Christmas at the Seiberling

About the Event

Step into a winter wonderland at Christmas at the Seiberling, where the majestic Seiberling Mansion in Kokomo transforms into a dazzling holiday spectacle from November 28 to December 30, 2026. This beloved tradition wraps the historic home of the Howard County Museum in thousands of twinkling lights, both inside and out, creating an enchanting glow that captures the magic of the season. What makes it truly special is the seamless blend of Gilded Age grandeur and festive cheer—imagine ornate Victorian rooms aglow with garlands, shimmering ornaments, and warm candlelight, evoking nostalgia and joy for all ages. Families, couples, and history lovers flock here to escape the holiday hustle, sip hot cocoa by the fireplace, and create cherished memories in an atmosphere that's cozy, elegant, and utterly heartwarming. It's more than an event; it's a timeless embrace of community spirit and holiday wonder. ## The Surrounding Area
Nestled in charming Kokomo, Howard County, the Seiberling Mansion sits in the elegant Old Silk Stocking Historic District, a neighborhood brimming with beautifully preserved Victorian homes that whisper tales of Indiana's prosperous past. Kokomo, once at the epicenter of the late-19th-century natural gas boom, offers visitors a delightful mix of small-town warmth and industrial heritage—think tree-lined streets, friendly locals, and easy access to I-65 for day trips from Indianapolis, just an hour away. Nearby attractions include the Kokomo Opalescent Glass factory for artisan tours, the Grissom Air Reserve Base Museum for aviation enthusiasts, and scenic Foster Park with its walking trails and holiday light displays. Dining shines with cozy spots like hearty diners serving Midwestern comfort food—think farm-fresh pies, barbecue joints, and farm-to-table cafes—plus seasonal pop-ups offering gingerbread treats and mulled wine. This corner of Indiana invites you to linger, blending history, nature, and Hoosier hospitality into an ideal holiday getaway. ## Activities & Attractions
Christmas at the Seiberling bursts with festive delights that bring the mansion's splendor to life. Wander through eight opulent first-floor rooms adorned with lush wreaths, poinsettias, and heirloom decorations, each evoking a different holiday theme from Victorian elegance to whimsical nostalgia. Outside, the grand wrap-around porch and grounds sparkle with thousands of lights, perfect for twinkling photos under the stars. Highlights include the Opening Night Lighting Ceremony on November 28, a magical kickoff with live music, carolers, and the first illumination of the estate. Inside, discover the restored grandeur: intricate parquet floors of native woods like walnut and cherry, a soaring staircase, massive pocket doors, and the third-floor grand ballroom bathed in soft glows. Families love interactive elements like ornament crafts, storytelling sessions by the hearth, and self-guided tours revealing hidden gems such as the original icebox and Moorish-inspired hardware. On select evenings, enjoy live holiday performances, horse-drawn carriage rides (weather permitting), and visits from Santa in the rotunda. Savor treats from on-site vendors—hot cider, cookies, and fudge—while soaking in the merry ambiance that feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. ## Schedule & Logistics
Mark your calendars for November 28 to December 30, 2026, with the festive kickoff at the Opening Night Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, November 28—arrive early for prime viewing as dusk falls around 5 p.m. The mansion welcomes guests Tuesdays through Sundays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., plus extended select evenings (typically Thursdays and Fridays until 7:00 p.m., with special lighting walks) to catch the full nighttime magic—check ahead for exact evening dates closer to the season. Admission is affordable and family-friendly, with general entry around $10 for adults, $5 for kids, and free for little ones under 5; group rates and museum members get discounts. Plenty of free street parking lines the surrounding historic district, and the mansion is wheelchair-accessible on the main floor. Plan for 1-2 hours to explore fully, bundling up for outdoor lights, and note that select nights may feature ticketed evening events for an intimate experience. It's all designed for stress-free joy, so come as you are and let the season unfold. ## History & Heritage
Rooted in Kokomo's glittering Indiana Gas Boom of the 1880s and '90s, Christmas at the Seiberling celebrates the legacy of the Seiberling Mansion, built starting in October 1889 by industrialist Monroe Seiberling—a savvy entrepreneur from Akron, Ohio, and uncle to Goodyear Tire founder Frank Seiberling. Arriving amid the free natural gas bonanza that fueled factories, Seiberling launched the Kokomo Strawboard Company and Diamond Plate Glass Company, amassing wealth to construct this $50,000 masterpiece blending Queen Anne and Romanesque Revival styles. Completed around 1891, the three-story gem originally glowed by gaslight, boasting a grand ballroom, ornate woodwork, and a rotunda porch overlooking lush grounds. Owned by inventor George Kingston (creator of the Model T carburetor) until 1946, it then housed Indiana University-Kokomo from 1947 to 1965 before the Howard County Historical Society took stewardship in 1971, restoring it as a museum listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. The holiday tradition likely began in the society's early years, growing from simple decorations into a community cornerstone that draws thousands annually, honoring Kokomo's industrial roots while fostering holiday unity. Today, it stands as a beacon of preservation and joy, inviting all to share in its enduring heritage.