Winter celebrations around the world are as varied and vibrant as the cultures they epitomize. One common thread through many of these celebrations is the presence of light. Light in its many forms is used to represent the hope for spring’s return, the importance of the sun in agricultural cycles, to welcome guests and remember loved ones, and symbolize the resiliency of the human spirit. Light brings people together.
The staff at Martin Van Buren National Historic Site invites the public to join them for “Winter Celebrations: The Lights of Many Cultures. The Garden Club of Kinderhook will decorate the first floor of Van Buren’s home. Park staff and volunteer docents will be available to explain both the history of the site and the meaning behind the decorations. The house will be open for tours from 12:30 to 3:30 both days, with a tour beginning every half hour.
The America of Martin Van Buren’s time was a rich tapestry of cultures with their own traditions, learning from each other and at times combining to form new traditions. The America of today is the same. Our celebrations represent the brightest parts of that tapestry – the ability to see our differences not as barriers, but as many lights illuminating the darkness.
The Friends of Lindenwald will provide light refreshments.
DATE/TIME:
Friday, December 6, 2019 / 12:30pm – 3:30pm
Check in at the park visitor center fifteen minutes before the beginning of your tour.
ADMISSION:
Free.
Due to limited space, visitors are asked to reserve a spot on a tour in advance. Visitors may make reservations online at any time at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-celebrations-the-lights-of-many-cultures-tickets-82013549735 or by phone Monday-Friday between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm by calling 518-758-9689.
LOCATION:
Martin Van Buren National Historic Site
1013 Old Post Road
Kinderhook, NY 12106
MORE:
nps.gov/mava
facebook.com/MartinVanBurenNationalHistoricSite
facebook.com/events/2133556346953569/
The Snowshoe Hike at the Martin Van Buren National Historic Site that was originally planned for January, was postponed to this Saturday (February 25). With the abnormally warm temperatures (66 in February) that we have been having, there may not be enough snow on the ground for the hike. Fortunately, the organizers already have a Plan B in place. If there is not enough snow on the ground, the program will be a letterbox challenge designed by last summer’s high school interns. Participants will be given instructions to find letters scattered throughout the park, and solve clues to locate the cache.
Columbia County Current 