Get into the holiday spirit and create your own holiday ornaments during the annual Make-and-Take Holiday Ornament event from 1-4 p.m. CST on Sunday, Nov. 2, at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

In addition, museum staff will be available to answer questions in the museum gallery about artifacts related to the 125th anniversary of statehood. Refreshments will be served, and there will be no admission fee for the Cultural Heritage Center on that day in celebration of the 125th anniversary of South Dakota statehood.

“We want to make sure that people understand the importance of the day, and the important transition from territory to statehood,” said Jay Smith, museum director.

On Nov. 2, visitors can make ornaments to decorate a tree for the Cultural Heritage Center as well as ornaments to take home for their own trees. All supplies are provided and all ages are welcome. Young children should be accompanied by an adult. Refreshments will be served.

“This day is a great way to welcome the start of the busy holiday season and to honor the 125th anniversary of statehood,” said Smith. “It is important to remember our past and to remember how precious – and fun – holiday traditions can be.”

Craft activities offered are both easy and fun to make. There’s no need for cutting, measuring or gluing. Everyone can have a good time making pipe cleaner candy canes and wreaths, eight-point folded paper wreaths, paper strip circle ornaments and garland made from drinking straws.

The decorated tree will be used in the Cultural Heritage Center lobby during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy the tree and all of the center’s decorations during the annual Holiday Open House of the South Dakota State Historical Society on Friday, Nov. 28. The open house is a Cultural Heritage Center and Pierre tradition. It will run from 12-4:30 p.m. and feature free admission, musical entertainment, treats, store discounts and visits with Santa Claus.