Have you ever wished that you could step back in time and experience life as it was in decades past? I always wonder what my city looked like before I came to live here. I would love to be transported back 50 years ago, if only just for one day. Unfortunately, I can’t do this (yet) in my northeastern city, but I can time travel when visiting one beautiful Massachusetts town. Let me explain.
The quaint town of Stockbridge (recognized as one of the most enchanting Christmas towns in America), was home to the famous artist Norman Rockwell, who moved to the area in 1953 and lived out the rest of his life in town.
Rockwell is well-known for his idyllic American paintings, many of which depict quintessential New England scenes. You may also know Rockwell for his numerous Saturday Evening Post cover illustrations. Rockwell has been recognized as Massachusetts’ official state artist.
Rockwell passed in 1978, but the town of Stockbridge still holds his memory near and dear and honors the legacy of its most famous citizen during an annual town-wide celebration called "Stockbridge on Main Street."
This festive event is sponsored by the Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce and is now in its 34th year.
This year’s Stockbridge on Main Street celebration includes historic property tours, sleigh rides, live performances, and a holiday market. The fun takes place from December 1-3, 2023.
However, the most interesting part of the festivities (at least in my opinion) is the town’s annual recreation of Rockwell’s famous painting titled “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas."
This 1967 nostalgic piece of art depicts the town’s Main Street all decked out for the holidays.
On Sunday, December 3 (the second day of the event), you can witness Main Street transform from modern-day 2023 to Rockwell-era 1967. The street will be beautifully decorated with holiday wreaths and festive lights.
There will also be over 25 restored antique cars parked along the street, giving it an authentic vintage feel.
The recreation takes place from 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Other fun activities include shopping, photo ops with “Norman Rockwell,” carolers, food, children’s activities, and even a visit with Santa.
Tickets to the event are $5 and are free for those under the age of 12.
After you enjoy the festivities, I suggest stopping by the nearby Norman Rockwell Museum to see some of Rockwell’s artwork up close. The museum contains almost 1,000 of Rockwell’s original paintings.
You can even view the original “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas” painting, the inspiration for the town’s annual festival!
Have you ever attended Stockbridge on Main Street? How do you think the recreation compares to the actual painting? More information about this festive celebration can be found on the Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce website and the Visit Stockbridge Massachusetts/Chamber of Commerce Facebook page. This commemorative Stockbridge Main Street mug is a beautiful (and useful) souvenir to remember this festive event. For more winter fun in the area, be sure to visit the historical Naumkeaug property which will be featuring their magical Winter Lights display this holiday season.
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