Discover Concord's 2024 Guide to Holiday Gift Giving by Discover Concord MA

“I

- Concord Resident

Holidays The Are Here!

TThe holiday season is here, and Concord is bursting with festive magic! It’s a time for families, friends, and neighbors to come together, and there’s no better place to celebrate than right here in our charming town. From beloved traditions like the enchanting Family Trees exhibit at the Concord Museum to the warm glow of the menorah display in the windows of Debra’s Natural Gourmet, Concord is ready to welcome you with open arms.

Get ready for a whirlwind of holiday fun—open houses, craft fairs, holiday strolls, and so much more! For all the details, flip to p. 14 and start planning your perfect holiday adventure.

And the excitement doesn’t stop when the holidays do! Concord stays vibrant all winter long with live music, theater performances, engaging lectures, and endless fun. Check out p. 28 for “Winter Events to Light Up the Season”—it’s packed with activities that will keep the spirit of the season alive.

As you immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, don’t forget to shop local! Whether you’re strolling the quaint streets of Concord Center and West Concord in search of that perfect gift or shopping from the cozy comfort of your home, supporting local businesses makes a huge impact. Be sure to explore our “Where to Shop, Eat, and Stay” guide in this issue, complete with walking maps to help you navigate your holiday shopping.

And as the year draws to a close, let’s remember the heart of our community—Concord’s charitable organizations. These incredible groups fuel the programs and institutions we all treasure, and they need our support now more than ever. Find a list of some of our favorite local charities on page 56 and consider adding them to your holiday gift-giving plans.

We wish you a joyous, festive, and healthy holiday season filled with laughter, love, and plenty of holiday cheer!

Cynthia L. Baudendistel Co-Founder

Jennifer C. Schünemann Co-Founder

© Pierre Chiha Photographers

From our Family at

Happy Holidays from Our Family at The Attias Group!

As the holiday season approaches, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for being a part of this community. Whether you are celebrating with family, friends, or in the comfort of your own home, we hope this time is filled with warmth, joy, and cherished memories.

Thank you for trusting us. We look forward to advising you and representing your family’s real estate interests. Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

