2021 Event Calendar Announcement
Dear Members and Supporters
On behalf of The Conococheague Institute, we are extremely grateful for your support throughout the last year. Your patience during the shifting pandemic changes has been appreciated. Though we have had weekly programs, and monthly special events, not being able to announce them far in advance has been troublesome.
That is why we are pleased to announce the 2nd half of the 2021 Event Calendar. Large events and fundraisers require a lot of planning and support. The events for this year are larger than what we’ve had so far in 2021 (but smaller than events from prior years).
Our Development Committee is already hard at work planning the ENTIRE 2022 calendar which will see a return of large scale events with 1000’s of visitors, workshops, fundraisers, feasts and lectures.
We hope you will bring your friends and family to all these events (and our weekly Saturday Programs too).
For more information contact us and stay tuned for more announcements and press releases as we move forward
Tree Planting Volunteer Day/Annual Members Meeting/Afternoon Lecture
Saturday October 9th: 10am-5pm
Tree Planting: 10am to 2pm
Our fall planting sponsored by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation will include Pussy Willows, Oaks, and Dogwoods. Just 55 trees and shrubs to plant. Lend a hand and learn about the importance of trees for our environment. Contact us to signup for free for this opportunity.
Members Meeting: 2pm to 4pm
The second Saturday of October is also our annual Members Meeting. Our members are invited to review with our staff and Board the last year, and discuss future plans for CI's growth.
Lecture: 4pm to 5pm
Finally, the day will be concluded with a lecture by Will Sheppard, one of CI's Board Members, distinguished educator and anthropologist, and one of the leading experts on the historical and cultural significance of Rock Hill Farm.
Bonfire Night: An 18th Century Fall Celebration
Saturday November 6th:: 12pm-8pm
Bonfire Night, Thanksgiving, Guy Fawkes Day, Fall Fest or Harvest Festivals...
However you celebrate this time of year, come join us at the Conococheague Institute for a special evening celebration. Throughout the day 18th Century life will be on full display with cooking, games, crafts and song.
Bring a picnic supper and warm drinks and stay as the sun sets for a bonfire and candlelit tour of our historic structures.
This program will provide an immersive experience for visitors as they are transported back in time to the Frontier during the 18th Century. Learn how the community celebrated together by joining in for several fun activities and presentations:
- 12pm to 6pm - Tombola: A chance to win some historic prizes in our Visitor Center with an instant-win Raffle.
- 12pm, 2pm and 4pm - A Penny for a Guy: Help stuff and make effigies (imagine a Scarecrow) for the evening Bonfire and learn about the history of this strange tradition.
- 3pm - Cricket: Our most popular program returns for one last huzzah! Show us your batting and bowling skills in a match to end the year!
- 5pm - Libations, Drinks and Taverns: Join us in the Ordinary to learn about why Cider and Whiskey could be so important to a fledgling farming community. Copies of original drink recipes will be available for adults to try out at home!
- 6.30pm - The Bonfire: Don't miss this special moment as the Bonfire is lit and learn about the history of Bonfire Night!
- 7pm to 8pm: Relax with us and enjoy the ambience of a candlelit cabin, play card games or break out in song to your heart's content!
This program is a fun and educational celebration event for families. No Alcohol will be served and children and pets are welcome.
Admission is free, but donations are appreciated!
Colonial Christmas at the Conococheague
Saturday December 18th: 10am to 4pm
All throughout December we will be having a special Stocking Stuffer Sale in our Gift Shop. On December 18th join us on the homestead and learn about the food and traditions that surrounded Christmas time during the 18th Century.