Visitors to the Governor’s Residence this holiday season will enjoy a “Celebration of the Arts,” First Lady Susan Corbett announced today.
The annual open house and holiday tours are free and open to the public.
“As longtime supporters of the arts in Pennsylvania, the governor and I wanted to celebrate the importance and vitality of the arts this holiday season,” Mrs. Corbett said. “It is our hope that visitors enjoy and appreciate the festive, art-inspired decorations.”
Christmas trees donated by the Pennsylvania Christmas Tree Growers Association adorn the building’s public areas. Each tree has a specific theme showcasing a different art form, such as dance, theater and visual arts.
In keeping with tradition, each tree also has two Airedale Terrier ornaments in honor of Penny and Harry, the Corbetts’ dogs. The ornaments are hidden on the trees so that children and adults can try to find them.
The Residence, located at 2035 N. Front St., Harrisburg will be open for holiday tours from noon to 2 p.m. on Dec. 9, 10, 11, and 16, 17, 18.
A holiday open house will be held from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Dec. 8. The event is part of Historic Harrisburg Association’s annual Candlelight House Tour and will feature musical entertainment by local artists.
Individuals planning to attend the open house are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots Program. Local Marines will be on site to collect donations.
Visitors will also have an opportunity to send holiday greetings to servicemen and women as part of the American Red Cross “Holiday Mail for Heroes” program.
Greeting cards will be available during each tour and will be distributed to veterans, military families and active duty service members by the American Red Cross.
There is no cost to attend the holiday tours or open house and reservations are not required. No large bags, purses or totes are permitted.
For more information, contact the Residence tour line at 717-772-9130. Learn more about the Governor’s Residence online at www.pa.gov/residence.