Special Events
Plan a Visit
- Schedule of Special Events
The James J. Hill House presents a wide variety of special events throughout the year, from concerts to theatrical events to theme tours.
Evening Tours
- Gaslight Tours
Evening tours of the Hill House discover how the Hills entertained and how modern technology helped to keep them comfortable. - Nooks & Crannies Tours
Explore unrestored parts of the house not normally on tour, including the attic, the coal bin, and the gatehouse.
Theatrical Events
- Victorian Poetry Slam!
Celebrate Valentine’s Day the old fashioned way! Listen to classic poems of the 19th century in the parlor of the James J. Hill House read by actors wearing elegant evening wear of the 1890s. - Victorian Ghost Stories
Costumed actors present dramatic readings of 19th century ghost stories in the dimly light parlor of the James J. Hill House. Not recommended for children under age 10. - Victorian Christmas Stories
Enjoy a readers theatre performance of 19th century holiday stories. - Hill House Holidays
The bustle and excitement of a Gilded Age Christmas is brought to life as the servants of the James J. Hill House prepare for the holidays.
Theme Weekends
- Winter on the Hill
Winter-themed weekend tours include a Winter Carnival exhibit and other winter gear of the Hills, including snowshoes and a wolverine blanket. - Irish Heritage
Weekend activities, such as lace demonstrations and a sing-along of Irish songs, reflect on the Irish heritage of the Hills and many of their servants. - Death of the Empire Builder
Visitors to the house this weekend will learn about Hill’s rise to national prominence, the observances made in honor of his death, and about mourning customs of the early 20th century.
Architecture Events
- The Architecture of Summit Avenue
Author and architectural historian Larry Millett presents a one-hour illustrated lecture on the architecture of St. Paul’s historic Summit Avenue. - Summit Avenue Walking Tours
A 1.5 mile outdoor walking tour that focuses on the architecture, original owners, social history, and current preservation issues facing this nationally recognized historic district.
Concerts and Music Events
- Hill House Chamber Players
The Hill House Chamber Players have been presenting concert seasons in the art gallery for over twenty years. Co-sponsored by the Schubert Club. - Victorian Christmas Carols
Join Notesmyth for an evening of carols in the art gallery.
