Step Back in Time with Colonial Christmas Reenactment at Tate House Museum, Portland

Published on December 8, 2025

This holiday season, the Tate House Museum is inviting visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the charm and history of an 18th-century Colonial Christmas. On December 13, 2025, the museum will host its all-new Colonial Christmas Living History Reenactment, offering a fascinating and educational journey into the past. This special event promises to be an unforgettable experience for both history enthusiasts and families alike, providing a unique opportunity to explore how Christmas was celebrated during the time of the American Revolution.

Step into a Colonial Christmas: A Time-Traveling Holiday

From 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the Tate House Museum will transport visitors to a colonial Christmas during the early years of American history. This engaging, hands-on event will feature lively performances from 18th-century reenactors, dressed in period-appropriate attire, who will bring to life the holiday traditions of British merchants and early American colonists. The museum’s well-curated reenactments will offer an authentic glimpse into the festive celebrations, customs, and daily life of the period. Visitors can witness firsthand how Christmas was observed before the widespread adoption of modern-day holiday traditions.

The event will delve into British merchant holiday traditions, a crucial part of Portland’s historical fabric, and will include tales of the Tate Family, whose involvement during the American Revolution made them significant figures in the region’s history. This historical context not only enriches the experience but also provides an opportunity to learn about the fascinating role of Portland in the larger story of early America.

A Taste of History: Colonial Food, Music, and Games

To enhance the historical atmosphere, the Tate House Museum will also offer visitors a variety of colonial-style food and drink. Guests will have the chance to sample festive foods that were common during the colonial period, including traditional dishes that would have been enjoyed during holiday gatherings. Colonial music will fill the air, with live performances of period songs that help recreate the atmosphere of the time, while traditional colonial games will provide fun for children and adults alike. These immersive activities will help visitors understand the social customs and entertainments that were popular during the 18th century.

For those seeking a deeper connection with the past, the event will feature an exciting reenactment of the historic Tea Burning protest. This event, which took place in Portland during the years leading up to the American Revolution, was a powerful act of defiance against British colonial rule. The reenactment will allow visitors to witness firsthand the emotions and political tensions that shaped this important moment in American history. The protest’s significance will be explained through the lens of the Tate Family’s own experiences, making the event both educational and thrilling.

A Historic Experience for the Whole Family

This living history reenactment offers an excellent opportunity for families to learn about and experience history in an engaging and interactive way. With hands-on activities like traditional games and the chance to sample colonial foods, the event offers a delightful mix of fun and learning that appeals to all ages. Children can run through the grounds, playing period games and interacting with historical characters, while parents can enjoy the historical demonstrations and reenactments.

The event also offers a valuable lesson in the customs and traditions of early America, making it an ideal way to introduce children and young adults to important aspects of American history. The Tate House Museum has long been a local treasure, known for its immersive and informative events that make history come alive. This Christmas event promises to be no exception, combining festive cheer with fascinating historical insights.

A Family-Friendly Holiday Tradition

As the holiday season unfolds, this event serves as a wonderful way for families to celebrate together while exploring the rich history of Portland. The museum’s Colonial Christmas Living History Reenactment is a perfect opportunity for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the season in a way that goes beyond modern holiday traditions. It offers a chance to appreciate the historical roots of Christmas celebrations and connect with the past in a meaningful way.

Although registration for the event has now closed, there are still many ways to engage with the museum’s ongoing events throughout the holiday season. The Tate House Museum will continue to host educational tours and exhibits that explore the region’s colonial past, ensuring that visitors have multiple opportunities to learn about the history of Portland and its role in the American Revolution.

Embrace the Colonial Holiday Spirit

The Colonial Christmas Living History Reenactment at Tate House Museum is an event that brings together history, culture, and holiday joy in a truly unique way. This engaging experience invites guests to not only witness history but also participate in it, creating lasting memories for all who attend. Whether you are a history buff or just looking for a fun and educational activity for the whole family, this event is sure to offer something special.

As Portland continues to embrace its historical roots, events like this one serve as a reminder of the city’s pivotal role during the American Revolution and the significance of preserving the traditions that shaped the nation. The Tate House Museum provides an essential opportunity to celebrate the season while reflecting on the colonial heritage that played such a key role in the formation of the United States.