Step back in time and experience the magic of "Christmas by Candlelight" at Old Sturbridge Village. As the sun sets, the historic 19th-century New England town comes alive with the warm glow of candles, transporting visitors to a world of festive charm. Stroll through the picturesque landscape, immersed in the sounds of live music, the laughter of barn dances, and the captivating stories of costumed interpreters. Gather around crackling bonfires, sip on hot cider, and embark on enchanting horse-drawn wagon rides – all while creating unforgettable memories that capture the true essence of the holiday season. What awaits beyond the candlelight is a journey that will leave you enchanted and eager to uncover more.
Good To Know
An immersive 7.5-hour experience that brings 19th-century New England holiday traditions to life through live music, barn dances, storytelling, and horse-drawn wagon rides.
Pricing starts at $95 per person, with round-trip transportation, full admission, activities, food/drinks, and gratuities included in the package.
Costumed interpreters engage visitors by showcasing traditional dances and sharing enchanting holiday narratives in the candlelit village setting.
While the experience aims to be accessible, historic buildings and uneven terrain may present mobility challenges for some guests.
Highlights include cozy bonfires, festive musical performances, and opportunities to participate in authentic New England barn dances.
Event Overview and Pricing
Explore the enchanting Christmas by Candlelight event at Old Sturbridge Village, where guests can step back in time to experience the rich holiday traditions of 19th-century New England.
Priced from just $95 per person, this 7.5-hour experience promises a delightful immersion into the past. Guests will enjoy live music, barn dances, storytelling, horse-drawn wagon rides, and cozy bonfires – all set against the backdrop of a charming rural village.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season in a truly unique and unforgettable setting.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Massachusetts.
Experience Highlights
Stepping into the 19th-century rural New England village of Old Sturbridge, guests are transported to a world aglow with the warm flicker of candlelight.
Costumed interpreters bring to life the holiday traditions of the past, from lively barn dances to captivating storytelling. The sounds of live musical performances fill the air, while horse-drawn wagon rides offer a leisurely tour of the picturesque landscape.
Crackling bonfires provide a cozy gathering spot, inviting visitors to enjoy the enchanting atmosphere.
This top-rated U.S. Christmas celebration promises an unforgettable experience, blending history, culture, and the magic of the season.
Tour Inclusions
The Christmas by Candlelight experience includes convenient round-trip transportation, whisking guests from two premier pickup locations – the Crowne Plaza hotel in Warwick and the Providence Visitor Center – aboard a climate-controlled coach bus.
Upon arrival, visitors enjoy full admission to the charming Old Sturbridge Village, where they’re greeted by a knowledgeable tour guide.
The tour includes a variety of delightful holiday activities, from live musical performances and barn dances to storytelling and cozy bonfires.
Plus, food and drinks are provided, ensuring a truly carefree and immersive journey into 19th-century New England’s festive traditions.
Gratuities are also included, making this an all-inclusive and hassle-free adventure.
Important Information
Two convenient pickup locations await guests for the Christmas by Candlelight experience – the Crowne Plaza hotel in Warwick and the Providence Visitor Center.
Visitors should ensure their preferred location is noted beforehand. The tour’s success relies on reaching a minimum passenger requirement, so guests will be notified 24 hours in advance if it can’t proceed.
Plus, the climate-controlled coach bus lacks a lift and can’t accommodate large mobility devices. Those with specific photo preferences should notify the tour guide, as marketing photography may take place during the festivities.
With these details in mind, guests can anticipate a truly immersive journey into 19th-century New England holiday traditions.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAccessibility and Limitations
Guests with mobility concerns may find the Christmas by Candlelight tour presents certain challenges. The tour bus isn’t equipped with a lift, so those with large mobility devices may have difficulty boarding.
Once inside the village, the historic grounds and buildings may pose accessibility issues, as they weren’t designed with modern accessibility standards in mind. However, the tour team is committed to ensuring all guests can participate to the best of their ability.
