Enjoy a new holiday tradition! Get in the spirit by taking a stroll through this small, 2-story Victorian house with hand-made Victorian inspired decorations in each room; and live music, Wassail (Victorian hot cider punch) and costumed interpreters in each room. A scavenger hunt based on the 12 Days of Christmas for children of all ages! Tickets are sold at the door. No reservations needed. Located at 16 Third Street, Presque Isle, Maine.
Kim Smith of the Presque Isle Historical Society said, “For me, Christmas has always been a magical time of year. Presque Isle Historical Society is gearing up for another enchanting Victorian Christmas at the Estey celebration. It is truly a showcase of all that is beautiful at Christmas – live music, live florals, Wassail and more.”
Visitors enjoy Wassail, a hot cider punch; live music; and a taste of Peppermint Pig, the only Victorian Christmas tradition originating in the U.S. In addition, each year, there is always new exhibit in the middle parlor.
In keeping with the Victorian Christmas traditions at the house, each room in the small, two-story Victorian era house is adorned with hand-made Victorian era inspired decorations and live florals including a beautiful life-size evergreen gown. Costumed interpreters will also be in each room performing some function from the era. Children of all ages can also participate in a scavenger hunt based on “The Twelve Days of Christmas”.
Presque Isle resident Lyndsey Maynard has attended the event every year for the last few years with her family and says, “Christmas just isn’t Christmas for me without going to Victorian Christmas at the Estey.”
This house sits within the original land grant which established our community, originally known as Fairbanks Mills. It is believed to have been built around 1875 and is a good example of an upper middle class Victorian home. The only two major changes to the house since its construction is that the barn no longer exists and the Esteys added a skylight in the upstairs bathroom.
During Vera’s lifetime, the north lawn hosted an amazing array of tulips and lilies which she raised and sold to the Boston Fresh Flower Market. Although these flowers no longer bloom, the Society has plans to restore the garden to become a destination for reading, picnicking, reflecting, and garden weddings. Learn more about the Presque Isle Historical Society here.
Aroostook County hosts a variety of vibrant events throughout the year. From the world-renowned Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Race in winter to the lively Northern Maine Fair in summer, there's always something exciting happening. Other highlights include the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest, Potato Blossom Festival, and the Scandinavian Houlton Arts and Crafts Fair. These events celebrate the region's culture, heritage, and natural beauty, offering unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike.
Places to go, things to see and what to do—all neatly laid out. Begin your adventure with a guidebook packet tailored to fit your needs, ensuring that the only surprises during your trip are the good ones.
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