Old Christmas Celebration at Sycamore Shoals State Park

News Summary

Join the festivities at Sycamore Shoals State Park in Elizabethton on January 4 and 5, 2025, for an engaging Old Christmas celebration. Experience colonial traditions through various activities, cultural exhibits, and feasting at Fort Watauga. This family-friendly event invites you to explore the rich history of Old Christmas and its enduring customs, making it a perfect opportunity to create new memories while honoring the past. Don’t miss out on this unique journey back in time!

Old Christmas Comes to Life at Sycamore Shoals State Park!

If you’re in Elizabethton, mark your calendars for a delightful trip back in time! On January 4 and 5, 2025, Sycamore Shoals State Park is set to host a charming celebration of Old Christmas within the historic walls of Fort Watauga. This event promises a weekend full of joy, feasting, and traditions that harken back to our colonial past!

What is Old Christmas?

Old Christmas isn’t just any holiday; it’s a special occasion celebrated by our colonial ancestors over a span of 12 days.

Traditionally wrapped up in a whirlwind of cultural practices from the diverse groups that populated early America, this celebration marks the glorious end of the Christmas season on January 5, often referred to as “Twelfth Night.” And trust us, this means more than just tolling the bells. It’s a time for revelry!

A Weekend of Festivities

Get ready to step into an 18th-century Jollification as you enter Fort Watauga. The excitement kicks off on Saturday, January 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and continues on Sunday, January 5, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each cabin within the fort will showcase different customs related to Christmas, New Year, and Twelfth Night as celebrated by early settlers.

Hosted by the Washington County Militia, this celebration is all about feasting and merry-making. It’s the perfect opportunity for families and friends to extend their holiday festivities with lots of fun activities. Who wouldn’t want to dive into the heartwarming traditions from our history?

Experience Colonial Traditions

English Christmas Guns to the Irish Holly Wreath, German Tannenbaum, Scottish First Footing, and Dutch Sinterklaas, there are so many influences to discover!

Attendees will not only enjoy the vibrant atmosphere but also learn a little extra about the old-world traditions that inform our contemporary celebrations. Isn’t it fascinating to think about how much of our modern holiday spirit thrives on practices from centuries ago?

Plan Your Visit!

Make sure to visit Sycamore Shoals State Park, located at 1651 W. Elk Ave. in Elizabethton. This event is sure to be fun, educational, and entertaining for the whole family! For any questions or details you might need, feel free to reach out to the park at 423-543-5808.

Bust out those holiday sweaters and grab your loved ones, because Old Christmas is all about reliving the joy and celebration of our ancestors. In the spirit of the season, let’s embrace this chance to make new memories while honoring the traditions of the old. See you there!