Plenty of activities at Macphail Homestead
There is still time before the end of the year to enjoy activities both inside and outside of Macphail Homestead in Orwell.
Located just off the TransCanada Highway at the Orwell Corner entrance, the grounds are open all year for visitors to walk the trails and enjoy nature at its fullest. Simply follow the winding heritage road to the green gates.
Although the tea room and public tours are now closed, many special events have continued, and November and December are packed full.
Nov. 17 will mark the second annual Christmas craft sale with many artists booking spaces to be a part of this annual event. The tea room will be open from noon to 5 p. m. for light refreshments, and everyone is welcome to come for a visit and to purchase special gifts for Christmas. Admission is by donation to the Homestead.
On Nov. 24, the Sir Andrew Macphail Foundation will celebrate Sir Andrew’s 149th birthday at a memorial dinner and awards event. Guest speaker Melissa Mullen, who is a member of the Homestead Players, will entertain guests while they enjoy a professionally prepared dinner.
President Mary Noel and the Sir Andrew Macphail Foundation Board will also recognize Isabel Court, one of the 1988 founding members of the Friends of Macphail, for her dedication to the homestead over the past 25 years. This major fund raising event for the homestead requires reservations in advance, and tickets are $ 30 per person. Annual donations to the homestead are more than welcome.
The fire will be lit and the house will be in full Christmas décor for everyone’s enjoyment on Nov. 30, Dec. 1, Dec. 7 and Dec. 8 as the homestead serves traditional Christmas dinners with all the trimmings. There will be one sitting only, 5- 7 p. m., each day, and guests are requested to reserve their tables in advance. Dinner tickets include a complimentary glass of wine, and a cash bar will be available. Small businesses, families and individuals are welcome to attend and enjoy a wonderful home- cooked meal without all the work. Tickets, which need to be paid for in advance, will be $ 30 including all taxes.
Site manager Mary MacQueen Elliott is pleased that chefs Dayan Gonzalez and Blair Flemming from the Holland College Culinary Institute will be working with this year to prepare the special dinners.
“It is a great opportunity and excellent partnership for the homestead, and we look forward to working together on this event. Dinner will be prepared, using local produce and meats. Vegetables from the homestead garden will add to the success of the dinners. Staff and volunteers will be on hand for everyone’s utmost enjoyment,” she said.
For more information about booking tickets, hours of operation or just to chat, call MacQueen Elliott at 838- 4791, email macphailhomestead@pei.aibn.com or check www.macphailhomestead.ca. Messages left will be returned.