Heritage Holiday at Fort Vancouver

Photo courtesy of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

Embrace the festive spirit by stepping back in time during Heritage Holiday at Fort Vancouver.

Nestled on the north bank of the Columbia River, Fort Vancouver boasts a diverse cultural past, evolving from a frontier fur trading post to a formidable military stronghold. The park unfolds tales of the magic of flight and the birth of the American Pacific Northwest, providing visitors with a captivating journey through transitions, settlements, conflicts and community building.

While at the fort, explore the reconstructed British fur trade fort, historic buildings from the U.S. Army’s Vancouver Barracks, the history of aviation at Pearson Air Museum and walking trails.

The Heritage Holiday event is a day filled with cultural richness and seasonal merriment. Here are the details about the 2023 event.

On Saturday, December 9, the Heritage Holiday event is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for fun activities, or someone seeking a break from the usual holiday routine, this event offers a unique blend of historical exploration and hands-on fun.

While exploring the history of the Hudson Bay Company fort and its surroundings, visitors can partake in a variety of family-friendly activities, including:

Make a tassel for a bookmark.
Assemble traditional tops.
Build your own potpourri bags.
Watch cultural demonstrations in the kitchen, Blacksmith shop, Bakehouse and Carpenter shop.

Hands-on activities are available until supplies run out, so be sure to arrive early to secure your spot.

Admission is $10 for adults. Children 15 and under attend for free.

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is at 612 E Reserve St. in Vancouver. For more information, visit the event website.

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Looking for more holiday events in Portland? Here’s a full list: