Celebrate Winter’s arrival across the state with Christmas teas, cozy cocktails, artisan markets, and more. The holiday season can be fun for everyone when you spend it with The Trustees!

Christmas at Castle Hill: A Nod to Nature

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich

December 5–28

Visiting Castle Hill at Christmas is a time-honored tradition. Don’t miss this year’s event celebrating the beauty of the natural world. You’ll see birds, flowers, snowflakes, and more as you view 18 spaces decorated for the holidays. Go at your own pace and learn from interpreters stationed in rooms. Enjoy freshly baked cookies and hot chocolate, try the Crane holiday eye spy, and shop in the Castle Hill Gift Shop during your visit.

Christmas at the Manse

The Old Manse, Concord

November 28 – December 29

Step back in time and embark on a journey through a breathtaking colonial home, beautifully transformed for the holiday season! Uncover the enchanting tales woven into its rich history during this captivating tour. Immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas as you discover how New Englanders crafted new traditions and festive celebrations during the Hawthornes’ time. This isn’t just a tour—it’s an invitation to step into a world where history and holiday cheer come together in an unforgettable experience!

Christmas Tea at Castle Hill

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich

December 9–11 & 16–18

Take a respite from the holiday rush by taking tea and a tour in the Great House at Castle Hill. Enjoy teas, savories, and sweets with friends or family. You’ll be served by costumed staff as if the Crane family were here in 1929. Tour the Great House, festively decorated for the holidays and then sit down for tea. End your visit with a trip to the Gift Shop, open for your shopping convenience.

The Five Days of Makers at Appleton Farms

Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich

December 9–13

Spend a week immersed in creativity and craft at Appleton Farms! Our Five Days of Makers event brings together local artisans and craftspeople for a celebration of artistry and tradition. Each day during the week of December 9–13 we will host and feature a local artisan between 2–6PM. This is a free event. No pre-registration required.

Holiday Artisan Market at Fruitlands

Fruitlands Museum, Harvard

Saturday–Sunday, December 6–7

If you love quality arts and crafts from local New England artisans, this is the perfect venue for you to stock up on one-of-a-kind, handcrafted holiday gifts for family and friends. Discover 15 unique, juried artisans participating each day, featuring jewelry, ornaments, ceramics, beauty products, textiles, notecards, candles, and much more. There’s also a special Winter Wonderland Preview on Friday, December 5 to kick off the weekend!

Trustees Holiday Market at Castle Hill

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich

Thursday, December 4

Shop for unique gifts this holiday season! Browse a thoughtfully curated selection of gifts, jewelry, holiday decor, books, artisanal food and more from seven Trustees property shops, including a wide variety of Trustees-branded merchandise. Whether you’re shopping for a nature lover, history buff, epicurean or someone who appreciates handcrafted goods, you’re sure to discover something special.

Winter Solstice Events

Multiple Locations

December 20–21

The winter solstice beckons us to contemplate the longest night of the year. As year-end approaches, bring beauty and light to the darkest days of winter with candlelight strolls, sunrise hikes, campfires, winter suppers, and more. Our Solstice programs are designed to enhance your own ways of marking the turn of another season.

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