VALDOSTA — A Victorian Christmas Open House seems a most appropriate name for the Garden Center’s annual holiday event this weekend.

Named for Queen Victoria, the Victorian era of the British Empire lasted through most of the second half of the 19th century, coming to a close in 1901.

The Crescent, the centerpiece structure of the Garden Center’s North Patterson Street grounds and buildings, was built near the end of that era in 1898. For many in Valdosta, The Crescent reflects an era of Valdosta that is as definitive as the Victorian ideal.

Built by Col. William S. West, a Georgia senator among many other achievements, The Crescent was the first home in Lowndes County to have electric lights, indoor plumbing and central heating, according to the Garden Center.

This week, The Crescent, its grounds, and the other buildings will be adorned with items reflecting a Victorian era Christmas. Events, such as a Victorian English Tea, will reflect this theme while other events, such as a seminar on “Christmas Plants and Horticulture,” reflect the regular interests and purposes of the Garden Center’s garden clubs.

Once called the Garden Club, these organizations were responsible for saving The Crescent from demolition in the 1950s and have been charged with its care ever since.

The Garden Center is available for reservations for events ranging from weddings, anniversaries, receptions, and other private functions, in addition to the center sponsoring public events such as the annual holiday open house.

For the holiday open house, each of the Garden Center’s garden clubs is responsible for decorating specific rooms, buildings, or the grounds.

The Crescent is always a treat. Even more so when the Garden Center decks its halls.