Christmas Open House at Washington Place

The Christmas Open House at Washington Place is a tradition that began 166 years ago by Mary Dominis, widow of Captain John Dominis who built Washington Place. On Christmas Eve in 1858, she hosted a magnificent party for 100 of Honolulu's children and their parents, thus establishing the Christmas tradition - with a Santa Claus - in the Hawaiian Kingdom ruled then by King Kamehameha IV.

Celebrating Christmas with a tree in the family home in Hawai'i owes its origins to Mary, who planted the first garden in Honolulu and is said to have grown a Christmas tree from a sprig that arrived by ship in Hawai'i.

Take a tour through the 177 year old home and learn more about the history of the time honored Christmas custom at Washington Place. A tree reminiscent of the 1858 tree decorated by Mary for the children of Honolulu will be on view in the upstairs parlor.

Music will be provided by the Flute a la Harpe group throughout the evening in the Glass Lanai.

Reservations are required for this event. Although the event is free, a $5 donation to the Washington Place Foundation is suggested for adults, with proceeds going toward preservation and programs for the historic home.

All adult guests are asked to bring a picture ID to gain entrance to the event. No large bags will be permitted, and all bags may be subjected to inspection. Free parking will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis at the Department of Health building (Kina'u Hale) entering on Miller Street.

Host or Publisher Washington Place Foundation