“During our holiday celebration in December, Westbury House really gets to shine,” said Vince Kish, Old Westbury Gardens’ Director of Public Relations and Communication. “The rooms are beautifully and imaginatively decorated by our talented staff, as much as possible using natural materials found on our grounds. From the welcoming fire in the lobby, to the festive background music, to the alluring aroma of hot cider on the West Porch, the different elements combine to exude a feeling a warmth and comfort. Mannequins, dressed to represent family members and friends celebrating the holidays a century ago, remind us that, for all its elegance, this house was very much a home. Kids can enjoy making crafts and visiting Santa.” Welcome this festive time of year at Westbury House’s First Night and Tree Lighting, on Saturday, Dec. 1 (6:30-9:30 p.m.), the much-loved sparkling kick-off to the holiday. Share the magic of the season, with a tour of Westbury House, a visit with Santa, tree lighting, and more. The Bethel Caroling Chorale performs, adding their joyous sounds to the evening.
The following day, Sunday, Dec. 2, the Long Island Flute Club returns to the estate’s Red Ballroom for the ensemble’s annual holiday concert. The ensemble, conducted by Lauren Osnato, includes Grace Michinovicz of Rockville Centre, along with Michele Aweh, Maria DiNatale Scotto, Rachel and Sarah Ferrante, Danielle Ienna, Debra Kalabza, Amy Kempton, Charlotte Loake, Frances Piazza, Christine Perri, Melanie Scalice, Deborah Schild, Danielle Schulman, Kathy Solomowitz, Edna Susman, Sarah Umstadt, and Sandra Vigliotti.
  Their program includes a variety of festive classics, such as “The Nutcracker Suite” and “A Christmas Overture” to “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.” It’s a holiday celebration that will appeal all ages.