Van Cortlandt Manor is a premier historic site and cultural center located in Croton-on-Hudson, New York, dedicated to preserving and interpreting early American history and heritage. Operated by Historic Hudson Valley, the manor offers immersive, engaging experiences that bring the 18th and early 19th centuries to life. Visitors can explore the restored manor house, brick ferry house, and working gardens, all presented with period-accurate furnishings and costumed interpreters that demonstrate crafts, cooking, and daily colonial life.

The center hosts a robust calendar of cultural and seasonal events, including dramatic reenactments and interactive storytelling, which foster community engagement and education. Notably, Van Cortlandt Manor is home to the annual Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, a highly anticipated art installation and light show that draws thousands of visitors each fall. Through its blend of entertainment, interpretation, and education, Van Cortlandt Manor fosters a deep appreciation for the region’s cultural and historical legacy.

Key Services:

– Guided tours of restored 18th-century buildings and gardens
– Live historical demonstrations with costumed interpreters
– Educational programming for schools and families
– Seasonal cultural events such as The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
– Interactive colonial-era workshops and storytelling
– Community-based arts and culture initiatives
– Affiliated with Historic Hudson Valley preservation network