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, and more. We hope your family will join us, as we celebrate a very special time of year.

Sparkling Sights & Festive Decorations
Come see the Village decorated for the season! Glowing lanterns and twinkling string lights will guide you as you stroll through dozens of historical buildings, along the Christmas Tree Trail, and across the Wish Bridge. Every night there will be a lighting ceremony at 4:30 p.m. Plus, take a ride on the horse-drawn carryall while singing the songs of the season!

Cozy Christmas Traditions
Discover the origins and evolution of traditions like nutcrackers, Christmas stockings, Christmas gifts, toys, and more. Sample sweet treats like mulled cider and gingerbread.  See a spectacular miniature nativity featuring 600+ pieces. Explore the history of other winter holidays as well! PLUS: One of the traditions of Christmas by Candlelight is exploring Christmas traditions from a different culture each year in one of our historical buildings, this year we will highlight some French-Canadian traditions!

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. PLUS, embark on a musical journey through the 19th century with Upon a Midnight Clear – An Acoustic New England Christmas presented by ClockJack Productions!

Santa, Storytelling, and More
Meet Old Saint Nicholas and Mrs. Claus in their charming cabin. A great photo opportunity! Hear the tiny whistle of tiny trains and watch a full display of model trains. Children of all ages can also enjoy classic holiday stories.

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 1:00 p.m.! Or shop online today for delivery in time for the holidays.

Creative Crafts
See our tinner at work, 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!