18th-Century Entertainments and Raree Show

Join historical interpreters Dawn Elliott and Joel Schlemowitz for an afternoon of historic toys, games, and amusements! Step back in time through a full afternoon of toys, games, stories, art, and popular entertainments enjoyed by children and adults of the 17th and 18th centuries! On Sunday, September 27 from 11 AM–4 PM, historical interpreters and educators Dawn Elliott and Joel Schlemowitz return to Van Cortlandt House Museum for a hands-on exploration of 17th- and 18th-century recreation. Visitors can try traditional board and lawn games, experiment with historic pastimes, hear stories, make art, and experience a Dutch raree show, a form of portable visual entertainment popular in the 18th century. Come for one activity or spend the afternoon exploring them all. Programs are designed for visitors of all ages and offer a lively look at how people played, created, competed, and entertained themselves in the past! Schedule 11 AM | Museum Opens 11:30 AM | Balloon Story Time Gather for an interactive story time featuring toy balloons and plenty of imagination! 12 PM | Learn Nine Men’s Morris Learn to play this centuries-old strategy game and test your skills. 12:30 PM | The Dutch Raree Show Joel Schlemowitz introduces the history of the raree show, a portable peep-box entertainment that allowed 18th-century audiences to view scenes, images, and curiosities through a small viewing window, followed by a chance to experience the raree show yourself. 1 PM | Fancy Tea Party Take part in a playful tea party inspired by the social rituals and entertainments of the period. 1:30 PM | Balloon Story Time A second opportunity to enjoy an interactive toy balloon story time. 2 PM | Bat and Trap Discover this historic outdoor bat-and-ball game and give it a try on the museum lawn. 2:30 PM | Watercolors Watercolor activity inspired by historic creative pastimes. 3 PM | Colonial Codes Put your puzzle-solving skills to work as you learn about historic codes and try deciphering messages of your own. Throughout the afternoon, additional toys and games will be available for visitors to explore at their own pace! Sunday, September 27, 2026 11 AM–4 PM This event is free and open to all. Activities will take place outdoors on the museum lawn. RSVP is suggested but not required.