Holiday Events to Celebrate with Family
Bay State Parent will help you ring in the holidays with a great selection of
Holiday Events planned for November and December, including the arrival of Santa Claus at the Natick Mall on Nov. 17. (See page 32 for more information.)
The events below are arranged by date and then alphabetically by location. Please note that all listings are accurate at press time. We recommend that you call to confirm events before attending.
Thursday, Nov. 2
Pre-Holiday Shopping Fundraiser. The Toy Shop of Westford, 160 Littleton Rd., Westford. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mention Westford Friends & Newcomers and a percentage of your purchases will benefit local charities and organizations. 978-692-0092 or 978- 692-4544. westford.com/newcomers.
Nov. 3 to 5
20th Annual Christmas Festival. Seaport World Trade Center, Northern Ave., Boston. Fri. Noon-7, Sat. 10-7, Sun. 10-5. Over 400 American master craftsmen, gourmet foods, gingerbread house competition, etc. A $12, C free. Coupon available online. 617-385-5000. christmascraftfestival.com.
Paula Meola Dance & Performing Arts, Inc. Wednesday, Nov. 8
Light Up The Night. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. 7-9 p.m. Ages 5-16. Make your own light to guide you as you celebrate an ancient lantern festival. Sing songs and visit with the farm animals by lantern light. 3 children per adult max. Please no strollers or backpack babies. A & C $16pp NM. 781-259-2200. E-mail drumlinfarm@massaudubon.org.
Friday, Nov. 10
Santa Arrives. Auburn Mall, Auburn. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. 508-832-6000.
Sunday, Nov. 12
Breakfast with Santa. Square One Mall, Saugus. 8 & 9:30 a.m. at the Dockside Restaurant. Kidgits members stop by Guest Services prior to the event to sign up for a time and tickets. Write letters to Santa at breakfast. 781-233-8787.
Tuesdays, Nov. 14
& Nov. 28
Pet Photo Night. Northshore Mall, Peabody. 6 to 8 p.m.Bring in your pet for a photo opportunity with Santa. 978-531-3441.
Friday, Nov. 17
Santa's Pajama Party, Natick Mall, Natick. 6:30 p.m. Jump into your favorite pajamas and parade with Santa at starting at 6:30 p.m., from Center Court to his new home in front of Macy's. Celebrate as Santa and a winning family lights the a tree. Then, settle in for a story and free milk and cookies. The event is sponsored in part by Bay State Parent magazine. See exclusive coupons and offers on page 32.
Nov. 17 to 19
Holiday Craft Fair. Wenham Museum, Wenham. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 50 New England artisans showcasing their hand-made jewelry, folk art, pottery, dolls, quilts, clothing, art , photography, knitwear, holiday accents and florals. Attic treasures booth, sweets and treats shop, kid's craft table, and delicious edibles. A$6.50, C (2-16) $4.50. 978-468-2377. wenhammuseumorg.
19th Annual Old Deerfield Christmas Sampler. Eastern States Exposition, Better Living Center, 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield. Fri., 2-8pm, Sat. 9-5pm, Sun., 10-5pm. Over 300 juried exhibitors from 18 states. Colorful, festive booths. A$8, C (6-12) $1. Parking On-site, $5. 413-774-7476. deerfield-craft.org.
Saturday, Nov. 18
Marketplace Bazaar. Holy Cross Church, 26 Lake Ave., East Templeton. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. An old fashioned Christmas Fair featuring Santa in his rocking chair, a special room for kids to shop, handmade gifts, sweaters, afghans, pies and baked goods, theme basket raffle, and Chinese auctions, crafts. Refreshments in the Tea Room. 978-632-2121.
Family Fun. Natick Mall, Natick. 1 to 3 p.m. Free Fun for Families! Enjoy Balloon Twisters, Face Painters, Crafts, Interactive shows
America's Hometown USA Thanksgiving Celebration. Court St., (Rt 3A) and Water St., Plymouth. Parade: 11 a.m.; Chowder Festival: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Plymouth Waterfront, and the Senior Drum and Bugle Corps Concert: 7 p.m.at Memorial Hall. World championship marching and musical performers; drum and bugle corps, military units, fife and drum corps, color guards and themed floats. 508-746-1818.
