GA-Madison’s Holiday Tour of Homes - Friday & Saturday, November 30 & December 1, 10:00 am to 9:00 pm each day, 277 South Main Street, Madison GA. It’s no wonder General Sherman refused to burn the city of Madison some 150 years ago. A magical southern town of more than 100 antebellum homes and buildings, Madison was described before the Civil War as “The most cultured and aristocratic town on the stagecoach route from Charleston to New Orleans.” Madison has long been famous for its historic homes and gardens. Come see the spectacular tour when the historic Antebellum homes are dressed up for the holiday season. Step into a winter wonderland as you move through the Day Tour and Evening Candlelight Tour of Homes. The tours will feature multiple historic and private homes not normally open to the public, along with museums and churches. All homes will be beautifully decorated for Christmas. Madison is located on the “Left Wing” historic driving route of the March to the Sea Heritage Trail® (www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ga-march-to-the-sea.html). Tickets: $27.00 to $55.00. 706-342-9627, https://visitmadisonga.wordpress.com/2018/11/19/its-time-for-the-holiday-tour-of-homes/

GA-Candlelight Tours of the Woodrow Wilson Home - Friday & Saturday, November 30 & December 1, 5:00 to 7:00 pm each evening, The Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson, 419 Seventh Street, Augusta GA.  Take a candlelight tour of the boyhood home of President Woodrow Wilson and see what Christmas was like 100 years ago at the end of World War One when Wilson was President. Wilson lived in this home as a boy during the Civil War years. Tours begin each 30 minutes, with live music and refreshments. Admission: Adults $10.00, Children (ages 5 to 18) $5.00. 706-724-0436, www.wilsonboyhoodhome.org

GA-Annual Hofwyl Plantation Christmas - Friday & Saturday, November 30 & December 1, 6:00 to 9:00 pm each evening, Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation State Historic Site, 5556 U.S. Highway 17 North, Brunswick GA. Visitors will walk along the illuminated path under centuries old oaks and be treated to a guided tour of this antebellum rice plantation. Enter the front door of the decorated plantation home to beautifully holiday decorated rooms as period dressed interpreters share stories of the plantation. History buffs will enjoy a pre-Civil War muster reenactment of local militia units, and watching night-time cannon firings shoot flames from their barrels. Enjoy hot wassail and cookies as you listen to live musicians playing holiday music and sing Christmas carols. Santa Claus will sit by a cozy fireplace as he talks with children; guests are welcome to take photos in his specially decorated room. Admission: $5.00 to $10.00. 912-264-7333, http://gastateparks.org/HofwylBroadfield

SC-The Citadel’s Annual Christmas Candlelight Services - Friday through Sunday, November 30 through December 2, 7:30 to 9:00 pm each evening, The Citadel Summerall Chapel, 171 Moultrie Street, Charleston SC. You are invited to enjoy one of Charleston’s oldest holiday traditions, The Citadel Christmas Candlelight Service. The first candlelight service was held in 1937. This year cadets from the college’s vocal ensembles, the Protestant, Catholic, Gospel Choirs and The Citadel Chorale, will perform traditional Christmas music along with members of the The Citadel Regimental Band to celebrate the birth of Christ, observing the events of the Advent, the Annunciation, the Birth of the King, and Epiphany through Scripture lessons and carols. Traditional and international favorites are sung, and special highlights include the Procession of Lights. Part of the grandeur of the celebration includes poinsettias that cover the front of the chapel provided by Citadel families, faculty and staff, as well as neighbors from throughout the Charleston community to honor or remember someone they love. Lights are dimmed, and cadets in formal dress uniforms hold candles and sing as they proceed into the chapel. The performance is conducted by candlelight. FREE admission. Early arrival is highly recommended as there is no reserved seating. 843-953-5049, www.citadel.edu/root/christmas-candlelight

GA-Glynn County Monument Dedication - Saturday, December 1, 10:00 am, Palmetto Cemetery, 3412 Ross Road, Brunswick GA. You are invited to the dedication of a monument to honor the Confederate soldiers from Glynn County and the surrounding area as well as their families. FREE admission. 912-264-8460

GA-Living Wreathes - Saturday, December 1, 10:00 am to 12:00 noon, Jarrell Plantation State Historic Site, 711 Jarrell Plantation Road, Juliette GA. Christmas is coming, so it is time to get the house decorated for a visit from Kris Kringle. In this hands-on workshop, assemble your very own live wreath using greenery that will last through the holiday season. Union Major General William T. Sherman’s army visited Jarrell Plantation during their March to the Sea. Pre-registration required by Saturday, November 24. Program fee: $10.00, includes materials and site admission. 478-986-5172, http://gastateparks.org/JarrellPlantation

