IT’S TIME FOR SEASONAL SPLENDOUR AT CANADA’S HISTORIC CHRISTMAS SITE
Check back in October for the full Christmas Calendar
The holidays are a magical time at the Castle. The Christmas season begins December 1 at Craigdarroch Castle. Providing a unique glimpse into authentic Victorian traditions, each year Curator Bruce Davies and the museum’s staff assist longtime decorator Sherry Kerr to meticulously evoke Christmases past in the Castle’s period rooms.
You’ll spot vintage toys tucked under the tree, festively decorated mantles throughout the home and a Christmas feast setting fit for Canada’s own royal family, the Dunsmuirs.
CAROLLERS AT THE CASTLE
Throughout the season, enjoy holiday music performed by local musicians at no additional cost to your admission. Families with little ones will enjoy music and clowning around at one of three performances by local children’s entertainers Cam and Daisy.
NOW BOOKING SCHOOL TOURS
SAVE SOME TIME FOR END OF THE YEAR ENCHANTMENT
Educators may be interested in Craigdarroch’s classic school program. We invite children to step back into the 1890’s and explore the origin of Christmas celebrations as we know them today.
When and why did Christmas trees become popular? What sort of toys did children play with 100 years ago? Who were the Dunsmuirs and why did they build this amazing Castle? Our costumed guides will lead your class through this National
Historic Site and encourage students to discover the wonder of B.C.’s history and the excitement of Christmas more than a century ago.
Each tour ends with a Victorian craft and a candy-cane treat. The program is recommended for pre-school through Grade 5 and content is adjusted to accommodate varying age groups.
THE PERFECT GIFT AWAITS
Be sure to visit the Castle gift shop, where you’ll find a treasure trove of unique products by local artisans to bring joy to everyone on your list.
** Please note that the Castle will be closed December 26, 26 and January 1 so our staff and volunteers can spend time with their families. Happy Holidays!
MEET THE DUNSMUIRS
Robert and Joan Dunsmuir had two sons, eight daughters and plenty of exploits. The Castle weaves a fascinating tale of this intriguing family – their achievements, their relationships and even their quirks.
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ABOUT THE CASTLE
Built by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir during the reign of Queen Victoria and now a National Historic Site, Craigdarroch Castle has been meticulously restored, giving visitors a glimpse of privileged life in the 1890s.
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PLAN YOUR VISIT
We are open daily from 10am – 4:30pm, with extended hours from June 15th to September 6th (9am – 7pm). (Please note that we are closed December 25th, 26th and January 1st)
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