Soup at Six: Early Christmas in Canton

It’s Christmas in July! Step back in time to a Canton, Ohio, where Christmas wasn’t a holiday—it was just another workday! No twinkling lights, no festive gatherings, no Charlie Brown Christmas.

July 24 | 6:00PM
McKinley Presidential Library & Museum

Join Mark G. Holland, Archivist, as he uncovers the surprising history of why early Canton—and even Ohio—ignored Christmas while celebrating New Year's and the 4th of July instead. Learn how stores remained open, law courts were in session issuing writs and orders, and sheriff’s sales proceeded as usual. Churches didn’t hold Christmas services, and people didn’t send cards or letters. Streets and houses weren’t decorated, and Christmas trees were virtually unheard of. It's particularly curious, given Canton’s strong German influence, as Germans were well-known for their devotion to Christmas.

$25 per person – Includes program, soup, bread, and dessert.

Reservations are required – Deadline: July 17. Reserve now: qrco.de/bfTNvP or call 330-455-7043.

All proceeds support the Museum’s mission to connect audiences through history, science, and the legacy of William McKinley.

Advance Tickets & Refund Policy: qrco.de/bfITU7