Encounter Prairietown at Conner Prairie, where it is Dec. 24, 1836, and Christmas is not yet a national holiday. Celebrations of the holidays varied from household to household, based on each family’s beliefs and cultural background.

Guests will meet and mingle with the Prairietown residents by candlelight. Stop by a Jewish home as they unpack their menorah. Visit the Campbells as they prepare for their Christmas party. Meet a Pennsylvania German “Santa” at the Golden Eagle Inn and others who are upset Christmas is being celebrated at all, either because they don’t recognize it or because they see the celebration as “sinful.” Do some caroling and sample a holiday treat.

Conner Prairie by Candlelight runs Fridays–Sundays, Dec. 8–17, 5:30–8 p.m. The tours are 90 minutes long, and leave every 10 minutes. Reservations are required and tickets for non-members are $12, $10 for youth. Conner Prairie is located at 13400 Allisonville Road in Fishers. Call 317-776-6006 or go to www.connerprairie.org for more information.