Children's author Suzanne Bloom. Thanks to support from Preferred Mutual, the Chenango County Historical Society will host its annual Holiday Open House from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Dec.ember 7, including caroling, a cookie decoration station, and the annual Parade of Trees. This year’s festivities also feature stuffed animal portraits by award-winning children’s author and illustrator Suzanne Bloom, a pop-up shop with the Knuckle Down Coffee Company, and a festive Christmas train demonstration. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH – Experience the wonder of the season during the annual Holiday Open House from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 7 at the Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS), located at 45 Rexford St., Norwich. This beloved community tradition features family activities, live music, seasonal treats, and unique local holiday experiences.

In celebration of the museum’s Community Gallery exhibition, “Creativity in Bloom: The Storied Illustrations of Suzanne Bloom,” Chenango County’s award-winning children’s author and illustrator will be working on a community puzzle installation, along with stuffed animal portraits. Children of all ages are invited to bring a favorite plushy friend for Bloom to create a hand-drawn likeness of a beloved childhood toy. Visitors can experience the creation of art in real-time and bring home a meaningful keepsake which preserves sentimental value and cherished memories.

New this year, locally owned and operated roaster the “Knuckle Down Coffee Company” will host a morning pop-up shop, featuring its exclusive blend inspired by “Old Chenango” brand coffee. Architect Jim Johnson will host demonstrations of a Christmas train running across his hand-crafted Lyon Brook Trestle Bridge Model, a scale replica where each quarter inch equals one foot of actual distance.

Using treats and toppings provided by Kelly Banks Cakes of New Berlin, visitors can take inspiration from the festive holiday atmosphere and decorate seasonal cookies. This fun and free family-friendly activity offers the opportunity to make delicious culinary masterpieces.

The Holiday Open House also serves as the launch of the “Parade of Trees,” highlighting the history and heritage of Chenango County. Visitors can explore the many trees decorated by local charitable organizations with themes inspired by businesses, festivals, landmarks, and milestones that highlight memorable aspects of the county. In keeping with tradition, the perennial favorite “People’s Choice” campaign includes both in-person and virtual viewing where patrons can vote for their favorite tree by making a donation. Whichever organization’s tree accumulates the greatest combined total (both in-person and virtually) at the campaign’s conclusion on Dec. 31 will be deemed the winner. The winning tree campaign’s earnings will be shared evenly between the organization and CCHS.

Throughout the afternoon, visitors are encouraged to sing in the holidays during “Caroling with Jenni & Friends,” led by local favorite Sherburne’s Jenni Larchar. The beloved voice behind “Jenni’s Music,” Larchar is known throughout the region for symphonious vocal performances, personalized music lessons, interactive preschool programs, and a vast performance repertoire.

“We look forward to hosting this beloved holiday tradition,” said Jessica Moquin, CCHS executive director. “Thanks to the continued generosity of Preferred Mutual, this year’s festivities include a wide range of cultural, historic, and seasonal programming. The day features something for everyone!”

First established in 1939, CCHS is the area’s premier heritage museum dedicated to celebrating local culture—its unique traditions and noteworthy stories. Programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional support for the annual Holiday Open House has been provided by Preferred Mutual. CCHS is also a proud partner of Bloomberg Connects, an app that allows visitors to enhance their exhibit experience through audio clips, videos, and more. Download this free digital museum guide via the Apple Store or Google Play, and visit ChenangoHistorical.org for more details about this and other museum programs.

—Information from Chenango County Historical Society