The holiday season is both a time of beauty and of bustling activity here on Cape Cod. Anyone who thinks the Cape is sleepy this time of year should hop into their car and come experience the magic! The Cape has wrapped herself in millions of lights, the sounds of festively costumed Carolers waft in the air over multiple locations and old-fashioned strolls are a common sight on almost every town’s main street. In fact there are so many things to do and see your family may have to make some difficult choices! Here are just a few of the upcoming events:
LIGHTS, LIGHTS and MORE LIGHTS!
Gardens Aglow
Heritage Museums & Gardens, Sandwich
Through December 19, 5-9pm
Tis the season to be jolly! Don’t miss Heritage Museums & Gardens annual celebration of lights that illuminates the grounds and makes the buildings sparkle with festive lights. Stroll the grounds, toast marshmallows at Magnolia Cafe, take a spin on the carousel, and enjoy holiday music and performances. Old St. Nick will also be visiting for pictures in a Ford Model T. For more info: www.heritagemuseumsandgardens.org
10th Annual Cape Cod Enchanted Village
Cape Codder Resort & Spa, Hyannis
Through January 2, 2012
Each night at dusk the courtyard at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa is illuminated by the glow of more than 100,000 lights. Topiary animals and snowmen greet visitors as they make their way past Santa’s Reindeer stall to Santa’s Village– all reminiscent of an old fashioned Enchanted Village. Musical Christmas trees keep the beat as children toast marshmallows by the bonfire. On Friday, Saturdays and Sunday evenings strolling carolers walk among the visitors, spreading holiday spirit through song while Santa takes some time out of his busy schedule to hear children’s holiday wishes. Guests to the Enchanted Village are encouraged to bring NEW, unwrapped gifts or Gift Cards to place under the tree. All donations will be given to Independence House in Hyannis.
For more info: http://www.capecodderresort.com/enchanted-village.php
Festival of Lights (a little off-Cape but worth the trip!)
Edaville Railroad, Carver
Dec. 1st-4th, 7th-11th; Dec.14th-January 1st
(Closed Christmas Day) Weekdays 4pm-9pm; Weekends 2pm-9pm
During the Christmas season, Edaville is transformed into a winter wonderland. Passengers relax comfortably in warm and dry coaches while riding through a spectacular holiday setting featuring an explosion of lights. Kids of all ages can enjoy an array of vintage amusement rides and a visit with Santa in one of their indoor play areas.
For more info: www.Edaville.com
HOLIDAY THEATER & DANCE
Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol
The Academy of Performing Arts, Orleans
November 18 – December 11; Thurs.-Sat. 8pm • Sunday 2pm
December 21 & 22 8pm
Box Office: 508-255-1963
For more info: www.apacape.org
Nutcracker Gala 2011
Barnstable High School Performing Arts Center, Hyannis
December 10 & 11 at 2pm
The Atlantic Coast Academy of Dance performs this holiday classic
Box Office: 508-362-1411
For more info: www.nutcrackergala.org
Madeline’s Christmas, The Musical
Harwich Junior Theater, Harwich
December 2-31 (no performance Dec. 24 or 25).
Fridays 7:30 pm; Saturdays & Sundays 2pm
Based on the popular children’s book by Ludwig Bemelmans.
Box Office: 508-432-2002
For more info: www.hjtcapecod.org
A Winter’s Solstice Celebration
Cotuit Center For The Arts
December 1-18, Thursday-Saturday 7pm; Sunday 1pm.
Short medieval plays, madrigals, carols and dance set the tone for this unique family-oriented theater production. The audience is encouraged to bring their own dinner. The cast will supply mulled cider and sweets.
Box Office: 508-428-0669
www.ArtOnTheCape.org
PARADES & More
Falmouth Christmas Parade
Beginning at Falmouth Mall and following to Route 28 and then Main Street.
Sunday, December 10, Noon
Considered by some to be the largest holiday parade in southeastern New England drawing between 10,000 and 20,000 people per year. What you’ll see: bands, clowns, live animals, floats and people in costume. The theme this year celebrates the town’s 325th anniversary.
Info: 508-548-8500
www.falmouthchamber.com
First Night Chatham
Now in its 20th year, this is one of the best family-friendly events you can find. It’s loaded with teen and kids’ activities, a noise parade (this year led by American Idol finalist Siobhan Magnus), concerts and spectacular fireworks!
For full list of activities, visit www.firstnightchatham.com
What a way to end 2011 and to welcome 2012!
