Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures at Homestead National Monument

See sparkling decorations from many countries showcasing ethnic traditions at both the Education and Heritage Centers at Homestead National Monument of America, from November 26, 2010 through December 31, 2010. The Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures celebrates the winter traditions of people who lived on the Great Plains during the homesteading era. Decorated trees and tabletop displays feature ornaments and hand-made crafts that reflect the spirit of hope, humor and generosity which characterized settlers of the West.

Homestead National Monument of America Superintendent Mark Engler said, ?The Homestead Act of 1862 had a global impact. Many of the ethnic groups represented during the Winter Festival came to America with traditions inherited from their homelands. We hope that families and individuals visiting Homestead during the holiday season will learn something new about the many winter celebrations that take place throughout the world.? Cultures represented include French, German, Welsh, Swedish, Polish, Irish, Czech, Scottish, Jewish, Cornish, and Native American.

In addition to the displays, there will be special programs presented on November 28, December 5, 11 and 12. These programs include:

November 28 2 p.m. (Education Center) Jim Griess, author of ?German Russians? will talk about who were these people as well as what brought them to the United States. Books are available in the Homestead Bookstores.

December 4-5 1-4 p.m. (Heritage and Education Centers) Open House in the Homestead Bookstores. Find that unique gift and get a discount. At the Heritage Center, make a cornhusk doll or other pioneer ornaments, enjoy refreshments and free gift wrapping.

December 5 2 p.m (Education Center) Joel Starita, author of ?I Am a Man? will give a presentation about Chief Standing Bear of the Ponca Indian tribe and his historic journey to achieve justice for his people in the late 1800s. Books are available in the Homestead Bookstores.

December 11 1-4 p.m. (Freeman School) Holiday at the Freeman School. New event - Join in on a celebration similar to those of pioneer schools.

December 12 2 p.m. (Education Center) Wilber Senior Czech Dancers. Youth ages 11-18 will dance traditional Czech dances and interpret their meaning and origins.