Get festive this holiday at Strawbery Banke’s “Candlelight Stroll”, weekends in December!
As Strawbery Banke celebrates Portsmouth NH’s quadricentennial, Candlelight Stroll invites visitors to step into the past and experience 400 years of seasonal and holiday traditions in the Puddle Dock neighborhood.
The Museum’s furnished historic houses are adorned with handmade decorations created from greens and dried flowers from the Museum’s heirloom gardens. Visitors call upon the many families who once lived in the waterfront neighborhood – portrayed by costumed roleplayers – who share stories, customs, and seasonal traditions. While traveling from house to historic house, the glow of hundreds of candle lanterns light the way as guests enjoy seasonal greetings from wandering musicians and performers who recreate the traditions of times past.
Additionally enjoy hot apple cider, a warming bonfire, an old-fashioned holiday shopping experience at Pickwick’s at the Banke, and Ice Dance International’s Currier and Ives Vintage Skaters for several performances at Labrie Family Skate at Puddle Dock Pond each night (Fridays and Saturdays at 6:00 & 7:30 PM & Sundays at 5:00 & 6:30 PM) of this treasured event.
Candlelight Stroll Dates & Times
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 5-9 PM
Sunday, December 3, 2023, 4-8 PM
Friday, December 8, 2023, 5-9 PM
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 5-9 PM
Sunday, December 10, 2023, 4-8 PM
Friday, December 15, 2023, 5-9 PM
Saturday, December 16, 2023, 5-9 PM
Sunday, December 17, 2023, 4-8 PM
Candlelight Stroll occurs in rain, snow, or by starlight.
Tickets:
Tickets are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Advanced ticket purchase is strongly recommended as always this year’s event is expected to sell out.
- Adults*: $32
- Children (ages 5–17)*: $16
- Children (5 and under): Free
*Strawbery Banke Members receive first access to purchase and 50-100% off the ticket price!
For 44 years, Candlelight Stroll has told the stories of the holidays and winter traditions celebrated in the Puddle Dock neighborhood. From New Year’s with the Chase family in 1819, to a grand Victorian Christmas with the Goodwin’s in 1870, and Hanukkah with the Shapiros in 1919, winter celebrations brought family and friends together. Commonalities such as eating special foods, singing, game-playing, and visiting relatives connect the shared experiences of this diverse neighborhood. Candlelight Stroll is an event that for many has become a tradition of its own.
Strawbery Banke’s “Candlelight Stroll”
14 Hancock Street, Portsmouth NH (603) 433-1100
