On Saturday, December 1, 2018, from noon to 7:00 p.m., the Early American Crafters invite visitors to the Heritage Canyon buildings, at 515 N. 4th Street, Fulton, IL, bringing them to life with activities of the Christmas season. Next door at 409 N. 4th Street, Andresen Nature Center will join in the celebration. The daytime Christmas Walk and lantern-lit Luminary Walk (from 6:00 to 7:00) are the Crafters’ way of thanking visitors for their support throughout the year. There will be no gate fee.
Start your visit in the Town Hall visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, while enjoying a hot drink and a cookie. Take a map of the Canyon that lists gifts Santa needs to fill his bag. Children can search the Canyon buildings on a Santa Scavenger Hunt. When items are found, have the map marked by the building host. Return the completed list to the Town Hall. Get a prize while you enjoy another hot cup of cider, cocoa, Canyon tea, or coffee. The hunt goes until 4:00, before it starts getting dark.
Don’t skip Andresen Nature Center on your Santa Scavenger Hunt. Children can build a bird or squirrel feeder; string popcorn; make a paper ornament; follow a storybook trail with Fulton High School Science Club.
Step into the church to enjoy seasonal music: 1:00 to 2:00 ukuleles; 2:00 to 3:00 violin, cello, and organ; 3:00 to 4:00 dulcimer.
Enter 1800’s replica buildings, plus a relocated home and summer kitchen that were moved from an Albany, IL, farm. The church, blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, and General Store are stops along the way. During the dark hours you may use your flashlight.
Not only is Heritage Canyon beautiful during the day, but in the evening with the luminaries lit, it’s breathtaking. Visit Heritage Canyon and Andresen Nature Center on Saturday, December 1, and capture the holiday spirit.
