As we all know, Christmas falls on a Wednesday this year, making the Holiday Winter Break extra long. While this may be exciting for the kids, for parents it can be a little overwhelming trying to plan activities to keep everyone occupied for a week plus, which is where this guide comes in. We also know if you’ve opted to visit or stay on island time for the holidays, it can be fun for us adults to find things to do that are a little outside of our normal programming – read on for our guide to the events coming up in the next 2 weeks!

 

Red Ticket Drawing

December 24th, 3-4pm

An annual tradition on Nantucket, the Red Ticket Drawing takes place in the afternoon on Christmas Eve. Continue to shop locally until the drawing and increase your chances of winning one of five $1000 prizes, or the $5000 grand prize!

 

Christmas Sing-A-Long

December 26th, 3pm

Join Paul Connors at the Saltmarsh Senior Center for a post-Christmas Sing-A-Long to keep the Christmas Spirit going!

 

MMA Night at the Museum

December 26th, Starts at 5pm

The Maria Mitchell Association is hosting their first ever overnight program at the museum! Space is limited to 8 children for this unique event, so book your child’s spot now. Drop your kiddos off at 5pm for a night a food, fun, games, a movie, and time the following morning to explore the museum until pick up at 11:30. Visit their website to reserve your spot, as well as details on pricing and what to bring for this overnight extravaganza!

 

Sipping With Sea Creatures

December 30th

Join AAN Artist Member Zoe Markham in an under the sea themed paint along! Markham will show participants all the elements of a beautiful composition, and everyone will go home with a completed piece. All materials provided. This is a 21+ event and as an added bonus to foster inspiration, there will be a cash bar.

 

Winter Discovery Camp

December 30th – January 3rd, 8:50am – 1pm

Join the MMA this winter break as they explore animal extremes in the natural world! Discover how bio luminescence works in the deepest parts of the oceans, how Artic terns survive the longest migration in the skies, how the largest (and smallest) critters in the world live, and so much more. Activities include experiments, crafts, games, and field trips to different areas and habitats of the island. This camp is appropriate for children ages 6 – 12.

 

Holiday Homes Tour

November 29th – December 30th, 11am – 4pm

Tour three NHA historical homes decorated for the holiday season! Featured homes beautifully decorated in festive trimmings for the holiday season include the Hadwen House at 96 Main, the Thomas Macy House at 99 Main, and Greater Light at 8 Howard.

 

Kids In The Kitchen Winter Break Workshop

January 2nd

Send your kids to join Chef Greg during Winter Break for an exploration in culinary techniques and styles. This series will teach age appropriate skills, such as knife, stove, cleanliness and proper table service. Participants will prepare portions of the meal throughout the week, culminating in a family meal service by the students on Thursday, January 2nd at 6pm. Appropriate for kids 8 – 14 year old. Limited to 12 kids. Aprons will be provided for wear during class. Please tie long hair back and wear closed toe shoes.

 

Family Fun at the Atheneum

December 31st, 12pm – 4pm

Spend your day at the Atheneum for several family friendly events. First up, drop by the gallery to make a vision board showing your goals and intensions for 2020. Admission is free, all materials are provided and all ages are welcome! After creating your vision board, head over to the Great Hall for a family friendly magic show!

 

Winter Walk

January 4th

If you’re looking to get outside this Holiday Winter Break, consider joining the team at Nantucket Conservation Foundation for a walk through the Squam Farm property. This 1.6 mile trail winds through open fields, hidden forests, and sphagnum bogs for a truly beautiful winter walk!