The Wilton Historical Society is doubling-down on holiday spirit by offering a chance to confide in Santa, see chuffing trains run, savor the scent of cloves and gingerbread, sit for an heirloom-quality silhouette portrait, and find one-of-a-kind gifts for family and friends. Not only that, but this year, a singing Santa, plus the cheerful bells and voices of Music on the Hill will fill the Abbott Barn with the sounds of the Christmas as well.

Saturday, Dec. 9 is “Holly Jolly Saturday” at the Wilton Historical Society, with something for everyone:  from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Santa will be visiting; workshops in pomander-making and gingerbread cookie decorating will be open for drop-in fun from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the 1860 Abbott Barn; silhouette artist Debbie O’Connor will be creating silhouette portraits from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., by appointment (call 203.762.7257 to reserve a booking now); and Songs with Santa, with the cheerful voices and handbells of Music on the Hill will ring out in the afternoon from 2-4 p.m..

The Great Trains Holiday Exhibit:  An Interactive Wonderland will be open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.. Dressed for the holidays, the Society’s historic 18th and 19th century buildings have been transformed into a train-lovers delight with eight different train layouts winding through tiny towns with many different kinds of buildings, tunnels, cable cars, and a new Big LEGO set-up. The interactive display enchants visitors of all ages with lots of buttons to push and knowledgeable “train engineers” on hand to “talk trains.” In a special train play room for the youngest guests, there are buttons galore to push, plus Thomas the Tank Engine and a Brio set for hands-on fun.

The Betts Store museum shop is freshly stocked and brimming with an eclectic mix of beautifully hand-made items, many made locally; it’s a “best bet” stop for great gifts. Admission to the Great Trains Holiday Exhibit is free for all children and members, and $10 per adult non-member. The Holiday Workshops for making a pomander and decorating a gingerbread man cookie are $5.00 each per person.

The Wilton Historical Society is located at 224 Danbury Rd./Rte. 7.