With the sun long sunk below the horizon, the only light to guide our way through the 17th century Jesuit mission was the flickering glow cast by more than 5,000 candles. The purity of the scene warms our souls despite the biting cold of the December evening.
A national historic site that recreates the 17th century headquarters of the French Jesuit mission attempting to convert the Huron people to Christianity, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons offers a unique yuletide experience. It was here, more than 350 years ago, that the first Christmas in Ontario was celebrated by the handful of priests and their attendants who formed this isolated community.
It was also here that the famous Huron Carol was written, probably by Jesuit missionary Jean de Brebeuf around 1641. The carol was most likely the first Christmas song written in North America and is certainly the only internationally known carol taken from Native American languages.
On the nights of Nov. 16 to 18, Nov. 23 to 25, and Dec. 2 to 5, the recreated 17th century Jesuit mission comes alive with the spectacle and sounds of ‘First Light’, a magical holiday celebration where guests will make cherished festive memories.
Entering through the front gates, we are immediately transported back in time to the mid-1600s, perhaps to the very evening that Huron Carol was first sung. Lantern-lit pathways guide us to more than a dozen historic buildings, dressed up for the holiday season with fresh greenery and festive decor.
Stepping inside, we enjoy historic demonstrations and hands-on activities – our daughter makes a quill pen and a corn husk doll. Carols dance upon the snow-laced breeze, bringing back nostalgic memories of homes filled with loved ones and brimming with festive cheer. All is merry and bright.
The ringing of hammer on anvil lures us to the smithy, where crowds gather to watch the resident blacksmith demonstrate his skill before a fire that leaps into the darkened sky. The uses of medicinal teas and herbs are explored within the confines of the hospital. The tantalizing aroma of baked goods lures to the cook house. A moment of piety in the stables where a Nativity crèche reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas.
Christmas shoppers may find a gift for that hard-to-buy-for individual from among the artisans, more than twenty in all, offering their wares for sale, ranging from jewelry to Native artwork, preservatives to festive holiday decor. And of course, the site’s gift shop is open as well.
We nestle close to one another to enjoy the evening fireworks exploding overhead (Fridays only, at 7 p.m.), the culmination of a special evening.
“First Light at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is a magical, one-of-a-kind experience for people of all ages in a beautiful, historical setting,” said Neil Lumsden, Ontario Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “The variety of sights, family friendly events and activities will create life-long memories for all visitors. It should be a part of everyone’s winter season plans.”
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons asks that visitors bring non-perishable food donations, with the goal of filling a large canoe in support of the local Salvation Army food drive.
Parking is available at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, as well as Walmart in Midland, where shuttle buses will run to and from the park.
Strolling through the historic mission of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, you can’t help but be immersed in the magic of First Light. A short drive takes you to a world that existed over 350 years ago, a place where the spiritual soul of Christmas still lives.
For more information go to www.saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca.
Andrew Hind is a travel columnist and published author.
