What’s Happening Cape Cod—December Edition
’Tis the season of joyful celebrations! December’s calendar is packed with local shopping events, beloved traditions and meaningful opportunities to connect. We’ve highlighted a few of our favorite community events to help put you in the holiday spirit!
Love Local Fest—2024 Holiday Edition
Saturday, December 7
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Hyannis Village Green and Harbor Overlook
Discover a unique gift for everyone on your list while supporting the Cape’s small business community. Set against the backdrop of the scenic Hyannis Village Green and Harbor Overlook, the 11th annual Love Local Fest: Holiday Edition features locally made items from the Cape’s talented artists and makers. Enjoy holiday portraits, kids’ activities, and food and drinks from local eateries and breweries, while taking in the magic of the season.
61st Annual Falmouth Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade
Sunday, December 8
Noon
Presented by the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce and led by David Vieira, Falmouth Town Crier. The annual parade, organized under the theme of “Sights and Sounds of the Holidays,” 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.
Fourth Annual Amplify POC Holiday Vendor Market
Saturday, December 14, 2-6 p.m.
A multi-cultural holiday event! Find the perfect present by perusing items from dozens of vendors. Participate in a holiday photo session with Black Santa and savor an immersive multi-cultural holiday experience. The event is free to attend, but photo sessions must be booked in advance. 529 Main St., Hyannis (located in the former Wings retail store). For updated information, visit Amplify POC’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
Holiday Strolls
Take in the festive holiday sights and sounds by strolling across the Cape! Below are a few highlights.
Mashpee Commons (Nov. 23-Dec. 23):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. 6-8):On Friday, Dec. 6, celebrate the 20th anniversary of the first tree lighting started by Jeannie and John Wheeler. The annual tree lighting and caroling begins in Doane Park at 5:30 p.m. with the Harwich Elementary School Chorus. Weekend events include Mrs. Clause Cookie Decorating and fireworks over Pleasant Bay
Chatham’s Christmas by the Sea (Dec. 13 & 14): The tree lighting with Santa at Sears Park on Main Street kicks off a weekend of holiday cheer: Horse and carriage rides, breakfast with Santa, a children’s movie at the Chatham Orpheum Theater and plenty of amazing shopping!
Osterville Christmas Open House and Stroll (Dec. 13, 4-9 p.m.): Christmas activities all day and evening throughout the traditionally decorated village. Decorated golf carts parade at 5:30 p.m.
The Polar Express
Through December 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.