In addition to celebrating "The Night Before Christmas" in the Corbit-Sharp House, every corner of the town will be infused with the spirit of the season. 
This includies Storybook Time for kids and the enchanted Storybook Trees exhibit created by community members, as well as a lively Colonial Dance led by the Dover English Country Dancers. The customary candlelight tours and festive food demonstrations will also be held.
On Friday, Dec. 1, Historic Odessa will host a presentation and book signing by Pamela McColl author of “Twas The Night: The Art and History of the Classic Christmas Poem” (2023) which traces the evolution of Christmas, presents how the historic figure of Saint Nicholas evolves into the central character in the story, and how characteristics of today’s Santa Claus originated with Clement Clark Moore. As a bonus to the evening’s presentation, McCool will be introduced by the enthusiastic Benjamin Bradley, known as “Mr. Christmas,” from the Netflix original series “Holiday Home Makeover.”
The holiday fun doesn’t stop with “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” While Odessa is dressed for the season, be sure to pop into the area’s 50th annual fundraising event “Christmas in Odessa” on December 2nd , put on by the Women’s Club of Odessa. This event brings the "Hallmark Christmas" vision to life with carousel rides, fresh greens for sale, tea and Christmas cookies, and of course a tree lighting ceremony! If you're coming from the "big city," watch out, you may just find that perfect "small town love" you've been looking for...
For information about the Historic Odessa Foundation’s 2023 Christmas Holiday exhibit, tours and events, visit www.historicodessa.org. Historic Odessa is open to the public March through December, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Monday by reservation. General admission: adults, $10; groups, seniors, students, $8; and children under six are free. Member discounts are available.
