Is food or drink included in the Dining Decorum event?

No, this event focuses on etiquette and artifact viewing; no consumables are provided.

Are children allowed to participate?

Guests aged 12 and older are welcome, as the content suits mature audiences.

Is the event wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the mansion and event areas are wheelchair accessible.

Are photography and videotaping allowed?

Photography is generally allowed, but flashing lights or tripods may be restricted. Please check onsite.

What happens if I need to cancel?

Tickets are non-refundable but may be transferable if you contact Parkwood in advance.

Is there onsite parking available?

Parkwood offers limited parking; carpooling or nearby paid parking is recommended if the lot is full.

Dining Decorum at Parkwood National Historic Site | History Tour

Located in the city of Oshawa, Ontario, Parkwood National Historic Site offers a rare and immersive window into early 20th-century life through its captivating event, Dining Decorum. This experience steps beyond the typical museum tour, inviting participants to engage with the formal dining etiquette of the 1920s and 1930s in the mansion’s elegant dining room. The setting itself is a highlight: Parkwood’s meticulously preserved estate features architectural flourishes and period details that transport visitors to a transformative era in Canadian history.

Dining Decorum is more than a lesson in manners; it’s a chance to handle and appreciate artifacts that rarely make it out of storage, offering a tangible connection to the social rituals and customs of nearly a century ago. Unlike traditional tours, this event encourages guest participation, weaving humor and playful interaction into the exploration of social graces. Whether you’re an aficionado of history or simply curious about the quirks of old-school etiquette, the experience promises both education and entertainment.

What makes Parkwood stand out is its dedication to preserving the cultural fabric of Oshawa and surrounding Ontario. The estate’s grounds include distinctive gardens and period architecture that complement the indoor encounters, making it a unique site where history engages on multiple fronts. The Dining Decorum event lasts approximately two hours, is wheelchair accessible, and welcomes guests aged 12 and up.

Visitors often stop in Oshawa, a convenient urban hub offering accommodations and amenities just minutes from Parkwood. The combination of historic ambiance, exclusive artifact access, and lively instruction makes Dining Decorum a distinctive addition to Ontario’s heritage tourism scene. For those interested in meaningful cultural experiences with a touch of theatrical charm, Parkwood’s Dining Decorum belongs on the itinerary.