The public is invited to attend the 20th annual Christmas Open House at the Ellis County Historical Society from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday.

Hop aboard a horse-drawn hayride through historic downtown Hays, then listen to live seasonal song stylings.

Crossroads and Bill Wyse return this year along with newcomer Cindy Boehler from Alma, Neb. Enjoy festive food, stroll the main gallery, shop the Museum Store, and chat with Santa Claus in the saloon (where there will be surprises for children). Held in conjunction with the Hays Arts Council Winter Art Walk, Christmas Open House will offer holiday objects from the ECHS collection in the special exhibit ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, which is based on the classic 1822 poem. There is a Hays connection to author Clement Moore that might be surprising.

At 8 p.m., drawings will be held for the annual fundraiser. The two items for the giveaway are
the framed limited edition print Montana Bound (1994) by western and wildlife artist Derk Hansen and the 1873 Winchester .357 rifle reproduction by Uberti. The winning ticket for the gun will be pulled on behalf of the Winchester family by Dr. Juti Winchester, history professor at Fort Hays State University. Suggested donation for the firearm or the print is $5 for one ticket for $20 for five.

Admission is free. For more information, visit the ECHS Museum at 100 W. Seventh in downtown Hays or contact (785) 628-2624.