Times: 2:00 – 8:00 pm
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Sparkling Sights & Festive Decorations
Come see the Village decorated for the season! Glowing lanterns and twinkling string lights will guide you as you stroll along the Christmas Tree Trail and across the Wish Bridge. Every night there will be a lighting ceremony at 4:30 p.m. Plus, each historical home is adorned for the season inside and out.
Cozy Christmas Traditions
Discover the origins and evolution of traditions like nutcrackers, Christmas stockings, Christmas tree ornaments, Christmas gifts, teddy bears, dolls, and more. Sample sweet treats like mulled cider and gingerbread in select buildings. In the Richardson House, learn about an assortment of Italian Christmas traditions. See a spectacular miniature nativity featuring 600+ pieces. Explore the history of other winter holidays as well!
Merry Music
Hear the sounds of familiar seasonal songs and sing along! Village favorites such as “Up on the Housetop” and others were written in New England in the 1800s. NEW this year, embark on a musical journey through the 19th century with Upon a Midnight Clear – An Acoustic New England Christmas presented by ClockJack Productions!
Storytelling
Hear readings of The Nativity Gospel of Saint Luke, The Nativity Gospel of Saint Matthew, Un Cocqui de Boriquen, and The Legend of Old Befana: An Italian Christmas Story. Plus, for children of all ages is a lively and entertaining magic show with Bob Olsen.
Delicious Delights
Warm up with cup of soup, or stew. Relax and treat yourself to a festive hot cocoa, cider, or signature drink. Be sure to save room for, or plan to take home Village-baked cookies and fudge. Menu coming soon!
Meet Santa & See Model Trains
Meet Old Saint Nicholas and Mrs. Claus in their all-new charming cabin. A great photo opportunity! Hear the tiny whistle of tiny trains and watch a full display of model trains.
Creative Crafts
See our tinners making pierced tin lanterns, visit with the printer, watch the potter spin clay, see stockings being knit, and the cabinet makers crafting wooden toys. Plus, there will be free craft kits for you to take home!
Shop for Unique Gifts
From Village-made pottery and tin, to candy, spices, and ornaments, bring home a memory from your visit. Plan to check-off your shopping list as there are many stocking stuffers and unique items to discover. Ox & Yoke Mercantile, located right outside the Visitor Center, opens at 10:00 a.m. every date of Christmas by Candlelight! Or shop online today for delivery in time for the holidays.
Gingerbread House Contest
A Christmas by Candlelight tradition! Be dazzled by the creative entries to our annual Gingerbread House Contest, and vote for your favorite!
We’re currently accepting entries for the 2024 contest; Learn more here.
Exclusive Members-Only Day
Members of Old Sturbridge Village can enjoy an intimate evening of Christmas by Candlelight on Sunday, December 1st. Each Member adult ticket purchase allows up to three youth admitted for free. Not a member? Membership is the gift that keeps giving all year long. Explore the benefits of membership.
