This Sunday, Dec. 4, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the historic John Fell House is hosting a free holiday open house featuring cider and treats for all, crafts for the kids and a surprise appearance by local legend Stiles Thomas.

Many of the rooms in the classic house will be decorated for the season.

 

At 2 p.m., Thomas, the Marsh Warden Emeritus of the Celery Farm, will read "The Night Before Christmas" aloud in his native tongue, English (which he prefers since that's the only language he's ever bothered to learn).

 

Ginny Jones will translate the poem into German for any guests from the Motherland, including Herr Santa Claus and possibly Herr Rudolph.

 

Other highlights and activities include: 

 

Story time with Allendale Mayor Liz White at noon.
 

Entertainment by Kids With A Voice at 12:30 p.m.

 

Santa will also appear in the afternoon to hear your holiday wishes and grievances.

 

The Fell House, home to founding father John Fell, is at 475 Franklin Turnpike in Allendale.

 

The Celery Farm was once part of Fell's colonial estate and known as Fell's Meadows.