How to Spend Christmas in a Victorian Setting

There are many different ways to spend Christmas, at home or away, but little compares to going back in time. A Victorian setting is the perfect way to celebrate the holidays with a bit of a twist. If you don't have a time machine or can't afford a ticket to the "olde world," there are still lots of things you can do to spend Christmas in a Victorian setting.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Victorian pudding or dessert
• Victorian costume
• Holly or pine cones

1. Become a member. Check local societies for events and receptions including the famous twelfth night gala. Doing some research can give you lots of inspiration to attend a themed event or make your home the perfect setting for a Victorian Christmas.
2. Eat authentically. Victorian cuisine can be an adventure in itself with rich desserts, puddings and even alcoholic foods. Find recipes from the web (see resources) or order traditional eats from one of the many Victorian inspired food companies.
3. Lay the table. Buy or create a distinct Victorian centerpiece using period materials. Surround this with Victorian china, authentic (if you have it) or replica that can be bought from many online stores. Liberally apply more holly springs and fruits for the finishing touches.
4. Dress for success. The ladies and gentlemen of Victorian society wore highly decorated costumes, never more elaborate than at Christmas. Depending on your budget, you can buy, hire or even make your own costume. High collars, petticoats and hats for both men and women are basic guidelines.
5. Decorate the tree. A Christmas tree can be the focal point of a room and was one of the most important parts of a Victorian Christmas. Edible tree decorations such as nuts, fruit and candy were popular in the Victorian era and will be popular with today's kids. Leaves and berries were also used, so holly and pine cones (even plastic ones) will be a good substitute.

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