Murphys invite residents to celebrate the holidays at Drumthwacket with themed open house tours
PRINCETON, NJ (Mercer County) – Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy are once again welcoming New Jersey residents to The Holidays at Drumthwacket, inviting the public to tour the Governor’s official residence as part of a longstanding seasonal tradition.
This year’s open house tours, presented by the Drumthwacket Foundation in partnership with seven garden clubs from across the state, feature fresh arrangements and greenery that highlight the historic property while honoring the upcoming 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding. Students from schools statewide are also contributing handmade ornaments to decorate trees on the property in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
“Over the past eight years, Phil and I have delighted in opening the doors of the People’s House and inviting our fellow New Jerseyans to enjoy The Holidays at Drumthwacket. This year is particularly meaningful as we reflect not only on our time in office but on the rich and storied history of our nation – including the pivotal role New Jersey has played both as the ‘Crossroads of the American Revolution’ and in the 250 years since,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “I look forward to welcoming families from across New Jersey to visit and enjoy the holidays along with us here at Drumthwacket this season.”
The self-guided tours will be held on the following dates:
- Thursday, December 4
- Friday, December 5
- Wednesday, December 10
- Saturday, December 20
- Sunday, December 21
Reservations are required, though admission and on-site parking are free.
This season’s holiday presentation spans the first floor of the residence, with each room decorated to reflect Revolutionary War history and early American themes:
Solarium, Van Nuys Barn, and Exterior Window Wreaths — Seaweeders Garden Club of Bayhead and Mantoloking
The Solarium features a nautical theme with a tree decorated with shells, rope and handmade ornaments. The barn is adorned with swags of white pine, juniper, cedar and holly, while all exterior windows display evergreen wreaths with red-and-gold ribbon.
Foyer and Van Nuys Event Center Wreath — Garden Club of Mountain Lakes
The Foyer incorporates Revolutionary War and nautical motifs, including wreaths displaying George Washington’s personal flag and the French flag. Oyster shells and jute rope accent the tree and staircase. A Kwanzaa display showcases a traditional dough bowl. The Event Center wreath features hydrangeas, cockscomb, artichokes, dried oranges and cinnamon.
Dining Room — Essex Fells Garden Club
The “Tea Party” theme includes a Silver Punch Bowl from the Battleship New Jersey, Navy candelabras, French East India Company plates and a historic silver tea set from Drumthwacket.
Parlor — Garden Club of Metuchen
Inspired by Washington’s crossing of the Delaware, the room features the bow of a boat framing the tree, along with elements reflecting Continental Army uniforms and 18th-century holiday décor.
Music Room — West Trenton Garden Club
Decorations honor the Battle of Trenton, with 13 mantle candles for the original colonies and natural greens, dried fruit and cinnamon sticks.
Library — Keyport Garden Club
The room features greenery, handmade ornaments and aromatic décor commemorating the Battle of Monmouth.
Governor’s Study and Gate Wreaths — Warren Garden Club
The study highlights holiday botanicals and a miniature display of the Battle of Princeton. The entrance gates feature wreaths adorned with feathers and red-and-gold ribbon.
More information and registration details are available through the Drumthwacket Foundation’s website.
