The caretakers of Loudoun County's own Oatlands Plantation in Leesburg have infused the historic house and grounds with the magic of Christmas as seen through the eyes of children. This beautiful estate has been the home of many children in its 200 years, and is open for today's families to see how our ancestors celebrated the holidays.

The mansion's impressive interior spaces are filled with glowing trees and holiday decorations, and down at kids' eye level are toys and games from years gone by.

Under the supervision of David Boyce, Executive Director of Oatlands, a large and dedicated staff of 37 people manages, maintains and guides visitors through the mansion and its grounds. A protected National Trust for Historic Preservation site, Oatlands is a pristine and untouched 360-acre oasis surrounded by the fastest-growing county in the U.S. Visitors can leisurely stroll around the park-like estate with its 25 buildings and magnificent 4.5-acre, 200-year-old formal garden. All this has to be maintained, and Oatlands' endowment covers only a fraction of the cost to manage this large property, so grants, admission fees, retail sales, numerous events and generous donations help make up the difference. There are the Carriage House and Potting Shed Gift Shops filled with unique decorations and gifts where you can cross some items off your holiday shopping list.

Dedicated interpretive guides like Bobbie Frazier, a former teacher, are garbed in historic costumes and are ready to guide you through the many rooms of the house. They are trained to tell the stories of the residents and their famous guests that make this piece of American history so interesting.

If you and your kids are curious about how children of the past celebrated the holidays, take them to "A Child's Christmas at Oatlands." The displays can be seen through December 30th; catch the special Evening Candlelight Tour on December 18th, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Admission rates are reasonable. Hot cider & cookies are served.