CELEBRATION OF LIGHT

We jump started the holiday season with a visit to the Troy Historical Village's CELEBRATION OF LIGHT exhibit. This museum in Troy, Michigan preserves buildings that were in use within the community from the 1800s - 1920s laid out around a town square letting people step back into time to experience what life was like when the suburban city was instead a rural farming community. The village includes a log cabin, black smith shop, mercantile building, church with parsonage, one room school house and a Civil War era home. All lit up with holiday flair after dark this time of year.

Due to the pandemic my kids have been doing virtual learning from home so far this school year. This outing made for a nice home schooling field trip. We learned a lesson on the origination of candles in celebrating birthdays during our stop at the Troy Historic Village's school house. An interesting topic for my twins whose birthday is during the holiday season between Christmas and New Year's Day.

Each of the buildings along a designated socially-distanced path provide interesting tidbits about how light is incorporated into secular and religious celebrations as nights get darker and the year end approaches. Learn about how civilization mastered light and expanded beyond a practical need to also provide spiritual and symbolic significance. In addition to some colorful displays visitors can also learn interesting trivia making a visit to the Troy Historical Village both an entertaining and educational experience.

Viewing the Village in a different light by visiting after dark, this event embraces the rich diversity of the city's population providing a chance for neighbors to take a look at different perspectives from a variety of cultural groups that call Troy home. Jewish, Hindu, Muslim and Christian traditions are reflected in displays that share the ways light is used in their faith and cultures in daily observances and annual celebrations.

Head over to troyhistoricvillage.org for more information about this CELEBRATION OF LIGHT. The Troy Historic Village is located at 60 W. Wattles Road in Troy, Michigan. With so many holiday activities cancelled this is a nice way to spend a festive evening. I've always though history is fun and events like this are a nice way to showcase that attitude and enjoy some holiday cheer.