There are few places in Palm Beach where the holidays shimmer quite like they do at Whitehall. Each December, the grand Gilded Age estate of Henry Morrison Flagler transforms into a Christmas wonderland, its marble halls and sweeping staircases dressed in garlands, ribbons, and glowing lights. The highlight is the 16-foot-tall Christmas tree in the Grand Hall, adorned with jeweled ornaments and colored “fairy” lights reminiscent of those that first dazzled guests more than a century ago.
This year’s celebration also marks a new chapter for the museum under Amanda Skier, the Flagler Museum’s new Executive Director and CEO. A respected preservationist and longtime Palm Beach leader, Skier previously headed the Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach, where her vision and dedication earned widespread admiration.
“The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum is an invaluable touchstone to Palm Beach’s past,” Skier shared in remarks to The Palm Beach Daily News. “I look forward to continuing its mission in dynamic ways that inspire every generation.” Museum President Kelly M. Hopkins echoed that excitement, noting that Skier’s arrival heralds “an inspiring new chapter” for Whitehall.
That spirit of renewal will be on full display on Sunday, December 7, when families and friends gather for the museum’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting—one of Palm Beach’s most anticipated holiday traditions. From noon to five, the estate fills with festive music on the Odell organ and Steinway grand piano, a choir performance, refreshments, and a visit from Santa Claus. In a cherished tradition, Henry Flagler’s youngest descendants will illuminate the Grand Hall tree, signaling the start of the season.
Holiday magic continues with Evening Tours from December 18–23, when guests experience docent-led tours, carolers, and refreshments beneath the soft glow of Whitehall’s 1902 light fixtures—an enchanting glimpse of Christmas past, and of the bright future now unfolding within its storied walls.
If You Go
Christmas Tree Lighting: Sunday, December 7, 12–5 p.m.
Holiday Evening Tours: December 18–23, various times.
Flagler Museum, 1 Whitehall Way, Palm Beach.
Tickets and membership details at flaglermuseum.us
Experience the holidays as they once were—graceful, glowing, and utterly Palm Beach.