Spark your own artistic flair at Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum’s annual Harvest Festival, Saturday, October 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. You’ll be able to paint your own pumpkin, make corn husk dolls, have your face painted with a favorite character and even give a whirl at preparing basic Native American food. All the while you’ll learn about the tradition of Jack-o-lanterns, which was brought to the United States from Ireland during the 19th Century and why corn husk dolls were popular with Native American and European children.
This year’s event will also feature Donna Cross of LeafArrow Storytellers. Dressed in full traditional Native American regalia, Cross will lead two half hour Native American storytelling sessions. LeafArrow Storytellers shows feature coyote tales, creation stories and historic folklore filled with tribal family values. They use story, song and dance to celebrate the special relationship the Native American people have always had with the Earth and their respect for the natural environment. Shows are at 11 a.m. and noon.
This event is appropriate for ages 4 and up.
Cost for the event is $10 per child, $5 per adult, children under 4 years old are free. Discounts for members apply. Tours of the 19th-century Bartow-Pell mansion and garden are free for Harvest Festival participants. Registration is highly recommended, though not required. For more information or to register, call (718) 885-1461, email info@bpmm.org, or visit www.bpmm.org.
Parking will be across the street at the Split Rock Golf Course. The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, in Pelham Bay Park, is located at 895 Shore Road.
