The Ridges Sanctuary

“Natural Christmas” features stories of the season at The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor

By Eric Peterson, FOX 11 News  – December 6th, 2023

BAILEYS HARBOR (WLUK) — Some might call it a scene right out of a holiday movie.

Volunteers at The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor are getting an old wooden cabin ready for their “Natural Christmas” celebration on Saturday.

“This year, we decided to call it ‘Stories of the Season’ so that we can include not only Christmas stories, but winter stories. Things about animals in the winter. Stories of the season. We mostly feature children’s literature. Children’s books. But we have several specialized corners. And in that corner over there, we have movies. We have an old film projector, and we have our own leg lamp this year. So that’s part of the Christmas Story,” said Jane Whitney, The Ridges Sanctuary volunteer.

For the past few weeks, volunteers Whitney and Julie Knox have turned the inside of the Kaye Cabin into a place full of festive favorites, including a decorated Christmas tree.

“I grow flowers during the summer, and then as they bloom, I hang them to dry. We collect a lot of natural things too, and hang them up and dry them,” said Knox.

Natural Christmas at The Ridges Sanctuary includes an outdoor campfire and hikes along the softly-lit Hidden Brook Boardwalk nearby.

“You can walk up. All the way from there to here. We’re at the back end of the property. We have live music in here. A wonderful trio, with traditional instruments,” said Whitney.

Whitney says the event is a good way to make new friends, and renew some old traditions as well. Knox says she’s already thinking about what’s next.

Click here to read the full article and watch Fox 11 News’ coverage of our upcoming Natural Christmas event.

You deserve to spend a few hours this holiday season surrounded by the natural beauty of The Ridges Sanctuary! Join in on the holiday cheer at Natural Christmas on Saturday, December 9th, from 3:00 – 6:00 PM. Stroll down the softly lit Hidden Brook Boardwalk and join us in our beautifully decorated Kaye Cabin while sipping on warm cider, eating delicious cookies, and listening to holiday music. This program offers a wreath-making workshop, holiday crafts, and even marshmallows and chestnuts around the open fire. Guided hikes and tours of the Range Light are available throughout the event.

Natural Christmas is a free event (*with the exception of wreath making)!