Celebrate the Holiday Season at Government House

Released on November 19, 2014

Every November and December Government House Transforms into a Magical Christmas Space

Government House staff members and volunteers spent two days last week trimming the trees and decking the halls at the Provincial Heritage Property.  Today the house is brimming with Christmas trees, poinsettias, wreaths and holly.  It’s enough to turn even the hardest Grinch into a jolly old Saint Nick.

 “The Christmas season is a special time at Government House,” Minister responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission Mark Docherty said.  “It’s a time when Government House visitors—whether they be returning guests, new Saskatchewan residents, or tourists—can fully experience Victorian holiday traditions and all the beauty of the Christmas season.”

“December is Government House’s busiest month,” Government House Executive Director Carrie Ross said.  “We expect to welcome more than 7,500 guests to Government House during the Christmas season.  It really is a spectacular time of year to explore everything that Government House has to offer.”

In addition to the festive decorations, Government House offers unique programs and events to help celebrate the season.



The Old-Fashioned Victorian Christmas Party will be held at Government House Saturday, December 13 from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.  The family event features carolers, sleigh rides, Christmas cookies, cider and even a visit from Santa Claus.  Admission is free.

In addition to the annual Christmas party, Government House offers a variety of educational programming for young children.  “Twas the Night Before Christmas” is a one-hour program offering children ages four to seven a chance to learn about Canadian Christmas traditions at the turn of the 20th century.  Students spend time touring the Amédée Forget Museum before playing in the Once Upon a Time Room and then decorating gingerbread cookies.

“A Gift from Christmas Past” is a one-hour program aimed at older children ages eight to 12.  It teaches them about the role of the Lieutenant Governor.  Participants learn about Madame Forget’s charitable activities and compare them to the role of today’s Lieutenant Governor.  In keeping with the holiday spirit, children are encouraged to bring one nonperishable food item that will be donated to a local charity.

For older guests who just want to unwind with a book in a bright, warm space, Government House’s conservatory is open to the public.  This greenhouse is the perfect escape from cold winter weather.
 
Government House was built in 1891 and once served as the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of the Northwest Territories.  Although it’s no longer a home, Government House still serves as the Lieutenant Governor’s office today.

For more information about Christmas activities at Government House, call 306-787-5773 or visit www.governmenthouse.gov.sk.ca.  Guests can also keep up to date on the latest events at Government House through Facebook at www.facebook.com/governmenthouse and Twitter @Govt_House.  Admission is always free.

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For more information, contact:

Chelsea Coupal
Parks, Culture and Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5781
Email: chelsea.coupal@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-527-8152