Kiplin Hall and Gardens is inviting visitors to celebrate autumn and reflect on what they are thankful for with a special Thanksgiving display.
The historic house, situated between Richmond and Northallerton, will explore the theme of the “bounty of the earth” throughout October and November.
Kiplin Hall has a historic connection with the US state of Maryland through the Calvert family and marks the American Thanksgiving holiday each year.
This year’s displays will explore traditional foods and cultivation, including how many foods now associated with Thanksgiving developed from a combination of Native American crops and European culinary traditions.
One focus will be the “Three Sisters” — beans, squash and corn — which were grown together by Native Americans using a companion planting method.
Visitors will also be able to see the three crops growing in Kiplin Hall’s Walled Garden, while seasonal recipes will be available in the café.
Curator Alice Rose said: “There’s lots to learn from our Thanksgiving displays this year.
“One of my favourite sections explores the Three Sisters; beans, squash and corn.
“Grown and cultivated by the Native Americans, beans, squash and corn became an important part of the diet of colonists.
“Native Americans shared their knowledge of the land and this style of companion planting with the colonists.
“We see these foods in Thanksgiving dishes today, like pumpkin pie, cornbread and succotash.”
As well as exploring the history and traditions surrounding Thanksgiving, visitors will be encouraged to consider what they are grateful for.
Alice added: “While learning about this and other elements of Thanksgiving we invite visitors to spend time thinking about what they are grateful for.
“As a charity, we enjoy the support of over 240 volunteers, so gratitude is an important part of our ethos.”
From Friday, October 2, visitors can contribute to the displays by making a 3D paper pumpkin and sharing their own reasons to be grateful.
Outside, a special Tree Trail will encourage visitors to explore the gardens and grounds and enjoy the changing autumn colours.
Kiplin Hall and Gardens is open six days a week and normally closes on Thursdays.
However, it will open specially on Thursday, November 26 — Thanksgiving Day — which will also be the final day of its 2026 season.
The attraction will then close for winter before reopening on Friday, February 5, 2027.
Be the first to comment