GA-Christmas at the Cabin - Saturday, December 1, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, Red Top Mountain State Park, 50 Lodge Road SE, Acworth GA. Join us for yuletide celebrations in pioneer style! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the pre-Civil War cabin, so be sure to bring your camera and cheer. We will have holiday crafts, pioneer toys and games, live music, and more! This event will be cancelled in case of inclement weather. Admission: $5.00 for parking. 770-975-0055, https://gastateparks.org/RedTopMountain

GA-The History of Indian Springs - Saturday, December 1, 2:00 to 4:00 pm, Indian Springs State Park, 678 Lake Clark Road, Flovilla GA. Learn about the history of Indian Springs and how much this area has changed over the years. Take a tour of the park’s museum, sample the spring water and spend the day at Indian Springs State Park. A portion of General Sherman’s army camped overnight at Indian Springs during their March to the Sea: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ewExternalFiles/MarchToTheSeaBrochure.pdf. Admission: $5.00 parking. 770-504-2277, http://gastateparks.org/IndianSprings

GA-Gordon-Lee Mansion Candle-light Tours - December 1, 7 & 8, 6:00 to 8:00 pm each evening, Gordon-Lee Mansion, 217 Cove Road, Chickamauga GA. The mansion will be lit by dozens of candles in each room. Enjoy the live period music as well as hot cider and cookies served in the warming kitchen. The mansion was occupied by both Federal and Confederate troops at different times during the Chickamauga Campaign. Gordon-Lee Mansion is located on the Chickamauga Campaign portion of the historic driving route of the Atlanta Campaign Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ga-atlanta-campaign.html. Admission: Adults $5.00, Children (ages 12 & under) $1.00. 423-488-0861, www.friendsofthegordonleemansion.org/main.html

SC-Brattonsville Christmas Candlelight Tours - Saturdays, December 1 & 8, 3:00 to 9:00 pm each evening, Historic Brattonsville, 1444 Brattonsville Road, McConnells SC. Light up your family’s holiday as costumed interpreters depict Christmas traditions of the 18th and 19th centuries in family-friendly hands-on activities, theatrical scenarios and more. Admission: Adults $8.00, Seniors $7.00, Children (ages 4 to 17) $5.00. 803-684-2327, http://chmuseums.org/brattonsville

SC-Spirituals Concerts at Drayton Hall - December 1, 8, 9 & 15, 3:00 to 5:00 pm each day, Drayton Hall, 3380 Ashley River Road, Charleston SC. Join us for African-American spirituals music in concert with a rousing performance by Ann Caldwell & The Magnolia Singers. Guests will enjoy informal house tours and a pre-concert reception of wine and cheese from 3:00 to 4:00 pm and the concert will be held from 4:00 to 5:00 pm. Tickets: $65.00. 843-769-2600, www.draytonhall.org

GA-Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm - Saturdays & Sundays, December 1, 7, 8, 14 & 15, 4:00 to 7:00 pm each day, Hardman Farm State Historic Site, 143 Hwy. 17, Sautee Nacoochee GA. Come see the house in period holiday decor and learn about Victorian Christmas traditions from docents dressed in their finest garb from the years immediately following the Civil War. This open house is highlighted by twinkling candle lights and a walk down the Unicoi Turnpike. Admission: Adults: $12.00, Seniors (ages 62+): $10.00, Youth (ages 6 to 17): $7.00. 706-878-1077, http://gastateparks.org/HardmanFarm

GA-Christmas Tours of the Old Governor’s Mansion - Tuesdays through Sundays, December 1 through 21, Old Governor’s Mansion, 120 South Clarke Street, Milledgeville GA. Make plans to visit historic antebellum Milledgeville during the most wonderful time of the year! Georgia’s Old Governor's Mansion will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland and open for Christmas tours. Tour hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Sundays from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Special candlelight tours will occur at 6:00 & 7:00 pm each evening on December 8, 15 & 18. The Old Governor’s Mansion is located on the “Left Wing” historic driving route of the March to the Sea Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ga-march-to-the-sea.html. Admission: Adults $10.00, Seniors (ages 60+) $7.00, Students $2.00. 478-445-4545, www.gcsu.edu/mansion/upcoming-events

GA-Christmas at A. H. Stephens State Park - December 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22 & 23, 6:00 to 10:00 pm, A. H. Stephens State Park, 456 Alexander Street, Crawfordville GA. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Christmas, tour our 10-acre event field and office area which has been beautifully decorated with Christmas light displays. Free treats will be available and holiday themed movies will be shown nightly. Arrive before 3:30 pm to also tour our Confederate museum and “Liberty Hall,” the home of Confederate Vice President Alexander H. Stephens. Admission charged. 706-456-2602, https://gastateparks.org/AHStephens

