continue the festive fun with Brunch with Santa on Sundays, December 8 and 22, at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., respectively! Enjoy a delicious hot buffet filled with your favorite treats while Santa and Mrs. Claus visit each table, chatting and spreading holiday cheer. Tickets are sold by the table: $165 for a party of three, $220 for four, and $330 for six. Friends of Ford House receive discounted tickets, but don’t wait—these tables sell out fast! Secure your family’s memorable dining experience today!
Join Ford House on Sunday, December 15, for a delightful Holiday Tea & Tour! Enjoy a sophisticated afternoon featuring traditional tea service complemented by holiday-inspired treats. After tea, guests are invited to explore the beautifully decorated Main Residence. Tickets are sold by the table: $150 for a party of two, $225 for three, and $300 for four. Friends of Ford House receive discounted tickets. Don’t miss this elegant holiday experience.
Get ready to jingle and mingle this holiday season at Ford House’s most-anticipated Christmas party, Mistletoe Mingle! This one-of-a-kind party brings the magic of Christmas alive for the 21 and older crowd. Taking place on Thursday, December 19 at 7 p.m., this festive extravaganza is set against the enchanting backdrop of Ford House, where the Lake Shore Room will be decked with shimmering lights, and the air will be filled with contagious holiday cheer. Partygoers are invited to immerse themselves in a night of unforgettable moments, seasonal delights, and unparalleled fun. Tickets for the Mistletoe Mingle are $70 per person and include the party and a self-paced tour of the Main Residence, a swag bag, appetizers, and two drink tickets. Friends of Ford House enjoy discounted tickets.
Cookies with Santa, Brunch with Santa, Holiday Tea & Tour, and the Mistletoe Mingle go on sale to the public on Tuesday, November 12 at 10 a.m. Friends of Ford House enjoy an advance sale starting on Tuesday, October 29 at 10 a.m.
Tickets to these events and more may be purchased online at fordhouse.org/holidays. Friends of Ford House enjoy pre-sale access and discounted tickets to all public events. To learn how to become a Friend of Ford House, visit www.fordhouse.org/friends.