Vivid Society NY

from M.Regan

The Thanksgiving demonstration at Old Bethpage Village Restoration (a living history museum in Old Bethpage, New York, focused on 19th-century rural life) is an annual event titled 1863 Thanksgiving Celebration. It recreates how Thanksgiving was observed during the Civil War era, following President Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 proclamation establishing the holiday. The event immerses visitors in period customs, with costumed interpreters demonstrating daily life and holiday preparations across the village’s historic buildings.

Highlights:

• Cooking Demonstrations of 19th-century meal prep, including roasting turkeys on open spits in reflector ovens over wood fires, baking pies in hearths, simmering soups, and preparing side dishes with seasonal ingredients like fresh vegetables and fruits.
• Customs and Reenactments: Scenes of family gatherings and storytelling. Volunteers and employees portray farmers, villagers, and families sharing meals and expressing gratitude.
• Music and Entertainment: Occasional traditional fiddle music and historic songs.
• Village Exploration: Roaming through restored buildings (e.g., farms, a general store, schoolhouse, and church), with farm animals, crafts, and volunteers that share the history of the village.

Information:

• Dates: Saturday, November 29, and Sunday, November 30, 2025 from 10am to 4pm. (After Thanksgiving November 27, 2025)
• Location: 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage, NY.
• It’s family-friendly and outdoors (dress for weather).

NOTE: There are NO FOOD samples or demonstration food for purchase.

You may be able to purchase cider or birch beer, pretzels and candy from the “Noon Inn” and General Store. What is birch beer? It is non-alcoholic and similar to root beer. (I personally don’t like it, but taste is subjective)

This event has been a tradition since at least the early 2000s, evolving slightly each year but always emphasizing authentic 1860s practices.

GENERAL ADMISSION: $15 for adults, $12 for children (5–12) and seniors (60 and up); free for kids under 5. Parking is free. BUT, special events may require alternative pricing (contact/link below)

For information: https://oldbethpagevillagerestoration.org/

Tags:#ThanksgivingDemonstration #OldBethpageVillageRestoration #LongIsland #FamilyFriendly #Thanksgiving #NYevents #FamilyFun #CulturalHeritage #FallFestivities #HistoricVillage #FamilyActivities #LongIslandFamily #ThanksgivingTraditions #ExploreNY #History #NewYork #KidsActivities #HolidayCelebration #UniqueExperiences