Nov. 18 & 19
Holiday Market. Town Hall Barre, Rte. 122 North, Barre. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A variety of crafters and local businesses. 978-355-3069.
3rd Annual Christmas Shop Open House. Tangerini's Spring Street Farm, 139 Spring St., Millis. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A 1700's barn is transformed into a Christmas wonderland full of Christmas treasures, gifts, decorated wreaths and gourmet goodies. Free wrapping. 508-376-5024, 508-376-5024. tangerinisfarm.com.
Thanksgiving Harvest Festival. Red Apple Farm, 455 Highland Ave., Phillipston. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Share the taste of New England's bounty from the North Quabbin Region. Free. 978-249-6763; 800-628-4851.redapplefarm.com.
Fifth Annual Cider Mill Holiday Open House. 15 Waushacum Ave., Sterling. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Food, live music, door prizes, great holiday shopping at the Cider Mill and Oh My Gosh Antiques, and lots of holiday cheer. 978-422-8675.
Sunday, Nov. 19
Festival of Giving, Natick Mall, Natick. 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 and benefit charity Shop in style! Exclusive discount offers, food stations, entertainment, silent auction and more! Enjoy Mix 98.5 and a Alexis' Rockin' Christmas Show
Friday, Nov. 24
Big Balloon Parade. Main St., Springfield. Time TBA. Welcome Santa on the day after Thanksgiving with a parade of giant balloons up to 75 feet high, including a "Cat in the Hat" balloon. 413-733-3800. spiritofspringfield.org.
Holiday Season Kick-Off. Higgins Armory, Worcester. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Live arms and armor
demos, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Tours, 12 and 3 p.m. Heraldic shield workshop and make your own shield or pennant to take home: $5 per project. Holiday shopping in the Museum shop. Cider and cookies while you shop. 508-853-6015. higgins.org.
Saturday, Nov. 25
Santa Parade. Barre. 4 p.m.Welcome Santa, and bring your wish lists. Children and parents wear Christmas costumes. Pets, on leashes, wearing Christmas finery also welcome. Prizes awarded for the best costumes and best dressed pets. Santa will turn on the Christmas lights after the parade. A"Jingle Bell Hop" follows at the Town Hall. 978-355-3050.
Santa Arrives. Yankee Candle Flagship Store, South Deerfield. Visit Santa in a holiday wonderland. Make your own candles, snacks, beautiful gifts in a festive setting. 877-636-7707. yankeecandle.com.
Nov. 25 & 26
Cape Ann Symphony Holiday Pops Concert. Fuller School Auditorium, Gloucester. 8 p.m. & Sun., 2 p.m. 978-281-0543. capeannsymphony.com.
Thursday, Nov. 30
Boston Common Holiday Tree Lighting. Boston Common, 6 p.m. Mayor Menino switches on the lights to illuminate the whole Boston Common. Holiday sing-a-long. Every year the tree is given to Boston from Nova Scotia in thanks for the assistance Boston provided after the December 6, 1917 explosion of a munitions ship in Halifax Harbor. 617- 635-4505. 617-635-4447. cityofboston.gov/arts. novascotia.com.
Rhode Island Festival of Trees Preview Party. Rhode Island Zoological Society hosts this exclusive preview party at the Rhode Island Convention Center, Providence, RI. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Sneakpeek at this stunning and festive holiday display, featuring more than 100 professionally decorated and themed trees, all in a "winter wonderland" setting. Cocktails and fine food, festive holiday entertainment, a silent auction featuring some of the festival's decorated trees and other items. Tickets:401-941-3910.
Friday, Dec. 1
A Christmas Carol. Lowell Memorial Auditorium. Dec. 1, Noon & 7pm. $29.50-$49.50. 978-454-2299 or ticketmaster.com. lowellauditorium.com.
Holiday Concert. First Congregational Church, Rutland. 7 p.m. All welcome. $5 donation for ice cream sundeas. Lynn 508-886-8823
Dec. 1 & 2
Essex Holiday Festival. Memory Tree Lighting, Santa's arrival at town landing, toy land parade, town hall celebration, breakfast with Santa, etc. capeannvacations.com.
