It’s already begun.  The race to populate the base of your Christmas tree by December 24^th.  Things haven’t changed much, as you dart from store to store in search of those nearly impossible Christmas list items.  You know - the ones everyone else is looking for at the exact same time!  Imagine if you could change that ritual by taking your time, strolling through a most unique collection of handmade, one-of-a-kind gift items guaranteed to surprise and please over the holidays.  Experience shopping outside the ‘box’ this season as Fort Henry presents their first annual Victorian Holiday Festival, Friday through Sunday, December 2 to 18.

Imagine making the sojourn to Fort Henry Hill with family and friends, bundling up and wandering through historic casemates filled with the finely crafted gifts created by a host of local and regional juried artisans. Sample Prince Edward County wine as you find the area’s most unique and thoughtful holiday gifts. Over 60 artisans will fill the lower Fort casemates with paintings, pottery, jewellery, metal and wood sculptures, clothing, lapidary and more with approximately 15 to 20 vendors on site each weekend.  A complete list of Artisans and their craft can be found at giftgivingshow.com.  Fort Henry’s Garrison Stores will be open offering guests a wide variety of special holiday gifts, books, militaria, novelties, clothing and the unique collection of Fort Henry-branded products.

Dining over the holiday season always takes on a new dimension.  Add to your unique shopping experience by choosing a relaxed dinner served by Soldier Servants at Fort Henry – Kingston’s most historic table setting! Bring a group of 15 or more for a special reserved lunch with Jessup Food and Heritage or enjoy candlelight holiday dining every night from 5 p.m. featuring a delicious three course, fixed price menu, only $25 for Adults and $18 for children 12 years of age and under. Complete details available at foodandheritage.com and reservations at 613-530-2550.

The Victorian Holiday Festival, sponsored by Celebrate Ontario and MHPM Project Management, runs December 2 through December 18, Fridays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays 12  noon  to 5 p.m.  General admission is $10 (including tax).  Tickets can be purchased online at FortHenry.com.