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With a hearty "Merry Christmas" the 2023 Christmas at the Seiberling began with several hundred lights illuminating the Seiberling Museum on Nov. 25. Kris Kringle and his wife welcomed visitors on the Seiberling porch for pictures and then a walk through the house, which has been decorated by local individuals and organizations.

The opening night event was sponsored by The Wyman Group Realtors. The theme of the display is "The Nutcracker Suite" ballet.

The Kokomo Chamber Brass performed traditional Christmas tunes in the main parlor, and visitors were treated to rooms decorated by Kokomo's Alpha Kappa Alpha Omicron Phi Omega Chapter, Douglass School Project, Kokomo Pride, and more; all matching the season theme.

Each room contained a donation jar for people to vote for their favorite decorations. On the top floor, Santa was there to entertain, asking visitors what they wanted for Christmas.

The Seiberling Mansion and Howard County Historical Museum are open regular hours in December: Tuesday through Sunday from 1-4 p.m. Tickets are $10 adults, $5 for K-12 students, and children under age 5 are free. Tickets are available online or at the door. Christmas at the Seiberling is closed on Mondays, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve.

The museum's free admission for evening hours in December are on Thursdays and Fridays from 4-8 p.m. on Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, and 15. Duke Energy will sponsor a Candlelight Night for a self-guided, low-light tour on Dec. 16. Tickets are available online or at the door.