After Thanksgiving December in the RI region unfurls in lights, music, and rituals. Historic theaters glow with familiar stories, fairgrounds shimmer with color, and small towns lean into their most charming selves.
After Thanksgiving December in the RI region unfurls in lights, music, and rituals. Historic theaters glow with familiar stories, fairgrounds shimmer with color, and small towns lean into their most charming selves with festive walks and tree lightings that thrill children and adults alike.
With the return of the season’s signature events, ere are ten of the region’s most beloved traditions, ready to brighten the darkest month and carry us through the holiday weeks ahead.
Select nights through December 28, Rhinebeck, NY
Pile into the car for an enchanted drive through the Wonderland of Lights at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. This two-mile light show transforms the fairgrounds into a glowing winter fantasy, with shimmering displays, giant ornaments, and festive arches illuminating the night. Tune your car radio to holiday music and don a pair of 3D “elf glasses” (sold at the gate) for extra sparkle. Sensory Friendly Night takes place Dec. 16, with static displays (no flashing animations).
Fridays-Sundays through December 28, Hancock Shaker Village, Pittsfield, MA
This year the Berkshire Museum’s annual Festival of Trees goes on the road, partnering with Hancock Shaker Village for a whimsical exhibition titled “Barn to Be Wild.” Dozens of artists and organizations have decorated fantastical Christmas trees with farm and barnyard themes. Stroll past evergreens festooned with handcrafted ornaments and rustic touches that honor the Shakers’ agricultural heritage. The displays glow against the Round Stone Barn backdrop, creating a uniquely Berkshire holiday atmosphere. Timed-entry tickets are required.
December 4-21 (weekends), Stockbridge, MA
No holiday season is complete without Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol.” Berkshire Theatre Group’s intimate Unicorn Theatre stages this beloved story with period costumes. Longtime director Eric Hill leads a cast of local notables as Ebenezer Scrooge is spooked through his redemption arc. A sensory-friendly performance on Dec. 10 ensures everyone can share in the holiday spirit.
December 5-7, Williamstown, MA
The 42nd Annual Williamstown Holiday Walk transforms Spring Street into an old-fashioned winter scene. Saturday highlights include a Reindog Parade (yes, dogs in costume), horse-drawn carriage rides, and a tree-lighting with community caroling. Shops host pop-ups, contests, and tastings, while a Las Posadas candlelight procession invites the entire community to share in their neighbors of Mexican descent's guapa tradition.
December 7, 3-5pm, Litchfield, CT
The historic Litchfield Green buzzes with holiday joy as Santa and Mrs. Claus greet children outside the Hotel Abner while local scouts serve cocoa and marshmallows. Downtown shops host cookies, crafts, and ornament-making before a glittering Parade of Lights of decked-out fire trucks and tractors leads Santa back for the 5pm tree lighting.
December 11-24, daily, Torrington, CT
A Litchfield County institution since 1947, Torrington’s Christmas Village brings Santa’s workshop to life. Families tour the throne room, Mrs. Claus’s cozy kitchen, and the elves’ bustling toy shop, all festooned with vintage holiday decor. Outside, Santa’s sleigh and reindeer await as hot chocolate warms visitors in this timeless, free community celebration.
December 13-15, Pittsfield, MA
The Albany Berkshire Ballet brings Tchaikovsky’s holiday masterpiece to life in a lavish full-length production at Pittsfield’s Colonial Theatre. Snowflakes whirl, toy soldiers march, and Clara journeys to the Kingdom of Sweets in a staging that features “pre-professional” dancers and seasoned regional talent. The opulent, historic theater heightens the festive vibe. A shortened “Discovery” matinee on Dec. 14 is offered for young children.
December 13, 11am-4 pm, Chatham, NYChatham’s annual WinterFest offers the best of Columbia County’s holiday charm: local shops, carolers, cider, and artisan gifts. Families can catch a free screening of The Polar Express at the Crandell Theatre before the town tree lighting at dusk. It’s a lovely mix of small-business shopping and community celebration.
December 13, 5-8pm, Valatie, NYValatie’s festive WinterWalk begins with Santa’s fire-truck parade through downtown, followed by live music, street performers, and extended shop hours. Stop by the Valatie Community Theatre for kids’ crafts and performances before the grand tree lighting by the old railroad station.
December 20, 4 pm, Hudson Hall, Hudson, NYOperation Unite NY and Hudson Hall present a Kwanzaa Umoja Celebration filled with drumming, dance, storytelling, and a candle-lighting ceremony honoring the seven principles of Kwanzaa. A free community feast follows at 5:30pm, celebrating unity, reflection, and joy, globally and in the Hudson community.
