Immerse yourself in the magical holiday season as we explore the unique and charming festivities of Christmas on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket. In this winter wonderland, the coastal landscapes transform into a festive wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights, joyful carolers, and the warm embrace of holiday cheer.
Christmas on Cape Cod
Step into the enchanting world of Christmas on Cape Cod, where the entire peninsula transforms into a winter wonderland of festive delights. From the historic Provincetown to the charming Falmouth, each town paints a unique stroke on the canvas of holiday magic. Join us as we embark on a journey filled with illuminated monuments, Polar Express adventures, and the warmth of community celebrations. Experience the true essence of Christmas as Cape Cod comes alive with joy and merriment.
Winter Wonderland Family Dance with DJ Billy Knuff
December 13, 5:30 – 7PM, Bourne Community Building gym
Don’t miss the enchanting Winter Wonderland Family Dance featuring DJ Billy Knuff. This event is a delightful evening for Bourne residents, with free admission for all ages at the Bourne Community Building gym. Enjoy light refreshments, face painting, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and immerse yourself in the festive spirit. Registration is required, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. www.bournerec.com
Falmouth Holidays by the Sea
December 1-3
Highlights include the biggest small-town Christmas parade, caroling, the arrival of Santa at Falmouth Harbor, the 12th Annual Jingle Jog 5K, and the Falmouth Village Stroll with the lighting of the Village Green. Don’t miss the 60th Annual Falmouth Christmas Parade on Sunday.
Sandwich Village Stroll
December 10, 12-4PM, Sandwich Village
Experience the charm of the village with entertainment, carolers, vendors, sips, nibbles, and delightful surprises at every turn. This event promises a joyful atmosphere, making it an ideal way to celebrate the holiday season in the heart of Sandwich.
Centerville Christ-mas Stroll
December 10, 3-6pm
Centerville’s Christ-mas Stroll is a festive community event filled with holiday delights. Experience the magic of the season with joyful festivities, seasonal decorations, and the heartwarming spirit of Centerville.
Glassblowers Christ-mas
Sandwich Glass Museum
The 14th Annual Glassblowers Christ-mas is a spectacular showcase of intricate glass creations. Renowned artist Michael Magyar’s giant lighted sculptures adorn Route 6A in Sandwich and various towns on Cape Cod, including Dennis. The museum becomes a magical wonderland, celebrating the artistry of glassblowing during the holiday season.
Polar Express Ride with Cape Cod Central Railroad in Hyannis
Create lasting memories with your family on a magical Polar Express ride with Cape Cod Central Railroad in Hyannis. Step aboard the storybook train and embark on a whimsical journey filled with holiday enchantment. Details about specific dates and times for this heartwarming experience are avail-able through Cape Cod Central Railroad.
Osterville Annual Christmas Open House & Stroll
December 8, 5-9pm
Osterville invites you to revel in the holiday spirit. Explore the streets adorned with festive décor-ations. Immerse your-self in the joy of the season with local shops, entertainment, and the warm embrace of community.
Barnstable Village Winter Stroll
December 6, 6-8pm
Join the Stroll through a festive atmosphere with holiday cheer. Stroll through the charming village, adorned with lights and decorations, and enjoy the warmth of the season. Experience the community spirit and embrace the winter wonderland ambiance in Barnstable Village.
South Yarmouth’s 18th Annual Holiday Cookie Stroll
December 9, 10am – 4pm
Indulge in the sweet pleasures of the season and delight in a variety of delicious cookies as you explore participating locations. The event offers a delightful experience for all ages. Admission. $27.50, Children under 12 free.
A Cape Cod Christmas in Eastham
December 2
Visit the Little Capistrano Bike Shop, where Christmas Trees, Wreaths, New and Used Bikes, an Art Gallery, and more will be available for sale. Enjoy a festive atmosphere with Christmas lights, music, and a free raffle.
Dennis Village Stroll
December 10
This charming community event promises a festive atmosphere, with holiday decorations, entertainment, and the warmth of the season. Join in the merriment and celebrate the spirit of the holidays in Dennis.
Taylor Bray Farm’s Holiday Festival
December 2 & 3, 11am – 3pm
Immerse yourself in festive ambiance and enjoy the seasonal festivities with live music, entertainment, and holiday cheer. The farm provides a charming backdrop for a joyful celebration of the holiday season.
West Dennis Village Stroll
December 16
Stroll through the village adorned with festive decorations. Experience the magic of the season with entertainment, holiday treats, and the camaraderie of the West Dennis community.
