The Olana Partnership invites the community to celebrate the changing of the seasons during their Winter Around the World event on December 16, 2023, from 1 to 5 p.m., at the Olana State Historic Site. Experience the Hudson Valley’s beautiful winter landscape from the sprawling estate and explore some of the cultures and countries that inspired artist Frederic Church as he designed his magnificent family home during the late nineteenth century. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy free access to Olana’s historic interiors; watch the sunset and purchase refreshments from Frankie’s nomadic coffee shop as they warm up around a bonfire; drop in for free activities and games led by Olana educators and partners; listen to live music by Heard World Jazz; and visit with everyone’s favorite miniature donkey, Hank, back by popular demand.

In addition to being a celebrated painter, Church was an avid world traveler, deeply inspired by winters in Mexico, his travels to Jamaica and South America and the visits he and his family made to countries in the Middle East. This special community celebration will shed light on these global influences. The property sits atop a peak overlooking the Hudson River and Church fittingly chose to name this masterpiece Olana, derived from the Arabic, meaning “our place on high.”

The Olana Partnership is the nonprofit cooperative partner of New York State Parks at Olana State Historic Site. They are currently seeking volunteers to assist with greeting, parking and floating on the day of this event. Contact the partnership for more information. Becoming a volunteer at Olana is a wonderful way to learn more about this unique and beautiful site, meet new people and have a fun and rewarding experience.