AL-Belle Mont’s A Plantation Christmas - Sunday, December 2, 1:00 to 5:00 pm, Belle Mont Mansion, 1569 Cook Lane, Tuscumbia AL. The annual event at this impressive antebellum mansion will feature traditional decorations of fresh greenery and fruit. Vocalists and musicians will present period music and dancers will perform vintage ballroom dance at intervals throughout the afternoon. Costumed docents will be on hand to share the history of the house and to serve refreshments. Admission charged.  256-381-5052, http://preserveala.org/bellemont.aspx

SC-A Jacob Kelley Christmas - Sunday, December 2, 3:00 to 5:00 pm, The Jacob Kelley House, 2585 Kelleytown Road, Hartsville SC. Come experience the magical joys of Christmas! This antebellum house and its outbuildings will be adorned with period decorations. Complimentary wassail and cookies. In 1865 the house was occupied by Union Major General John E. Smith during the Carolinas Campaign. FREE admission. 843-339-9511, dchc@darcosc.com

GA-Civil War Music Program - Sundays, December 2 & 9, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm each day, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park GA. Music during the Civil War served many functions. Not only did it help to organize and rally, but also went a long way to boost morale among the soldiers. Join musician and living historian K.D. Sellers as she demonstrates this using the fife. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is located on the historic driving route of the Atlanta Campaign Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ewExternalFiles/AtlantaCampaignBrochure.pdf. FREE admission. 770-427-4686, www.nps.gov/kemo

GA-Paducah and the Civil War - Thursday, December 6, 7:00 pm, Hilton Atlanta Marietta Hotel & Conference Center, 500 Powder Springs Street, Marietta GA. Author John Cashon will speak during the monthly meeting of the Civil War Round Table of Cobb County. The City of Marietta is located on the historic driving route of the Atlanta Campaign Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ewExternalFiles/AtlantaCampaignBrochure.pdf. Admission: $5.00; first-time guests are free. cobbcivilwarrt@gmail.com, www.cobbcwrt.org/

GA-A Town Band Christmas - Thursday, December 6, 7:30 pm, Ford Auditorium, Berry College, 2277 Martha Berry Highway NW, Rome GA. The 8th Regiment Band presents “A Town Band Christmas”, an evening of traditional holiday and Civil War era music performed on authentic 19th century instruments. There will also be cider and treats to help get you in the Holiday spirit. Come celebrate the season and help us raise funds to protect and maintain our antique instruments. You will hear how music actually sounded way back then! Tickets: Adults $10.00, Students (ages 10 through college) $5.00. 404-409-0268, eighthregimentband@gmail.com

GA-Prison Life at Camp Lawton - Thursday & Friday, December 6 & 7, 1:00 to 3:00 pm each day, Magnolia Springs State Park, 1053 Magnolia Springs Drive, Millen GA. Come enjoy this homeschool event at the park where we delve into the daily life of a Camp Lawton prisoner during the Civil War. Tour the museum and hike the Fort Lawton Trail to learn about the earthworks with our ranger, experience the daily rations of food, sign parole, and build your own shebang (personal shelter). Camp Lawton at Magnolia Springs State Park is located on the “Left Wing” historic driving route of the March to the Sea Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ewExternalFiles/MarchToTheSeaBrochure.pdf. Admission: $5.00 per person, plus $5.00 for parking. 478-982-1660, https://gastateparks.org/MagnoliaSprings

SC-Christmas in Dixie Concerts - Fridays, December 7, 14, 21 & 28, Museum & Library of Confederate History, 15 Boyce Avenue, Greenville SC. Come hear beautiful Christmas music each Friday evening in December! Children’s stories and songs starts at 6:00 pm, followed by live music concerts beginning at 7:00 pm:

---December 7 - Heather & Raquelle Sheen playing twin Celtic harps and 1860 piano/melodeon

---December 14 - Lucy Allen & Marshall Goers playing guitar and mandolin

---December 21 - Aubrey Elliott playing harp

---December 28 - Stan Clardy playing guitar

FREE admission and refreshments. 864-421-9039, www.confederatemuseum.org

AL-34th Annual “Christmas Through the Ages” at Fort Gaines - Saturday, December 8, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Fort Gaines, 51 Bienvile Boulevard, Dauphin Island AL. Experience a Christmas of “Days Gone By!” This is a living history day for the whole family. See soldiers from the 1700s through the 1900s and their families as they celebrate a non-commercial Christmas. Children will have the chance to make a seashells ornament and other decorations. Admission: Adults (age 13+) $8.00, Children (age 5 to 12) $4.00. 251-861-6992, http://dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines/

