News

'Christmas at Connemara' programs set for next three Saturdays

By Lightning Reports, Published: November 29, 2023

FLAT ROCK — Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site will celebrate “Christmas at Connemara” with free programs on the first three Saturdays of Decembers from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Programs will take place in the House Garage, next to the Sandburg Home.

Each Saturday will have a different topic and craft:

• Saturday, Dec. 2: Wings and Whimsey fairies will delight audiences with reading of Carl Sandburg’s story “Corn Fairies” at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon. Zephyr the fairy is coming to tell a very special tale of the Corn Fairies by Carl Sandburg! Who better to tell fairy tales than a fairy? Stick around to make a corn fairy doll ornament.
• Saturday, Dec. 9: Chimney Rock State Park staff will present a live animal show with Birds of Prey and other critters at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon. Afterwards, enjoy making a holiday bird feeder to hang.
• Saturday, Dec. 16: Ronnie Pepper will inspire audiences with storytelling about heritage and holidays at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon. Then, make a globe ornament filled with special finds for the tree.

Christmas at Connemara is supported by the National Park Service, the Friends of Carl Sandburg at Connemara, Eastern National (the non-profit partner that operates the park store) and the North Carolina Arts Council.

In addition, tours of the Sandburg Home will feature holiday decorations in the simple style of the Sandburg family, with greenery, a Christmas tree and poinsettias. The Sandburg Home will be decorated for the season through Jan. 6. House tour tickets can be reserved at www.recreation.gov. Tours are at 11 a.m., noon, 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Due to the tour’s popularity, advanced reservations are strongly recommended.

A free park shuttle runs from the main parking lot on Little River Road to the farm area, Sandburg Home and grounds. Allow at least 20 minutes to walk or shuttle to any park program or building. The shuttle operates on the days and times the Park Store/Visitor Center and Sandburg Home are open: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. These are also the only days that America the Beautiful and other nationwide park passes are sold in the visitor center. At other times get one here.

Visitors with mobility concerns are strongly urged to visit when the shuttle is running. Go here for limited accessibility options on other days.