Hetfield House Annual Gingerbread Open House Weekend

For a fun-filled afternoon that’s sure to put everyone in the Holiday spirit, make sure to visit the Hetfield House (located on Constitution Plaza near the Mountainside Library) on Saturday, 12/9, (adults); and Sunday, 12/10, (families). A donation of $5 per person is suggested and proceeds will go toward the restoration of the Levi Cory House.
The spirit of the holidays, present and past, will be celebrated during the Gingerbread Open House at Mountainside’s Hetfield House the weekend of December 9-10. On Saturday, Dec. 9, the house will be open for adults only for Wine & Cheese with wine, beer and liqueur tasting by Stew Leonard’s of Springfield; and on Sunday, December 10, the house will be open for families. Capturing the celebration of the holidays, the Hetfield House will exude the warmth and holiday spirit of those bygone days. The Hetfield House is decorated inside and out and from top to bottom and shouldn’t be missed.

Adult Wine & Cheese Open House – Saturday, Dec. 9 from 3-5pm
During the adults’ open house on Saturday, Dec. 9 (3-5pm), there will be light refreshments including wine, cheese/crackers, baked goods and beverages. Stew Leonard’s Wines of Springfield will provide wine, beer and liqueur tastings. The event will kick-off at 3:00pm with a visit from jolly old St. Nick. Guests will enjoy, music and plenty of holiday cheer. Stop by for a short visit or stay for a while.

Family Gingerbread Open House – Sunday, Dec. 10 from 1-4pm
Families with children are welcome on Sunday, Dec. 10 (1-4pm) to enjoy many interactive events and projects. These include gingerbread ornaments to decorate, mini holiday arrangements to make, guessing contest, mulled apple cider and baked goods to enjoy – all surrounded by festive holiday décor and live music by the Deerfield Middle School Instrumental Music students (1:30pm), Bagpipe Players from Governor Livingston High School (2:15) and Our Lady of Lourdes Children’s Choir (2:30pm). Despite their busy work preparing for the holiday, Mr. & Mrs. Claus promise to visit the children and share holiday cheer. Bring your cameras for pictures.

On both days, the “Village Shop” boutique will be open featuring Holiday décor items, ornaments, jewelry, gifts, crafts and other curiosities – both new and vintage. Hopefully, in the next year, the “Village Shop” will be relocated to the neighboring Levi Cory House, after its restoration.
The Deacon Andrew Hetfield House is located at Constitution Plaza (Watchung Ave., off Birch Hill Rd.) adjacent to the Mountainside Library. The Mountainside Restoration Committee is a 501 (c)(3) charity and a committee of volunteers whose purpose is to maintain the Deacon Andrew Hetfield House, restore the Levi Cory House and collect and save historic information and items from destruction. For further information, please call (908)789-9420; or go to: www.mountainsidehistory.org.

Photos of Gingerbread Open House at Mountainside’s Hetfield House past.

(above) Alice Cowell, volunteers and guests make miniature holiday arrangements.

(above) Sara McCabe and the OLL Children’s Choir entertain.

(above) Sandy and Maureen are ready for customers at the Village Shop Boutique during The Gingerbread Open House at the Hetfield House.

(above) Santa and Mrs. Claus pose for photos with children and families during The Gingerbread Open House.