Did you know there’s a winter wonderland right off the coast of Massachusetts?
At least, the website Parade said so in a recent article praising this one island town in the Bay State.
“Nantucket − the gray-shingled, cobblestone-lined island off the coast of Massachusetts − has charm in every season, but it becomes especially enchanting at Christmastime,” Parade said.
Nantucket has lots of Christmas spirit.
The website specifically highlighted one special tradition that Nantucket residents and visitors alike indulge in that’s coming up this weekend: the Christmas Stroll, which kicked off Friday, Dec. 5, but runs all weekend.
Here’s why you might want to take a ferry off the Cape and visit a wintery town by the ocean that brings a new meaning to yuletide.
Nantucket, MA − “enchanting at Christmastime”
Parade said that Nantucket’s 51-year-old Christmas Stroll embodies the merriment and cheer that the island community has for the Christmas season.
It’s set to have a Main Street tree lighting, craft fairs, festive window-dressings, and over 150 themed trees, the website said.
“Christmas Stroll Weekend will be held December 5, 6, and 7, featuring a visit by Santa Claus, Santa’s Village Marketplace, live entertainment, craft shows, tours, and local specials,” the Christmas Stroll website said.
Parade said that the tradition began as a way to bring visitors back to Nantucket after Thanksgiving had passed, as well an opportunity to help shops use up leftover wares. It has grown since then.
Nantucket Christmas Stroll.
The Insider’s Guide to Nantucket website said that the annual stroll will also have carolers, holiday marketplaces, a Talking Tree and book signings, mostly situated around Main Street and Nantucket’s downtown Stop & Shop parking lot. You’ll be able see Santa around noon on Saturday, as he arrives in the town by boat.
“Events run all weekend long, from Jolly Jam ice skating with Santa to a performance of A Charlie Brown Christmas by the Nantucket Performing Arts Center,” Parade said.
Rin Velasco is a trending reporter. She can be reached at rvelasco@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Nantucket’s Christmas Stroll is this weekend. What to look forward to