A Broadway Christmas. Theatre at the Mount, 444 Green St., Gardner. 8 p.m. A full sleigh of Broadway songs includes "We Need a Little Christmas" from the musical Mame, "Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas" from Meet Me in St. Louis, "Toyland" from Babes in Toyland. Show stopping dance numbers and a visit from Santa. Also Dec. 8 -10. Tickets $18. 978-632-2403.
Dec. 1 to 3
Holiday Open House. Westward Orchards, Harvard. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Complimentary coffee, hot mulled cider and cocoa, and gourmet food tasting while you shop. 978-456-8363. westwardorchards.com.
Rhode Island Festival of Trees. At
the Rhode Island Convention Center, to Benefit Roger Williams Park Zoo,
Providence, RI. Stunning display of 100 one-of-a-kind, professionally decorated holiday trees. A holiday gift pavilion, daily musical performances, and an interactive children's activity area with storytelling, crafts and more. All trees on display are available for purchase. A $8, C/Sr.$6. 401-458-6000. rifestivaloftrees.com.
Saturday, Dec. 2
Holiday Lighting at Nashoba Valley. Bolton. 4 to 7 p.m. Traditional lighting at the orchard. Hay rides, caroling witht he Assabet Valley Chambersingers, and special Santa visit at 4:30 p.m. Wine tasting and holiday shopping for parents. Food available. Rain, snow or shine. 978- 779-5521. nashobawinery.com.
Gingerbread House Workshops. Verrill Farm, 11 Wheeler Rd., Concord. Three workshops, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Start with an assembled, undecorated gingerbread house mounted on a 12" cardboard base; 3 tubes of colored frosting (made in the farm stand kitchen) and candy for trim. Add imagination. $35 for workshop and supplies. Under 10 years should be accompanied by an adult (at no extra charge). Reservations: 978-369-4494. verrillfarm.com. Also Dec. 10.
Photos with Santa. Weston Nurseries, Hopkinton. 508-435-3414. westonnurseries.com. Also Dec. 9.
Gingerbread Fest. Providence
Children's Museum, Providence, RI. 1 to 3 p.m. Ages 3 - 11. Discover an array of gingerbread castles, cottages and cabins, bedecked with sugar icicles and candy wreaths. Kids help decorate a large gingerbread house with frosting and candy and decorate their own gingerbread cookies to take home. $6.50pp. 401-273-5437. childrenmuseum.org.
Christmas in Rockport Kick-Off. Tree lighting and pageant, fairs and festivals, concerts, strolling minstrels. 12/2: Santa arrives by lobster boat, tree lighting ceremony, and Cape Ann Jazz band, 3:45 p.m; 12/3: Open House at the Inns 1 to 5 p.m.; 12/16: 61st Annual Christmas pageant (torchlit reenactment of the Nativity, 5 p.m. Dock Sq. & Main St.; 12/31: New Year's Eve in Downtown Rockport, 6pm-Midnight. capeannvacations.com.
Holiday Festival. Peabody Essex Museum, Salem. Sugar and Spice Family Tour explores objects and art and the importance of sugar and spice, Noon; Gingerbread activity, Noon to 3 p.m.; Storytelling, 1 to 2 p.m.; Beeswax candles and nature ornaments, 2 to 4 p.m.; The Snowman film, 2:30 p.m.; A Christmas Story, 3:15PM. Reservations needed for some activities. Call ahead. A$13, Free 16 and under. 866-745-1876.pem.org.
A Taste of Historic Sutton Chain of Lights. Sutton Town Common. 10 a.m. to 4p.m. Twelve historic trolleys and a doubledecker bus transports you to Sutton's most interesting sites. Craft and church fairs, chocolate making, hayrides,
gingerbread house displays, farm tours, visits with Santa, Revolutionary war encampment, etc. End the day with a beef stew dinner, caroling, and a Christmas stroll. 508-234-6953.
Annual Christmas Fair. First Church of Templeton, on the Common (Rte. 2A), Templeton. 9 a.m. to 2p.m. Crafts and gifts, raffles, silent auction, Chinese auction, bake sale, homemade preserves, attic treasures, kids events including free cookie decorating. 978-939-2784.
Holiday Open House. Spellman Museum of Stamps & Postal History, 235 Wellesley St., at Regis College, Weston. Noon to 4 p.m. Special stamp hunts with prizes, letters to Santa, create a holiday ornament, keepsake, or Hanukkah card, $2 each activity. Refreshments. Free admission for all. 781-768-8367. spellman.org.
