Fall into fun at the Bell Homestead National Historic Site's upcoming events

BRANTFORD, ON – The City of Brantford is pleased to present an exciting line-up of special events this Fall and holiday season at the Bell Homestead National Historic Site, located at 94 Tutela Heights Road, including the 26^th annual Barn Sale, Holiday Bake Sale, and Candlelight Christmas Celebration. Pre-booking is required for the Bake Sale and Christmas Celebration. All events will adhere to the current public health guidelines that are required.

“The Homestead is excited to bring back some community favourites this season,” says Brian Wood, Curator, Bell Homestead National Historic Site. “We had great success with the cookie pre-orders last season and the barn sale and candlelight tours are always popular!”

The 26^th annual Barn Sale takes place on Saturday, October 16 from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Expect to find a wide range of treasures from household items, furniture, electronics and more! The Holiday Bake Sale will be selling pre-ordered delicious cookies and squares from the Exchange Café kitchen on November 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The popular Candlelight Christmas Celebration throughout Saturdays in December will take guests on a one-hour tour of Bell’s home and the Henderson home lit by the soft glow of candles and oil lamps. The Exchange Café and Phone Booth Museum Store will be open for all events to enjoy a snack or beverage or to purchase a last minute souvenir or gift. In accordance with provincial regulations, patrons attending the Exchange Café will be required to show proof of identification and proof of COVID-19 vaccination or exemption before they can enter.

Detailed information about Bell Homestead and special events can be found at Brantford.ca/BellHomestead or by calling 519-756-6220. Join the conversation on the Bell Homestead National Historic Site group Facebook page.

Bell Homestead special event details

26^th Annual Barn Sale, takes place on Saturday, October 16 from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Donations for this event are welcomed for drop-off or arrange for pick-up by calling 519-756-6220. The Barn Sale will have a variety of donated items including household items, furniture, electronics and more! Proceeds from the sale are used towards future Bell Homestead community events and special projects.

The Holiday Bake Sale kicks off the holiday season with delicious homemade cookies at $8.00 per baker’s dozen and squares and tarts at $6.00 for half a dozen, available for pre-order. Visit Brantford.ca/BellHomestead for a list of treats available. Orders can be filled by emailing bellhomestead@brantford.ca or by calling 519-756-6220 by Saturday, November 20. Orders must be picked up at Bell Homestead on Saturday, November 27, 2021 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

The Candlelight Christmas Celebration takes place on Saturday, December 4, 11 and 18 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. It includes a one hour tour of Bell’s home and the Henderson Home amid Victorian decorations and the soft glow of candles and oil lamps. Seasonal music will be played in the drawing room, there will be treats offered in Eliza Bell’s kitchen and a Christmas scavenger hunt for children. Admission is by donation and pre-registration is required with limited spots available. You can book your tour, up to a maximum of six individuals, by emailing bellhomestead@brantford.ca or by calling 519-756-6220.

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Media Contact:

Sharon Sayles | Communications Specialist, Communications and Community Engagement
City of Brantford | 519-759-4150 ext.5218 | ssayles@brantford.ca