Stepping Out

An Old-fashioned holiday

Thanksgiving traditions at Old Bethpage Village Restoration

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Stepping Back in Time

1863 Thanksgiving
Experience Thanksgiving traditions from days gone by during Old Bethpage Village Restoration’s annual holiday event. Journey back to the 19th century as old-fashioned wood burning stoves, beehive ovens and hearths are fired up as “villagers” prepare a variety of foods and baked goods, using historical recipes. A fat turkey is spitted and roasted, along with pie making and a demonstration of food preservation methods. The village also displays methods of food preservation employed for late fall crops in the 1800s. Fiddle music, entertainment and children’s activities, including storytelling, add to the festive ambience. The enticing aromas charm visitors to the recreated village, which shares the welcoming holiday spirit with all who visit.
Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 24-25, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $13, $8 children 4-14 and seniors. 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage. (516) 572-8401 or www.obvrnassaucom.

Holiday Fun

Vanderbilt Mansion Celebration
Explore William K. Vanderbilt’s former summer residence, now all dressed up in its holiday finest for the season. The 24-room Spanish Revival House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is brimming with seasonal glitz and festivities. Welcome the holidays at the Vanderbilt’s annual tree lighting, which includes carol singing, an interactive family activity, refreshments, and, of course, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. This remarkable estate offers an intimate look at the life of a privileged family from the Jazz Age through World War II. The rooms are as William and Rosamund Vanderbilt left them, filled with priceless art, furnishings and personal possessions. Guided holiday tours begin Nov. 22, through Dec. 30.
Saturday, Nov. 24, 12:30 p.m., with tree lighting, 4:30-5:30 p.m. $10, $9 seniors and students; $6 additional for tour. Vanderbilt Mansion, 180 Little Neck Rd., Centerport. (631) 854-5579 or www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.