If you’re looking to add a sprinkle of magic to your holiday season, there’s no better place than the Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site. This December, we stepped into the past with the enchanting Victorian Christmas Tour, and it was like unwrapping a beautifully preserved time capsule of 19th-century Christmas traditions.
Here’s why this tour is a must for anyone wanting to bring a touch of nostalgia and history to their festive celebrations.
A House Decked Out for the Holidays
From the moment we stepped inside the Cartier family’s Victorian home, we were greeted by the warm glow of Christmas past. The house, adorned with authentic 19th-century decorations, felt like stepping into the pages of a classic Christmas tale.
The highlight? A grand German-style Christmas tree, standing proudly in the living room, its decorations twinkling in the cozy light. The dining table was set as if the family were about to sit down for a lavish Christmas Eve feast—every detail a testament to the elegance of the bourgeois lifestyle in 1867.
And the aromas! The scent of pine mingled with spices filled the air, instantly transporting us to a simpler, yet more sumptuous, time.
What You’ll Discover on the Tour
Guided by a knowledgeable (and wonderfully engaging) host, David, we wandered through the beautifully restored rooms of the house, learning about the Cartier family’s Christmas traditions. The 50-minute tour covered everything from the origins of the Christmas tree to the etiquette of holiday dining.
Here are some of the fascinating highlights:
The Christmas Tree & Decorations: Learn how the German tradition of tree decorating became a staple of Canadian Christmas.
Etiquette & Culinary Traditions: Discover what a proper 19th-century Christmas dinner looked like, and why table manners were non-negotiable.
Santa Claus & Games: Yes, even Victorian kids believed in Santa! Learn how holiday games and toys brought joy to the season.
Christmas Cards & Gifts: The tradition of giving was just as important then as it is now, with a personal touch that feels almost forgotten in today’s digital age.
More to Explore
The guided tour is just the beginning. Visitors are free to explore the rest of the house and exhibitions at their own pace, taking in even more of the history and charm of this national treasure.
For those with accessibility concerns, the house is fully equipped with ramps and elevators, making this experience open to everyone.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
When: The Victorian Christmas tour is offered exclusively on weekends in December.
Duration: The guided tour lasts about 50 minutes, with several departures throughout the day.
Accessibility: The house is wheelchair accessible, with washrooms and an elevator available.
Extras: Parking is available on-site (paid), and the Companion Leisure Card (CAL) is accepted.
Why You Should Go
This tour is a delightful way to embrace the holiday spirit whether you’re a history buff, a lover of all things Christmas, or just looking for a unique way to celebrate the season. The attention to detail, warm hospitality, and charming storytelling make it an experience that will leave you feeling nostalgic and inspired.
This holiday season, take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life and step into the elegance and charm of a Victorian Christmas. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of how traditions evolve—and maybe even a few ideas to make your own celebrations a little more timeless.
Happy holidays! 🎄
Travels by Cheryl Anne 