The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Garfield site plans holiday-themed events
Events to celebrate the holidays - for children as well as for adults - are planned at the James A. Garfield National Historic Site.
James A. Garfield National Historic Site in Mentor announced a holiday-themed program at 6 p.m., Dec. 8.
“A Winter Evening at Lawnfield with Mrs. Lucretia Garfield” will be held in the site’s visitor center auditorium. Tickets are required and are on sale for $15.
The minimum age to attend this program is 16.
First Lady Lucretia Rudolph Garfield, portrayed by Debbie Weinkamer, will be on hand for an evening of reminiscing about the Garfield family’s most cherished winter and holiday memories and traditions, according to a news release.
The memories will be from a period when her husband, President James A. Garfield, was alive. Garfield was assassinated in 1881 after just a few months as the 20th President of the United States.
The event will include live music and an evening tour of the Garfield home. Email jaga_interpretation@nps.gov or call 440-255-8722 with questions. Tickets must be purchased in person at the Historic Site, 8095 Mentor Ave. in Mentor.
The site is currently open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
New to the program this year is an afternoon event for children, the release stated.
Beginning at 1 p.m., kids ages 15 and under are invited to enjoy a gingerbread cookie and listen to “Mrs. Garfield” read some of her favorite Christmas stories and reminisce about family holidays and traditions.
Children can also participate in a “‘Twas the Night before Christmas” scavenger hunt during guided tours of the decorated Garfield home.
This afternoon program is free of charge and open to the public. No reservations are required for the kids’ activities, but space is limited. The regular fee of $10 per person for the Garfield house tour applies to everyone 16 and older.
“We’re excited to host this program for the holiday season,” said Site Manager Todd Arrington in the release. “This time of year is a favorite for many, and the Garfield property— nicknamed ‘Lawnfield’ during Garfield’s 1880 presidential campaign — is really beautiful in this late fall/early winter period.
“This event was so popular last year that we decided to add the activities for kids so young people can also learn some history and enjoy a fun holiday event here at the Garfield site.”