Featured image: A snowy scene in historic Wethersfield, Connecticut, by Cathy King

In September and October 2018, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries was on location in the quaint historic town of Wethersfield, Connecticut, to film the original Christmas movie, Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane. The movie premiers tonight, November 24, on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries channel. What better place to watch the premiere than in the town where it was filmed?

That’s why the Wethersfield Historical Society is hosting a “Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane Premiere Watch Party” tonight at the Keeney Center at 200 Main Street.

The movie is based on the book, The House on Honeysuckle Lane, by Mary Elizabeth McDonough. In the movie version, Emma, played by Alicia Witt, returns home for the holidays to celebrate with her siblings in the house where they grew up on Honeysuckle Lane. It’s their first Christmas together since their parents’ death. The siblings reluctantly agree to sell the house and leave Emma in charge of its belongings. While their mother’s collection is being appraised, they find something that leads them on a journey that reveals the power of love and family during the holidays.

Colin Ferguson co-stars with Alicia Witt.

Admission to the preview is free and limited to 180 people, first-come, first-served. Donations of toys and non-perishable food are appreciated for Wethersfield’s toy and food drives, as well as cash donations for the historical society.

The Old Wethersfield Country Store will sell Hallmark Channel memorabilia and treats, such as popcorn and candy, in Keeney Hall. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks, but because the seating is auditorium style, avoid elaborate picnic setups.

The doors open at 8 p.m. and the movie starts at 9 p.m. Enter through the Kenney Center’s back door only, the entrance off the parking lot.

For more information about the Wethersfield Historical Society, visit wethersfieldhistory.org/. For the complete Hallmark Movies & Mysteries movie schedule, go to hallmarkmoviesandmysteries.com/schedule.