The holidays in Cleveland have always been a magical time of year. This holiday season, the Cleveland History Center, headquarters of the Western Reserve Historical Society (WRHS), located in the heart of University Circle, is highlighting the nostalgic holiday traditions of Cleveland with “A Century of Celebrations.”
From now through Jan. 3, explore celebration traditions past and present by viewing seasonal vignettes and nostalgic décor. From Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa, to New Year celebrations, each vignette will evoke the spirit of giving, connection, reflection, and hope for the future.
Among the historic collection of vehicles in the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum visitors can find:
- 1905 Red Peerless: Millionaires’ Row Family Scene
- 1929 Ford Model A Woody: Traveling Family Scene
- 1939 Black Lincoln Zephyr: High Fashion New Year’s Scene
- 1948 Chrysler Woody: Holiday Advertising and Motoring Out for the Family Tree
- 1956 Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing: Department Store Shopping Scene
- Mid Century Mr. Jingeling Scene
- Higbee’s Window Display
- Ethnic Holiday Traditions in Cleveland
Each vignette is safely set apart to allow for distancing between visitors. Photography will be permitted throughout and guests are encouraged to share their photos on social media @clestartshere. #NEOHistory.
For those looking for holiday experiences at home, the CHC continues its Speaking of Cleveland series at 6 p.m. Dec. 16 with Ghosts of Christmas Past. During this one-hour virtual program, guests will explore the ghosts and folklore that shaped 19th Century holidays in Cleveland. Tickets and information are available at wrhs.org.
Advanced timed entry is required for “A Century of Celebrations.” Tickets can be reserved at cletix.com. Additional information is at wrhs.org.
