A great family tradition continues.
With Christmas approaching quickly, plans for another year of Victorian Christmas at O’Keefe Ranch are coming together.
This year’s event will be held over the first three weekends of December with a bonfire, s’mores, roasting chestnuts on an open fire, wagon rides, letters to Santa, gingerbread house competition and photos with Father Christmas.
“Last year we opened for all three weekends before Christmas,” said Diane Llewelyn-Jones, guest experience coordinator. “And it was very successful. We will also be continuing our new tradition of the Gingerbread House Competition. Our goal is to make the ranch ‘the place known for gingerbread houses. We want to keep growing this competition year over year. First prize is $150 and if you create your house based on a ranch building, you can also win a season’s pass.”
The O’Keefe Ranch remains pet friendly with furry family members welcome, on a leash of course. Victorian Christmas also provides a great opportunity for pet owners to have photos of Santa with their pet. Outside of Victorian Christmas, the O’Keefe Ranch allows pets on a leash during daylight hours even when closed.
Returning in 2022 for a second year is cookie train building for kids. Cost to families is $5 per kit.
“The kits remain low cost to ensure all families are able to access this activity,” said ranch manager Sherrilee Franks. “We are lucky to have such great volunteers to make this possible. That said, sometimes labour costs are needed to help offset the workload and we appreciate any additional donation towards the train kit costs. We would even be open to a sponsorship.”
Victorian Christmas runs Dec. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 and 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is by donation.
A Christmas Carol is also returning to the Ranch.
The Charles Dickens classic is told by by walking the Ranch and experiencing the journey of Ebenezer Scrooge as he visits with the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future.
This processional interactive theatrical experience invites audiences to stop in at the Fezziwig’s party, meet Fred and his wife in the Mansion, spend a penny at the Vendors, break bread with the Cratchit family, and much, much more.
Produced by the Historic O’Keefe Ranch in partnership with Powerhouse Theatre, this production hosts a cast of over 60 actors, a crew of 20, and a host of supportive families and volunteers that make it a true community event. Food and drink are provided by local chefs and breweries and sponsors throughout the valley have given generously to ensure its success.
(Mobility to be able to climb up and down stairs, walk on uneven surfaces, and keep pace with a group is essential. As an out-of-doors experience, these performances are not suitable for small children or babes in arms in the winter season).
This singular Christmas event runs Dec. 6-10, and 13-17 with three shows per evening. Audiences limited to 15 people. Tickets through ticketseller.ca.
For more information on O’Keefe Ranch and updates on all activities, visit www.okeeferanch.ca.
READ MORE: Diver surfaces in Vernon with near-death tale
READ MORE: A chance to get smashed with The Hulk’s Lou Ferrigno at West Kelowna winery
roger@vernonmorningstar.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.