LIVERMORE — The Washburn-Norlands Living History Center, 290 Norlands Road, will host a family-friendly interactive Christmas celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9.

Experience Christmas in the 19th century and participate in living history activities around this beautiful and tranquil estate. Activities will include horse-drawn wagon rides, caroling, period crafts, storytelling, parlor games, cooking in the farmer’s cottage, the one-room schoolhouse and tours of the decorated 1867 Washburn family Italianate mansion. Mulled cider and other refreshments made fresh on the woodstove will be available while supplies last.

See and hear how the Washburns and their neighbors, the Bradfords, anticipated Christmas and prepared for the holiday. Journey back in time for a greater understanding of how the holiday evolved over the course of the 19th-century and the different ways Washburn family members celebrated in cities such as Chicago and Washington, D.C., during the 1800s compared to family members living at Norlands at the same time.

In the mansion, see beautifully embellished Civil War era fashions on display. The dining room is decorated as if the Washburns are expecting guests. Children can help decorate the tree and will be intrigued with the historic toys on display.

“Aunt Clara” will be visiting and sharing stories of Christmas past and parlor games for all ages. In Mr. Washburn’s kitchen, string popcorn for the tree or make a period craft.

The redesigned gift shop will be open and filled with unique treasures to meet holiday shopping needs. There is something for everyone: Norlands’ own maple syrup, old-time toys, books, prints, cards, mop caps, old-fashioned stick and rock candy and much more.

A Cookie Walk fundraiser will benefit the new barn fund. Just $5 fills a bag with delicious homemade cookies to take home. Arrive early as this popular fundraiser always sells out by early afternoon.

Admission is $10 per person; $6, ages 12 and under; $25 family rate. Members enjoy a 20 percent discount on admission.

If the weather is questionable, please check for an event cancellation ?notice on Norlands’ Facebook page or outgoing ?telephone message by calling 207-897-4366 by 9 a.m. on the morning of the event.

FMI: 207-897-4366 or visit www.NORLANDS.org.

Hauling ice from Bartlett’s Pond in the 1800s.