We send a special thank you to the McArthur family and staff for the phenomenal amount of work and creativity they put into this event; and the following talented artists and supporters for contributing so much to the enchantment of ‘A Merry & Bright Christmas’:

 

Pianist, Eddie Pizzo has been entertaining fans with his vast repertoire of songs for more than 60 years. A Niagara legend, beloved by fans across the region, his talent and charm have ensured his place as a highlight of the McArthurs' annual Holiday House Tour event. 

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The Soenen Sisters, a talented ensemble of 2 harps, cello, and flute have been bringing stellar performances to concert stages for years. They are a top choice in Ontario at celebrity events and weddings, and even opened last year at an exciting concert of 'The Tenors'.

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A chorus of Yellow Door Theatre singers will be greeting guests before they enter the McArthur home. Based in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Yellow Door Theatre Project offers musical theatre skill training and performance opportunities for youth with the full intention of changing lives. 

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Live guitar by David Israelson will serenade guests as they enjoy hot apple cider and crackling fires. David Israelson studied clarinet and saxophone and taught himself guitar, bass, piano and, more recently, drums. He has played in jazz orchestras and small ensembles and for several years was songwriter, rhythm guitarist, sax and bass in a Toronto rock and roll band, The Nerve. He continues to write and arrange music across all genres. 

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The sounds of Will Wilson on guitar will also be echoing through the grounds. Will has played in countless dixieland and swing groups, and was guest banjo soloist for the Niagara Symphony’s 1998 centennial salute to George Gershwin.

 

The Mistle Tones is a Niagara collective of professional singers, with a casual festive flare, spreading joy & love through song, and encouraging others to sing along. They'll be there with bells on - and perhaps a kazoo or two! 

Volunteers in period costume from The Friends of Fort George will guide guests through the gardens and regale them with stories of what has transpired on this incredible, historic property. The Friends of Fort George is a non-profit organization that works in partnership with Parks Canada to preserve and promote the heritage of Niagara National Historic Sites. 
 
The Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum provides authentic Victorian costumes for our volunteers to wear at the historic McArthur Estate evening event. The Niagara Historical Society continues to promote and preserve our local heritage by owning and operating the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum. See our Annual Sites page for more information about the museum. ​

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Grinchy Tina Lus, magnificently icy Helene Laniak, and jolly Ward Simpson are always festive crowd pleasers. Ho, ho, ho.

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