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As a nod to Christmases past and the beloved holiday traditions of the Hope community, the Yellow Trail Museum’s “Christmas of Yesteryear” returns to downtown from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday with all the antiquity and spirit that makes the holiday festive and bright.       

“I think it brings people together and helps open the season in Hope,” says John Ziegler, president of the Yellow Trail Museum.

Shortly after 5 p.m. Santa Claus’ arrival at the Yellow Trail Museum will mark the official start of the evening’s festivities. 

Historical characters, including the likes of Hope founder Martin Hauser and Carl Norman, son of former state senator and Norman Funeral Home founder E.A. Norman, will take center stage at WILLow LeaVes of Hope, located on the north side of the Square at 326 Jackson St., for performances at 6 and 7 p.m.

The Shelter House on the Square will host a live Nativity, including the participation of a live donkey and sheep, that will take place at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., Ziegler says.

“We also have two new Christmas trees – each about 9-foot tall – that will be in the museum,” Ziegler says. “One will be in the Rural Carrier portion where Santa will be and the other will be in building two where the kids will be making crafts and decorating cookies.”

Shops and businesses on the Square will have extended hours that evening, Ziegler adds.

Participating businesses will include the Gold Nugget Pawn Shop, 344 Jackson St.; D’s Variety Store, 317 Washington St.; the Dandelion Boutique, 601 Harrison St.; and the Yellow Trail Museum and Visitors Information Center, 644 Main St.  

Ziegler says those who wish to take part in the Christmas of Yesteryear Bake Sale need to have their donations dropped off at the museum Friday beginning at 12 p.m. until 6 p.m.

Schedule of Events for the evening:
5 to 8 p.m. Bake sale and crafts at the museum. Downtown merchants open.
5:15 p.m. Santa arrives at the Yellow Trail Museum.
5 and 7 p.m. Historical characters performances at WILLow LeaVes of Hope.
6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Live Nativity at the shelter house, inside Town Square.

** For more information about this event and future happenings presented by the Yellow Trail Museum follow the museum via social media HERE or visit them online.