11/27/2011 - Old Salem: A delight for the senses
More than a destination, Old Salem Museums & Gardens is a feeling—and an experience. The living, breathing history museum, with sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the 18th and 19th centuries, invites us to become participants of past rituals while making our own traditions. “Salem might be a Moravian town, but it’s truly a place for everyone,” says Brian Coe, Old Salem’s director of interpretation. “It tends to become a part of you when you go there, whether you’re Moravian or not…and that’s especially true around the holidays.” Join us as we discover the joy and fun that is Old Salem.
Tradition meets enchantment on the Old Salem Christmas Candlelight Tours. Guided by the soft glow of flickering lights, guests experience how the holidays looked, smelled, and felt for the early Moravians.
Tour-goers have two options: The 18th-century tours (Nov. 18, 19, 25, 26) are more spiritual and simpler in nature. You first travel to the Saal of the Single Brothers’ House, where you’ll hear period Christmas music played on a Tannenberg organ. It ends at the old Tavern, where you’ll experience a lively “outsiders” Christmas, complete with games, music, and holiday treats.
The 19th-century tours start in December (and take place on Dec. 2, 3, 9, 16, 17, 22, 23). The first stop is the home of Dr. Vierling, where guests are introduced to the Christmas pyramid, a decorative Salem tradition. The tour ends at the Vogler House, where popular holiday tunes, period decorations, and a sampling of Moravian cakes and cider are enjoyed. Both tours depart from the Herbst House (511 S. Main St.) and last about an hour, running at 6:30, 7, 7:30, and 8 p.m. Reservations are recommended, as tours are capped at 15 and often sell out.
The candlelight tours aren’t the only way to experience the holidays in Old Salem. Come out December 10 for “Salem Christmas,” an all-day event with crafts, carols, puppet shows, wagon rides, and tasty treats. The celebration culminates at 5:15 p.m. in Salem Square with the lighting of the 16-foot Christmas Pyramid. The Women’s Fellowship of Home Moravian Church will hold its annual Candle Tea the first two weekends in December inside the Single Brothers’ House. The event is hallmarked by an elaborate “Putz” (decorative miniature village) and nativity display.
You can also embark on your own self-guided tour of Old Salem buildings by purchasing an “All-in-One” ticket or walk along the cobblestone and brick sidewalks freely. For more on all the events and tours, call 721-7300 or visit www.oldsalem.org.
And for something truly unique, book a room at the historic Zevely Inn in Old Salem to experience how it feels to stay overnight within a historic village.
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