A Victorian Christmas at Valentines Mansion

Our much-loved Christmas weekend is back!  Bring the whole family over to Valentines Mansion for some festive cheer!  Reda on for a taste of what’s instore:

Craft Stalls
Shop for the perfect stocking fillers and Christmas gifts for your loved ones!  Our artisan makers have everything from delicious handmade chocolates and home décor to dazzling jewellery and beauty products.

Artists’ Open Studios
Head up to the second floor, normally a private workspace for local artists, but open for this very special weekend.  Work your way through the contemporary studios, and meet our nine artists in their creative workspace.  You’ll watch them work on their masterpieces, get the chance to have a chat, and also buy yourself one-of-a-kind works of art.  As a special bonus, many of the artists are holding readings and performances:

Saturday 25th:

3pm
Tara Patrick – Studio 2
Julian Walker – Studio 1

4pm
Tara Patrick – Studio 2
Jason Rose – Studio 3

5pm
Special Guest – Iryna Rodionova – Studio 1

Sunday 26th:

2.30pm
Julian Walker – Studio 1
Special Guest – Iryna Rodionova – Studio 1
Tara Patrick – Studio 2

Tara Fleur (Studio 2):
Tara will be streaming two experimental spoken word recordings:  Medusa Experimental Spoken Word by Tara Fleur ‘Woman of Bones’ and Cuckoo Experimental Spoken Word by Tara Fleur ‘Woman of Bones”.  She will also be showing her short film (Spoken Word) titled ‘London’.

Julian Walker (Studio 1):
Julian will be reading from A Small Bestiary

Jason Rose (Studio 3):
Artist Jason Rose will be performing an ambient instrument piece called ” The Cosmic Song”, designed to be connected to his painting created as part of the exhibition on in the Gallery.

Special Guest Performance:
Iryna Rodionova, playing the bandura, a 62-stringed instrument from Ukraine.

Other Festive Music & Performances

Throughout the weekend, we’ll have plenty of live music to keep the crowds entertained.  Read on for full details:

Saturday 25^th:

1.30pm String Quartet courtesy of the Redbridge Music Service
2.30pm String Quartet courtesy of the Redbridge Music Service
3.30pm The Valentines Singers
4.30pm The Valentines Singers

Sunday 26^th:  

12.30pm Glade Community Singers
2.00pm Glade Community Singers
3.30pm Glade Community Singers
4.00pm As part of the Redbridge Christmas Light Up celebrations, we’ll be visited by ‘Redbridge Creates’ and their brand new mobile festive show ‘The Mice Before Christmas’ – a magical tale sure to get the whole family in the mood for celebrations.  This show includes a visit by Santa and a chance for children to have photos with Father Christmas.  This show will take place outside the Mansion.
4.30pm ‘Redbridge Creates’ Performance
5.30pm ‘Redbridge Creates’ Performance

Victorian Christmas Displays

Valentines Mansion was once a family home, and Christmas would have been a lavish and opulent affair!  Step into the beautifully dressed Holcombe Room, where you’ll see the table laid for the family meal, and you’ll meet the Lady of the House and her maid – they’ll be delighted to tell you about their special seasonal traditions! Brought to you by The Friends of Valentines Mansion.

Our magnificent tree is standing tall inside the house – a real treat for all ages and a lovely spot for a festive family photo.

Children’s Activities

The Victorian kitchen will be host to drop in children’s activities between 12pm and 4pm on both days.  For just £3 per child, the little ones can make a Victorian Christmas card and a sparkly tree decoration.

Raffle & Competition

We’ve got some fantastic prizes up for grabs including a generous hamper packed full of Christmas treats for all the family.  PLUS! Have a go at winning a jar full of golden coins – what will be your lucky guess?

Refreshments

Mulled wine, mince pies and more – head to the Morning Room for festive treats.

Victorian Christmas at Valentines Mansion
Saturday 25th November 12pm-6pm
Sunday 26th November 11am-7pm
Free entry