The smell of a fire outside, lasagna cooking inside, and a wreath you’re making to take home for Christmas.

That’s my kind of holiday gathering.

On December 12, we’re bringing that feeling to Hartzell House in Addison, Pennsylvania, with Wreath & Remembrance—an afternoon of holiday wreath-making, good food, and time together, with room to remember someone you love.

Come with a friend, bring family, or join us on your own. I’ll have the materials ready and dinner planned.

A tradition that started at Thanksgiving

Our family began making wreaths at Thanksgiving so everyone could take theirs home, ready for Christmas.

The day started with French toast casserole and salad—the same casserole we now serve for breakfast here at Hartzell House. Then we’d spend the day preparing food and making wreaths together.

I’d cut branches and buy the bases, wire, and decorations. We usually worked outside, braving the cold with the fire pit going and food and drinks close by.

Seeing everyone’s progress was so much fun. We’d look around at each other’s wreaths, each one a little different. There was cooking to do, something to eat, and always someone’s wreath to admire.

When everyone left, they carried a little of the gathering home with them.

Why lasagna—and why remembrance?

My dad loved making lasagna. He would make them and deliver them to people so they wouldn’t have to cook. I specifically remember him bringing lasagna to the people at the car wash.

He called me for recipes, especially my marinara sauce. I wrote it down, but he would call anyway.

I miss telling him.

He loved people and bringing them joy. We shared that. When we faced the holidays without him, bringing lasagna and wreaths together gave us a way to include him while continuing something we enjoyed.

That’s where Wreath & Remembrance comes from. His love for people and bringing them joy is still part of how I welcome guests at Hartzell House.

An afternoon to enjoy at your own pace

We’ll keep it simple: a welcoming house, a little Christmas, and something enjoyable to do together.

You’ll have guidance as you arrange your wreath, choose decorations, and make it your own. You can create it with someone special in mind or simply enjoy making something for your home.

To me, the wreath’s circle can represent the love we continue to carry. Yours can hold whatever meaning feels right to you.

We’ll make our wreaths indoors or outside, depending on the weather. Either way, there’s time to talk, see what others create, and enjoy good food.

You’ll leave with a wreath you made yourself, a good meal enjoyed, and—my hope—a new holiday memory.

Make a day of it in Addison

Christmas in the Village is happening that day, too. Enjoy the village festivities before joining us at Hartzell House for wreath-making and dinner. Or stay for the weekend and take your time enjoying a little Christmas in Addison.

Join us December 12

Wreath & Remembrance
Saturday, December 12, 2026
Hartzell House · Addison, Pennsylvania

• 2 PM: Guided remembrance wreath-making, with all materials included.
• 5 PM: Italian buffet with lasagna, salad, dessert, coffee, and tea.

Day visitors and overnight guests are welcome. Join us for the afternoon, or make it part of a December weekend at Hartzell House.

Call 814-395-5248 to reserve your place or add it to your reservation