Warm wishes,

Zur Attias

Cynthia

CO-FOUNDER

Jennifer C. Schünemann

ART

DISTRIBUTION

Wilson

ADVISORY

Kathi

Bobbi

Patricia

Kathleen

Marie

Professor

Helen

Lisa

Eileen

David

2024 Guide to Holiday Gift Giving

ANTIQUES

23 Bobbi Benson Antiques

68 Northeast Numismatics (Coins)

30 North Bridge Antiques

FINE ARTS, GUITARS, CUSTOM FRAMING & ART SUPPLIES

13, 60 Albright Art Supply

42 Barbara Willis, Artist

51 Clay Art + Concept

67 Frame-ables

42 Deborah Richardson, Artist

42 Jean Lightman, Artist

42 Jill Goldman-Callahan, Artist

42 Kim Blodgett, Artist

42 Lois T. Andersen, Artist

42 Louise Arnold, Artist

13, 70 Minuteman Guitars

42 Sarah Paino, Artist

47 Pierre Chiha Photographers

54 Three Stones Gallery

BOOKS, BOOKSHOPS & EDUCATION

25 Barefoot Books

32 Barrow Bookstore

71 Concord Bookshop

56 Concord Carlisle Adult & Community Education

69 Concord’s Wright Tavern – The Book

65 Discover Concord Gift Subscriptions

11 The Fenn School

57, 59 Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House

55 The Thoreau Society Shop at Walden Pond

69 The Year 2000 – The Book

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

61 Blue Dry Goods

50 Loveday

67 Nesting

49 Reflections

32 Sara Campbell Ltd.

LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION

ECLECTIC, FUN & A BIT OF WHIMSY

17 Artisans Way

32 Barrow Bookstore

65 The Bee’s Knees British Imports

51 Clay Art + Concept

60 Debra’s Natural Gourmet

50 Joy Street Life + Home

57, 59 Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House

50 Loveday

67 Nesting

68 Northeast Numismatics (Coins)

55 Patina Green

51 Puck and Abby 13, 32 Revolutionary Concord

EXPERIENTIAL GIFTS

55 Camden Writers

64 Concord Museum

24 Concord Players

68 Concord Visitor Center

69 Concord Walking Tours

24 Cruise Planners

39 Incognito Global Travel

57, 59 Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House

47 Pierre Chiha Photographers

43, 57 The Umbrella Arts Center

32 West Concord Holiday Stroll

59 The Writer’s Retreat at Thoreau Farm

FLORISTS & HOLIDAY GREENERY

71 Concord Flower Shop 13, 30, 60 Verrill Farm

HOME FURNISHINGS & DÉCOR

17 Artisans Way

65 The Bee’s Knees British Imports

51 Clay Art + Concept

30 Comina

67 First Rugs

54 Lawless Upholstery and Furnishings

55 Patina Green

51 Puck and Abby

13 WTI Shading Solutions

JEWELRY

18, 53 Artinian Jewelry

17 Artisans Way

17 Fairbank and Perry Goldsmiths

50 Loveday

71 Merlin’s Silver Star

54 Three Stones Gallery

LODGING

5 Concord’s Colonial Inn

31 Inn at Hastings Park

PHILANTHROPY

66 Concord 250 Gift Fund

56 Concord Art

56 Concord Carlisle Adult & Community Education

56 Concord Conservatory of Music

59 Concord Free Public Library Corporation

24, 56 Concord Players

57 Concord Scout House

57 Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area

56 Friends of Minuteman National Park

56 The Friends of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery

57, 59 Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House

57 The Trustees of Reservations

43, 57 The Umbrella Arts Center

57, 58 Wright Tavern

REAL ESTATE & CUSTOM BUILDERS

7 Anderson Landscape Construction

1 Appleton Design Group

3 The Attias Group

13 Aubuchon Realty Company (ARC)

IFC, 72 Barrett Sotheby’s Int’l Realty

61 Carlton Willard Village

OBC Compass

9 The Domus Group

26 Driscoll Contracting

41 Inkstone Architects

19 LandVest

13 Omni Properties

IBC Platt Builders

27 William Raveis

RESTAURANTS & CATERING

52 Adelita

5 Concord’s Colonial Inn

60 Debra’s Natural Gourmet

71 Nosh by Concord Market

71 Farfalle

34 Fiorella’s

52 West Concord Wine & Spirits

33 Woods Hill Pier 4

49 Woods Hill Table

SERVICES

55 Camden Writers

68 Concord Funeral Home

24 Cruise Planners

13 Dee Funeral Home

67 Frame-ables

39 Incognito Global Travel

13 Middlesex Savings Bank

67 North Bridge Resources

47 Pierre Chiha Photographers 13, 48 West Concord Shopping Plaza

SPECIALTY FOOD & WINE SHOPS

23 Concord Cheese Shop

50 Concord Teacakes

65 The Bee’s Knees British Imports

60 Debra’s Natural Gourmet 22, 33 Dunkin’

71 Farfalle 13, 30, 60 Verrill Farm

49 Vintages

52 West Concord Wine & Spirits

STOCKING STUFFER IDEAS

13, 60 Albright Art Supply

32 Barrow Bookstore

65 The Bee’s Knees British Imports

61 Blue Dry Goods

51 Clay Art + Concept

71 Concord Bookshop

13, 61 The Concord Toy Box

60 Debra’s Natural Gourmet

65 Discover Concord Gift Subscriptions

22, 33 Dunkin’

71 Farfalle

50 Joy Street Life + Home

57, 59 Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House

71 Merlin’s Silver Star

67 Nesting

55 Patina Green

51 Puck and Abby 13, 32 Revolutionary Concord

55 The Thoreau Society Shop

at Walden Pond

43, 57 The Umbrella Arts Center

THANKSGIVING TURKEY & FIXIN’S

13, 30, 60 Verrill Farm

TOYS 13, 61 Concord Toy Box

Spread Some Holiday Cheer This Season

Support Your Local Shops and Restaurants

Here’s how much of your $100 purchase stays in your community when you spend at . . .

Source: American Independent Business Alliance

2024 Holiday Celebrations Around Town

Craft Fair at the Hunt Recreation Center

Nov 16 | 9 am – 2 pm

Don’t miss the annual Craft Fair, where creativity comes to life! Explore a diverse selection of handmade goods from local artisans, including unique jewelry, home décor, artwork, and more. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for the perfect gift, there’s something for everyone.