Santa Claus Arrival at Patriot Square Mall in Dennis
December 2
Join the festivities as Santa Claus makes a grand entrance, spreading joy and holiday spirit to the delight of children and families.
Yarmouth Port Village Stroll
December 3, 1-4pm
Wander through the village streets adorned with holiday decorations and revel in the festive atmosphere. The event includes live music, entertainment, and opportunities to engage in the holiday spirit.
Chatham Christmas by the Sea Christmas Stroll
December 8-10, 5:45 to 9pm, Kate Gould Park and Main Street
Experience the lighting of the town Christmas tree, carol-ing, street performers, and shopping on Main Street. Santa will be in the bandstand at Kate Gould Park to visit with children of all ages.
Christmas in Harwich
December 1-3
Celebrate with a festive weekend. The festivities kick off at 5:30pm Friday with caroling and a tree lighting ceremony featuring Santa’s arrival by fire truck. Throughout the weekend, explore Harwichport busi-nesses for dining, shopping, and holiday cheer.
Provincetown’s Holiday Magic
Provincetown’s holiday magic is widely known, offering a dazzling and exciting experience. The festive season transforms the shops into lively hubs filled with the latest styles and holiday delights. Warm up with coffee, co*cktails, or beer at welcoming spots, and join the holiday excitement in Provincetown. Don’t miss the Canteen Holiday Market with 25 local artisans, the illuminated Pilgrim Monument, the annual Lobster Pot Tree lighting, and the Holly Folly LGBTQ+ Holiday Celebration.
Wellfleet Annual Tree Lighting & Sing-Along
December 9, 4pm, Wellfleet Town Hall
Don’t miss the annual Tree Lighting & Sing-Along, where the community gathers on the Town Hall green for a holiday celebration. The event includes a short tree lighting ceremony, caroling with local musicians, and special guest carolers from Wellfleet Elementary School, creating a festive and memorable holiday tradition.
Brewster for the Holidays
December 1-3
Experience the magic of Brewster, with events spanning the weekend. Highl-ights include the Windmill Lighting at Drummer Boy Park on Friday from 3-6pm. Additionally, the Cape Symphony presents Holiday on the Cape from December 1 to 3, offering a delightful musical experience to kick off the holiday season.
Truro Chamber of Commerce Holiday Events
Explore the stunning Town of Truro with its deep peace in winter. Truro offers gorgeous walks, hikes, and various activities, making it an ideal destination for holiday exploration. Discover the beauty of Truro’s Bay- and ocean-side beaches, diverse landscapes, and the serene Pamet River. Contact Truro Chamber of Commerce for more information at 508-487-1288 or www.trurochamberofcommerce.com.
Nantucket Christmas Stroll
Board the Grey Lady high-speed ferry and sail away to Nantucket, where the 49th Annual Christmas Stroll awaits, December 1-3. Set against the backdrop of the island’s maritime charm, this event is a celebration of nautical festivities and timeless holiday traditions. Wander through cobblestone streets adorned with lights, explore a European-style Christmas Marketplace, and witness Santa’s arrival on a Coast Guard cutter. Join us on this magical journey to discover why Nantucket’s Christmas Stroll is a truly unique and enchanting experience.
Santa’s Arrival and Festivities
December 2, Noon
Experience the excitement as Santa Claus arrives on a Coast Guard cutter for a nautical “sleigh”. The festivities include strolling carolers in Victorian garb, the Magical Talking Tree, craft shows, a European-style Christ-mas Marketplace, and more, providing fun and great shopping for the entire family.
Christmas Stroll Marketplace
December 2
A festive gathering of vendors offering a variety of holiday-themed items. This marketplace adds to the Stroll’s enchanting atmosphere, providing opportunities for holiday shopping and discovering unique treasures.
Red Ticket Drawing
December 24
As part of the Nantucket Christmas Stroll, the Red Ticket Drawing adds excitement to the holiday season. Participants have the chance to win special prizes, adding an element of anticipation and surprise to the festivities.
Jolly Jam – Skate with Santa
December 3, 3-6pm
Enjoy the new Jolly Jam – Skate with Santa event at Nantucket Ice Community Rink (Backus Lane). Lace-up your skates and glide on the ice with Santa, creating magi-cal memories with music, local perform-ers, cocoa, cookies, and festive decor.
