Dec./Jan., 2000 issue

Candlelight tours are scheduled at Washington Irving's historic Sunnyside, and the gothic revival mansion, Lyndhurst, in Tarrytown, and Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson. Another festive event during daylight hours will be St. Nicholas Day at Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow.

Washington Irving, through his stories "Old Christmas" and "Bracebridge Hall," introduced America to many of England's cherished Christmas customs, including the Yule log, caroling and a sumptuous Christmas dinner. Visitors to the candlelight tours will learn about these traditions as they walk through the beautifully decorated rooms of the cottage.

Guests are escorted down a lantern-lit path to the cottage, decked out in holly and evergreens. Each room, including Irving's Study, is lit only by candlelight. In the parlor, guests are invited to join in singing favorite carols while a costumed guide accompanies them on the piano.

Outdoors in the kitchen yard, visitors warm up with a complimentary glass of hot cider around the bonfire. The paths and walkways are lit by candle lanterns, so a stroll outside is not to be missed, even on a December evening. Back in the Visitors center there is more caroling and a dramatic reading of "Old Christmas."

Advance reservations are strongly recommended. Specific tours may be reserved by calling 631-8200, ext. 618 or reserving online at www.hudsonvalley.org.

Stories and traditions from Lyndhurst's families are combined with a rich history of favorite holiday traditions in a setting sure to create holiday memories. Elegant garlands and dazzling Christmas trees showcase the glittering old-world glass ornaments of Christopher Radko.

Evening programs are scheduled from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. Reservations may be obtained by calling 914-631-4481.

Guests are welcomed with hot cider, and then make their way by lantern-light to the 18th century Manor House. It is here that the Christmas traditions of a wealthy New York family are on view. The house is decorated with exotic fruits, greenery, and the popular "kissing bell." A lavish display of enticing desserts -- many prepared from actual Van Cortlandt family recipes -- graces the dining room table. In the kitchen, guest sample an 18th century style treat before their journey to the tavern.

On the way, they may warm up at the roaring bonfire and meet the comical "Lord of Misrule," who presides over Twelfth Night festivities and explains this ancient holiday's customs. In the tavern a raucous celebration is underway, and guests may dance to the lively strains of the fiddler and drink a toast to the season.

Reservations are required for these popular tours and may be made by calling 914-631-8200, ext. 618 or online at www.hudsonvalley.org.

St. Nicholas, in his dramatic bishop's hat and snowy beard, will retell the story of his miracles and reward children for their good deeds through the year. Visitors can then enjoy a reading of "'Twas the Night Before Christmas," and other favorite stories and songs with Kevin and Carol Becker and the Hudson Valley folk singers.

Children may enjoy a craft activity and help "deck the halls" with a festive paper chain. Jan and Volker's Country Cooking will have refreshments for sale, including mulled cider and gingerbread cookies.

In the manor house, the tables are set for holiday feasting and upstairs an elaborate two-foot long St. Nicholas cookie is being carefully decorated. Visitors will learn the origins of some familiar holiday customs, such as hanging up stockings on Christmas Eve and how St. Nicholas evolved into the modern image of Santa Claus.

Visitors may also see historic farm animals and watch demonstrations of cookie baking over the open hearth.

For advance ticket purchase (recommended), call 914-631-8200, ext. 618 or online at www.hudsonvalley.org.