ConcordRec.Myrec.com

Early Bird Pajama Party at Debra’s Natural Gourmet

Nov 23 | 5 – 9 am

Put on your most festive pjs and head to Debra’s for their annual early bird sale. Take advantage of great discounts to stock up on Thanksgiving and holiday favorites. Then stroll along Commonwealth Avenue and visit the many other shops that join in the fun of this early bird pre-Thanksgiving tradition.

DebrasNaturalGourmet.com

The 29th Annual Family Trees:

A Celebration of Children’s Literature

Nov 27 – Jan 1

Tuesday – Friday: 10 am – 4 pm

Saturday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm

This annual family-focused event celebrates children’s books and a love of reading through dozens of decorated story trees. Each tree features hand-made decorations inspired by a picture book. Visitors can explore the artistic trees and families can sit and read together or do a festive scavenger hunt. Related events, including An Afternoon with Authors & Illustrators, Costume Character Day, and Holiday Members’ Night will take place in December. ConcordMuseum.org

Family Trees

Concord Turkey Trot

Nov 28 | 8:30 am

Kick off your Thanksgiving holiday by joining the 2024 Concord Turkey Trot! All proceeds support Open Table, so why not come out and walk or run for a great charity? MarxRunning.com/concord-turkey-trot

Concord Center Tree Lighting

Dec 1 | 3 – 6 pm

Head down to Concord Center for a day of exciting holiday events. There will be vendors and performers throughout the day. The Concord Players will be singing carols from 3:45 - 4:15 pm on the Walden Street Post Office steps. Inside The Performing Arts Center at 51 Walden Street, enjoy festive music from The Concord Band along with hot cocoa and refreshments, followed by the traditional parade to Monument Square that begins at 4:50 pm to greet Santa and light the tree. VisitConcord.org

Menorah Display at Debra’s Natural Gourmet | Dec 1 – 31

Stop by and admire the remarkable collection of menorahs held in trust for the community. This tradition, begun 35 years ago by Debra Stark is continued by her son, Adam, to share the Festival of Lights with all. DebrasNaturalGourmet.com

Gingerbread House Display | Dec 1 - 31

The Concord Free Public Library will once again display Dr. Andrea Resciniti’s stunning holiday gingerbread house. Come and be inspired to create your own work of art for the holidays. ConcordLibrary.org

Candlelight Christmas at The Old Manse Dec 6, 7, 13 & 14 | 5:30 pm - 8 pm

Celebrate the season and enjoy the warm glow of candlelight at The Old Manse Museum as you explore the house decorated for Christmas. Learn about how residents celebrated Christmas through the centuries. Warm up with hot cider and cookies in the gift shop while you finish your holiday shopping. TheTrustees.org/theoldmanse

Winter Market at The Umbrella Arts Center | Dec 6 – 8

A holiday tradition! The Winter Market features dozens of local and regional artists displaying unique, handmade pieces. There are demonstrations by the artists, live music, a holiday café, and much more. TheUmbrellaArts.org

Courtesy of the Concord Players

Holiday Tree Lighting

The Concord Players caroling

Courtesy of the Town of Concord

The 14th Annual Holiday House Tour

Dec 7

Get in the holiday spirit and discover inspiration for decorating your own home at the 14th Annual Holiday House Tour! Visit six of Concord’s most beautiful homes, festively decorated for the holiday season. The tour will highlight historical homes in honor of the approaching 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. ConcordMuseum.org

An Old-Fashioned Christmas at Orchard House | Dec 7 – 15

Dec 7 and 14: 10 am – 5 pm

Dec 8 and 15: 11 am – 5 pm

Visit with the Alcotts, their notable neighbors, and faithful friends while they prepare for holiday celebrations. Enjoy interacting with living history portrayers as they share Alcott traditions, and savor the cozy, fun-loving ambiance of the household from days gone by. Live music and caroling, theatricals and tableaux, along with take-home craft activities and unique mementos are all part of this heartwarming experience. LouisaMayAlcott.org