GA-Christmas at the Inn - Saturday, December 8, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Traveler’s Rest State Historic Site, 4339 Riverdale Road, Toccoa GA. Join us to bear witness to pre-Civil War holiday traditions. Come and enjoy lively and festive music, hot apple cider, and teacakes made with a traditional Jarrett family recipe, all while basking in the warm and comforting glow of candle light and good company. Admission: $1.00 to $5.00. 706-886-2256, https://gastateparks.org/TravelersRest

GA-Christmas at the Cabin - Saturday, December 8, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Pickett’s Mill Battlefield State Historic Site, 4432 Mount Tabor Church Road, Dallas GA. Gather the family and join us at our 1850s log cabin. Experience the sights and smells of a pioneer pre-Civil War Christmas. Help our civilian reenactors decorate the Christmas tree. There will be a fire in the fireplace with something good cooking on it. There will be period toys and games for children plus Santa and Mrs. Claus. There will be musket firings, cabin tours and interpretive displays for adults. Listen to soldiers talk about life during the winters of the Civil War. Pickett’s Mill Battlefield State Historic Site is located on the historic driving route of the Atlanta Campaign Heritage Trail®: www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ewExternalFiles/AtlantaCampaignBrochure.pdf. Admission: $3.00 to $6.00. 770-443-7850, http://gastateparks.org/PickettsMillBattlefield CANCELLED DUE TO BAD WEATHER/RAIN

GA-“Winter Rose of the South” - Saturday, December 8, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Robert Toombs House State Historic Site, 216 East Robert Toombs Avenue, Washington GA. Join us for our annual Christmas program entitled “Winter Rose of the South.” Robert Toombs was a successful planter and lawyer who led a turbulent political career. “Defend yourselves; the enemy is at your door...!” thundered Toombs from the U.S. Senate floor on January 24, 1860. Georgia seceded from the Union the following year and Toombs personified the South by evolving from conservative Unionist to fire-breathing secessionist. During the Civil War he served first as Confederate Secretary of State, then as a Brigadier General. His last service to Georgia was helping to create the state Constitution of 1877, which was not amended until 1945. Visitors can tour the house and grounds, viewing exhibits and displays. Robert Toombs House State Historic Site is located on the historic driving route of the Jefferson Davis Heritage Trail: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/index.html. Admission: Adults $7.00, Children (ages 5 to 12) $5.00. 706-678-2226, https://gastateparks.org/RobertToombsHouse

GA-Kennesaw Mountain Trails Workday - Saturday, December 8, 11:30 am to 4:00 pm, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park GA. Kennesaw Mountain Trail Club is a volunteer organization designed to assist with trail maintenance at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. Trained crew leaders lead teams of volunteers on trail work projects throughout the park. Trail building experience is not necessary. Meet at the parking lot on Old Highway 41. The Park provides all necessary tools and safety equipment. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is located on the historic driving route of the Atlanta Campaign Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ga-atlanta-campaign.html. 770-427-4686, www.kennesawmountaintrailclub.org (check beforehand concerning possible cancellation due to cold or bad weather). CANCELLED THIS MONTH DUE TO THE FORECAST OF COLD & RAINY WEATHER.

SC-Christmas at the Hanover House - Saturday, December 8, 1:00 to 4:00 pm, Hanover House, 520 Fort Hill Street, Clemson SC. Enjoy live music by the Joyful Harps on their Celtic harps and the antique Kirkland piano at Hanover House, located in the South Carolina Botanical Garden on the campus of Clemson University. Tour the house and learn more about South Carolina’s history while hearing beautiful Christmas music! FREE admission. 864-656-3311, www.clemson.edu/about/history/properties/hanover/

GA-“Generation of Warriors” - Saturday, December 8, 2:00 to 5:00 pm, Visitor Center, Chickamauga Battlefield, 3370 LaFayette Road, Fort Oglethorpe GA. You are invited to meet Perry Short, author of the new book “Generation of Warriors.” Have you ever thought of the families who lived on lands where Civil War battles took place?  What did they do when fighting broke out at their front doors? The Dyers, along with the Brothertons and the Kelleys, were among families who resided where the Battle of Chickamauga occurred in September 1863.  Did these families engage in battle? Did they survive? This historical novel presents a plausible scenario of events that places its focus on the family of 35-year-old Spillsby Dyer, an officer in the Confederate army, who lived on these grounds and was a father of eight children.  Loaded with historical facts, Short’s book allow the reader to recognize the impossible circumstances that these families encountered. Chickamauga Battlefield is located on Chickamauga Campaign historic driving route portion of the Atlanta Campaign Heritage Trail®: www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ewExternalFiles/AtlantaCampaignBrochure.pdf. FREE admission. 706-866-9241, www.nps.gov/chch

