Isle of Man Guide

On Saturday 29th November 2008 The House of Manannan in Peel will host a day of seasonal festivities including traditional Christmas craft workshops and a festive Manx farmers’ market. The event is also rumoured to feature a very special visitor who will be taking up residence in his Grotto in The House of Manannan for this day only.

Throughout the day, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of festive activities including making traditional Christmas tree decorations, hand crafted Christmas cards and advent calendars.

In addition to the traditional craft activities, from 11am to 1pm and from 2pm to 4pm, Jack Kaighin, a member of the Friends of Manx National Heritage, will present a ‘Magic Lantern‘ show displaying images of the Isle of Man in years gone by including rural scenes and slides of how Christmas was celebrated here in the past.

Visitors can also enjoy the story of the Star of Bethlehem with a Manx twist, with Howard Parkin of the IOM Astronomical Society, every half hour from 11am to 1pm and from 2pm to 4pm.

Caarjyn Cooidjagh, the 'a cappella' choir directed by Annie Kissack, will be singing around the Christmas tree between 3pm and 4pm, so the whole family can gather round and enjoy their special music.

There will also be the opportunity to put on your dancing shoes and learn some traditional dance steps with the Manx Folk Dance Society between 1pm and 3pm.

Despite a heavy work load and secrecy regarding his movements, there have been rumours in the ‘Reindeer Times’ that, from 11am to 1pm and from 2pm to 4pm, Father Christmas will visit The House of Manannan with a sack of presents for children attending the event.

A festive farmers’ market will also take place on the piazza area outside the House of Manannan between 11am and 3pm, with a variety of fresh seasonal Manx produce on sale and available to order in preparation for the festive season.

Maureen Kennaugh of Manx National Heritage said:

“This is a great occasion for the whole family to enjoy and to begin their Christmas celebrations at The House of Manannan. Seasonal refreshments will be available including mulled wine and mince pies served by the Friends of Manx National Heritage, and there will also be a raffle to win a beautiful hand made Christmas cake with a special Manx theme. Proceeds from the raffle will go towards the work of the Friends of Manx National Heritage, a registered charity committed to conserving the cultural heritage and natural environment of the Isle of Man for future generations to enjoy”.

All of the special festive activities are included in the normal admission charge; although a small charge will apply for refreshments. Admission to the festive farmers’ market is also free of charge.

Join in the festive fun at The House of Manannan on Saturday 29th November 2008 between 11am and 5pm and celebrate Christmas with Manx National Heritage.

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