Dec. 2 & 3
Annual Kids Holiday Shop. Children's Museum in Easton. Sat., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sun, 12 to 5 p.m. Gift items for children's holiday gift giving, with special selections for parents, siblings, friends, teachers, and other family members. Priced under $2. Volunteers will help children select and gift wrap their presents. Parents enjoy a hot beverage or holiday treat while they wait for their children to complete their shopping. Special reduced admission and interactive exhibits for ages 2-8. 508-230-3789. childrensmuseumineaston.org.
Annual Festival of Trees and More. Rutland Historical Society. Dec. 2, 4 to 8 p.m.; Dec. 3, 1 to 4 p.m. Show off your creativity by entering a decorated tree, wreath, fireplace mantel decoration, centerpiece or place setting. Lynn 508-886-8823, Betty 508-886-4488, or Madeline 508-886-4897.
Holiday Pops Concert. Symphony Hall, Springfield. Dec. 2, 8 p.m. & Dec. 3, 3 p.m. Hall will be transformed into a winter wonderland. Audience singalong of holiday favorites and Christmas Classics. Varied prices for A & C. 413- 733-2291.
Winter Holiday Festival. Storrowtown Village Museum, West Springfield. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tours of 19th century buildings decorated by area garden clubs, florists and designers. Free. 413- 737-2443. thebige.com.
Sunday, Dec. 3
Annual Global Ornaments Workshop. Fitchburg Art Museum, Fitchburg. 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. International crafts, music and seasonal treats. Make and take home your hand-made ornaments for gift-giving and home décor. $25 per family or $5pp. Reserve by 11/30. 978-345-4207. fitchburgartmuseum.org.
Annual Holiday Concert. Apple Tree Arts, Evangelical Congregational Church,
Grafton Common. 2:30 p.m. Light classical and popular holiday favorites with the Apple Tree Arts Chorus and the Rhode Island Brass Quartet. Special guest performers, including stunning vocalist Monica Hatch, eleven- year- old vocalist Matthew Vera, and Grafton Selectman, John Carlson, as he presents "The Night Before Christmas." Free. 508-839-4286.
Silver Bells Christmas Parade. Downtown Maynard. 2 p.m. Theme is 'Silver Bells'. Participants and sponsors encouraged: 978-897-2781.
Teddy Bear Tea. Publick House Historic Inn, On the Common, Rte. 131,
Sturbridge. Noon to 4 p.m. Benefit for Toys for Tots. Finger sandwich buffet luncheon. Bring favorite teddy bears. A$16.95, C (12 and under) $9.95 or free when bringing a new, unwrapped toy. Reservations 508-347-3313 x 400. 800-PUBLICK. publickhouse.com.
Holiday Festival. Peabody Essex Museum, Salem. Winter Around the World Family Tour, Noon; Make holiday wrapping paper and cards, 1 to 4 p.m.; Shadow puppet show, 1:30 p.m.; Shadow puppet workshop, 3 to 4 p.m.; Art & Nature Story Time, Mitten Madness, 3 to 4 p.m.; Boston Children's Chorus, 4:15 p.m. Reservations needed for some activities. Call ahead. A$13, Free 16 and under. 866-745-1876. pem.org.
Wednesday, Dec. 6
Yuletide By Lanternlight. Storrowtown Village Museum, West Springfield. 6 to 8 p.m.. Experience the magic of an old-fashioned winter evening on a selfguided tour of Storrowton's cozy homes & buildings decorated for the season & illuminated by lanterns & candlelight. A$5, C Under 6 free. 413-737-2443. thebige.com.
Friday, Dec. 8
Annual Gold Ribbon Holiday Reception. Embassy Suites Hotel, Marlborough. 7-midnight. Make it a holiday tradition to enjoy extravagant buffet stations, dancing, door prizes, silent auction, etc. in semi-formal attire. 100% of proceeds benefit local families undergoing bone marrow transplants. $50pp/$65 day of event. Tickets: John or Zee 508-380-1797. AndrewsHelpfulHands.org.
