Decorated Trees and Holiday Art Activities Return for Deck the Old City Hall

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Bellingham, WA, November 1, 2021—After missing out on last year’s holiday festivities due to the pandemic, the Whatcom Museum is thrilled to offer its beloved Deck the Old City Hall to the community. This holiday celebration features more than a dozen themed, holiday trees decorated by community volunteers in the Rotunda Room and throughout Old City Hall. The building will be decked with garlands, wreath, and other festive décor. Visitors can see the trees Thursdays through Sundays from Nov. 26 to Jan. 2, 2022, noon-5:00 p.m.

“We at the Whatcom Museum are especially excited this year to be able to bring back our Deck the Old City Hall holiday decorations and free admission for all in our beloved 1892 Old City Hall building,” said executive director Patricia Leach. “We will continue to practice COVID-19 safety protocols as we once again welcome you back to this program!”

Trees at Deck the Old City Hall 2019

A Mad Hatter tree (right) is seen at Deck the Old City Hall.

Visitors are also invited to visit on Saturdays in December for “Handmade Holidays,” which are a series of drop-in holiday activities for all ages. Led by a museum educator, supplies will be provided, and participation is by donation. Visitors can take a family portrait with props and make a card on Dec. 4, create origami trees on Dec. 11, or make a paper wreath on Dec. 18. All activities are drop-in from noon-4:00 p.m. and suitable for all ages. Check out the events calendar for more details about the Handmade Holiday activities HERE.

“After missing the festivities last year, being able to welcome our community back for Deck Old City Hall fills me with holiday cheer,” said education manager Drew Whatley. “It’s twice as exciting that we can continue our free Saturday drop-in programs to help spread that cheer to anyone who comes by.”

Admission to Deck the Old City Hall is by donation, including holiday craft activities. Proceeds help support the Museum’s exhibitions and programs throughout the year.

Deck the Old City Hall
Thursdays–Sundays, Noon–4pm; Admission by donation
Old City Hall | 121 Prospect St.
(Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day)

Handmade Holidays at Deck the Old City Hall
Saturdays, Dec. 4, 11, & 18, Noon–4pm; Admission by donation
Old City Hall | 121 Prospect St.
Join us to celebrate the holidays in style at Old City Hall. In addition to the beautiful trees and décor adorning the building, each Saturday in December we’ll be making a different holiday craft, providing fun for the whole family. On Dec. 4, visit our “polar post office.” We’ll have card making supplies along with a special post box for sending mail to Santa. We’ll also have props and framing pieces to take the perfect holiday photo to send to loved ones near and far. Join us Dec. 11 and learn how to make origami trees either to take home or to add to our growing forest. On Dec. 18, make a handmade paper wreath to add more festive cheer to your home. Activities are suitable for all ages and all supplies are provided.