Old Fashioned Christmas

As the sun sets on a crisp December evening in Edina, the air fills with the sweet scent of pine and cinnamon, evoking nostalgic memories of Christmases past. Families gather around twinkling lights, laughter echoing through the streets, and the spirit of the season enveloping the community. This year, the Old Fashioned Christmas celebration at Schram Vineyards in nearby Waconia brings a taste of tradition and warmth, inviting residents to partake in a magical experience that rekindles the joy of simpler times.

What Happened

Schram Vineyards has transformed its beautiful grounds into a winter wonderland, hosting the Old Fashioned Christmas event that has quickly become a cherished tradition for many families. The celebration features a variety of festive activities, including hayrides, visits with Santa, and a holiday market filled with unique gifts and local crafts. Ashley Schram and Gina Holman, the masterminds behind the event, emphasized the importance of community and togetherness during this special time of year.

"We wanted to create an experience that families could enjoy together, a place where they can make memories and celebrate the season in a meaningful way," said Schram. The event runs throughout December, drawing visitors from Edina and beyond to partake in the festivities.

In addition to the holiday market, the vineyard offers wine tastings featuring their award-winning selections, allowing adults to savor the season while the children enjoy various activities. The combination of festive cheer and fine wine has made the Old Fashioned Christmas a must-visit destination this holiday season.

Community Reaction

The response from the Edina community has been overwhelmingly positive. Families have expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the holidays in a way that honors tradition and fosters connection. Local resident Sarah Johnson, who attended the event with her two children, shared her experience: "It felt like stepping back in time. The decorations were beautiful, and my kids loved meeting Santa and exploring the market. It’s a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season."

Many families, like the Johnsons, have made attending the Old Fashioned Christmas an annual tradition, often bringing along extended family members to share in the experience. This year, the vineyard reported a significant increase in attendance, with many visitors traveling from surrounding communities, highlighting the event's growing popularity.

Building Community Bonds

The Old Fashioned Christmas event not only brings joy to families but also strengthens community bonds. Local businesses have rallied together to support the event, providing goods and services that enhance the festive atmosphere. For instance, local artisans showcase their handmade crafts, while nearby restaurants offer special holiday menus to cater to visitors. This collaboration showcases the spirit of Edina, where residents prioritize supporting one another and creating a thriving local economy.

Many attendees also noted the importance of maintaining traditions during the holiday season. With the hustle and bustle of modern life, events like this offer a much-needed respite, allowing families to slow down and appreciate the simple joys of the season. As Holman remarked, "In a world that often feels chaotic, we wanted to create a space where people can come together, relax, and enjoy each other's company."

A Nostalgic Experience

The charm of the Old Fashioned Christmas lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia. From the vintage decorations to the classic holiday music playing in the background, every detail is thoughtfully curated to transport visitors to a time when Christmas was celebrated with simpler pleasures. The vineyard's picturesque setting, complete with twinkling lights and warm bonfires, creates an enchanting atmosphere that captures the essence of the holiday spirit.

Children delight in the various activities, including cookie decorating, crafts, and storytelling sessions that bring to life the magic of Christmas. The joy in their eyes as they engage in these timeless traditions is a reminder of the importance of family and togetherness during this festive season. Local teacher and mother of three, Emily Carter, shared, "Seeing my kids so excited about making cookies and listening to stories really brings back my own childhood memories of Christmas. It’s heartwarming to see them so engaged in these activities."

What's Next for Schram Vineyards

Looking ahead, Schram Vineyards plans to expand the Old Fashioned Christmas celebration in future years. The team is exploring new activities and attractions to enhance the experience for families, ensuring that it remains a beloved tradition for generations to come. Ideas being discussed include adding a Christmas light display and hosting live music performances featuring local artists. As the vineyard continues to grow, its commitment to community and family values will remain at the forefront of their mission.

In addition to the holiday festivities, Schram Vineyards is dedicated to sustainability and supporting local agriculture. Their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients in their wines and events reflects a broader trend in the community toward supporting local businesses and fostering a sense of responsibility toward the environment. This resonates deeply with community members who value sustainability, making the vineyard a popular choice among eco-conscious consumers.

Resources for Families

For families looking to participate in the Old Fashioned Christmas, Schram Vineyards offers a variety of resources on their website. Visitors can find information about event hours, ticket prices, and special activities planned throughout December. Additionally, the vineyard encourages families to explore other local holiday events in Edina, such as the annual Edina Holiday Festival and tree lighting ceremony.

As the holiday season progresses, families are encouraged to embrace the spirit of giving by supporting local charities and organizations that provide assistance to those in need. The Edina community has a rich network of nonprofits, including Edina Community Foundation and GiveMN, which offer opportunities for residents to contribute to the well-being of their neighbors. Many families have made it a tradition to volunteer together during the holidays, further strengthening their connections to the community.

Conclusion

The Old Fashioned Christmas at Schram Vineyards is more than just a festive event; it is a celebration of community, family, and the enduring spirit of the holiday season. As families gather to create cherished memories, the experience serves as a reminder of the importance of tradition and connection in a fast-paced world. This holiday season, let us embrace the joy of togetherness and the warmth of family, celebrating the values that make Edina a truly special place to call home. As the event continues to grow, it will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of the community's holiday celebrations for years to come.