Join us for the 2026 Holiday Season as we proudly present our 8th annual holiday celebration, Deck the Halls, a Museum-wide holiday installation!

Travel back in time to a castle filled with candlelight and lush, opulent textures inspired by the great medieval and Renaissance castles of Europe.

We are delighted to partner again with Elaine Quinn Interiors, a boutique residential interior design firm based in Manchester-by-the-Sea, to bring heightened inspiration and artistry to this year’s museum-wide holiday installation. Abundant greenery and sumptuous layers of décor create a richly immersive seasonal experience throughout the Museum.

Wander through rooms adorned with white birch and Christmas trees, sparkling fairy lights, hydrangea-lace garlands, and elegant bows, with each space transformed by its own unique holiday theme. This celebration also embraces the traditions of Hanukkah, with two beautifully displayed menorahs adding their own warm glow to the Museum’s festive splendor.  From nature’s bounty of fruits and greenery to the warm glow of candlelight, every detail creates a feast for the senses. Along the way, encounter a royal guard of nutcrackers, a gingerbread house replica of the Museum, and playful elves and gnomes up to mischief, adding a touch of whimsy for little ones.

In addition to the holiday installation, guests can enjoy the temporary exhibition, “Brave-Too-Much”: The Legend of John Coffee Hays. Guests should plan for approximately 60 minutes to fully experience the holiday installation and exhibition

Extended Tuesday and Thursday Tour Hours:
New this year, visitors can enjoy extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with last entry at 7:15 p.m. These extended guided and self-guided tour hours offer greater opportunities to experience the Museum after dark, when holiday décor glows with flickering candlelight and twinkling lights. Upon arrival, visitors will discover the path and outdoor Courtyard, arches and towers aglow with festive holiday lighting, creating a truly magical seasonal atmosphere. Visitors will have more time to explore the Museum’s holiday decorations and experience the beauty of this historic site after dark.

Guests should plan for approximately 60 minutes to take in the full holiday grandeur. Museum member benefits apply.

Pick Your Museum Experience

We offer multiple ways to enjoy the Museum throughout the holiday season.

Our Guided & Self-Guided Tour tickets include access to our parking lot for those arriving by personal vehicle. The Transit & Taxi Self-Guided Tour ticket is only for those arriving without the use of a personal vehicle.

Arrivals by Taxi or Transit Self-Guided Tours

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Past Deck The Halls: