Each year, the Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum’s “Three Centuries of Christmas” tours show in fascinating detail how the American holiday season has evolved over the past 300 years.

This year, two evening candlelight tours, with costumed guides, have been added for viewing the three elegantly appointed historic houses that comprise the museum. Tours are offered on weekends in December.

The enchanting and historic view of holidays past begins in the Silas Deane House, circa 1770, where New Year’s Day was the main holiday—due to the Puritanical customs that still lingered in New England—rather than Christmas. The house reflects the preparations for the Deane’s “New Years’ Day Calling,” when prominent gentlemen in the community would call on the lady of the household. ​

Decorations include three Christmas trees, evergreen roping, fresh greens, fruit, and a collection of period ornaments. Also featured are a fine collection of antique iron toys from the late 19th and early 20th century and a charming Victorian doll house. The public is also invited to explore the Webb-Deane-Stevens Gift Shop, which offers a bounty of timeless treasures, from elegant household items to jewelry, books, stocking stuffers, hostess and children’s gifts and more.