Glass ornaments, toys, and Christmas stockings are only a few of the 19th century fineries to see at the 26th annual Victorian Holiday celebration at the Farm House Museum in December.

This event provides ISU students and members of the Ames community the opportunity to see and experience the Farm House Museum decorated for the holidays in 19th-century style.

“When the farm house was built, it was the first building on campus. Ames didn’t even exist then and the house was out on the prairie, so this event gives the feeling of how they celebrated Christmas back then. It also shows how the campus has grown. It brings family and friends, campus and community, young and old, together,” said Lynette Pohlman, director of University Museums.

At the first Victorian Holiday celebration, they had two paper decorations and 6 feet of greenery to decorate Farm House when it first opened. Since then, the Victorian Holiday celebration has evolved each year.

“This event is a continuation of the tradition and has become a more elaborate event,” Pohlman said.

The celebration will be on three Sundays in December from 1 to 4 p.m. with different activities to participate in each weekend.

“People should go for two reasons. One reason is just because it’s a fun event. The second is because it’s a great way to educate people in what the holidays were like at the Farm House in the late 19th century and early 20th century,” said Rachel Hampton, information and collection manager for University Museums.

On Dec. 2, students and families can have their picture taken for $5 in front of the fireplace or tree in the Farm House and then make a frame to take home.

On Dec. 9, the Ames Children’s Chamber Choir will perform holiday selections. Visitors will also be able to make crafts, such as tree ornaments, that they can keep.

On Dec. 16, the ISU Block and Bridle Club will assist with horse-drawn wagon rides from the Farm House Museum to the Knoll.

“I think we all love to get on horse and wagon rides and make crafts. The holidays are a time when you make crafts together with your group, whether it’s with your family or your dorm,” Pohlman said.

The Knoll will be decorated and will be reopened to the public after its renovations.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Knoll. Visitors will be able to view the first floor only.

Each weekend of the Victorian Holiday celebration cider and other treats will be provided for visitors at the Farm House Museum.

“You’ll feel welcome, and it will be uplifting and will fill your heart and soul,” Pohlman said.

The Farm House Museum will be decorated for the holidays and open to the public beginning Nov. 26.

It is open Monday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.

There will be no admission to the events and participation in the craft activities is free.