A full month of holiday splendor at Blithewold

Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum opens its doors on Friday, Nov. 28 for this year's holiday offering "Christmas at Blithewold 2008, This Bright and Merry Wood."

Guests will be amazed as they enter the main hall to discover an 18-foot tree glistening with twinkling lights and colorful decorations. Over 30 trees will be featured throughout the mansion's 45 rooms this year as talented designers create a holiday vision for children and adults alike.

A special exhibit on the second floor will feature the pieces of famous Rhode Island artist, Sydney Burleigh. The main focus of this exhibit will be Burleigh's Blithewold créche scene dating back to 1900.

The holiday display continues through Jan. 4, Wednesday through Sunday from 1 to 8 p.m. On Monday and Tuesday, hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The price of admission includes nightly performances at 6:30 p.m. and children's story time every Wednesday and Thursday at 4 p.m.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors/students, $6 for youths, ages 6 to 17. For additional information and a listing of performances, visit www.blithewold.org or call 253-2707.