Dec. 8-10
Holiday Revelry. Performing Arts Center of MetroWest, 140 Pearl St.,
Framingham. Dec. 8 & 9 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. at the Framingham
Civic League. Family holiday show produced in collaboration with the Framingham Community Theatre. pacmetrowest.org.
Saturday, Dec. 9
Sunrise with Santa. Auburn Mall Food Court, Auburn. 9- to 10:30 a.m. Letter writing to Santa activity, an early photo session with Santa and a pre-packaged snack and beverage. 508-832-0781.
Holiday Sing Along. Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. 3 p.m. Features the Back Bay Ringers handbell choir, the Handel and Haydn Young Women's Chorus, and a brass ensemble. bostonsymphonyhall.org.
A Visit with Santa. Verrill Farm, 11 Wheeler Rd., Concord. 2 to 3 p.m. free activities. Make your own pine cone bird feeder; decorate a gingerbread cookies, etc. 3 to 5 p.m.: Bring a wish list and show it to Santa. Great photos opps for pictures, so bring a camera! Music by Two for the Show. Candy canes, cookies, cider. Free. 978-369-4494. verrillfarm.com.
Holiday Pops Concert. Performing Arts Center at Monty Tech, Route 2A,
Fitchburg. 3:30 & 8 p.m.The Thayer Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Toshimasa Francis Wada will present a criss-cross Christmas by the Village Theatre Project. 978-466-1800.
Holiday Nature Crafts Open House. Mass Audubon: Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Ave.,
Worcester. 1 to 4 p.m. View a tree decorated with wonderful ornaments handcrafted from all-natural materials, and then make your own. Goodies and music. A$5, C$4 NM. 508-753-6087. E-mail bmbrook@massaudubon.org. Snow Date: Dec. 10.
Dec. 9 & 10
Living Nativity at Overlook Farm. 216 Wachusett St., Rutland. 1 to 5:30 p.m. A live nativity complete with animals every hour on the hour for a 20-minute show in the barn. (Dress warmly!) Sleigh or hay rides available. Alternative gifts from Heifer International and crafts from around the world. Free. Bring a plate of cookies to share. 508-886-2221.
Dec. 9 & 16
Christmas One- Act Plays. The Center For Arts in Natick, 14 Summer St.,
Natick. Saturdays, Dec. 9 & 16, 11a. m. Pocket Full of Tales presents "The Mouse Who Was Stirring" by Lenore Morgan. It tells the tale of the night Santa and seven of his reindeer got the flu, so Mrs. Claus had to save Christmas. "Yours Truly Jack Frost" by Tim Kelly introduces kids to the real Jack Frost and the secret ingredient to true Christmas Spirit "LOVE". A$8, C$5. 508-647-0097.
Santa's Tea. Gore Place, 52 Gore St., just off Rte. 20 (Main St.) near the
Waltham/Watertown line. 11 a.m. Special children's menu and a visit from Santa in a Victorian tea room of an 1806 mansion. $25pp. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations: 781-894-2798. goreplace.org. Also 12/16.
Sunday, Dec. 10
Gingerbread House Workshops. Verrill Farm, 11 Wheeler Rd., Concord. See 12/2 listing for details.
Annual Winter Choral and Orchestral Concert. Weston Auditorium, Fitchburg State College, Pearl St., Fitchburg. 7:30 p.m. Featuring the Fitchburg State College Concert Choir, Chamber Singers and Chamber Orchestra. Free. 978-665-3276.
Photos with Santa. Weston Nurseries, Hopkinton. 508-435-3414. westonnurseries.com. Also Dec. 9.
Bay State Parent 10th Birthday Party, Wachusett Mountain, Princeton.
Boston Pops Holiday Concert. DCU Center, Worcester. 508-755-6800.
Nutcracker
Performances
The Nutcracker: Albany Berkshire Ballet. Sat. Dec. 2, 3 & 7 p.m. & Sun. Dec. 3, 1 p.m., at the Collins Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Shawsheen Rd., Andover. Fri. Dec. 8, 4:30 & 7:30 p.m. & Sun. Dec. 9, 1 & 4:30 p.m.at The Colonial Theatre, Pittsfield. Sat. Dec. 16 1:30 & 4:30pm at Symphony Hall,
Springfield. Ticket info: 413-445-5382. berkshireballet.org. Boston Ballet's The Nutcracker. Children's Museum, Boston. Fri., Nov.10. 11 a.m. to 4 P.m. A day of activities celebrating the Nutcracker including performances by the Boston Ballet School. A $9, C $7, Age 1 $2, Under 1 free. 617-426-8855. bostonkids.org.
