HAVERHILL — The eighth annual Christmas at Buttonwoods ¬— A Festival of Trees opens to the public Saturday with 102 displays, including one tree made entirely of tea cups, as well as wreaths and table centerpieces.
The museum's winter wonderland kicks off today at 6 p.m. with a gala event featuring food tastings presented by 10 local restaurants. Tickets are $25 and are available at the door.
"We have a variety of new displays this year, including a Dynasty Tree featuring sports-theme ornaments and gift items such as a 2010 Celtics calendar," said Thomas Spitalere, festival chairman.
As in past years, several local schools submitted displays. Students in Haverhill High School's Learning for Life program and who operate the Book Cellar in Railroad Square, submitted a Hillies Super Fan Tree featuring Hillie items such as a T-shirt, golf shirt, stocking cap and water bottle.
Students in the after-school Discovery Club at Consentino Middle School entered their Let it Grow Tree decorated with gardening tools, gloves and seed packets.
New to the festival are special events including Sounds of the Holidays evenings on Dec. 4 and 11 featuring Christmas music on vinyl, eggnog and beverages.
"We are also introducing a cookie bake-off with judging and prizes," Spitalere said.
Family day will include classic children's Christmas movies starring Rudolph, Frosty and Santa.
Visitors to the festival can vote for their favorite display, and the winning entries will be honored by the museum.
Visitors also have the opportunity to take home their favorite tree, wreath or table centerpiece by entering a raffle.
Tickets are available at the museum during operating hours.
For more information, call the museum at 978-374-4626.
Christmas at Buttonwoods — A Festival of Trees
Where: Buttonwoods Museum, 240 Water St., Haverhill
Open: Saturday, Nov. 28, through Sunday, Dec. 13
When: Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Closed Mondays
Student days: Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (call for prices)
Senior days: Dec. 4 and 11, $3 admission
Family day: Dec. 5
Cookie bake-off: Dec. 10, 6 to 8 p.m.
Admission: $5 adults, $4 senior citizens, $3 ages 7 to 17, free to children 6 and younger
Questions: 978-374-4626
Online information: www.haverhillhistory.org