GA-Christmas Candlelight Night - Saturday, December 8, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, Root House Museum and Garden, 80 North Marietta Parkway NW, Marietta GA. Join us for a special holiday tradition that’s perfect for the entire family! Visitors will enjoy 1850s Christmas decorations, cooking demonstrations, live music, hot cider and cookies, plus a visit from Santa himself! Marietta is located on the historic driving route of the Atlanta Campaign Heritage Trail®: www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ewExternalFiles/AtlantaCampaignBrochure.pdf. Admission: Adults $7.00, Seniors & Students (ages 6 to 17) $6.00. 770-426-4982, www.roothousemuseum.com/

GA-Candlelight Hike to the Mill - Saturday, December 8, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, Sweetwater Creek State Park, 1750 Mount Vernon Road, Lithia Springs GA. This one mile-long guided night hike is moderately difficult and goes to the Civil War era textile mill ruins of New Manchester alongside the beautiful rapids of Sweetwater Creek. Candle lanterns are provided. No children under 6 years or dogs permitted. No reservations. Admission: $5.00 per person plus $5.00 parking; cash only. 770-732-5871, http://gastateparks.org/SweetwaterCreek

GA-Cannonball House Family Christmas - Saturday, December 8, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, Cannonball House, 856 Mulberry Street, Macon GA. Come celebrate Christmas with us at our annual Family Christmas event! Enjoy the Cannonball House, built in 1853, decorated in its holiday splendor. There will be crafts for the kids, games, and a scavenger hunt. In the parlors our guests can learn how to dance the Virginia Reel and other dances. Cookies and cider will be served along with another surprise or two! The Cannonball House obtained its name when a Federal cannonball struck it in July 1864 when fighting raged just outside of Macon during the Civil War. Event cost: $20.00 per family up to five members. $5.00 extra for each additional family member. Reservations required: 478-745-5982.

GA-An 1862 Southern Christmas - Saturday, December 8, 7:00 to 9:00 pm, Stately Oaks Plantation, 100 Carriage Lane, Jonesboro GA.  Step back to 1862 and get a glimpse into history as Stately Oaks Plantation prepares for Christmas. It’s an unforgettable experience for the entire family. While waiting for your tour group to begin you will be entertained with music and other entertainment in the Bethel School House. Juddy's Country Store will be open for Christmas shopping. Jonesboro is located on the historic driving route of the Atlanta Campaign Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ewExternalFiles/AtlantaCampaignBrochure.pdf. Admission: Adults $12.00, Seniors (ages 55+) & Active Military $9.00, Children (ages 5 to 11) $6.00. 770-473-0197, www.historicaljonesboro.org

GA-Camp Lawton Lantern Tours - Saturdays, December 8 & 29, 6:00 to 7:00 pm each evening, Magnolia Springs State Park, 1053 Magnolia Springs Drive, Millen GA. Come experience the historic Camp Lawton at night via lantern-light in this guided tour. Be transported back in time as you hike the trail and learn about the world's largest prison stockade and its inhabitants. Camp Lawton at Magnolia Springs State Park is located on the “Left Wing” historic driving route of the March to the Sea Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ewExternalFiles/MarchToTheSeaBrochure.pdf. Admission: $5.00 per person, plus $5.00 for parking. 478-982-1660, https://gastateparks.org/MagnoliaSprings

GA-Christmas Comes to Liberty Hall - Sunday, December 9, 1:00 to 4:00 pm, Liberty Hall, A. H. Stephens State Park, 456 Alexander Street NW, Crawfordville GA. Confederate Vice President Alexander Stephens’ home, Liberty Hall, will be decorated with styles of the Victorian Christmas past. Come enjoy crafts and a tour, accompanied by the sounds of the Victorian Era. Refreshments will be served. Admission: $4.00 to $8.00. 706-456-2602, http://gastateparks.org/AHStephens

GA-Victorian Christmas Family Day - Sunday, December 9, 1:00 to 4:00 pm, Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy Street NE, Gainesville GA. Join us for one of our most popular family programs as we celebrate and illuminate holiday festivities. Photos with Santa Claus, living history demonstrations, hands-on activities, special musical, vocal, and storytelling performances and seasonal refreshments make this one of most special events of the year! FREE Admission. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org

