Celebrate Christmas Past at Heritage Village

The holiday season is here, and Heritage Village is ready to welcome the community for the 3rd Annual Glimpse of Christmas Past! This festive event brings history and holiday cheer together as local nonprofits decorate six historic buildings in a friendly competition. Each group adds its own creative touch, creating a magical walk through the past.

This year, visitors can explore:

• Vignes School – Door County League of Women Voters
• Petersen Granary – Unity Hospice
• Chapel – Help of Door County
• Warren House – Sunshine Resources
• Kohl Fish House – Door County Humane Society
• Schopf House – Wild Ones of Door County

Buildings are open for tours every Friday and Saturday in December from 3:00–6:00 PM. Admission is free, and guests may vote for their favorite decorated building(s) with a cash donation. Proceeds are shared among the participating nonprofits.

The Greene Store, decorated by the Door County Historical Society, serves as the start and end of your journey. It’s where visitors can purchase hot beverages and cookies, shop for unique gifts, and cast their votes for the favorite decorated building.

Special programs throughout December add to the festive spirit:

• A Christmas Carol Reading – On Friday, December 12 and 19 at 6:00 PM, enjoy a full reading of Charles Dickens’ classic tale in Vignes School. “This is not an adaptation, but a genuine reading of Dickens’ original, brilliant text,” says producer Ross Dippel. Readers Carrie Counihan, Isabella Dippel, Ross Dippel, and Escher Wentz bring the story to life, accompanied by cellist Freddie Witt. Guests are encouraged to bring slippers and a nightcap for a cozy, nostalgic evening. Donations are welcome to support the Society’s educational programs and historic sites.
• Coming Home – On Saturdays, December 13 and 20 at 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM, Leonnette Tackenberg will share a special Christmas story for all ages.
• Holiday Music – Period-appropriate Christmas music will be performed by Recorders on the Door on Friday, December 12.

Step back in time, soak in the holiday spirit, and experience the joy of community, history, and storytelling. Bring your family, friends, slippers, and nightcap—we can’t wait to celebrate the holidays with you!