Join us for a magical two-day celebration at the E.B. and Bertha C. Ball Center’s Holiday Open House. Step inside the historic Ball family home, beautifully decorated with festive displays, live music, and items from local artisans. Many of the trees and rooms are created by staff and community volunteers—you may even recognize some of their names on the displays.
Holiday Open House - E.B. and Bertha C. Ball Center
Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6, 5-9 p.m.
No Charge—Reservations NOT Required
Highlights on the first floor include the needlepoint room, featuring pieces created by Linda Burkhardt’s needlepoint students; a late-19th-century one-horse-open sleigh gifted to the Center in 1992; and a stunning 12-foot masterpiece tree in the foyer.
Live musicians will help set the festive tone. You’ll hear customary crowd-pleasers such as the White River Recorders woodwind ensemble and holiday tunes performed by Dale Basham and Rebecca Bly. New this year are Katie Washburn, playing holiday selections, and Bianca Sulanke, delighting us with her voice.
On the second floor, you’ll find members of the Munsee Woodcarvers group demonstrating their craft, and you might even spot the Grinch trying to steal a tree in the Colonial Room.
The third floor features a nutcracker-themed tree and a Halloween nook that didn’t get much time to shine in October, so we brought it back for everyone to enjoy. You’ll also see artwork created in one of Ann Johnson’s recent watercolor classes, as well as vendors who have become part of this annual tradition, offering hand-crafted Raggedy Ann dolls, beaded ornaments, and seasonal coasters.
The E. B. and Bertha C. Ball Center on Minnetrista Boulevard has been a Muncie landmark since it was completed in 1907 by Mr. and Mrs. E. B. Ball. For fifty years, “Nebosham,” as the house was originally named, served as the family home of the Balls and their children. In 1975, the Ball Brothers Foundation gave the property to the Ball State University Foundation for use as a continuing education facility—a mission it continues today by offering noncredit personal and cultural enrichment programs. This special event helps us preserve the Ball family’s history and honor their many generous contributions to our community.