Christmas Gala Begins Holiday Season At Madera County Museum

By: Sierra News Posted On: December 08, 2025 View: 0

MADERA, CA — The award-winning Madera County Museum glowed with festive charm last night as the Madera County Historical Society hosted its annual Christmas Gala, “A Night at the Museum.” For one enchanting evening, two dozen museum rooms were transformed into a winter wonderland — draped in lights, wreaths, ornaments and seasonal displays that celebrated both the holidays and the region’s rich local history.

Gala

Hundreds of people attended the gala, enjoying an elegant mix of entertainment, refreshments and community spirit. Guests sampled a selection of appetizers while a no-host bar offered seasonal cocktails and beverages. A pianist provided a warm soundtrack of holiday classics, setting an intimate tone throughout the historic galleries. The evening’s standout musical moment came with a special performance by the Madera High Choir, whose harmonies drew enthusiastic applause and underscored the community-focused nature of the event.

In addition to live music, the gala featured a lively silent auction and raffle. Attendees bid on holiday-themed gift baskets spotlighting local agricultural products — including grapes, nuts, fruits, canned goods, cookies and candies — reflecting Madera County’s strong farming heritage. A centerpiece item of the auction was a handcrafted holiday quilt titled “A Joyful Noel,” offering guests a chance to take home a distinctive keepsake while supporting the museum’s work.

Tickets for the gala were priced at $50 per person, with all proceeds directed to the Madera County Historical Society. Funds raised will help the society continue its mission to preserve and promote the county’s historical artifacts, exhibits and educational programs for future generations.

Night Viewings

For those who missed the gala, the museum is extending its holiday atmosphere with several evening public viewings. From December 9–13 and December 16–20, the museum will be open nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Visitors can enjoy cookies and hot cider as they stroll through the festively decorated rooms. Admission for these special viewings is available at the door: $2 per person or $5 per family, making the events accessible and family-friendly.

The gala and subsequent viewings highlight the collaborative efforts of museum staff, volunteers and community members who come together each year to celebrate local culture and history. For more information about the Madera County Museum, upcoming events or how to support the Historical Society, contact the museum at (559) 673-0291.