Looking for a fun, yet safe, way to venture out again? A place where you can also feel a bit pampered? This Elmira icon may be just what you need!
The Christmas House (TCH) is a 6-room specialty gift shop housed in an immaculate 16-color Painted Lady Victorian mansion in Elmira’s Maple Avenue Historic District. Many elegant homes grace this street, but this 1896 beauty has been dubbed, The Grand Dame of the Neighborhood. It is so eye-catching that it was selected to be featured in the book, America’s Painted Ladies, a fact that makes us swell with local pride!
The anticipation starts as you pull into the parking lot.
You know you’ve arrived somewhere special. The sprawling front porch gives a sneak peek of what’s inside. On this stop, we found women’s accessories and clothing, and a fabulous collection of puzzles, including complex 3-D ones.
Safety is on everyone’s minds these days, but you can rest assured it’s a priority here.
The feast for the eyes continues when you step inside.
Wow! Christmas and so much more! They really have you covered for all occasions. One of the first things to catch our eye (after the jewelry!) was the miniature village displays. Each one is painstakingly recreated every season.
There’s also a spectacular Halloween village through October.
Needless to say, there are ornaments for anything you can imagine. And themed trees, galore.
Owners, Julie and Mark Delgrosso, spend several months traveling to shows each year to ensure there are always new and unique things to see. This year TCH is celebrating the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote with a special section that honors the sisterhood. You’ll find a tree dedicated to NYS heroines, including local astronaut Eileen Collins, along with Susan B. Anthony, Harriett Tubman and more. And this empowering mug is guaranteed to add a boost of inspiration to your morning coffee.
Whether you’re looking for a quick gift stop on your way home from work, or a fun way to spend an afternoon, The Christmas House is likely to fit the bill. They’ve got you covered for all occasions!
To learn more about The Christmas House
Be sure to follow their Facebook page for special updates!
Elmiraland is a website, blog, and social media presence dedicated to everything Elmira. Taking time to enjoy what’s around us; always looking forward to what’s next!