Every Twelfth Night is a gala evening celebration, not to be missed. The one this year will be JANUARY 7, 2006.

Wassail, a warm fire and wonderful conversation greet guests [who may be in Victorian dress if desired], who are then escorted to the formal dining room.

The room and table decorated for the event, is gorgeous. The feast is a sumptuous repast of soup, salad, chicken, beef and Figgie pudding served by Victorian maids, often members of the family. After dinner, the party adjourns to the Redwood room, created in the craftsman style after the 1906 earthquake. After dinner libations are passed as carols are sung .The Christmas tree is lit with candles during a chorus of Silent Night, in a family ceremony that has occurred every Christmas without exception in this house since 1884. Reservations are a must. Call (510) 524-5780 for information regarding times and cost.

Guests dressed in Victorian clothing are served a five course meal by the great great granddaughters of Alfred and Emma Cohen.

After Dinner demonstration of Victorian Dancing, in front of the mirror in the music room.

Family members singing Christmas Carols before lighting the Christmas Tree.