AL-Pond Spring Christmas Celebration - Sunday, December 9, 1:00 to 5:00 pm, Pond Spring, The General Joe Wheeler Home, 12280 AL Hwy. 20, Hillsboro AL. Tis the Season! Pond Spring, the General Joe Wheeler Home, invites you to a very special event…Christmas at Wheeler! Tour the museum adorned with live greenery and decorations. Enjoy refreshments of sweet treats and hot cocoa while children take “sleigh rides” in a horse drawn buggy and families enjoy choral concerts featuring local school and church choirs. Admission: Adults $8.00, Seniors, College Students & Military $5.00, Children (ages 6 to 18) $3.00. 256-637-8513, pondspringdirector@gmail.com  

GA-The Christmas Gala - Wednesday, December 12, 7:00 to 9:00 pm, Hay House, 934 Georgia Avenue, Macon GA. Now in its 7th year, the Gala is the only public evening event at antebellum Hay House during the Christmas season. It features a wonderful performance by Theatre Macon with cast members singing numbers from their Christmas offering “Mary Poppins,” and special carols. A lavish reception with delectables by various caterers and tours of the bedecked rooms follow the program. Macon is located at the termination of the historic driving route for the Jefferson Davis Heritage Trail: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/index.html. Tickets: $40.00 each; reservations required. 478-742-8155, www.hayhousemacon.org/special-events/

GA-Fort Pulaski Candle Lantern Tours - Friday & Saturday, December 14 & 15, 6:00 to 9:00 pm nightly, Fort Pulaski National Monument, U.S. Hwy. 80 East, Savannah GA. Fort Pulaski National Monument will commemorate the 157th anniversary of the Confederate Nog Party of 1861. The long-lived Savannah tradition will continue this year with night-time tours of the historic fort by candlelight and oil lamps to include hot cider, eggnog, cookies, music, caroling and historic weapons firings. Tours every 30 minutes each evening between 6:00 and 9:00 pm. Advance tickets (highly recommended: will sell out!): Adults $10.00, Children (ages 4 to 15) $3.00. 912-652-4232, www.nps.gov/fopu/index.htm

GA-Winter Muster and Battle at Fort McAllister - Saturday, December 15, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Fort McAllister State Historic Park, 3894 Fort McAllister Road, Richmond Hill GA. Skirmishes between Confederates and Federals will be on-going throughout the day. Visitors will be able to explore the fortifications in its most solemn hour as the Confederates attempt to hold off the advancing armies of General Sherman from taking Fort McAllister, and ultimately, Savannah. Fort McAllister is located at the termination of the “Right Wing” historic driving route of the March to the Sea Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ga-march-to-the-sea.html. Admission: Adults $9.00, Seniors (62+) $8.00, Youth (6 to 17) $5.00. 912-727-2339, http://gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister

AL-Wreathes Across America - Saturday, December 15, at cemeteries across Alabama. “Wreaths Across America” is a program to remember and honor our military veterans. Sponsored wreaths are laid on grave sites in cemeteries across the country. To learn more about the program, or if you, your family, organization or business is interested in sponsoring a 20” Frasier Fir wreath with a red velveteen bow, go to www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. Participating Alabama cemeteries with a significant number of Civil War veterans include:

--Maple Hill Cemetery, Huntsville

--Mobile National Cemetery, Mobile

GA-Wreathes Across America - Saturday, December 15, at cemeteries across Georgia. “Wreaths Across America” is a program to remember and honor our military veterans. Sponsored wreaths are laid on grave sites in cemeteries across the country. To learn more about the program, or if you, your family, organization or business is interested in sponsoring a 20” Frasier Fir wreath with a red velveteen bow, go to www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. Participating Georgia cemeteries with a significant number of Civil War veterans include:

--Alta Vista Cemetery, Gainesville

--Andersonville National Cemetery, Andersonville

--Fayetteville City Cemetery, Fayetteville

--Marietta Confederate Cemetery, Marietta

--Marietta National Cemetery, Marietta

--Milner Confederate Cemetery, Milner

--Myrtle Hill Cemetery, Rome

--Old Roswell Cemetery, Roswell

--Patrick Cleburne Confederate Cemetery, Jonesboro

--Resaca Confederate Cemetery, Resaca

--Riverside Cemetery, Macon

--Roswell Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Roswell

--Stonewall Confederate Cemetery, Griffin

--West Hill Cemetery, Dalton

SC-Wreathes Across America - Saturday, December 15, at cemeteries across South Carolina. “Wreaths Across America” is a program to remember and honor our military veterans. Sponsored wreaths are laid on grave sites in cemeteries across the country. To learn more about the program, or if you, your family, organization or business is interested in sponsoring a 20” Frasier Fir wreath with a red velveteen bow, go to www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. Participating South Carolina cemeteries with a significant number of Civil War veterans include:

--Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort

--Florence National Cemetery, Florence

--Sumter Cemetery, Sumter

--Sunset Hill Cemetery, North Augusta

--Unity Presbyterian Cemetery, Fort Mill

--Woodside Cemetery & Veterans Memorial, Clover

GA-Historic Christmas Food for Thought - Saturday, December 15, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, William Harris Homestead, 3636 GA Hwy. 11, Monroe GA. Gather your holiday spirit and get your taste buds ready to experience a Country Christmas! Our open-fire pit cooking historian will be preparing popular dishes from the 19th century using methods, implements, and recipes handed down to her by her ancestors. Meanwhile, our blacksmith and apprentices will be hammering out Christmas tunes on the anvil, and making beautiful wrought iron implements that make for perfect and unique Christmas gifts. Docents, dressed in the style of the day, will also be on hand to talk about customs and traditions of Christmases past. There will be the opportunity for you to make corn husk dolls or Christmas ornaments using natural supplies from the Harris woods and farm. Admission is $6.00; Children under age five are admitted free. 770-267-5844, https://harrishomestead.com

GA-Iron Pour at Red Top - Saturday, December 15, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, Red Top Mountain State Park, 50 Lodge Road SE, Acworth GA. Celebrate the area’s rich history and mining traditions! Meet us at the Casting Shed, behind the old Park Office. Scratch blocks on sale at 12:00 noon while supplies; limit 1 per person. Rangers will begin pouring molten iron at 2:00 pm. Admission: $5.00 for parking. 770-975-0055, https://gastateparks.org/RedTopMountain

GA-Candlelight Christmas at Jarrell Plantation - Saturday, December 15, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, Jarrell Plantation State Historic Site, 711 Jarrell Plantation Road, Juliette GA. Take a leisurely stroll by candlelight and enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas. See two of the historic homes gently dressed in natural greenery and homemade decor and enjoy warm cider and cookies alongside a campfire. Union Major General William T. Sherman’s army visited Jarrell Plantation during their March to the Sea. Directions: Located southeast of Juliette, 18 miles from I-75 Forsyth exit #185 or 18 miles north of Macon exit #171. Admission: $4.00 to $6.50. 478-986-5172, http://gastateparks.org/JarrellPlantation

AL-Alabama Confederate Christmas Ball - Saturday, December 15, 7:00 to 11:00 pm, Cullman Civic Center, 510 5th Street SW, Cullman AL. Step back in time and fill your dance card as you swirl the dance floor to authentic reels, promenades and waltzes popular during the 1860’s. Light refreshments will be served. Period dress is a must for participants and optional for spectators. Tickets: $20.00 to $40.00. 256-998-1661

GA-Living History at Panola Mountain - Sunday, December 16, 2:00 to 4:00 pm, Panola Mountain State Park, 2620 GA Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge GA. Learn about Panola Mountain's rich history through hands-on living history demonstrations at the Parker House that depict everyday family life during years prior to the Civil War. Participate in activities including candle making, butter churning, cooking, making rag dolls and other period games, all from guides in historic period clothing. Stockbridge is located on the “Right Wing” historic driving route of the March to the Sea Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ga-march-to-the-sea.html. Admission: $5.00 per person plus $5.00 parking. Reservations recommended. 770-389-7801, http://gastateparks.org/PanolaMountain

GA-Christmas Tea Party at Hay House - Sunday, December 16, 4:00 to 6:00 pm, Hay House, 934 Georgia Avenue, Macon GA. The decorated main rooms of the “Palace of the South,” built in 1855, will be the backdrop for a range of activities for young children: Holiday readings in the Music Room by some of our city’s best storytellers, an elaborate demonstration in the dining room of making a gingerbread house, a Christmas craft in the old kitchen, and a visit with Santa where photographs are to be taken. Children are asked to bring a book or a dollar donation to benefit Book ‘Em, a non-profit that puts new and gently-used books in the homes of at-risk children of all ages. Macon is located at the termination of the historic driving route for the Jefferson Davis Heritage Trail: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/index.html. Tickets (reservations required): $25.00 for one child (age 12 or under) accompanied by one adult, $50.00 for a family up to five persons. 478-742-8155, www.hayhousemacon.org/special-events/

GA-Cabin by Candlelight - Friday, December 21, 6:30 to 7:30 pm, Red Top Mountain State Park, 50 Lodge Road SE, Acworth GA. Come join our rangers for this full moon hike back in time. Meet with your ranger guide in the parking lot, from where you’ll be guided to the pre-Civil War Vaughn log cabin by candlelight. Once there, you will tour the cabin and learn about pioneer life after dark. Admission: $5.00 for parking. 770-975-0055, https://gastateparks.org/RedTopMountain

