The c. 1796 Salem Towne House was relocated to Old Sturbridge Village in 1952. It represents a more upscale residence from its era.
Photo Credit : Deb Despres
Last December, I finally made the trek to Old Sturbridge Village during their Christmas by Candlelight celebration. It’s about an hour and 40 minute ride from my hometown to Sturbridge, Massachusetts, and the roads were busy, my stress level was climbing, and I’m pretty sure I was getting on my sweet-tempered husband’s nerves by offering driving advice from the passenger’s seat. Pretty sure. But once we parked the car in the expansive lot and made our way into the Village, the unhurried pace, the subtle sparkle created by white lights and candlelight, combined with the historic charm of the place worked its magic.
From the Village entrance, the Fenno Barn and House are in view–the oldest structures in the Village (c. 1725). Photo Credit : Deb Despres
The event takes place each weekend in December leading up to Christmas (visit their OSV site for the specific days and times). If possible, I recommend purchasing tickets in adance via the Web site to avoid waiting in line, and arrive near opening so you can experience the transition from dusk to dark of night. Also, there’s so much to do and you’ll want to see it all.
OSV keeps you engaged through activities and demonstrations, and interactions with the costumed village folk at any time of year. The Christmas by Candlelight weekends are no different—just infused with an added glimpse into the history of today’s holiday traditions, and sprinkled with some pure Christmas spirit. Dramatic readings of classic Christmas tales hold the attention of young and old—nary an audience member was stirring on my visit, not even a mouse…(sorry, couldn’t resist).
While the event changes slightly from year to year, during the year of my visit, there were candy samples, and gingerbread samples, and the craftsmen were working away in the Tin Shop and Printing Office. Victorian carolers filled the crisp air with song, a horse-drawn sleigh offered an alternative to travel by foot as it made its way around the common — plus cider making, puppet and magic shows, music and dance, visits with Father Christmas, of course, and much more.
Top: Victorian carolers in front of the c. 1835 Thompson Bank, built in Greek-revival style. Bottom: Villagers warm up by the bonfire, with the horse-drawn sleigh in the background. Photo Credit : Deb DespresThe c. 1796 Salem Towne House was relocated to Old Sturbridge Village in 1952. It represents a more upscale residence from its era. Photo Credit : Deb DespresThe dining table is set in the parlor of the Salem Towne House. Photo Credit : Deb DespresThe c. 1796 Salem Towne House displays traditional mid 19th century holiday decorations–and even the cows enjoy the candlelit evening. Photo Credit : Deb DespresYes, those are electical lights on the Fitch House fence–it’s ok, just go with it. Photo Credit : Deb Despres
Before heading home, stop by the Visitor Center to admire the creative gingerbread displays entered in the annual competition. Vote for your favorite!
A winter wonderland made of gingerbread. Photo Credit : Deb DespresWho can resist a classic New England lighthouse–made from gingerbread? Photo Credit : Deb Despres
Have you ever visited Old Sturbridge Village during the holiday season?
Old Sturbridge Village. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. 800-733-1830; osv.orgThis post was first published in 2013 and has been updated.
Debbie Despres
Debbie Despres is a contributor to YankeeMagazine.com. She lives in Peterboro, New Hampshire.
