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Not many places in Southern Indiana can match the holiday ambience of the Culbertson Mansion in New Albany, which allows visitors to experience what the holidays may have looked like in the 19th century.

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NEW ALBANY — Not many places conjure up postcard-like images than the Culbertson Mansion at Christmas.

The state historic site offers plenty of opportunities to experience what the holidays may have looked like in the 19th century.

“Holidays at the Culbertson Mansion have become an annual tradition for so many people throughout the region,” Jessica Stavros, southeast regional director for Indiana State Museum & Historic Sites, stated in an email. “Known for stunning decorations and a welcoming culture of community, the Culbertson offers an engaging experience for friends, neighbors, and visitors alike. It’s such an incredible feeling to be a place where families still gather, making memories with each generation. We hope this year is no exception.”

Below is a list of December events at the site, 914 E. Main St., New Albany. For more information call 812-944-9600, or visit indianamuseum.org/culbertson-mansion-state-historic-site.

FAMILY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

• When: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, Sunday, Dec. 2

• Cost: Included with purchase of site admission ($11 adults, $9 seniors, $6 children)

Explore the Mansion as it’s filled with the sights and sounds of the holiday season. Experience a truly Victorian Christmas as you marvel at the incredible holiday decorations or make Christmas crafts with the kids.

Saturday, Dec 1, features the Corydon Dulcimer Society from 2 to 3:30 p.m., while Sunday, Dec. 2 hosts live music and photos with Santa in the Formal Parlor.

CULBERTSON BY CANDLELIGHT

When: one-hour tours at 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 1

Cost: Members: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $5 children; Non-Members: $15 adults, $12 seniors, $8 children

See the splendor of Culbertson Mansion by candlelight during this special tour. You’ll marvel at the beautifully decorated trees and festive garlands while learning about Victorian Christmas and how those traditions differ from today. Reservations and advance payment required.

LES ORDINAIRES

When: 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9

Cost; $10 non-members, $8 members

Delight your senses with an intimate evening of grandeur in the Culbertson Mansion. Baroque trio Les Ordinaires returns for an enchanting experience of music perfect for the Holiday season. Les Ordinaires trio performs “Milieu de Molière,” a concert that weaves together music, theater and culture, placing French Baroque music in context of Indiana’s history. If you have yet to attend a concert in the Formal Parlor, don’t miss this opportunity to hear the home’s incredible architectural acoustics.

CLUE PARTY

When: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14 (ages 21 and over)

Cost: $25 members, $30 non-members

Join participants for this Christmas themed live-action twist on the classic board game, as guests search throughout the mansion to solve the murders within the time allotted. Work individually or in teams, all dressed as your favorite part of this cult classic. Prizes awarded to the winning team and best costume. Includes heavy hors d’ouevres and batch cocktails. Reservations and advance payment required.

MAGIC AT THE MANSION

When: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21 (family show); 9 to 11 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21 (adult show, ages 21 and over)

Cost: Family show: $15 adult, $10 children Non-Members $20 adult, $15 children; Adult show: $25 Members, $30 Non-Members

Bring your holiday guests to experience the wonder of Christmas Magic. Magician Richard Darshwood will perform tableside tricks, as well as invite attendees to participate in an interactive show that questions your perception. Concessions available for purchase at the Family show, batch cocktails included with adult show.

• The Culbertson Mansion now offers membership to the Indiana State Museum & Historic Sites, which offers benefits at the Culbertson Mansion, across the state, and throughout the region. Not only does a membership always include free admission to the Culbertson and the other 11 locations, but there is a substantial ticket discount to programs. Should you purchase a membership, the Family Holiday Celebration would be free, along with any other visits in the year. Membership is also an amazing gift for a member of the family who loves to experience our sites during the Holidays or otherwise.

For more information on purchasing a membership, call 812-944-9600, or visit www.indianamuseum.org.

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