Time is flying! We’re embracing the short days this month, because the lights and holiday festivities seem to warm and brighten everything. Here are our 8 great things for the month ahead!
1. We love a parade....
and the Fall River children’s holiday parade is a fantastic one. Santa and Mrs. Claus, but also plenty of other characters, Macy’s style balloons, plenty of bands and more! This will give you the kick you need to get into the holiday spirit. Free. December 6 at 1 pm, stepping off from Kennedy Park and down S. Main Street. More here.
2. Santa Stampede!
The Mattapoisett Santa Stampede 5K for MS will host hundreds of Santas wearing complimentary 5 piece Santa suits, from the red coat and hat, right down to the beard! With a scenic loop around Ned's Point Lighthouse and along the picturesque harbor of Mattapoisett, Santa suits will be provided to the first 500 adult registrations and Santa hats will be given to the first 100 youth registrations. How fun! $40/adults. $35/youth. December 6 at 9 am. Sign up here
3. Hike & Hops
Here’s a chance to explore at Old Field Pond Preserve which is normally closed to the public with Wildlands Trust hike leaders Skip and Justin. It's a 4 mile hike through winding roads and across fields with Justin sharing information on local flora and invasive species! After the hike, join them at Stone Path Malt for some food and brews! $5 members/$10 non-members (food & drink not included. December 7 from 10:30 to 1:00. Meeting at Bay End Farm, Bourne. Register here.
4. A European-style Christmas Market
You may have been to the historic Madeira Feast grounds in the summer. Now, come see it transformed into a winter wonderland. The Madeira Club promises magic at its inaugural Christmas market: twinkling lights, great food, local vendors and carols drifting through the December air. December 7 from 2 to 7 pm. More here.
5. Sweet Community Gatherings
We love how communities come together to celebrate. This year, we’re checking out the St. Gabriel’s Christmas Fair that brings a joyful bustle with 25 artisans, as well as a warm breakfast and homemade lunch prepared by volunteers. Soak in the season inside and then enjoy the Marion Stroll in the afternoon. December 14 from 9 to 4 at St. Gabriel’s, 124 Front Street, Marion. The Stroll is from 3 to 5:30. Marion Village. More here.
6. Winter Bonfires!
West Place Animal Sanctuary is a magical place that provides refuge for farm animals, wildlife and dogs in need. They’re adding more magic this month by opening it up for winter bonfire afternoons. Wander around the Sanctuary to meet the cast of characters who call it home - the pigs Jack & Diane, the famous alpacas, sheep, ducks, horses and more. And then circle back to warm up by a cozy bonfire in one of the pastures. This is such a treat! $30. December 6 and 20 from noon to 2 pm. More here.
7. My Favorite Things
The New Bedford Festival Theater puts on its annual holiday spectacular! Producing Artistic Director Liz Bettencourt will share all her favorite holiday traditions and songs, featuring Broadway star and NBFT alum Alex Cruz, along with other NBFT stars. $25, December 13 at 4. Steeple Playhouse, New Bedford. More here. Can't get enough holiday spectacling?! Check out the New Bedford Symphony's Holiday Pops the next day which brims with good cheer every December! December 14. Two shows at 3:30 and 7:00. More here.
8. Celebrate the Longest Night
Celebrate the beginning of longer days ahead with a sunset stroll with the Buzzards Bay Coalition on West Island, walking along the shoreline and pausing for gentle mindfulness practices that connect us to the the sights, sounds, and textures of the beach, and set intentions for the season ahead, led by yoga and mediation instructor Carly Baumann. December 21. Meet at the watchtower for check-in (3:00–3:10pm). Free but please register here.
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