AL-Christmas at Oakleigh - Saturday, December 22, 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Historic Oakleigh House Museum, 300 Oakleigh Place, Mobile AL. Celebrate Christmas in style this year at the antebellum Oakleigh House! Come see one of Mobile's oldest homes decorated for the season, learn about Oakleigh's rich history, and finish your last-minute shopping in Oakleigh’s gift shop. Light refreshments will be served. Tickets: $10.00. 251-432-1281, www.historicmobile.org/events

GA-Solider Saturdays - Saturdays, December 22 & 29, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm each day, Fort McAllister State Historic Park, 3894 Fort McAllister Road, Richmond Hill GA. The fort's plantation house will be open and ready to be explored. A Civil War soldier will entertain topics of conversation ranging from fort history to civil war medicine. Fort McAllister is located at the termination of the “Right Wing” historic driving route of the March to the Sea Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ga-march-to-the-sea.html. Admission: Adults $9.00, Seniors (62+) $8.00, Youth (6 to 17) $5.00. 912-727-2339, http://gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister

GA-Davenport House Holiday Tours by Candlelight - Wednesday through Sunday, December 26 through 30, 6:00 to 8:30 pm each evening, Davenport House Museum, 324 East State Street, Savannah GA. Glistening by candlelight, the Federal-style home welcomes visitors to an event emphasizing the end-of-year celebrations of pre-Civil War 19th century Savannahians, including the Davenport household, who lived in the fine brick home on Columbia Square. Light refreshments, music and skilled interpreters, who show visitors through the home, are among the highlights of the presentation. A demonstration of period dancing will culminate the evening. The performance requires that guests be able to walk up and down stairs and maneuver in the candlelit rooms. The tour is open house style. The experience will take approximately 60 minutes. Savannah is the terminating point of the “Left Wing” historic driving route for the March to the Sea Heritage Trail®: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/ga-march-to-the-sea.html. Admission: Adults $12.00 in advance, $15.00 at the door; Children $6.00 in advance, $8.00 at the door (plus tax). No admissions after 8:00 pm. 912-236-8097, www.davenporthousemuseum.org/programs/

GA-Volunteer Work Day at Jarrell Plantation - Saturday, December 29, 10:00 am to 12:00 noon, Jarrell Plantation State Historic Site, 711 Jarrell Plantation Road, Juliette GA. Lend a helping hand by assisting staff members with various projects such as housekeeping, gardening, decorating and by participating in special events. Union Major General William T. Sherman’s army visited Jarrell Plantation during their March to the Sea. Directions: Located southeast of Juliette, 18 miles from I-75 Forsyth exit #185 or 18 miles north of Macon exit #171. In exchange for their hard work, volunteers will receive FREE admission for the day. 478-986-5172, http://gastateparks.org/JarrellPlantation

GA-Camp Lawton Lantern Tour - Saturday, December 29, 6:00 to 7:00 pm, Magnolia Springs State Park, 1053 Magnolia Springs Drive, Millen GA. Come experience the historic Camp Lawton at night via lantern-light in this guided historical tour. Be transported back in time as you hike the trail and learn about the Civil War’s largest prison stockade and its inhabitants. Admission: $5.00 per person, plus $5.00 for parking. 478-982-1660, https://gastateparks.org/MagnoliaSprings

GA-Hay House New Year’s Eve Masked Ball - Monday, December 31, 9:00 pm to 1:00 am (Tuesday), Hay House, 934 Georgia Avenue, Macon GA. Relish and recapture the grandeur of the 19th century and celebrate New Year’s in high style at the “Palace of the South.” This lavish masquerade will ring in the new year with cocktails, live entertainment, a champagne toast and balloon drop in Hay House’s Music Room. The evening will be capped with an appetizing midnight breakfast. Macon is located at the termination of the historic driving route for the Jefferson Davis Heritage Trail: https://www.civilwarheritagetrails.org/ga-civil-war-trails-map/index.html. Tickets (reservations required): $125.00 each. Attire is black tie and mask. 478-742-8155, www.hayhousemacon.org/special-events/

GA-New Year’s Ghosts and Legends of Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation - Monday, December 31, 10:00 pm to 12:30 am (Tuesday), Hofwyl-Broadfield State Historic Site, 5556 U.S. Hwy. 17 North, Brunswick GA. A special New Year’s edition of Ghosts and Legends of Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation. The tour will start on New Year’s Eve and will celebrate the New Year at midnight by ringing the historic Plantation Bell before ending at 12:30 am. Tickets: $15.00; reservations required! 912-264-7333, http://gastateparks.org/HofwylBroadfieldPlantation