History Highlights
A Colonial Innkeeper’s Holiday Celebration
On Dec. 1 and Dec. 14, the Rye Historical Society will host “A Colonial Innkeeper’s Holiday Celebration” at the Square House Museum. Step back in time as you explore the museum and learn about the holiday traditions of the Haviland family. Discover how they managed the Square House during the holiday season and celebrated the winter festivities as a family. Guided Tours are on a first come, first served basis and last approximately 20 minutes, followed by an informal Q&A session. Scheduled tour times are 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 p.m. Program is appropriate for ages 10+.
Cost: Free and open to the public; Donations appreciated
Celebrate the Arts
Printmaking Your Pet: A BYOB Night Out
On Dec. 5, from 6:30-9 p.m., aspiring printmakers can learn an easy foam printmaking technique. Using a pet or favorite animal as inspiration, participants will explore this process with a range of colors and backgrounds. Artists are encouraged to bring a photo of a pet or can use an instructor-provided animal. No experience required. Ages 21+.
Cost: $45
Artwork for Read Photography Exhibit
On Dec. 7, from 1-4 p.m., artists are invited to submit wildlife and natural landscape artwork for the annual art exhibit at Edith Read. Curator Scott Williamson will fill the sanctuary nature center with photography, painting, drawing, and sculpting from members and friends. Photographs and artwork should be framed and wired for hanging. One photograph/art piece per person please.
Cost: Free
Holiday Stories
SPRYE will host Master Storyteller Jonathan Kruk on Dec. 17 at 1 p.m. at the Rye Presbyterian Church. Mr. Kruk will delight the audience with “December Holidays Tales of the Origin of Santa Claus,” “Solstice,” and “The Hanukkah Bear.” In this free performance, he will be accompanied by musician Kelman Westkill. For reservations and more information please call 914-481-5706.
Cost: Free
Community Events
Mistletoe Magic
The annual community favorite, Mistletoe Magic, returns to Purchase Street on Dec. 1 from noon to 3 p.m. The Chamber of Commerce hosts this downtown holiday family festival on the Sunday following Thanksgiving. The street will be filled with fun activities, crafts, food, and performances, including the annual Chili Cook Off.
Cost: Free to attend
Read in Rye: Malina Malkani
Author and pediatric dietician Malina Malkani will discuss her recent book, “Safe and Simple Food Allergy Prevention,” on Dec. 3 at 6:30 p.m. at the Rye Free Reading Room. She provides helpful insights on starting solids, introducing common top allergens, navigating existing food allergies and intolerances, and engaging your baby in family meals. With a focus on practical, research-backed advice on baby-led weaning and food allergy prevention, Malkani’s book also provides a range of recipes for meal planning and ways to use mealtime to encourage the development of motor skills. Copies will be available for purchase and signing.
Don Bosco Annual Gala
Don Bosco Dreams Gala, the annual fundraising event for the Don Bosco Community Center of Port Chester, will be held on Dec. 6 at Shenorock Shore Club. The event recognizes and celebrates outstanding individuals who breathe life into the mission of the Center with their spirit of volunteerism, generosity, and stewardship to the neediest, especially our youth. For more information, call 914.939.0323.
Cost: $200+
Christmas Tree Sale
On Dec. 7, Christ’s Church will hold its 14th Annual Christmas Tree Sale on Rectory Street in Rye from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The sale includes top-quality Douglas and Frazer firs. Proceeds benefit Christ’s Church programming.
Cost: Tree prices vary
Holiday Bonfire and Sing Along
On Dec. 8, families are invited to attend a Magic Show at 4 p.m. in the Rye Rec amphitheater followed by the bonfire lighting and carols at 5 p.m. Hot chocolate will be served. Rye Rec has partnered with the Rye Police Association to collect new, unwrapped books and toys for the United States Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program supporting underprivileged families in Westchester. Children’s Philanthropy of Rye will also be giving out holiday goody bags for a small donation to directly support grocery gift cards and holiday gifts for Rye families living at or below the poverty line.
Cost: Free