This year when Thanksgiving rolls around, more people will be sharing the holiday with family after a year-long COVID-related hiatus.  When you come back to Western Mass this year, be sure to also get back to sharing these holiday traditions:

Bright Nights at Forest Park – New England’s largest holiday lighting display was in full force last year, but if you weren’t in town, you’ll definitely need to pay a visit this year!  From Seuss Land to Jurassic World, your family will love this unique display which has received numerous accolades including being named seven times as one of the Top 100 Attractions in North America by the American Bus Association, listed on People.com as “One of the Top Ten Holiday Happenings in America,” and featured in the New York Times.

Yankee Candle Village – This attraction is the perfect mix of holiday cheer and holiday shopping!  Not only will you find over 200 new, classic, and limited-edition fragrances and candle accessories, but you can also personalize candles to capture cherished memories in scents and wax, catch snowflakes indoors at the Bavarian Village, satisfy your sweet tooth, shop for toys, gifts, home décor, and kitchen and garden items, and celebrate Christmas every day.

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame – If you haven’t been to Western Mass since COVID-19 affected travel, you missed the $30 million renovation of this beloved basketball shrine!  You won’t want to miss the new Kobe Bryant exhibit, new Superfan Gallery and of course the Hall of Honor.

Springfield Museums – Whether you’re a kid or a kid-at-heart, you’ll want to visit The Springfield Museums while you’re in town for Thanksgiving.  Check out Jim Henson’s Splash & Bubbles to explore marine biology, ocean science, and different ocean ecosystems at the Wood Museum of Springfield History.   The Museums will also launch their Grinchmas Christmas programs including their annual Gingerbread House Competition on November 26^th!  All this for one admission!

Historic Deerfield – Kick-off the holidays in a traditional New England way at Historic Deerfield with Private 30-minute carriage rides by Muddy Brook Farm on Old Main Street in Historic Deerfield.  Get there early and attend their ‘Handmade Gift-Making Class’.  Get started on your holiday gift list, have fun and be creative.

Six Flags New England’s Holiday in the Park Lights – Holiday in the Park Lights is back! Tis the season for dazzling lights, delicious snacks, and holiday cheer!  Beginning on November 26^th, you can take a stroll through the park and make some time to immerse yourself in one of the countless electrifying light displays. Take in the breathtaking sights and sounds synchronized to your favorite holiday tunes!  Some of your favorite rides will also be available during the event!

Festival of Trees at The MassMutual Center – Stroll through this colorful forest of whimsical, beautiful and creative Christmas trees, all donated and decorated by area businesses, organizations, families and individuals to benefit the Springfield Boys & Girls Club.
The trees, which are decorated in the theme of the donor’s choice can be valued upwards of $3000 as many of the trees also have gift items that are included.  Each tree along with the trimmings and any gifts will be raffled off at the end of the two-week festival.

But wait.  There’s more.  So much more that we can’t even list it all.  Western Mass is full of things to do during your next holiday visit to the region.  And we’re keeping you safe by following all recommended safety protocols.  So, relax and enjoy your next holiday visit to Western Mass!