Chanukah Menorah Lighting Celebration

Dec 11 | 5 pm

The Town of Concord and Kerem Shalom present a Chanukah Menorah Lighting Celebration. Bring the family as the menorah is blessed and lit. Enjoy music, games, and more. Location to be determined. VisitConcord.org

Holiday Pops with the Firebird Pops Orchestra at The Umbrella Arts Center

Dec 13 – 15

Firebird Pops Orchestra and Firebird Vox Choir are back with another sensational holiday concert! TheUmbrellaArts.org

Holiday Pops with the Concord Band

Dec 14 | 7 – 9 pm

Holiday Pops returns with your favorite tunes, guest artists, and audience sing-alongs. It’s sure to be an evening to remember! ConcordBand.org

West Concord Holiday Stroll

Dec 14 | 10 am – 2 pm

Join in the magic of the holidays as Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus welcome you to

West Concord. Shops will be serving holiday treats, and you’ll find plenty of great sales to make holiday shopping a joy. VisitConcord.org

Jolabokaflod at Barrow Bookstore

Dec 23 – 24

Dec 23: 10 am – 5 pm

Dec 24: 10 am – 3 pm

Don’t miss this joyful celebration of the Icelandic tradition of receiving books on Christmas Eve and spending the night reading. Stop by the bookstore to pick up a free wrapped book and a packet of hot chocolate. Weather permitting, the books will be outside in Barrow’s book carts. In the case of bad weather, books will be available inside the store. BarrowBookstore.com

Jan Turnquist dressed as Louisa May Alcott

Courtesy of the Concord Museum

Holiday House Tour

Courtesy of Kerem Shalom

Chanukah Menorah Lighting Celebration 2023

Top of the Hill Estate | Concord, MA

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359.5± Acres | 3,390 Sq. Ft. | 5 Bedrooms | $2.9M

Keith Ross | 617.371.7316 | kross@landvest.com

J. Stanley Edwards | 617-948-8057 | jsedwards@landvest.com

Serenity Hill | Ashby, MA

98.41± Acres | 3,718 Sq. Ft. | 4 Bedrooms | $2.3M

Keith Ross | 617.371.7316 | kross@landvest.com

Abby Gurall White 617.851.0195 | awhite@landvest.com

J. Stanley Edwards 617.948.8057 | jsedwards@landvest.com

Keith Ross 617.371.7316 | kross@landvest.com

Contact our team today. 24 Main Street, Concord, MA 01742 landvest.com

The Wright Tavern After the War for Independence FOOD FOR THE HUNGRY:

BY TOM WILSON

AAfter the smoke cleared, the drums ceased, and the United States was founded, life in Concord started returning to a new normal. The Wright Tavern, built and opened in 1747, still operated as an inn and tavern, but conversations inside the tavern were now more about farming, prices, and town gossip. In 1776, while the Revolutionary War was gearing up, Daniel Taylor sold the tavern to Samuel Swan, a peruke-maker (wigs) from Charlestown, MA. Swan had moved to Concord after his home was destroyed during the Battle of Bunker Hill, seeking refuge and a place to restart his business. Swan’s nephews, William, John, and Thomas Kettell, accompanied Swan to Concord, and while the Wright Tavern continued to offer refreshments, the brothers started a small bakery in the basement. The Wright Tavern now had three businesses operating within

its walls. It was so successful that Swan expanded the ell, a part of the building off the main structure, by another fifteen feet as he made other improvements inside the building.

Then, in the 1790s, the Middlesex Hotel was built across the street from the Wright Tavern. People started frequenting the new place, with a larger bar, bigger rooms, a dance hall, and modern conveniences. While the Wright Tavern was quaint, it couldn’t compete, and soon the tavern services ceased. The final blow was when the Selectmen stopped meeting in Wright Tavern and moved to the Middlesex Hotel. Although the Selectmen were not paid for their services, whenever they met and enjoyed food and drink, these expenses were paid by the Town. It was a major loss to see these customers attend their business across the street.

Samuel Swan continued to struggle with the wig-making and bakery businesses, but when it was no longer financially sustainable, he sold the tavern in 1793 and returned to Charlestown. Reuben Brown, a saddler who had gone to Lexington to scout the advancing British army on April 19, 1775, bought the building. It appears he never occupied the building and likely used it as a store to sell bridles, horse collars, and harnesses. He sold it ten months later to Francis Jarvis.

