STURBRIDGE—The post-pandemic-restriction celebration of Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village will include more live music with musical guests, costumed interpreters performing Christmas classics, an international display and the return of holiday treat samples.
“Christmas by Candlelight has been a tradition at Old Sturbridge Village for over 15 years, but each year brings new activities and opportunities for visitors to enjoy,” said Christine Freitas, director of communications and content. “This is a place where all ages can come together and celebrate the season while learning a little bit about our past.”
Old Sturbridge Village is a recreated 1830s rural New England town.
This year, visitors to the Christmas celebration can taste gingerbread from one of the oldest printed recipes on record along with mulled cider and other goodies.
Traditional favorites will include a magic show, model train display, gingerbread-house baking contest, songs, storytelling and Santa.
“Visiting the Village at Christmas reminds us of the magic and tradition of Christmas past,” Freitas said. “Wandering along the decorated paths and across the picturesque, covered bridge allows for reflection and wonder. Stepping into the warm historic houses, buildings and shops allows for an immersive learning opportunity as well as enchanting entertainment.”
Christmas by Candlelight offers guests the opportunity to experience the sights and sounds of Christmas across the 200-acre campus, including exploring a Christmas Tree Trail and leaving a special request on the Christmas Wish Bridge. During the event, demonstrations focus on 19th-century craftsmanship, baking and preparing for the holiday, while the Village comes alive with storytelling, live music, festive food, horse-drawn carry-all rides and holiday shopping. Santa Claus also makes an appearance at the Village each evening.
“At Christmastime, the Village campus is transformed into a place of old-fashioned bustling activity, from baking gingerbread to mulling cider to knitting Christmas stockings to hang by the fire,” Freitas said. “The mood is joyous, the air is full of laughter, song and storytelling. The Christmas Tree Trail and a nightly lighting ceremony fill the Village with light, warmth and even a little magic. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas as they move through the Village.”
Holiday shopping will be available during Christmas by Candlelight for those looking to find a unique or handcrafted gift. This year, Old Sturbridge Village opened Ox & Yoke Mercantile, which will be open for shopping during daytime and evening hours along with the Miner Grant Store.
The family-friendly Christmas by Candlelight take place Dec. 16, 17, 18, 23, 27, 28, 29 and 30 from 2 to 8 p.m.
Christmas by Candlelight will run in light rain or snow. In the event of severe weather, any notice of the museum closing will be posted on Old Sturbridge Village’s social media channels, website and via email to all ticket purchasers for that event date. Ticket holders will have the chance to reschedule for a future date (if there are future event dates available.)
The cost is $32 for adults, $16 for youth (4-17) and free for children 3 and younger.
Tickets must be purchased online, in advance for Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village. Tickets will not be available at the door.
For more information, go to osv.org/event/christmas-by-candlelight-2022.
