Updated for 2024. Itโs time to get away to the Berkshires for the holidays. The holidays can be a hectic and fun-filled time of the year. So, before you get all caught up in baking, decorating, shopping, and planning, take a break. Allow yourself to step back and rethink your strategy for making the most of the season. Sometimes, a venue change brings a new sense of purpose, and taking a short getaway can make all the difference.
The holiday season’s magic shines brightly in the Berkshires. Ourย stately English country inn in the hills of western Massachusetts gets all dressed up for the season. A roaring fire in the fireplace and festive decorations throughout set the tone for an extraordinary getaway for family, friends, and couples. But beyond the warmth and comfort of the Inn lies a wealth of new experiences to put the sparkle in your holiday. So, ho, ho, ho, here we go!
1. New Shops in the Berkshires to Explore
Shopping for the holidays can be tricky. If you do the mall crawl, your options are limited to the big box stores. And if you shop online, youโll have the added stress of hoping everything arrives in time. But, if you combine shopping with a little getaway, your shopping spree becomes an adventure.
With dozens ofย small boutiques, antique shops, and designer outlet stores to browse in Lee, Lenox, and Stockbridge, youโre sure to unearth the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Plus, you might just find a little something for yourself. Here are a few suggestions for holiday shopping in the Berkshires.
- Lee Premium Outlets
- Retro Pop Shop, Lee, MA
- Finders Keepers, Lee, MA
- Charles Flint Art and Antiques, Lenox, MA
- Heirloom Jewelry, Stockbridge, MA
- Route 102 Trading Post, Lee, MA
- Finders Keepers, Lee, MA
- Karen Keenan Gifts and Home, Lee, MA
2. Be Dazzled by Berkshires Sound and Light Shows
Dazzling fairy-tale lights twinkling in the night sky like tiny fireworks bring childlike glee to everyone. Bundle up for two spectacular evening light shows at the Berkshires’ most historic homes, Naumkeag andย Edith Whartonโs estate, The Mount. Both feature thousands of lights strung among the gorgeous grounds of these historic properties and transport you to an otherworldly experience. Purchase your tickets online for these very popular holiday events in the Berkshires.
Stroll through Hancock Shaker Village during their Radiant Nights display for a different take on a holiday light show. A local artist projects videos on many historic buildings, lighting the night uniquely and beautifully.
3. Bring Home a Fresh Christmas Tree
Perfume your home this season with a fresh Christmas tree that you cut yourself at one of our local tree farms. The hunt for the perfect tree is part of the fun. Fir, balsam, or spruce, the top three trees for the holidays, thrive in the hills of the Berkshires.
- Crane Hill Tree Farm, Washington, MA
- Seekonk Tree Farm, Great Barrington
4. Find Inspiration in the Berkshires for Holiday Decorating
If you need inspiration or a new take on holiday decorating, take a holiday house tour at The Mount. Edith Whartonโs historic estate offers self-guided tours throughout the holiday season. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, you will need advance tickets to attend. Step back in time and revel in the holiday dรฉcor of the Gilded Age.
5. Sample the Eclectic Offerings of Our Berkshires Food Scene
Dining out is one of the best parts of a getaway. With ever-emerging menu options andย an array of dining choices in the Berkshires, you could take a trip around the world by visiting a new spot every night. Live to eat or eat to live; itโs up to you.
Add a Little Romance to Your Holiday Season
You’ll find all the right makings for romance with a stay at Devonfield Inn in the Berkshires for the holidays. Working fireplaces and jetted tubs will keep you warm. Spacious and elegant common rooms so you can curl up and watch the snowfall. A hearty breakfast will start your day, and complimentary cordials and cognac may end it.
Take our advice and plan a holiday getaway before your calendar fills with family gatherings and holiday parties. Weโre confident youโll find our 5 reasons to get away to the Berkshires for the holidays an inspiration toย book your getaway soon. And we hope youโll come back in every season.
Photo Credit: ยฉ lisegagne via canva.com, ยฉ Lorado via canva.com