Fool's Paradise: Exploring the Ribbon Fool Tradition


Date: Dec 8
2:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Where: Theatre
Mummers Festival

If you've spent the holiday season in Newfoundland you likely know all about the wildly fun practice of mummering. But have you heard of Ribbon Fools?

“Ribbon Fools” are peculiar characters, with spectacular rigs covered in crêpe paper ribbons and distinct ship hats fastened on their heads.

Today, only a few people still have memories of the "fools." Join presenter Terra Barrett and facilitator Dale Jarvis as we explore this little known tradition.

This free event is presented in partnership with the 2022 Mummers Festival.

Seating is limited, please reserve your free ticket online or by calling 757-8090. 

Today's Events & Programs

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Workshop

Embroidered Holiday Card Workshop

Join us for a special holiday workshop! Learn to make your own embroidered “Happy Holidays” cards featuring a festive wreath and greeting. Your friends and family will love this thoughtful, handmade gift.

Fun for all skill levels.

What to expect:

  • All materials and instruction are provided
  • Tour the holiday trees and décor around the building (photo opportunity)
  • Enjoy a coffee or hot chocolate while you create
  • Leave with a set of embroidered holiday cards

Cost: $40 plus HST. 10% discount for Rooms members. Register online or by calling (709) 757-8090.

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Program

Growing the Voices – Festive Instant Choir

Growing the Voices is back at The Rooms! Everyone is welcome to join the Festive Instant Choir and sing to your heart’s content.

Cost: Free. No ticket required.
Bring your family, friends, and visitors!

2:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Tour

Peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador

Stroll across land and sea, and through time, to meet the peoples who have made Newfoundland and Labrador home for the past 9,000 years.

Each tour is approximately 30 – 40 minutes and is included in the cost of admission. Free for Rooms members.

3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
House of Wooden Santas

A Christmas Tradition – Kevin Major: The House of Wooden Santas

A Christmas tradition is back by popular demand!

Join author Kevin Major for a fireside conversation and a reading of The House of Wooden Santas followed by a Q&A, as well as a visit to see all 24 Santas.

The House of Wooden Santas is a deeply felt story about belief in oneself and others, and the spirit of the season. Kevin shares how the carvings of Imelda George led him to write this Christmas classic, photographed by Ned Pratt.

Cost: Adult $12 (+HST), Child/Youth $6 (+HST). Free for Rooms Members. Ticket includes admission to The Rooms galleries. Get your tickets online or by calling (709) 757-8090.

The House of Wooden Santas book is available for purchase in The Rooms Giftshop.