Born in 1768, Jarvis apprenticed with John Richardson, a baker in Watertown, MA. Here he learned a trade that would define his career and change the course of the Wright Tavern.

Richardson and Jarvis moved to Concord, and Richardson built the Middlesex Hotel several years later. Jarvis served as a baker

and tavern keeper in the Hotel. Then, in 1793, at the age of twenty-five, Jarvis bought the Wright Tavern with his friend, Thomas Safford. Jarvis and Safford turned the Wright Tavern into a bakery. About five years later, Jarvis bought out Safford’s share and took control of the operation.

Jarvis is believed to have made major changes to the building, including removing one of the central chimneys and installing four Federalist-style fireplaces. The bakery became a successful business within the growing community of Concord, and Jarvis lived in the Wright Tavern with his wife, Millicent Hosmer, and their seven children.

After having survived serious economic changes following the war, Concord became more prosperous toward the end of the 18th century and beginning of the 19th century. When the Middlesex Court was in session, and the militia would gather and practice their drills on the town common, the community became a hive of activity. People would set up stalls and sell food and other produce of the season to people visiting the town. Merchants sold farm equipment and clothing items. Jarvis’ bakery products were very popular with the townspeople and visitors. It has been told that children skipped school to help sell Jarvis’ goods and participate in the festivities of the town. Concord also became an important stop for

people seeking refreshments on the route to and from Boston. While the Wright Tavern no longer provided the services of a tavern, Jarvis’ bakery was a place to get fresh bread and other goodies. The Wright Tavern was once again a center of activity for Concord.

Jarvis had only three months of formal education but read constantly. Early in his career, he considered abandoning the bakery business and going to Harvard but was talked out of it by his partner, Thomas Safford. His love of books, discussions, and learning never waned. Jarvis was an early member of the Concord Social Circle, a group of twenty-five gentlemen who met frequently to discuss town governance, economic issues, and ways to strengthen communication and a sense of community within the town. Jarvis also became a Deacon at the First Parish church. He once considered engaging in politics but decided that his bakery business and community activities needed this full attention.

The bakery business continued until 1805, when Jarvis’ health began to decline. Francis Jarvis brought his son, Francis, Jr., into the business to help. His health continued to decline, and he sold the Wright Tavern in 1839 to his son, Stephen, for $1. Stephen lived in New Orleans and hired operators for various businesses within the building. He sold Wright Tavern in 1853 to James Billings,

a livery and stables operator. Francis moved to Major John Buttrick’s farm and died in 1828 at the age of sixty.

Following the death of Francis Jarvis Sr., the Wright Tavern had a variety of owners and operators within its walls. It wasn’t until 1885 that the tavern was partially given, partially sold to First Parish in Concord by Reuben Rice and Judge Ebenezer Hoar. They were aware of its historic significance and felt that First Parish, as an institution, would be able to preserve and protect the building for generations to come. They also felt it would provide a good source of income for the church. Indeed, a few years later, and after much-needed repairs, the Wright Tavern opened again as a place for gatherings and refreshments. It operated as an inn and restaurant until the mid-1940s.

An early 1900s postcard displayed this slogan that captures the core spirit of the building: “The Wright Tavern: Food for the hungry, rest for the weary.”

For more information about the Wright Tavern, contact Tom Wilson at tom@ wrighttavern.org or visit the website at WrightTavern.org. Donations to support the continued preservation and development of the Wright Tavern are greatly appreciated.

Tom Wilson serves as chair of the Wright Tavern Legacy Trust and is the author of Concord’s Wright Tavern: At the Crossroads of the American Revolution.

Courtesy of the Wright Tavern

Francis Jarvis

Courtesy of the Wright Tavern

This Dunkin’ Runs on Concord

CConcord’s own Megan and Mark Pesce have been hard at work to launch their latest Dunkin’ restaurant at 794 Elm Street, just off Route 2. This flagship property clearly shows their love of Concord, inside and out. They have struck the perfect blend of taking the coffee, drinks, and food that makes Dunkin’ such a hallmark of New England - and wrapped it in a vibe that is all Concord.

