Final Christmas bazaar planned at mansion

Christmas at the Mansion next week will bring some of the finest craftspeople from throughout the Northwest to display their best creative work, along with vintage pieces and antiques.

This year’s event is particularly memorable since it marks the last year the Christmas bazaar is scheduled at Kalispell’s Conrad Mansion.

The Preview Party will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25. Enjoy the elegance of the mansion decorated for the holiday season, along with music, champagne and appetizers and first buying privileges.

Tickets are $45 per person ($40 for members) and are available in the gift shop Tuesday through Sunday or by calling 755-2166. Reservations are required. This event typically sells out.

The Christmas at the Mansion Bazaar is Oct. 26 and 27. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are available at the door for $5 per person ($2 for children). Food and beverages will be available for purchase on the veranda.

An 18-foot live tree ablaze with lights and antique ornaments is the highlight, although beautiful decorations can be found throughout the house.

The Christmas at the Mansion event will include the unveiling of the completely restored (almost life-size) Nativity scene that was donated to the Conrad Mansion in the early 1980s.

The historic Conrad Mansion is located on Woodland Avenue between Third and Fourth streets east. Kalispell’s founder Charles E. Conrad built the Victorian home designed by Spokane architect Kirtland Cutter in 1895. Original family furnishings are located throughout the 26 rooms of the meticulously restored house.

The year 2014 marks the 40th anniversary of the Conrad Mansion Museum. Visit www.conradmansion.com or call 755-2166 for more information.