Celebrate the holidays at the Oakville Museum

Holiday magic has arrived at the Oakville Museum, and Erchless Estate is dressed to dazzle this season! Twinkling lights, Victorian decorations, and treasured toys fill the historic home with the warmth of Christmas past. Visitors are invited to step out of the bustle of the season and into a place of wonder, where heritage, nostalgia, and holiday cheer come alive through guided tours, hands-on activities, and festive programs for all ages. 

From glittering ornaments and elegant fashions to classic toys and cosy kitchen aromas, Erchless Estate offers a timeless setting to celebrate, explore, and make new holiday memories.

Deck the Halls: Christmas Guided Tours

Join our knowledgeable staff Tuesday through Sunday of every week for a lively guided tour of Erchless Estate in full Victorian holiday splendour. Stroll through the beautifully decorated rooms featuring ornate trees, classic ornaments, vintage winter fashions, and beloved antique toys. Outdoors, linger among charming seasonal vignettes and a glowing light display that transforms the grounds into a festive winter scene. General admission is by donation. Tours will take place between 1 and 4 p.m. Holiday hours may affect the schedule. 

Museum Window of Toys

There is something magical about old-fashioned toys, the craftsmanship, the whimsy, and the stories they carry. Visit the Museum’s “Toy Store Window” in the Erchless Estate courtyard to discover a sparkling display of cherished playthings, from rocking horses to porcelain dolls, shining under winter lights for a touch of holiday magic. Visit the display from now until the end of the holiday season.

Christmas Craft and Tour (parented) 

Enjoy a sweet and spirited way to welcome the season as a family with a blend of history and holiday creativity. Families with children aged four to 12 are invited to tour the decorated Estate, spot favourite toys from generations past, and then settle in to make a cheerful Christmas craft to bring home. Join the fun on November 28 at 1:30 or 3 p.m., or November 29 at 1:30 p.m. Pre-registration required.

Stirring up the Past: Comfort Food from our Archives 

Warm up with an afternoon of cooking and storytelling alongside Chef Laura Strath on November 29 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre. Participants will recreate comforting recipes inspired by the Museum’s archives—think rich soups, savoury stuffing, and classic cake. Enjoy meaningful encounters with kitchen artifacts and the stories they hold. Nostalgia never tasted so good! Pre-registration required.

Christmas Tour and Treat (ages 18+) 

Indulge in an elegant holiday escape with a guided tour of Erchless Estate at its most festive. Take in the decorated rooms, vintage finery, and nostalgic toys that evoke an 1800s Christmas. Finish your visit with a seasonal treat and a warm beverage, a true holiday indulgence. Join us on December 6 at 1, 3 or 4:30 p.m. Pre-registration required.

Winter Break Craft and Tour (parented) 

Make the most of winter break close to home and enjoy a mid-break outing to keep the season glowing. Families with children aged four to 12 are invited to spend a bright afternoon on December 30 or January 2 at 1:30 or 3 p.m. crafting with your child, then enjoy a guided tour of the Estate filled with holiday traditions and Oakville stories. Pre-registration required.

To learn more about and pre-register for these events, check out the Oakville Museum Programs and Events page.