Gwinnett Daily Post

DULUTH -- If you're not interested in the Christmas shopping, counting thousands of tiny lights or wrapping a mound of presents, there is another holiday option for you: history.

On Saturday, the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center will demonstrate the holiday traditions of Christmas during the Civil War at McDaniel Farm from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"This is a great family event for those who desire to learn and experience how the Civil War impacted Atlanta area families, especially during the holiday season," said Jason West, GEHC's director of programming and development.

The program sends guests back in time to December 1862 at McDaniel Farm as E.W. and A.W. McDaniel are on furlough to spend Christmas with the family.

Attendees will visit Civil War camp sites, participate in bayonet practice and watch soldiers during drills. They can also create ornaments, sing carols and join on a hay ride.

Admission is $5 to $8. Children 2 years and younger are free.

McDaniel Farm is located at 3251 McDaniel Road in Duluth. For more information, call 770-814-4920 or visit www.gwinnettEHC.org.