A Very Vineyard Holiday
As winter embraces Martha’s Vineyard, the island transforms into a festive tapestry of holiday delights. “A Very Vineyard Holiday” kicks off Thanksgiving weekend, inviting you to explore the six towns adorned in Christmas finery. From cozy B&B stays to the Featherstone Center for the Arts Holiday Gift Show, join us in experiencing the magic of the season. Revel in Winter Wonderland strolls, festive concerts, and the unique charm that defines Christmas on Martha’s Vineyard.
Featherstone Center for the Arts Holiday Gift Show
Daily through December 17 12-4pm
It’s the perfect destination for holiday shopping. Featuring handmade creations, including paintings, photography, pottery, crafts, jewelry, knitwear, clothing, accessories, orna-ments, cards, calen-dars, and stocking stuffers, this event supports local artists and the arts community.
Holiday Window Contest
Participate in the by voting for your favorite window display. Check the provided website for more details and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as businesses showcase festive and creative window decorations.
Winter Wonderland Strolls
December 3, 10 & 17, 12-2pm
Enjoy Winter Wonderland Strolls down snowy Main Streets. Experience the charm of the season with hayrides, music, elves, and a scavenger hunt, creating a magical atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
Extended Holiday Shopping Hours
December 7, 14, & 21
Take advantage of extended holiday shopping hours at participating. Explore the local shops and find the perfect holiday gifts while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt at The Carnegie
December 9, 12-3pm
Hunt for the 12 Elves of Christmas hiding in The Carnegie Heritage Center, follow clues, and win a prize in this delightful holiday activity.
Minnesingers Holiday Concerts at Old Whaling Church
December 8, 8PM, and December 9, 4PM
Ring in the holidays with the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School Minnesingers as they fill the beautiful and historic Old Whaling Church with the sounds of the season.
Aquinnah Artisans Holiday Fair
December 2 & 3, 10am – 4pmAquinnah Town Hall
The Fair features a diverse array of items including jewelry, pottery, knitted items, clothing, children’s items, ornaments, Wampum, Native crafts, Aquinnah Clay, eco-friendly items, and Waldorf Toys. A perfect opportunity for unique holiday shopping.
More Vineyard Haven Holiday Happenings
Experience the holiday happenings, including First Friday at MV Museum on December 1 (5-8pm), Shop to Share on December 3 (10% of proceeds benefit the Vineyard Committee on Hunger), and Holiday Bell Ringing at West Tisbury Congregational Church on December 10 at 12pm.
Christmas in Edgartown
Welcome to the timeless charm of Christmas in Edgartown, one of New England’s most beloved holiday festivals. The 42nd Annual Christmas in Edgartown invites you to witness the lighting of the Edgartown Lighthouse, take horse-drawn carriage rides, and immerse yourself in the town’s winter magic. Join us as we explore the traditions, local shopping, and holiday events that make Christmas in Edgartown an unforgettable experience, capturing the spirit of the season on Martha’s Vineyard.
Lighting of the Edgartown Light-house
December 8th, 6pm
Witness the enchanting Lighting of the Edgartown Lighthouse. This timeless tradition illuminates the lighthouse with holiday lights, symbolizing the start of the festive season in Edgartown.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides at Harbor View Hotel
December 8, 11:30am – 3:15pm December 9, 11:45am – 4pm
Enjoy the charm of Christmas with horse-drawn carriage rides at Harbor View Hotel. This festive activity offers a delightful experience for visitors, providing a unique and enchanting way to explore the holiday spirit.
Cookies and Hot Cider at Harbor View Hotel
December 8 & 9, 2-5pm
Indulge in the warmth of the season with cookies and hot cider at Harbor View Hotel. Join in the festive atmosphere and savor delightful treats that add to the holiday cheer.
Christmas Carolers at Harbor View Hotel
Friday, December 8, 5 – 5:30pm
Christmas carol-ers bring the lobby of the Harbor View Hotel. alive with the spirit of the season, creating a magical atmosphere for all to enjoy.
From the peninsula-wide joy on Cape Cod to the maritime enchantment of Nantucket, the festive delights across Martha’s Vineyard, and the timeless traditions in Edgartown, these events paint a vivid picture of holiday magic. Join us in savoring the warmth, joy, and community spirit that make celebrating Christmas in this coastal haven an experience like no other.
For more information:
- Cape Cod Chamber – www.capecodchamber.org
- Nantucket – nantucket-ma.gov/854/Visitor-Information
- Martha’s Vineyard – www.mvy.com
- Edgartown – www.visitedgartown.org
NE Traveler Staff
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