Open House To Fill Mercer's Castle With Holiday Sights And Sound

DOYLESTOWN, PA — The beloved Mercer Museum Holiday Open House returns to the halls and narrow winding passageways of Henry Mercer's six-story concrete castle on Tuesday, Dec. 5 from 7 to 9 p.m.

Guests will delight in the sounds, scents and scenes of the holidays during an evening of free musical performances, family activities, and a visit with Santa, as well as the traditional burning of the greens.

Santa will arrive at 7:15 p.m. with the musical accompaniment of the Central Bucks East Brass Ensemble, and will be spreading joy and taking photos until 9 p.m.

Local musical performers include the Delaware Valley Saxophone Quartet, Central Bucks High School East Chamber Ensemble and Symphonic Band, Council Rock High School South Vocal Ensemble, Council Rock High School South Carolers, Bucks County Country Gentlemen, and harp music demonstrations with Darcy Fair.

A choir from Council Rock performs during last year's Holiday Open House. (Photo by Jeff Werner)

Santa will be on hand to listen to holiday wishes. (Photo by Jeff Werner)

Special offerings include Hanukkah celebrations and the dreidel game presented by Temple Judea, coloring and craft activities for kids, the burning of the greens, and rare evening access to the museum’s two exhibitions, "Everyday Rhythms: Music at the Mercer" and "The Dusty Road to Doylestown Hospital: The Early Years of the Village Improvement Association."

Hot and cold apple cider will be served compliments of the Friends of the Bucks County Historical Society.

Event Details

• What: Mercer Museum Holiday Open House
• When: Tuesday, December 5 from 7 to 9 p.m.
• Admission: Free
• Location: Mercer Museum, 84 South Pine Street, Doylestown
• Details: The event is rain or shine. Certain activities and locations may be altered due to weather. Note that the historic nature of the castle portion of the Mercer Museum offers partial accessibility due to narrow passageways. It is not climate-controlled and may experience fluctuations in temperature and humidity, depending on external weather conditions. The ground floor of the Mercer Museum features a modern wing that is fully accessible and climate-controlled with a changing exhibit gallery, museum shop, and restrooms.