See sparkling decorations from many countries and displays of a variety of ethnic traditions at the visitor center of Homestead National Monument of America, from November 26, 2005 through December 31, 2005. The Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures celebrates the winter traditions of people who lived on the Great Plains during the homesteading era. Decorated trees and tabletop displays feature ornaments and hand-made crafts that reflect the spirit of hope, humor and generosity which characterized settlers of the West. Homestead National Monument of America Superintendent Mark Engler has said, ?The Homestead Act of 1862 had a global impact. Many of the international groups represented during the Winter Festival came to America with traditions inherited from their homelands. We hope that families and individuals visiting Homestead during the holiday season will learn something new about the many winter celebrations that take place throughout the world.? Cultures represented include French, German, Welsh, Swedish, Polish, Irish, Czech, Hispanic, Scottish, Jewish, Cornish, and Native American. In addition to the displays, special programs will be presented at 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. on Sundays. These programs include: November 26-27 Holiday Open House in the bookstore. November 27 Die Singenden Wanderer (Singing Wanderers) German Men?s Choir This group will sing in German and interpret their songs and their origins in English. December 4 French Winter Traditions Bernedette Korslund will present a program on traditional French winter celebrations. December 11 ?C is for Cornhusker? author Rajean Luebs Shepherd will present a program on the many cultures brought to this country. A book signing will follow the 1 p.m. program.
