Christmas & Holiday
Celebrate the Season
Local traditions light up the region through this festive season.
Festival of Lights at Worcester Common
Worcester’s Parks and Cultural Departments join talents to create something really special each December: the Festival of Lights at Worcester Common. For many Worcester residents, the bright display signifies the official start of the holiday season.
Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village
“Celebrate Christmas past while creating new traditions.” Old Sturbridge Village comes to life with holiday flair in December, during Christmas by Candlelight weekends celebrating the season (post-Thanksgiving through December). The Village is dolled up with beautiful décor, a peaceful Christmas Tree Trail, live storytelling, music and more.
Trees, Wagon Rides, Brews & Brunch at Oakholm Farm & Oakholm Brewing Company
Not much beats the smell of fresh pine during the season, and Oakholm Farm is known for its wonderful selection of trees. For the kiddos in the crowd, Santa’s Enchanted Brunch and horse-drawn wagon ride make for an extra special trip to the farm. For the adults, craft brews at Oakholm Brewing are sure to warm the soul.
Handel’s Messiah at Mechanics Hall
Music Worcester, The Worcester Chorus and its leadership bring this annual presentation, one that’s been running for over 120 years, to Mechanics Hall. Bask in the sounds of Handel’s most famous oratorio at this local gem.
A Very Lamb Chop Holiday at The Center at Eagle Hill
Join Mallory Lewis and Lamb Chop for an old-fashioned afternoon of music and laughs at The Center at Eagle Hill, as they take your family on a holiday romp! A larger than life, 6-foot “big Lamb Chop” leads the audience in a sing-along of holiday songs and merriment. Feel the true holiday spirit as Mallory and Lamb Chop sing a Christmas medley and a Hanukkah song, and tell the story of Kwanzaa in rhyme.
Merrimack Valley Ringers Handbell Concert at Worcester Art Museum
Festive chimes fill Worcester Art Museum each season, courtesy of the Merrimack Valley Ringers, an auditioned community handbell ensemble dedicated to sharing the art of handbells and chimes with the community. Better yet, the listening is free with museum admission.
Holiday Shows at The Hanover Theatre
The Hanover Theatre delivers magic to Downtown Worcester with a packed live entertainment schedule. Several holiday shows will light up your life, with previous seasons showing the likes of “A Christmas Carol” and “The Nutcracker.” Bring the whole family and make it a lasting memory.
Night Lights at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill
By the same token, New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill brings you Night Lights, an outdoor walking experience through 15 acres of formal gardens and woodlands, as fire pits, s’mores and hot chocolate complement the atmosphere brightly.
