ZOAR, Ohio – Old-world Christmas customs, decorated private homes and museums and holiday crafts for decorating and gifts make up 2002’s Christmas in Zoar, Dec. 7 and 8.
Zoar is the site of a German communal society founded in 1817.
Special tours. Two private historic homes will be open for touring, along with the five restored buildings operated by the Ohio Historical Society.
Christmas customs of this German village include the Zoar Christmas tree made from pine branches inserted into a drilled broomstick, and the Krist Kind, or Christ Child, a vision in white who distributes candy to good girls and boys. Ginger cookies and cider will be served at the bakery.
Evening carolers. On Saturday evening, the streets will be lit with luminaria and a tree lighting service will be held at the Zoar Meeting House at 5 p.m. Visitors strolling the narrow streets will encounter carolers and can ride a horse-drawn wagon around the village. They can visit with Civil War reenactors, stop at numerous craft booths in some of the restored buildings, including the Schoolhouse.
Hours for the event are Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. 5 p.m. Admission for adults is $5; children ages 6-12 are $1; children under 6 are free.
The event is sponsored by the Zoar Community Association in cooperation with the Ohio Historical Society. All proceeds are dedicated to the preservation of Zoar.
Zoar is located on State Route 212, three miles southeast of Exit 93 of Interstate 77 south of Canton. For more information call 800-874-4336 or 330-874-2646.