Cape Cod’s charming town of Falmouth transforms into a winter wonderland every December, thanks to the annual Holiday by the Sea celebration organized by the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce. This festive event brings locals and visitors together for a magical experience filled with lights, holiday cheer, and traditional New England festivities.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of Holiday by the Sea in Falmouth this December.

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The Magic of Holiday by the Sea

Holiday by the Sea is a beloved tradition in Falmouth, inviting people to soak up the holiday spirit amidst  coastal scenery. Throughout December, the town lights up with festive decorations, and the event calendar is packed with family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect getaway for anyone looking to experience Cape Cod’s warm holiday atmosphere, whether you're coming for a weekend or staying longer.

Festivities to look forward to...

 

1. Nobska Lighthouse Holiday Open House
Friday, December, 6, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Sponsored by Friends of Nobska Light, Inc.

Take the CCRTA trolley from Woods Hole Village to Nobska Point to meet Mrs. Claus and enjoy festive holiday music by The Brass Ring ensemble. Warm up in the newly renovated Keepers House with cocoa and cookies provided by Coffee Obsession, color a Nobska-inspired portrait by local artist Karen Rinaldo (Gallery on Main), and experience the lighthouse tower illuminated at night!
Note: Arrival is by trolley only, with no public parking available. Rain or shine

For ADA accommodations, please reserve in advance by emailing outreach@friendsofnobska.org.

2. Caroling in Woods Hole Village
Friday, December 6, 5:30 pm
Sponsored by: Patriot Party Boats

Join us at Falmouth Harbor near The Band Shell on Scranton Avenue as we welcome Seafaring Santa and enjoy festive performances by the Falmouth High School Chorus. Candy canes will be handed out to all the kids! Rain or shine 

3. 13th Annual GhELF Run
Saturday, December 7, 3:00 pm
Sponsored by Ghelfi's Candies of Cape Cod

Put on your most festive holiday “jingle bells” outfit and join us for the GhELF Run, starting and finishing on Main Street! Kids 12 and under can enjoy a half-mile run, and everyone gets jingle bells to wear. Rain or shine

4. 13th Annual Jingle Jog 5K
Saturday, December 7, 3:30 pm
Sponsored by: Falmouth Road Race, Inc.

Dress in your most festive “jingle bells” outfit to run the course, starting and ending on Main Street! With the possibility of running at twilight, be sure to wear reflective gear. Jingle bells will be provided for everyone. Rain or shine 

Click here for course map: jingle_jog_course_route_2024.jpg

6. Falmouth Village Holiday Stroll
Saturday, December 7, starts at 4:30 pm
Sponsored by Falmouth Village

Come celebrate the season at the Annual Holiday Stroll, hosted by the Falmouth Village Association! Explore unique gifts at local shops, enjoy delicious dining, and be serenaded by the Dickens Carolers. Cheer on the runners in the Jingle Jog 5k and Kids GhELF Run, visit Santa on the Library Lawn, and follow him to the Lighting of the Village Green. Watch live ice sculpting, capture memories on the Cape Cod Photo Bus, and enjoy live music and performances by Turning Pointe dancers. Don’t miss face painting and all the festive fun! Join us for this magical evening of holiday cheer on Falmouth’s beautiful Main Street. Rain or shine

7. Lighting of the Village Green
Saturday, December 7, 6:00 pm
Sponsored by Martha's Vineyard Bank Charitable FoundationFalmouth Chamber of Commerce & Falmouth Department of Public Works

Main Street and the Falmouth Village Green will be decked out for Christmas, creating a magical holiday wonderland you won’t want to miss! Gather with family and friends for the special moment that lights up the Village Green, kicking off the holiday season with festive cheer. Enjoy holiday caroling led by the Falmouth Town Band Brass and Falmouth Chamber Director, Betsy West, followed by a special visit from Santa himself. Bundle up, bring a flashlight, and don’t forget your holiday spirit! Rain or shine
 
8. 61st Annual Falmouth Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade
Sunday, December 8, Noon 
Sponsored by Cape Cod 5 & Falmouth Chamber of Commerce
Float Sponsor: Chapman Funerals & Cremations
 
Gather your family, friends, and guests for the BEST and largest Christmas Parade in all of Southeast New England! Presented by the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce for the 60th consecutive year, this parade will be led by our own Falmouth Town Crier, David Vieira. Under this year’s theme, “Sights and Sounds of the Holidays,” the parade steps off at noon from Dillingham Avenue and Davis Straits, making its way down Main Street to the Village Green. Enjoy festive floats, marching bands, costumed characters, and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus! Don’t forget to smile for the cameras—FCTV will be filming the entire parade for local viewing. Rain or shine 
 
 

Tips for Making the Most of your Visit

Dress Warmly
December weather in Cape Cod can be chilly, so layer up! Bring a warm jacket, gloves, and a hat, especially if you’re planning to attend the parade or any outdoor events.

Arrive Early for Events
Falmouth’s holiday festivities attract many visitors, so it’s best to arrive early to get good spots, especially for the lighting of the Green and the Christmas Parade.

Check the Event Schedule
Visit the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce’s website for the latest schedule and details on all Holiday by the Sea events. Some activities may require reservations, so plan ahead! 
 
 

Holiday by the Sea is a fantastic way to experience the warmth and joy of the holiday season on Cape Cod. With festive lights, delightful events, and the cozy charm of Falmouth, this December celebration is bound to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

So pack your winter gear, bring your holiday cheer, and get ready to make beautiful memories by the sea in Falmouth this holiday season!

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M. Parent

Written by M. Parent