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Toy Around With The Plant Museum

Tribune file photo by JULIE BUSCH

The hallway of The Henry B. Plant Museum is decorated with holiday flair for the 2007 Victorian Stroll.

By ESTHER HAMMER

ehammer@tampatrib.com

Published: November 27, 2008

TAMPA - Looking for a way to get in the holiday spirit? The Henry B. Plant Museum can help.

The museum's 27th annual Victorian Christmas Stroll opens Monday on the University of Tampa campus.

Each year, the museum seeks to interpret the holiday season as it may have looked during the heyday of the old Tampa Bay Hotel, the centerpiece of the UT campus. Displays of period and seasonal pieces change yearly. This year's theme is toys.

"With this being a difficult year for the economy, there's just something about toys and children that makes you feel good," said Sally Shifke, museum relations coordinator. "We want people to come to the Christmas Stroll and feel a sense of joy."

Spreading the joy are toys of various types and sizes, many donated by Tampa collector Julie Guess. They turn up in just about every room of the museum. There is a dawn-of-the-20th-century toy circus, a three-story Victorian-style dollhouse, a teddy bear taking tea, Santa's workshop, and a room decorated in a Peter Pan and Tinkerbell theme.

But it's not just for children.

"Toys provoke conversation," Shifke said.

Adults also might appreciate the cigar tree, authentic antique ornaments and period gowns.

"If you're not in the holiday spirit yet, we're going to get you into it before you leave here," Shifke said.

IF YOU GO

What: Victorian Christmas Stroll

When: Monday through Dec. 23; from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day.

Where: Henry B. Plant Museum, at the University of Tampa, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. For directions, call (813) 254-1891.

Admission: $10 for adults, $4 for 12 and younger. All proceeds benefit museum restoration projects and educational programs. Call (813) 254-1891 group rates and discount days.

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