A popular local holiday tradition which began 50 years ago continues in December.
Holidays at the Manor House showcases displays that bring the joy of the holidays to the mansion at Wildwood Metropark that was once home to the Stranahan family. “50 years ago this year, the Lucas County voters went to the polls and voted to preserve the estate as a public park,” said Metroparks spokesperson Scott Carpenter. “Today, I don’t think we could imagine Toledo without Wildwood. It has been our most popular park for 50 years and continues to be popular.”
Planning for the annual event begins early in the year. “Volunteers have been decorating the house as long as it’s been a Metropark,” explained Carpenter. “What you’ll find this year will be completely different from last year because every year is different. We have some returning and some mix of returning and new decorators each year who can be individuals, families, work groups, clubs, churches, you name it. They’ve decorated it and they keep coming back.” Ideas are pitched in February or March with display proposals for each of the 30 decorated rooms. After selecting the best ideas, two weeks in November are set aside to get the house ready for 20,000 guests.
In recent years, one room featured scenes from the TV show “The Simpsons,” and another
showcased artifacts from the classic film “White Christmas” starring Bing Crosby. Planned for this year is a collection of memorabilia from “Star Wars.” “The people are never out of ideas,” added Carpenter. “They keep coming. Every year is going to be a surprise what you’ll find.”
Located a short distance from the Manor House, the Swanton Area Railroad and Model Club features a train display at Metroparks Hall, which was formerly the estate’s limousine garage. “It’s remarkable…and something you don’t want to miss.”
The Manor House hosts its holiday celebrations from December 6 to December 14. Hours are 10am until 8pm daily. Admission is free and no reservations are necessary. If you attend during the weekend, a smore shack is available outside to keep you in the mood.
Carpenter grinned and added, “I’d love to see a few snowflakes. Not a lot, you know, just a little to make it look Christmassy.”
For more information: metroparkstoledo.com/learn-and-play/special-events-and-programs/holidays-at-the-manor-house/