Nutcracker. Boston Opera House, 539 Washington St., Boston. 11/24-12/30. $25-$120. bostonballet.org.
Dance Prism's The Nutcracker. Nov. 26, Bristol Community College, Fall River. 1 & 5pm; Dec. 3, Performing Arts Center, Little High School, Littleton, 1 & 5pm; Dec. 9, Lincoln-Sudbury High, 2:30 & 6:30pm; Dec. 10, Mechanics Hall, Worcester, 1 & 5pm; Dec. 16, J. Everett Collins Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Shawsheen Rd., Andover, 2:30 & 6:30pm (Also Dec. 17, 2:30pm). An exciting cast of dancers who join the production from six states, colorful costumes, lively choreography, and falling snow, a reindeer drawn sleigh, and a magically growing Christmas tree. A$22, C/Sr.$16. Tickets: 978-371-1038. danceprism.com.
Nutcracker The Ballet. Ballet Arts Worcester, Clark University, Atwood Hall,
950 Main St., Worcester. Guest artists from the Boston Ballet and Festival Ballet. Fri., Nov. 17 at 7 p.m.& Sat., Nov. 18 at 2 & 7 p.m. $15. Tickets: 508-752-0888 or visit 321 Main St., Worcester.
The Nutcracker presented by Paula Meola Dance & Performing Arts, Inc. Sun., Dec. 3 1:00 & 4:00pm at Montachusett Regional Vocatrional High School, Fitchburg. Ticket info 978-422-6989
Boston Dance Company. Sun. Dec. 17, 1 & 5 p.m. at Quinsigamond Community College, Worcester. 10 a.m. Also Wed. Dec. 20, Collins Center,
Andover, 10am & 7pm. 617-491-8615. bostondancecompany.net.
Holiday
Multiple
Day Events
Children's Holiday Shows. Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. Legacy Dancers-5th Annual Holiday Dance Spectacular by Dance Inn Productions of Lexington on Sat. Dec. 2, 10:30 a.m. Dressed in colorful attire, the Legacy Dancers feature 40 young dancers,aged 13-18, performing special seasonal routines from their extensive repertoire representing hip-hop, jazz, and tap choreography taught by some of the finest choreographers in the country. A$12, C$8. thedanceinn.com. Ben Rudnick and Friends 5th Annual Holiday Extravaganza on Sat. Dec. 9, 10:30am. Playing original and traditional acoustic and bluegrass-flavored material (with flashes of calypso and rock) from their three award-winning children's recordings-as well as holiday favorites and familiar songs learned from their parents and grandparents. A$7, C/Sr.$5. benrudnickandfriends. com. Also Judy Pancoast-Judy's Tune Room on Sat. Dec. 16, 10:30am. Hailed by parents as, "filling the void between Barney and Britney,"Pancoast composes age-appropriate songs for pre-teen children A$7, C/Sr.$5. 781-646-4849. regenttheatre.com.
LaSalette Shrine: Christmas Festival of Lights. 947 Park St, Attleboro. Nov. 23 - Jan. 1. Daily 5 to 9 p.m. New Christmas trolley, a fun way to enjoy the lights ($3 per ticket). The largest religious Christmas display of lights in the East. International collection of Nativity scenes, afternoon Mass and procession to place infant Jesus in his crib. Christmas market & live concerts. Ends with pageant on the Feast of the Epiphany. 508-222-5410. lasalette-shrine.org/lasalettechristmas.
Amahl and the Night Visitors. Barre Players, Barre Common, Rte. 122 N,
Barre. 8 p.m. Dec 1,2,3 & 8,9,10. An operetta that tells the moving story of the three wise men on their way to Bethlehem and their encounter with a young crippled boy and his mother. Tickets include desserts. $14. St $10, C under 12 $7. Reservations: 800-733-2096 or 978-355-2096.