Some key accessibility considerations include:
- Limited mobility access around the village grounds.
- Stairs and uneven terrain in historic buildings.
- Lack of elevator or lift options.
- Advance notice required for any special needs.
Holiday Traditions in New England
One stroll through the historic grounds of Old Sturbridge Village transports visitors to the heart of New England’s cherished holiday traditions.
Wander the candlelit streets and discover the timeless allure of 19th-century festivities. Witness the glow of bonfires, the rhythm of barn dances, and the enchanting melodies of live musical performances.
Enjoy the warmth of storytelling and the wonder of horse-drawn wagon rides.
This iconic Christmas celebration captures the essence of a New England winter, where the past and present seamlessly intertwine, creating an unforgettable experience that celebrates the enduring spirit of the holiday season.
Musical Performances and Barn Dances
As the soft glow of candlelight illuminates the historic village, the air comes alive with the sound of lively music and rhythmic footsteps.
Visitors are invited to join in the festive barn dances, where they can learn traditional New England steps and twirl across the floor. Meanwhile, talented musicians captivate the audience with enchanting performances of seasonal ballads and upbeat folk tunes.
The experience transports guests back in time, allowing them to fully enjoy the joyous spirit of the season.
Highlights include:
- Lively barn dances with live musical accompaniment
- Enchanting performances of traditional holiday songs
- Opportunities to learn and practice New England dance steps
- An immersive journey into the past through music and movement.
Horse-drawn Wagon Rides and Bonfires
Crisp winter air whispers across the village as visitors eagerly climb aboard the horse-drawn wagons, ready to embark on a charming journey through the frost-kissed landscape.
The gentle clop of hooves and the jingling of sleigh bells fill the air as the wagons wind through the historic streets, offering a unique perspective of the twinkling lights and cozy scenes.
Nearby, roaring bonfires crackle and dance, casting a warm glow over the festivities.
Visitors gather round, sipping hot cider and sharing laughter, immersed in the enchanting ambiance of this cherished New England holiday tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Age Limit for the Christmas Event?
The event doesn’t seem to have an age limit; it’s designed for all ages to experience the magic of the holidays. Guests of all generations can enjoy the festive activities and traditions.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Bringing your own food and drinks isn’t allowed on this tour, as the ticket includes a meal and beverages. But you’re free to enjoy the festive atmosphere and immersive experience of stepping back in time to New England’s holiday traditions.
Are There Any Discounts Available for the Event?
While there aren’t any advertised discounts, you can save money on this experience by booking online in advance. Packages start from $95 per person, making it an affordable way to step back in time this holiday season.
How Accessible Are the Restroom Facilities?
The restroom facilities are accessible for most visitors, with modern conveniences available throughout the historic village. Guests with mobility needs are encouraged to speak with staff about any specific requirements to ensure a comfortable experience.
Can I Leave the Event Early if I Need To?
Guests can depart the event early if needed, though they’ll miss out on the full 7.5-hour experience. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing maximum flexibility for guests’ schedules.
The Sum Up
Step back in time and experience the enchanting "Christmas by Candlelight" at Old Sturbridge Village. Enjoy 19th-century New England traditions, surrounded by the warm glow of candlelight, live music, and festive activities. Capture the holiday spirit as you engage with costumed interpreters, cozy up by the bonfires, and create cherished memories in this picturesque winter wonderland.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Massachusetts
Looking for something different? Other Massachusetts activities we've written about
- MA Photowalk in Rockport
- 30-Min Private Helicopter Skyline Tour of Boston
- Spend the Day on Buzzards Bay – Sailing Trips
- 1-Hour Axe Throwing in Worcester
- 3 Best Tours In Massachusetts
- 2 Best 3 Hour Tours and Experiences in Massachusetts
- 4 Best City Tours In Massachusetts
- From Boston: Crane Estate Guided Tour With Transportation
- Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village
- Fairhaven Scavenger Hunt
- Winthrop Scavenger Hunt
- Wonderful Westford, MA Scavenger Hunt