Antique Christmas at the Taft Museum of Art

The Taft Museum of Art is one of Cincinnati’s hidden gems. During the holiday season you can see an amazing collection of Christmas decorations that date all the way back to the late 1800’s in their “Antique Christmas” exhibit.

I went to check it on a Sunday because Sundays are always FREE at the Taft.

Each room had something interesting to see. You might even recognize a few vintage pieces.

The exhibit is also a great opportunity to see the incredible art that is normally on display at the Taft too.

“Get into the holiday mood by visiting the Taft’s annual display of antique ornaments, decorations, and toys. Thanks to generous lenders from Cincinnati and beyond, you can escape to a winter wonderland of Christmas past. As in previous years, this year’s exhibition features unique and unfamiliar displays: feather trees adorned with clown ornaments, mushroom ornaments, bird ornaments, 1930s foil-wrapped ornaments, and 1940s World War II–era glass ornaments. Among the toys are antique pull toys, nodding reindeer from Germany, and paper doll sets. Holiday decorations include very early Santa figures, a 1950s Christmas display, and—last but not least—a Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer display to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the television special this year.” 

During my visit, I met a volunteer named Greg. He is a wealth of knowledge about the pieces of history on display for Antique Christmas.  He also dresses up complete with a tall hat, so it should be easy to spot him if he is there during your visit.

He even has a few pieces on display from his personal collection.

Make sure that you also pick up a flyer that tells you more about each piece. The history behind the displays is really fascinating.

The detail on so many of the displays is absolutely incredible!

The Taft Museum of Art also has great special exhibits. Make sure that you check out the current photography exhibit, “Paris Night & Day” while you are there.

Antique Christmas is from 

November 7, 2014- January 4, 2015

Hours

In November and December, the Taft Museum of Art’s Hours

 Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

  Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The Taft is closed Mondays, New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

Admission to the historic house and special exhibition (includes parking):

 

Admission

Adults $10

Seniors 60 and over $8

Students and Teachers $8

Youth 12-17 $4

Children 11 and under FREE

***Admission is FREE  for all on Sundays.

The Taft also offers visitors FREE onsite parking.

You can find out more about the Taft Museum of Art from their website.

The Taft Museum of Art is located at 316 Pike St, Cincinnati, OH 45202.