There’s something about the simplicity of Shaker design and traditions that seems perfectly in keeping with ideas of an old-fashioned holiday season.
Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield, Mass., is a museum, a working farm and the oldest Shaker village in New England. Ironically, perhaps, this year they are stepping away from the more muted Shaker traditions of days gone by and adding some sparkle and pizzazz.
But perhaps this is just the incentive we all need to travel to Pittsfield, Mass., to see the 19th-century enclave, with its famous round barn.
In addition to the gloriously simple furniture and buildings, this holiday season there will “art light projections” throughout the festively festooned grounds.
Visitors can peek at the donkeys, sheep and other animals (most of which will be dozing off by the time the light show begins). There will also be a show of never-before-seen Shaker miniatures.
There will be an outdoor firepit, and adult cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages will be served.
Hancock Holiday Nights runs Dec. 12 and 16 through 19, and Dec. 27 through 29. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for children 6-18, and free for 5 and under. Advanced purchase of timed tickets is required. (Tickets are not required for children ages 2 and younger.) Entrance to the Village is ticketed in 15-minute increments between 5 and 8 p.m. Find out more at www.hancockshakervillage.org.
