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The Most Exciting Downtown Portsmouth Vintage Christmas Yet!

Looking for a way to get in the holiday spirit in Portsmouth, NH? Then you won’t want to miss the 15th Annual Downtown Portsmouth Vintage Christmas. Even if you’ve been in years past, you’ll definitely still want to stop by Market Square at some point during the month of December—this year’s celebration promises to be like no other!

Here’s everything you need to know about the Downtown Portsmouth Vintage Christmas.

Downtown Portsmouth Transforms

downtown portsmouth vintage christmas

For the entire month of December, Downtown Portsmouth is transformed into a Christmasy winter wonderland of small-town New England charm. Evergreen wreaths are meticulously hung on the lampposts and the town’s tree stands tall and proud in the center of town. Full of small cafes and locally owned stores, Portsmouth is truly picture-perfect—it may make you feel like you’re living in a postcard!

It’s a Month-Long Celebration of the Season

celebrating in Downtown Portsmouth

All of December is filled with holiday fun! There are parties, contests, live performances, candlelight strolls, ice skating sessions, and more. You can catch a production of Annie! at the Ogunquit Playhouse, compete to have the best-decorated gingerbread house, enjoy a family skating night at Puddle Duck Pond, or even take a ride on the FREE Vintage Christmas Trolley!

On December 7, the Tree is Lit

downtown portsmouth tree lighting

The Tree Lighting is one of Portsmouth’s most magical events, and certainly the most iconic event of the season. Count down with the surrounding community until the moment the lights go on, then let the fun continue with a festive holiday parade through Market Square. If you want to get into the Christmas spirit, well, that’s the way to do it!

You Can Take a Historic Candlelight Stroll

candles along a path

Step back through time to a Christmas long ago at the Strawberry Banke Museum’s 40th Annual Candlelight Stroll. Amble along dirt lanes lined in candles as you admire beautiful historic homes and costumed actors—along with musical and theatrical performances.

The Shops Downtown Will Be Dressed for the Season

charming christmas shop

Even just wandering around the Downtown shops will get you feeling the holiday spirit! Evergreens and 19th-century brick storefronts paint a picture of holiday cheer, and the shops themselves will be displaying their finest wares and gifts. And it’s not uncommon to find a little of the shopkeepers’ holiday spirit here and there—warm cider, fresh-baked cookies, hot cocoa…

The Kickoff Party is November 29!

christmas decor on the table

You’ve only got a few short weeks to wait before the holiday fun begins in earnest! The Kickoff Party is November 29 from 5 – 8pm at Discover Portsmouth. This event, presented by the Portsmouth Historical Society, is the official start of Vintage Christmas… and gives you a sneak peek at the 29th Annual Gingerbread House Competition.

Ready to Come Have Some Fun in Portsmouth?

Are you thinking of relocating to, retiring to, or buying a home in Portsmouth, NH? Then it’s time to contact Jim & Ann. We’d love to show you around the area to ensure you find the perfect home in just the right location.

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