On the outside, the farmhouse porch and classic New England architecture of their new building welcomes guests and echoes the history of the building that stood here for decades. “It was important to us to keep a sense of continuity in this area, while upgrading the property to include new environmental protections and efficiencies, as well as including a welcoming sense of design,” said Megan Pesce.

The new location is surprisingly easy to access. Elm street is fully accessible in both directions (you can turn left or right out of the parking lot), and the Baker Ave connection means that local drivers can avoid the Route 2 rotary to get their Dunkin’ on. Commuters heading in either direction along Route 2 can easily hop on or off to grab a quick coffee and a bite to fuel their day.

The inside of the new Dunkin’ is as charming as it is functional. A New England fireplace, with a reclaimed beam as a mantle, welcomes visitors to a bright, roomy dining area surrounded by beautiful photos of classic Concord destinations - Walden Pond, the North Bridge, Emerson House, the Wright Tavern, the Old Hill Burying Ground, and Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House are showcased alongside Concord area schools (with classic Dunkin’ treats, of course!).

“Locals may already know the work of talented photographer Kara Lyons,” said Megan. “She does a lot of school sports photography and senior photos in Concord, and I love her work. So, I invited her to collaborate with us to create this series that is playful and fun, while honoring Concord’s unique history and beauty.”

“People may not know that this Dunkin’ is owned and operated by a Concord family who loves this town,” said Mark Pesce. “We wanted to take advantage of this beautiful new space to showcase what makes Concord so amazing - because Concord is such an important part of who we are. We live here. Our kids went to school here - and we want to share this very special place with everyone who visits here.”

Megan, Mark, and the whole Dunkin’ crew can’t wait to show you their new space. Stop by their new store at 794 Elm Street – and tell them we sent you!

*This article made possible by the support of your locally owned and operated Dunkin’

Megan and Mark Pesce

North Bridge

Orchard House

Emerson House

The Cheese Shop is one of Concord’s best kept secrets, with eclectic cheeses from around the world, and shelves overflowing with highly giftable, impossible-to-find-elsewhere gourmet items, and a wine selection with something for everyone. Their delectable deli offers expertly crafted sandwiches, imported charcuterie, and ready-to-go meals and salads.

HOLIDAY BONUS: charcuterie & cheese platters. plus a holiday catering menu (Nov. & Dec.) to rescue anyone in need of mains or sides for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, or Christmas.

Looking for the perfect hostess gift or something to send to a loved one? Try a personalized gift baskets, gift cards, or the gift of a monthly cheese & charcuterie club.

A visit to the Concord Cheese Shop this holiday season is an absolute must!

Book and Lyrics

Greg Kotis

Music and Lyrics Mark Hollmann

Winter Events to Light Up the Season

Though the days may be cold and the nights long, Concord remains a vibrant town with events and activities to brighten the darkest of days.

ART IS THE PERFECT ESCAPE

Together We Shine

Three Stones Gallery

Nov 27 – Dec 31

ThreeStonesGallery.com

This is your destination for beautiful art and unique handmade items from outstanding artists: abstract and figurative art by Tim Dunnbier and Cécile Ganne, delicate florals by Alice Rosa, scratchboard animals by Karen Gaudette, as well as works on paper, photographic encaustics, jewelry, and petite paintings.

MUSIC WARMS THE COLDEST DAY Concert

Concord Chamber Music Society

ConcordChamberMusic.org

Nov 17 | 3 pm

Join musicians Lucia Li, Wendy Putnam, Kim Kashkashian, Christine Lee, and Marc-André Hamelin for an inspiring program of music.

Music & Identity: Your Listener Profile

Concord Conservatory

ConcordConservatory.org

Nov 22 | 7:30 pm

Why do you love the music that you do?

Join guest speaker Susan Rogers, record producer for Prince and Barenaked Ladies, Berklee College of Music professor, and author of the book This is What it Sounds Like, as she guides us through what it means to be an active participant of our own listening experience.

Umbrella Concert Series

TheUmbrellaArts.org

Nov 22

The Umbrella presents a new line-up of intimate concerts with up-and-coming young artists. In partnership with Salt Lick Sessions.

