What’s Happening Cape Cod
From illuminated gardens and cheerful strolls to nostalgic train rides and lively New Year’s celebrations, December on the Cape offers something for every festive mood.
Gardens Aglow
Dec. 3-7, Dec. 9-14, Dec.16-23 and Dec. 26-27
4:30-8:30 p.m.
Heritage Museums & Gardens, 67 Grove St., Sandwich
Experience a beloved holiday tradition as Heritage Museums & Gardens sparkles with festive light displays, seasonal décor, and family-friendly activities. Visit Santa in the J.K. Lilly III Automobile Gallery, ride the historic 1908 Looff carousel, and explore winter scenes in the American Art & Carousel Gallery. Outdoors, stroll illuminated garden paths, roast marshmallows, enjoy seasonal treats, play lawn games, take on a reindeer scavenger hunt, and admire the expanded model train display. Celebrate the season and see Heritage in a whole new light!
Love Local Fest—2025 Holiday Edition
Saturday, Dec. 6
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Hyannis Village Green
The 12th annual Love Local Fest Holiday Edition is the culmination of a year’s work by local businesses, resulting in a grand display of local artistry and craftsmanship you can only find on the Cape. Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Hyannis Village Green, 120 merry makers, blissful brands and exquisite eateries create an illuminating mix of holiday nostalgia, winter warmth and festive family fun. Whatever your gift-giving needs, Yule find it here.
62nd Annual Falmouth Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade
Sunday, Dec. 7
Noon
Main Street, Falmouth
Presented by the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce and led by David Vieira, Falmouth Town Crier. The annual parade, organized under the theme of “Holiday Movie Night,” will step off at noontime from Dillingham Avenue and Davis Straits and proceed along Main Street to the Village Green. It will feature decorated floats, marching bands, costumed characters and Santa Claus! FCTV will film the entire parade for local viewing. Rain or shine.
Holiday Strolls
Take in the festive holiday sights and sounds by strolling across the Cape! Below are a few highlights:
Walk Mashpee Commons (Nov. 23-Dec. 21): The month-long holiday celebration includes photos with Santa’s Village, caroling, and brass band performances. Special events include the annual tree lighting on Nov. 29, the holiday stroll and Christmas parade on Dec. 14 and the Cape Cod Christmas Market every Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 15.
Christmas in Harwich (Dec. 5-7): The weekend begins Friday with the Harwich Port Stroll, 5:30–8:30 p.m., featuring the Tree Lighting in Doane Park at 5:30, festive trolley rides, live music, Santa’s arrival at 6:15 and holiday activities throughout the village. On Saturday, enjoy events in East Harwich and Harwich Center, plus The Merriest at Wequassett with its Merry Market, Santa at 3 p.m., and fireworks at 5:15 p.m.
Chatham’s Christmas by the Sea (Dec. 12-14): Chatham’s beloved Christmas by the Sea weekend brings festive cheer and classic New England charm to downtown. The celebration begins Friday evening with Santa’s arrival and the annual tree lighting at Sears Park on Main Street, followed by a full weekend of holiday magic—horse and carriage rides, special in-store events, breakfast with Santa, a children’s movie at the Chatham Orpheum Theater, and plenty of wonderful shopping throughout town.
The Polar Express
Dec. 4 through Dec. 23
Departs from 70 Main St., Buzzards Bay
All aboard! This popular train ride brings the magic of the Polar Express to life. During a 90-minute round-trip adventure to the “North Pole,” characters on each train car lead lively entertainment—just like in the film! The experience includes a golden ticket, dancing chefs and waiters, Christmas carols, hot chocolate and cookies, and a reading of the classic book. At the North Pole, Santa and his elves board the train for pictures and gifts of souvenir sleigh bells. Be sure to wear your Christmas jammies for even more fun.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
First Light Celebration
Wednesday, Dec. 31
Provincetown
Ring in the New Year on the tip of the Cape with First Light Provincetown, which features fine art, performances, delicious fare and festive shopping experiences. The biggest event of the week is the fireworks celebration from MacMillan Pier at dusk on Tuesday, December 31. The best views for the fireworks are on the beach by the pier, or you can watch from nearby restaurants that have decks and indoor seating.
First Night Chatham
Wednesday, Dec. 31
Noon-10 p.m.
A town-wide, family-friendly event and honored tradition. Now in its 33rd year, the annual New Year’s celebration features more than 70 performances and events, including a town photo, musical performances, Noise Parade, and a dazzling display of fireworks over Veterans Field. This year's theme: Celebrate together. For updated information, visit First Night Chatham and also follow the event on Facebook and Instagram.