Holiday Week at the Musuem of Fine Arts. Boston. Sat. Dec. 9 - 17. Weekends/ Wed. evening: family-oriented activities. Weekdays: Music in the galleries and holiday themed tours. Some activities include: The Nutcracker Players, free holiday films for children, the NEC Gospel Concert, and a "Wishing Tree" and Crown Making activity. Enjoy beautiful decorations and white lights. A$15, C (7- 17) $6.50, C 6 and under free. 617-267- 9300. mfa.org.
Holiday Stroll on the Freedom Trail. Starts at Faneuil Hall, Boston. A leisurely stroll with a colonial flair from Nov. 23 - Jan. (Thurs. - Sun.) 3:30 p.m. Gates open at 5pm. Last train leaves at 8:30pm. $16 C and $12 (12 & under), age 2 and under free. 90 min. tour includes real sites that played a pivotal role in America's beginning (Boston Tea Party, the Boston Massacre, etc.), shopping stop at a museum store and late afternoon tea, hot chocolate, or wine and crumpets at the Omni Parker House.A$27, C$18. 888- SEE-Boston. thefreedomtrail.org.
The Enchanted Village. Hynes Convention Center, Exhibit B, 900 Boylston St., Boston. Nov. 27- Jan. 1 Daily 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Magical recreation of a turnof the-century New England Village on a snowy Christmas Eve. Complete with storefronts, Brownstones, parlor displays, and animated figures. $1pp. Photos with Santa before Christmas $10. 617-635-3689.
Holiday Pops Kids Matinees. Boston. Dec. 16, 17, 24, 11am. Dec. 15, 22, 23, 25, 27 4 p.m. Includes children's singalong, more time with Santa Claus, and a post-concert photo opportunity with Santa Claus (families bring camera). Table seats will include a kid-friendly menu, along with special holiday treats. All other matinee performances will feature the traditional Holiday Pops program. $32- 115. Tickets: Symphony Charge at 617- 266-1200 or 888-266-1200, or online bso.org. Contact the Pops at 617-266- 1492 or bostonpops.org.
Edaville Railroad Christmas Festival. Edaville USA, Rte. 58, Carver. Nov. 22-Jan. 7. Millions of twinkling lights and dozens of displays on a 5-mile ride through a cranberry plantation. Daily visits from Santa. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Days. A$16, C (2-12)$14. Under 2 free. Call for times: 887-EDAVILL. edaville.com.
Family Trees: A Celebration of Children's Literature. Concord Museum, Concord. Dec. 1-Jan. 1. M-Sat. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sun., 12 to 5 p.m. Open until 8 p.m. on Thursdays in Dec. Trees of all shapes and sizes whimsically and wonderfully decorated with inspiration from cherished children's storybooks and holiday tales. A$12.50, C (4-18) $6.50. 978-369-9763. concordmuseum.org.
"A Very Dickens Christmas" The Annual Holiday Program at Orchard House. Concord. Saturdays, Dec. 2, 9, & 16, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Sundays, Dec. 3, 10, & 17 1-4:30 p.m. Two beloved writers of holiday literature, Louisa Mae Alcott and Charles Dickens, are brought together through the magic of "Living History" within the festively decorated Alcott home. Carols, crafts, recipes, and games included. By reservation only: A$12; Sr./St. $10; Y( 6-17) $8, Under 6 $4; Family Rate (up to 2 A & 4 Y - $30). 978-369-4118 x106.
Paws and Clauses Pet Photo Night & Kids Week. Liberty Tree Mall, Danvers. Get your pets pictures taken with Santa. Dec. 7 & 18, 7 to 9 p.m. Kids Week, Dec. 19-21, 2 to 4 p.m. Crafts and events while waiting for Santa. 978-777-0795.
Festival of Trees. Gardner Museum, 28 Pearl St., Gardner. Nov. 16 - Dec. 9. Ongoing exhibit of decorated Christmas trees, each with a special theme. Free w/admission. 978-632-3277. thegardnermuseum.com.
Winter Wonderland at Belkin Family Lookout Farm. Natick. Nov. 17-Jan. 7. Winter activities and a magical, one-of-akind holiday light display. 508-653-0653. lookoutfarm.com.
