Time to Celebrate

Temperatures are falling, the days grow shorter, perhaps a flurry or two of snow is in our near future, and so our thoughts turn to friends, family, and great food as we prepare for the holidays. It’s a busy time of year, to be sure, but also a time to reflect on all that we are grateful for—and Concord and our many friends here are at the tops of our list, for sure.

As you stroll through Concord Center, West Concord Junction, and Thoreau Depot, you will undoubtedly notice the charm, character, and friendly vibe of our many shops and restaurants. This time of year is fun, festive, and filled with holiday magic. That makes shopping locally a true pleasure. We hope this Guide to Holiday Gift Giving will inspire you to start your holiday shopping right at home. Supporting our local shopkeepers, restauranteurs, artisans, and other small businesses ensures a dynamic and fun place to gather for years to come.

Concord is buzzing this winter, and the fun is calling! Turn to p. 14 for “Holiday Celebrations Around Town.” The festivities start in November (no, it’s definitely not too early to start your holiday shopping), and the coming months will include events sure to get you in the holiday mood. Enjoy the beautiful shop window decorations, the warm and hearty dishes being served up in local restaurants, the enticing holiday strolls, parades, and both a menorah lighting and a tree lighting ceremony.

It’s a giving time of year – and this also includes giving back to the non-profit organizations that preserve our historic and cultural heritage, educate adults and children, support mental health, feed hungry families, and do so many other good works. Your donation supports them as they plan another year of making Concord a great place to live and visit. Turn to p. 58 for our “Guide to Charitable Giving” as you consider your annual donations.

For those who love the brisk days of winter, as did Henry David Thoreau, we have some suggestions on where to ski, snowshoe, hike, sled, and more. Have a look at “Celebrate Winter – Concord Outdoor Adventures Await“ on p. 48. Then, grab your mittens and head outside.

If keeping warm and cozy is more your style, turn to p. 40 and find more than a dozen indoor ideas, from art exhibitions to concerts, live theater, and more.

We look forward to seeing you around town this holiday season. And most of all, we would like to take a moment to truly thank you, our readers, as well as the amazing authors, historians, artists, photographers, advertisers, sponsors, and so many others who make each issue of Discover Concord special. We wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season.

Cynthia L. Baudendistel Co-Founder

Jennifer C. Schünemann Co-Founder