Over the River and Off the Grid

The past is still present at Old Sturbridge Village, which has been bringing visitors up close and personal with New England history since 1946. The annual Christmas by Candlelight evenings make good on those old traditions, with live musical performances, storytelling, sleigh rides, festive foods, 19-century cooking demonstrations by costumed historians, a nightly tree lighting and bonfire, carolers, a gingerbread house contest, and strolls around the decorated Village Common. New this year: the North Pole Village, where families will find Santa and his whimsical elves, Mrs. Claus’ Bake Shop, a magical talking Christmas tree, a kids’ holiday craft workshop, and an expanded G-scale train display. 

Christmas by Candlelight: Friday, 3-9 p.m. $14-$22. Old Sturbridge Village, 29 Stallion Hill Road, Sturbridge. (508) 347-3362, osvchristmas.org.

— Hunter Styles