Historic Hernando Museums Announce Festive Holiday Events This Month

Hernando County cultural sites are gearing up for a string of holiday activities that aim to bring families and neighbors together while keeping community access in mind. The May Stringer Night of Lights will take place Friday December 12 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event is themed the Nutcracker, each room will be elaborately decorated, cookies and hot chocolate will be provided and Santa has been invited as a special guest. Later in the month the South Brooksville Avenue Stroll will run Friday and Saturday December 19 and 20 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The 1885 Depot Museum and the Countryman One Room Schoolhouse will be open during the stroll and are always favorites with the youngsters. The stroll is free, with donations gladly accepted.

These events matter beyond seasonal celebration. Free admission and donation based programming lower financial barriers and expand access to local history and arts for families who might otherwise be priced out of cultural activities. For small downtown retailers and eateries, increased foot traffic during evening strolls offers modest economic relief during a critical retail season. For parents and caregivers, the open museums provide supervised educational settings where children can engage with local history.

Public health considerations remain important as gatherings increase. If you are feeling ill please stay home and seek appropriate care. Plan for crowding and limited seating, and contact museum staff in advance if you require mobility assistance or accommodations. To avoid surprises due to holiday closures or schedule changes, check the Hernando Historical Museum Association website at https://www.hernandohistoricalmuseumassoc.com/ and call to confirm tours.

Regular museum tour schedules and contact numbers are as follows. May Stringer tours run Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call (352) 799 0129. The 1885 Depot offers tours Friday and Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. Call (352) 799 4766. The Countryman One Room Schoolhouse offers tours Friday and Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. Call (352) 515 3054. These details can help residents plan visits that are safe, accessible and inclusive while supporting local cultural institutions during the holiday season.