A Victorian Christmas at the Cartier’s

Looking for a touch of class this Holiday season? Discover how styles dating back to 1867 are still in vogue 150 years later! Be charmed by the elegant Victorian decor featuring miniature fir trees, handmade cards and of course, champagne!

It’s Christmas, 1867; the Confederation has just been formed, and festivities are in full swing at the Cartier home! All the latest trends in decoration, cooking and fashion are sought out to delight the guests. During your visit to the house, discover the history and unexpected origins of some of our still-current holiday traditions. If you’re looking to go out with friends or need a break from December’s hustle and bustle, come visit the Cartier house with its festive decorations. You can enjoy a hot drink by the fireplace, take a souvenir photo with charming period accessories, or make your own personalized holiday card.

December 1 to 30
Weekends, from 10 am to 5 pm

December 26 to 30
Every day, from 10 am to 5 pm

Costumed presentation in the Victorian house
Try on accessories of an other era!
Let yourself be enchanted by guides in period costumes who will describe how the bourgeoisie in Montreal prepared for Christmas in 1867: how they decorated their homes, what they ate, what traditions they observed, and more!

What’s more, short videos will explain the origins of the tradition of gift-giving and the history of Santa Claus –
before he became a mascot for Coca-Cola!

Pop! Champagne!
At 4 pm, sample a sweet typical 19th century champagne during a history presentation.

Hot drinks by the fireplace
Take a break from the December frenzy and enjoy a hot, old-fashioned drink next to the fireplace. Taste wassail (a hot mulled English drink) and the new Victorian Christmas tea, specially created for the historic site. All of this with ambient music.

Victorian clothing exhibition
Victorian-style clothing, as worn by Cartier and his family, will be showcased to highlight the richness and artistry of Montreal fashion at the time. Come to explore the trend of yesteryear!

Kissing beneath the mistletoe
Make your mark wearing elegant Victorian accessories. Fill the next year with love and happiness by kissing your good company beneath the traditional mistletoe.

Workshop: Handmade Christmas cards
Share the joy of creating a Christmas card
A Victorian-style Christmas card workshop will give you the opportunity to make a special gesture. Reach out to a person living alone by dedicating them a personalized card. For a second year, collected cards will be given to the Little Brothers organization. Take the time to be inspired!

For more information, including ticket prices, visit: www.pc.gc.ca/cartier 514-283-2282 or 1-888-773-8888

Sir George-Etienne Cartier National Historic Site
458 Notre-Dame Street East, Old Montreal