Holiday Market & Preparing for Winter

Kick off the holiday season at GCV&M!

Saturday & Sunday, November 7 & 8, 2026

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Join us for a festive weekend combining two beloved traditions: our Annual Holiday Market and Preparing for Winter in the Historic Village. Browse unique handcrafted gifts at the Holiday Market, then step back in time to discover how Western New Yorkers got ready for the cold season in the 19th Century. It’s the perfect way for families to celebrate the start of the holidays!

Give Back!

GCV&M is collecting Thanksgiving-themed non-perishables for families in need during this event. Donations will be collected in the Admissions tunnel and delivered to Little Free Pantries in the Mumford and Rochester areas before the holidays.

Ticket Information

Become a Museum Member to enjoy discounted festival admission plus FREE daily admission May – November.

Museum Members Purchased Online in Advance Purchased at the Door
Members
FREE
FREE

Buy online and save $1!

General Admission Purchased Online in Advance Purchased at the Door
Adult (18+)
$
$
Youth (4 – 12)
$
$
Student (13 – 17) & Senior (62+)
$
$
Child (3 & under)
FREE

Notice something new? We have a new ticketing system! We hope you’ll find this easy to navigate and appreciate your patience as we roll it out. If you are having issues or have questions, please email info@gcv.org. Museum Members will need to login to received discounted Member pricing and more information on how to do that is available here. Thank you, as always, for your support of the Museum!

Historic Village Highlights

Bedecked with holiday cheer, take a walk through our Historic Village, visit with costumed interpreters, join a Toward Freedom & Fairness tour, visit the farm, and so much more.

  • Take part in 19th-century winter ready-making
    • Stroll through the Historic Village where preparations are underway for the snowy season ahead
  • Enjoy Indigenous storytelling
  • Take your holiday photo at a decorated selfie station

Genesee Country Nature Center

The Genesee Country Nature Center is a fantastic place to explore the flora and fauna of the Genesee Valley Region. Take a hike on a nature trail (ranging from .5 – 1.3 miles), learn from a resident naturalist, meet animals up close and personal, and so much more.

John L. Wehle Gallery

Home to an extensive collection of 19th-century clothing and sporting and wildlife art, the John L. Wehle Gallery includes three rotating exhibits and several smaller displays. Exhibits include:

  • An Extraordinary Attraction: 50 Years of History, Art, and Nature (NEW in 2026)
  • Color Me Calico: A Taste for Prints and Parties
  • Perceived Realities: Wildlife, Land, & Myth

Food & Beverage

Stop into these locations for a bite to eat or something to drink!

  • Depot Restaurant
    • Open Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (grill closes at 2)
    • Grab a wrap or burger and a drink.
  • Freight House Pub
    • Open from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. 
    • Grab a small bite and a craft beer or cider.
  • D.M. Munger Confectionery
    • Open Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
    • Located on the Square in the Historic Village
    • Stop in for Village-made cookies, candy, hand pies, and more!
  • Hosmer Taproom
    • Open Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
    • Located in Hosmer’s Inn
    • Stop in for coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and hand pies available for purchase.

Holiday Market Vendors

Shop hand-crafted and locally-produced goods at our Holiday Market. From a multitude of art, food, and gift vendors representing the very best from Western New York, and just in time for seasonal gift-giving! Visitors can peruse unique gift items and village-made goods in the Flint Hill Store.

An ATM will be conveniently located in the foyer of the John L. Wehle Gallery.

Interested in being a vendor at this year’s Holiday Market? Fill out the form by clicking the link below:

Shopping at the Flint Hill Store

Enjoy a premier shopping experience when you visit the Flint Hill Store, located adjacent to the admissions tunnel. From handcrafted goods made right here in the Historic Village, to treats and sweets, Museum apparel, local art, decor, and more, there’s something for everyone in the Flint Hill Store.

New in 2026, purchase cans of GCV&M’s Fat Ox Ale or Stocking Hill Ale (made by Rohrbach’s Brewing) right from the Store or pick up a growler at the Freight House Pub and we’ll hold it for you!

FAQs

Is there ample parking?

Parking is free and plentiful! Park in any of the main lots at the front of the Museum. Please leave the first two bays available for handicapped parking. 

How do I show my purchased tickets?

Please have your ticket(s) either printed out OR pulled up on your phone screen and ready for scanning for quick and easy check-in. Pro-tip: take a screenshot of each of your tickets to have ready and pulled up on your phone screen! Please note: Wifi can sometimes be spotty at the front of the Museum. 

Is this event rain or shine?

Yes! This event is rain or shine. The Museum will only cancel in case of a severe weather emergency.

How should I dress?

Please dress accordingly for the predicted weather conditions.  

We recommend wearing a good pair of walking shoes – there is a lot to see and do, and surfaces in the Historic Village (brick paths, cobblestone, grass), can be uneven. 

Are service animals welcome?

Yes! Leashed service animals are welcome with proper identification. 

Is there an ATM onsite?

Yes! There will be an ATM located in the lobby of the John L. Wehle Art Gallery.

What if I need a refund for my ticket?

We’re sorry to hear that you’re not able to attend! Tickets may be refunded only up to 7 days prior to the event date and are strictly non-transferable by date, entry time, or program. 

Are courtesy passes accepted for this event?

Yes, courtesy passes are accepted for this event. You will check in through Admissions as usual and turn them in there for admittance. 

Other Holiday Events