Historic Gift-Making Demonstrations: Just like today, handmade presents were truly a gift from the heart. Stop inside the Visitors Center to watch our interpreters as they explain the process of recreating period gift items by hand.

Visits from the Belsnickel: Keep a look out for Belsnickel, or “Nicholas in Furs”, that beloved folk figure of Pennsylvania Dutch lore who rewards good children treats and naughty children with switches. Be on your best behavior – you’ll never know when he’ll appear!

NEW FOR 2024! Cork Reindeer Ornaments: Families have always reused readily available household objects to make holiday decorations. Inspired by the “eight tiny reindeer” first introduced in Clemont Clark Moore’s 1823 poem A Visit from Saint Nicolas,  make a cute miniature reindeer from bottle corks! Available while supplies last.

Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides: Hop aboard and join the Lindsay-Carbaugh Family for a leisurely ride up and down Fahnestock Lane by lantern light. Listen to the clip-clop of Belgian draft horse hooves as you cozy up to loved ones in the brisk December air. Wristband required. No food or drink. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Live Music: Enjoy the melodious sounds of traditional holiday music as you stroll the farmstead with live 30-minute performances by violinist Scott Matlock from the second floor porch of the Museum House. Sets begin at the top of the hour daily at 3:00, 4:00, 5:00, 6:00 & 7:00pm.  *Note: Recorded traditional instrumental songs will be played during all other times.

Scrap Art Ornaments: Victorians invented an inexpensive way to make beautiful holiday décor using bits and scraps they had on hand. Create your own version of historic scrap art ornaments using reproduction lithograph die-cuts, paper doilies, construction paper, and metallic pipe cleaners. Available while supplies last.

Special Artifact Displays: Enjoy a closer look at several objects in Renfrew’s museum collections not normally on exhibit including antique children’s toys and games, Nicodemus family holiday decorations, tableware, and more.

Historic Hearth Cooking: Visit Renfrew’s 1814 Summer Kitchen to learn about traditional Pennsylvania German holiday fare and watch as our domestic life historians bake historic recipes over the open hearth.

Orange Pomanders: Try your hand at creating these old-fashioned, sweet-smelling holiday decorations using the simplest of ingredients: fresh citrus and whole cloves. Available while supplies last.

Food & Beverage Options: Pick up something tasty to enjoy at the event or to take home! Treat vendors will be located outside the Visitors Center. Visit the Renfrew Cocoa Shack for a plain or gourmet hot chocolate. Cold beverages also for sale in the Renfrew Museum Shop.

Christkindlmarkt: Stop by our Visitors Center, both inside and outside, for Renfrew’s mini version of a traditional German holiday market with vendors offering handmade artisan goods, vintage Christmas decorations, antiques, tasty treats, and more. You never know what you’ll find! 

Renfrew Museum Gift Shop: Peruse our selection of unique merchandise and find the perfect gift for that special someone – or yourself! Browse books, home goods, historic toys, holiday décor, apparel, pottery, handmade items, and more. Each purchase supports our mission.

Delaney’s Delicacies is back to the farmstead on both Friday and Saturday! Satisfy your sweet tooth with delicious homemade baked goods. Choose from amazing biscotti, festive holiday bark, delicious macarons, cupcakes, and more. Enjoy yourself or give as holiday gifts!

Renfrew is pleased to welcome back Gwen Lamb, proprietor of Treasures of the Heart of Fairfield, PA! As an artist of over 30 years, Gwen’s work has encompassed local flora and fauna, scenescapes, depictions of historical homes, “house portraits”, contemplative art and modern icons. She paints on a variety of discarded items such as antique roof slate and metal objects, as well as wood and canvas.

Vintage Christmas by Michelle of Gettysburg, PA returns to the Wagon Shed Room on both nights with a whimsical assortment of authentic antiques, holiday décor, and a bit of mid-century Christmas kitsch. You’re sure to find something unique!

NEW VENDOR FOR 2024! Barb Matthews, owner of Yesterday’s Memories of Littlestown, PA, will join us in the Wagon Shed Room for both evenings. Specializing in beautiful seasonal home décor and primitives, Barb will also offer a selection of quilted runners and lovely porch garlands perfect for your upcoming holiday celebrations.

Breanne M. Lamb BEADWORK of Fairfield, PA returns to the Wagon Shed Room! A self-taught beadwork artist she will share a handcrafted selection of  beaded items inspired by nature, art, and history.  Choose from faithful reproductions of bygone eras or one-of-a kind creations.

NEW VENDOR FOR 2024 – Saturday only! Indulge in the crusty comfort of freshly baked sourdough and beautifully crafted artisan pastries from Sweet Thyme Bread & Treats! As proprietor of a family-owned local micro-bakery based in Fairfield, PA, Becky McCullough of Sweet Thyme is pleased to share her love for homemade goods baked with great care and few ingredients with guests to Christmas on the Farm. Enjoy a sweet treat during the event or take some home – makes a great gift!

$2,500.00