Step back in time and celebrate a Victorian-style Christmas at Hardman Farm State Historic Site in Northeast Georgia. With horse-drawn wagon rides, period decorations, and homemade treats, it’s a holiday experience like no other.
Experience the Magic of 1877 at Hardman Farm
The Hardman Farm in Sautee Nacoochee, Georgia, transforms into a Victorian Christmas wonderland every December. Guests are invited to step into the year 1877, as they enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, warm festive treats, and the welcoming scent of fresh greens.
On select Friday and Saturday evenings—December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, and 21—visitors can immerse themselves in a nostalgic celebration from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Nichols family, the original owners of the farm, will host a charming Christmas party at “West End,” the farm’s historic home. Guests will be greeted by reenactors portraying the family, including Captain Nichols, his wife Kate, and their daughter, Anna Ruby. The event gives you a glimpse of how Christmas was celebrated in the late 1800s, offering a perfect mix of history and holiday cheer.
A Taste of the Past: Victorian Traditions on Display
As guests stroll through the mansion, they encounter reenactors who share Victorian Christmas traditions, giving a glimpse into a simpler time. Music fills the air, with local musicians performing a variety of tunes that capture the spirit of Christmas. This year’s musical performances include a harpist, a dulcimer group, and pianists playing on an authentic 1830s square baby grand piano.
The atmosphere at Hardman Farm is nothing short of magical, with period decorations and the smell of fresh-baked treats in the air. Homemade sorghum ginger cookies are a highlight, made with sorghum grown and pressed right on the farm. The cookies add a unique touch to the experience, delighting visitors with their sweet and spicy flavor.
Holiday Fun for the Whole Family
For a full holiday experience, visitors can enjoy more than just the decorations and treats. The farm offers a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy. After exploring the mansion, guests can visit Santa Claus, who waits for them in the farm’s charming carriage house. For a more adventurous experience, a horse-drawn wagon will transport visitors along the historic Unicoi turnpike, once a Native American trading route.
As the night grows colder, guests can gather around the fire pit to toast s’mores and enjoy the warmth of the fire. Inside the visitors center, there’s a chance to shop for unique holiday gifts from local artists and crafters, perfect for anyone looking for a special souvenir or a meaningful gift.
Ticket Information and Details
Tickets for this Victorian Christmas experience can be purchased online at gastateparks.org/hardmanfarm. Tickets are priced at $20 for adults, $15 for children ages 6-17, and free for children 5 and under. A family rate of $45 is also available for two adults and their children (ages 17 and under). Groups of 15 or more are eligible for a 10% discount.
The event is not just an opportunity to see a piece of history—it’s an invitation to slow down and enjoy a simpler time, filled with the joy and magic of the holiday season.
