About

Come experience the history of Christmas festivities at Old Sturbridge Village. Relish old traditions and create new ones as you watch demonstrations of classic Christmas projects, stroll through the decorated Village and Christmas Tree Trail, listen to stories and live music, sample sweet treats, ride the horse-drawn carryall, and more. We hope your family will join us, as we celebrate a very special time of year.

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.

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. Get a preview of what you may see performed live at Christmas by Candlelight this year. The OSV Singers will be performing every Sunday. Other special musical guests and performance lineup coming soon.

Learn about the history of gingerbread and the various worldly recipes, all the while smelling the spices coming from the hearth-baked demonstrations.

See even more gingerbread! When you arrive here at the Village see a display of all the creative things friends and neighbors have created. Learn more about the 2023 Gingerbread Contest, how to enter and the various categories for all skill levels and ages

See our costumed historians baking sweet treats and more. Watch our costumed historians make delights such as Dundee Cakes, marzipan, and shortbread cookies. Plus, enjoy watching warm mulled cider being made. Samples of various items will be available throughout the Village.

Hear readings of The Nativity Gospel of Saint Luke, The Nativity Gospel of Saint Matthew, Un Cocqui de Boriquen, and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Plus, for children of all ages is a lively and entertaining magic show with Bob Olsen.

Warm up with cup of soup, or stew. Relax and treat yourself to a festive hot coco, cider, or signature drink (with or without alcohol). Be sure to save room for, or plan to take home Village-baked cookies and fudge.

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. For a small fee you can try your hand at candle dipping. Plus, there will be free craft kits for you to take home!

Meet Old Saint Nicholas and Mrs. Claus. A great photo opportunity! Hear the tiny whistle of tiny trains and watch a full display of model trains.

From Village-made pottery and tin, to candy, spices, and ornaments, bring home a memory from your 2023 Christmas by Candlelight visit. Plan to check-off your shopping list as there are many stocking stuffers and unique items to discover. Or shop online today for delivery in time for the holidays.