Fort York, Mac House plan December fun

This month, Toronto’s historic sites events will take on a holiday theme.

Festivities at Fort York start on Dec. 3 with a Frost Fair from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Stroll through Canada’s largest collection of War of 1812 buildings, where you can shop for unique gifts made by local artisans; including jewellery, heritage inspired reproductions and holiday greenery. There is much to do for the whole family; including children’s drill workshops, dress-up, games, crafts and you can enjoy military and music demonstrations. You can also print your own Frost Fair souvenir on the Mackenzie House proof press. Don’t forget to visit with the Volunteer Historic Cooks in our Officers’ Mess Kitchen to sample late 18th and early 19th century recipes. Or, stop by our Heritage Café to buy lunch! Regular admission applies.

The family fun continues on Dec. 10 with an historical cooking class for kids (ages 8 to 12) called The Cook’s Apprentice from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $30.00 plus HST

Learn to bake traditional cakes, biscuits and confections in the Officers’ historic kitchen.  Recipes include iced Queen Cakes, Gingerbread, Peppermint Drops and a delicious breakfast griddle cake for the holidays. Recipe package and tastes to take home. Pre-registration and payment required. To register please call 416-392-7484.

The fun moves to Mackenzie House on Dec. 4 for Mackenzie Escapes!, a storytelling performance, at 2:15 and 4:15 p.m.

Bruce Beaton portrays William Lyon Mackenzie and tells the true story of his escape following the Rebellion of 1837. Loyal friends, close calls, icy water and hiding with pigs: it’s an amazing tale!  Storytelling at 2:15pm & 4:15pm. Included with admission to the museum: Adults: $7.08; Seniors /Youth: $4.42 Children: $3.76 (plus tax)

On Dec. 10 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mackenzie House is hosting a Christmas Baking Workshop for Adults. Come and try your hand at Victorian Christmas baking in our wood stove, learning about the tastes and culinary technology of the 1850’s! Pre-registration and pre-payment are required. $20 plus tax. Please call 416 392-6915 for further details.

FORT YORK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE 250 Fort York Blvd. Hours: Monday to Friday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular Admission: Adults $7.96, Seniors/Youth $4.87, Children $3.76 (plus tax) Children 5 years and under are free. Accessible parking at the New Visitor Centre. Paid parking off Garrison Road or Strachan, north of Fleet Street. fortyork@toronto.ca 416-392-6907.

MACKENZIE HOUSE 82 Bond Street, Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Holiday Season Admission: Adults: $7.08; Seniors /Youth: $4.42 Children: $3.76 (plus tax) Children (4 and under): Free. machouse@toronto.ca 416-392-6915.