Holiday Programs

The State Historic Sites at Springfield invite you to join us for this annual ceremony to honor and remember the Illinoisans listed as prisoners of war or missing in action (POW/MIA) during the Vietnam War. The event is on Dec. 7 at 1 p.m. at the Vietnam Memorial in Oak Ridge Cemetery. 

Family and friends of soldiers will have the opportunity to hang handmade, heart-shaped ornaments with the names of loved ones on a tree near the memorial. The names of the POW/MIA soldiers will be read aloud. Family and friends are also welcome to bring their own weatherproof ornaments to hang on the tree.

Evening Holiday Tours

Reservations are strongly recommended for this very popular tour; see the schedule and make your reservation at https://DanaThomasHoliday2024.eventbrite.com

The volunteers of the Springfield Civic Garden Club have once again prepared a stunning array of holiday decorations for the Dana-Thomas House. We're pleased to offer the opportunity for you to enjoy their creations in the evenings.

On select Wednesday and Friday evenings (see schedule for dates and times), your family is invited to join us for a 30-45 minute guided experience to see this year's holiday decorations.

"Festive Friday" evenings will feature addtional family fun after your tour, including a fire pit in the courtyard, make-your-own s'mores, hot cocoa and take home crafts. Weather permitting, all Friday evening tours will include these extra activities.

Holiday events are always very popular at the Dana-Thomas House, so reservations are encouraged. Guests without reservations are welcome to stop by the front door to ask about tour availability; additional guests may be added at the door if the tour has not reached capacity.  

Art Glass at Night

Returning for a second year, join expert volunteer guide Frank Marchant as he leads you through this exciting special experience - Art Glass at Night. On this guided specialty tour, you'll have the opportunity to examine the art glass in the evening light as your guide explains Wright's work in further detail and how the Dana House's iconic art glass helped create the perfect ambiance for the original homeowner's evening events.

This tour will be offered on Dec. 14, 5:30-6:30 p.m. The tour will last approximately one hour. Space is limited; reservations are required. Reservations can be made at https://ArtGlassAtNightDanaThomasHouse.eventbrite.com

"Make"-ing Memories

Join us for this special time of making holiday crafts at the Dana-Thomas House on Nov. 30, Dec. 14, and Dec. 21. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Susan Lawrence Dana: A Great Lady Lived Here Play

Join us for this special theater piece bringing the the story of Susan Lawrence Dana to life. Dec. 13 at 7 p.m., and Dec. 14 at 4 p.m.

Old Capitol Holiday Walk Activities

Visit Springfield and the Old State Capitol Foundation welcome you to  Ugly Sweater Sportson the OSC grounds, Nov. 30, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and the Downtown Springfield Tree Lighting on Nov. 30 at 4:30 p.m.  For more information, please click here to see the full schedule on the Visit Springfield website.