Christmas in Independence, Mo.: From Victorian to frontier Christmas

Christmas past in Independence, Mo.

INDEPENDENCE, Mo. — A Victorian Christmas, a frontier Christmas and Nativity sets from around the world can all be found in Independence, Mo.

Decorations at the Bingham-Waggoner Estate, 313 W. Pacific, feature Victorian touches throughout 26 rooms, with carolers dressed as characters from Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” At the Vaile Mansion, 1500 N. Liberty, the theme is a “Victorian Christmas Wedding,” with a display of dozens of vintage wedding dresses and over 50 decorated trees, crystal, feathers, angels, ribbons, satin, wreaths and thousands of twinkling lights.

The homes are open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 30 (closed Dec. 23-25).

The nearby 1879 Chicago & Alton Depot at 318 W. Pacific is also open for tours, decorated with a theme of “A Visit from St. Nicholas.”

For those who prefer a frontier Christmas, check out the programs and gift shop at the National Frontier Trails Museum, 318 W. Pacific.

And at the Community of Christ Temple, 201 S. River, hundreds of handmade nativity sets from around the world are on display.

Other local attractions include the Puppetry Arts Institute, a skating rink at the new Independence Events Center, and the 1859 Jail and Marshal’s Home.

Packages and discount coupons are online at www.visitindependence.com.