Festival of Trees by the Sea. Berkshire Museum, 39 South St., Pittsfield. Nov. 18-Dec.31. Daily, Mon-Sat, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sun, 12 to 5 p.m. 200+ trees based on mermaids to pirates and lobsters to seaside resorts. Nautical art, historical artifacts, and natural science specimens relating to the sea will also be on view. Public and education programming will relate to the Museum's popular aquarium. A New Year's Eve Family celebration is planned. A$9, C(3-18)$6, C under 3 free. 413-443-7171, 800-239-3391, berkshiremuseum.org.
Dan Murphy's Christmas Tree Sales for the Jimmy Fund. The Murphy's Home, 310 Highland Ave., Randolph. Nov. - Dec. 2006. A holiday tradition that has lasted over 35 years. Trees, $15-$40; Wreaths, $5. 781-963-5675.
Mommy and Me Reindeer Hand Print Plates. Claytime, Rte. 9, Shrewsbury. Mon., Nov. 13: 10:30 a.m. to noon; Tues., Nov. 14: 4-5:30pm; Tues., Nov. 21 10:30 a.m. to noon. Prices vary by size of platter. Reservations: 508-798-9950. claytimestudio.com. Bright Nights at Forest Park. Sumner Ave., Springfield. Wed.-Sun. Nov. 22-
Dec. 10. Nightly Dec. 13-Jan. 1. Sun.- Thurs. 6-9 p.m.. Fri., Sat., & holidays, 6-11 p.m. 350,000 light bulbs and 2 1/2 miles of displays. Seuss Land, Winter Woods, Toy Land, North Pole Village. Tune your radios for holiday music accompaniment. Check Web Site for Santa visits.. M.-Thurs.$12 weekday/$15 Fri., Sat., Sun., & holiday. 413-748-6190. brightnights.org.
Zoolights. Stone Zoo, Stoneham. Nightly, Thanksgiving Night - Dec. 30 (closed Dec. 25). 5 to 9 p.m. A dazzling winter wonderland filled with thousands of sparkling lights, visits and photos w/ Santa (ends Dec. 23), fairy tale characters and dancing plush animals at Santa's Castle. $4pp, Under 2 free. 617-989-2013. zoonewengland.org.
Breakfast with Santa. Publick House Historic Inn, On the Common, Rte. 131,
Sturbridge. Starts 8 a.m. Dec. 9, 10,16, 17. Hearty Yankee breakfast buffet. Sit on Santa's lap. Receive a small gift. Bring cameras. A $16.95, C (3-10) $9.95, Under 3 free. Reservations 508-347-3313 x 400. 800-PUBLICK. publickhouse.com.
The Spirit of the Season. Old Sturbridge Village. Dec. 1 - Jan. 1. 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Explore Christmas traditions over time. Christmas Traditions by Candlelight offered on 6 Fri. & Sat. evenings. Horse-drawn sleigh or wagon rides on weekends. Bring skates to iceskate on the Common. A$20, Y (3-17) $5, Under 3 free. All admissions valid for 10 days after visit. 800-SEE-1830. osv.org.
All Aboard for Train Time. Wenham Museum, 132 Main St., Wenham. Nov. 17-March 2. Train enthusiasts young and old travel to Bakersville, a beloved holiday display of model railroads that make frequent stops at the miniature, snow covered houses. Train Volunteers are available to answer questions about laying track and building scenery and while working on their N-scale layout, which will move to the Train Gallery after Train Time closes. A$6.50, C(2-16) $4.50. 978-468-2377. wenhammuseum.org.
Yuletide Open House Tours. Storrowtown Village Museum, West Springfield. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 4-9. A$5, C Under 6 free. 413-737-2443. thebige.com.
A Polar Bear's Journey. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Sat. & Sun. Dec. 9 - 17. 12:30-1:30pm; 1:30-2:30pm; 2:30-3:30pm. Chris Van Allsburg's winter tale The Polar Express comes to life on the EcoTarium's Explorer Express train in this fun holiday "journey" for families with young children. Special holiday storytime, Santa visit, and visit the EcoTarium's North Pole, home of Kenda. Warm up after with hot cocoa and cookies. $5 plus museum admission: A$10, C $8 (age 3-18). 508-929-2703. E-mail info@ecotarium.org.
Don't miss next month's December
issue featuring more festivities your
family won't want to miss. Please e-mail your holiday listings and
photos to
calendar@baystateparent.com by Monday, Nov. 6 by 6 p.m. to be included in our December issue.
