What did Christmas look like on a North Carolina farm more than 100 years ago?
Discover the sights, sounds, tastes, and traditions of Christmas past at Cape Fear Botanical Garden! Join us in the Hazel McCauley Heritage Garden Complex for a festive day filled with old-fashioned holiday fun, hands-on crafts, living history, and activities for the whole family.
Explore how families celebrated the season before electric lights, online shopping, and modern conveniences. Visit the historic farmhouse and general store, meet costumed historical reenactors, and discover the simple traditions that made the holidays special.
A Little Old-Fashioned Christmas Fun
There’s plenty to see, do, and discover throughout the Heritage Garden!
- Meet and pet friendly farm animals from Cedar Creek Market.
- Make natural Christmas ornaments and holiday cards to take home.
- Try your hand at traditional crafts, including cornhusk dolls, loom weaving, and candle dipping.
- Play old-fashioned toys and games.
- Explore the decorated farmhouse and general store while learning about Christmas traditions of the 1800s.
- Sample traditional Brunswick stew and shop for old-fashioned Christmas penny candy.
Hungry for more? Lucia’s Cafe and food trucks will also be available with food for purchase.
Whether you’re discovering a tradition for the first time or sharing something you remember from childhood, Christmas in the 1800s is a chance to slow down, spend time together, and enjoy a little holiday nostalgia.
Admission and Event Details
All Christmas in the 1800s activities are included with regular Garden admission and are FREE for Garden members!
We encourage guests to purchase admission tickets in advance for a quicker, easier check-in when they arrive. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the Garden on the day of the event.
Planning to visit Holiday Lights in the Garden that evening? Holiday Lights requires a separate ticket. The Garden will close from 3:30–5 p.m. before reopening for the evening event.
