Suddenly, it seems as though everyone on social is unpacking decorations, posting about wreath making, or baking tree-shaped cookies with sprinkles on top. If you’ve been anxiously awaiting that time when you can fully embrace your love of Christmas, or at least fill your feeds with seasonal cheer, let me say that since Thanksgiving is so late this year, this week is perfectly acceptable for unleashing your inner Buddy Elf. So bundle up, grab your person, and enjoy one or all of these classic local destinations.

Christmas Tree Hugger

Birch, please! So maybe you have an artificial tree on standby this year. You'll still get Insta cred when you upload from somewhere like the tree farm where KJP and Sarah Vickers tied the knot* back in 2015. Grab your most ruggedly stylish ankle boots, a plaid flannel that channels L.L. Bean by way of The Kooples, your fave human and hustle on over.

*It was Henry's Tree Farm in Hope, Rhode Island, and Billy Gilman was spotted there last winter too. Just wanted to save you the time you would’ve spent Googling.

It’s Mint To Be

The oldest still in operation chocolate makers in Rhode Island (That would be Sweenor’s!) are hosting their annual holiday open house at their original location in Wakefield this Sunday, December 1st. Hang out and get a peak behind the scenes at their candy cane making process. (I’ve always been curious…how ‘bout YOU?) Word is that SC will be making an appearance as well.

PS ~ They will also be collecting canned goods for the Johnny Cake Center, so bring along something to help out those in need.

Pencil In A Meet & Greet With Santa

Because you’ve been good-ish this year: The big man in the red suit is ready, set, go starting Nov. 30th in a pretty authentic looking cabin at Garden City Center in Cranston, and the forecast is merry and bright. Extra points if you bring along a photogenic pup (It doesn’t have to be yours, but he or she should be super friendly and not afraid of jolly ole Saint Nick.) for your photos with Father Christmas. Also, I can’t think of a better time to pop over to Starbucks for a hot chocolate in one of their fun holla day cups.

Have A Tree-mendous Christmas

Can’t make it to Rockefeller Center this time around? Don’t get your tinsel in a tangle - the tree lighting at the Ocean House is this Saturday (November 30th), it’s open to the public, and it’s pretty spectacular! The year we were there Santa arrived by fire truck, there were made on the premises WARM chocolate chip cookies, and even a choir belting out carols. Bonus points if you think you *MIGHT* have spotted T. Swift in the vicinity.

*Pssst, this post has been updated and revised from one that appeared previously on the site.