The Unknowable

Concord Orchestra

ConcordOrchestra.com

Dec 6 | 8 pm

Dec 7 | 8 pm

Brighten a winter evening with music by Lili Boulanger “D’un Matin de Printemps,” Gerald Finzi “The Fall of the Leaf,” Ralph Vaughan Williams “The Lark Ascending,” Piotr Tchaikovsky “March Slave,” and Jean Sibelius “Symphony No. 7.”

The Harper’s Song: A Ceremony of Carols

Concord Women’s Chorus

ConcordWomensChorus.org

Dec 7 | 4 pm

Benjamin Britten’s “A Ceremony of Carols,” scored for women’s voices and harp, sits at the heart of Concord Women’s Chorus’ December program of inspired, seasonal works. Marked by innocence, joy, and optimism, this magical sequence of carols is one of the composer’s most beloved works.

Concord Chorus Winter Concert

Concord Chorus

ConcordChorus.org

Dec 14 | 2 and 5 pm

The British army and New England colonists met in the Battles of Lexington and Concord 250 years ago, and they will meet again on much friendlier terms in this December’s concerts by the Concord Chorus.

Don Giovanni

Opera51

Opera51.org

Dec 21 | 7:30 pm

Dec 22 | 2 pm

This is one of Mozart’s most popular and enduring operas, presented in Opera51’s continuing tradition of offering non-holiday fare during the holidays to enrich your season. Performed in concert version with full orchestra, sung in Italian with projected English subtitles.

Po’ Ramblin’ Boys

Concord Conservatory

ConcordConservatory.org

Jan 25 | 7 pm

With authenticity, the music of The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys cuts right through the noise of the world and speaks plainly to the soul. Formed in 2014 in the Smoky Mountains, they are ambassadors of their genre, bringing their music from rural bluegrass festival stages to the rock clubs of Europe, and now to Concord Conservatory.

THEATER IS ALWAYS MAGICAL How I Learned to Drive

Concord Players

ConcordPlayers.org

Nov 8 – 23

Winner of the 1998 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, How I Learned to Drive is a darkly humorous and moving tale about a woman’s

complicated relationship with her charismatic uncle. The story follows Li’l Bit’s path from adolescence to adulthood as she discovers family secrets, navigates growing pains, and develops her own sense of right and wrong.

FASCINATING LECTURES OPEN NEW WORLDS

Mindprints: Thoreau’s Material Worlds

Concord Museum

ConcordMuseum.org

Nov 14 | 7 pm

Henry David Thoreau accumulated a variety of tools, art, and natural specimens throughout his life as a homebuilder, surveyor, and collector. Ivan Gaskell, professor of cultural history and museum studies at Bard Graduate Center and author of Mindprints: Thoreau’s Material World, will be joined by Concord Museum Curator David Wood for a conversation on Thoreau’s interactions with everyday objects and how they shaped his thought.

Ya’at’eeh: “Everything is Good” (Navajo Greeting)

Mass Audubon

MassAudubon.org

Dec 4 | 6:00 pm

Known for his intricate woodblock prints that draw on a variety of Native and pop cultural elements, Marwin Begaye will discuss how his work examines the issues of cultural identity through the intersection of American Indian and popular cultures. He will talk about his ongoing research which investigates the technical processes related to printmaking and construction of mixedmedia art.

Po’ Ramblin’ Boys

Courtesy of Mass Audubon

Marwin Begaye

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Did you know that all of the Dunkin’ locations in Concord are locally owned and operated?

So when you fuel up, or give the gift of delicious coffee from Dunkin’, you are supporting a Concord family too!

117 Thoreau St 1191 Main St, West Concord 1641 Sudbury Rd Now Open! 794 Elm Street

MAKE LIFE MORE DELICIOUS!

At Fiorella’s we put our passion for life and our love for hospitality into everything we do. Life is flavored by sweet moments, and we truly want you to cherish them all. Bring life’s best ingredients together with the ones you love, and savor every bite.

CONCORD & Surrounding Areas

WHERE TO SHOP

Acton

The

First Rugs

Concord

Albright

Artinian Jewelry

Artisans

Barrow

Blue

Bobbi

Brine

Comina

Concord

The

Concord

Fairbank

Gräem

Grasshopper

Rewind

Thistle Hill

Thoreauly Antiques

Three Stones Gallery

Vanderhoof Hardware

Walden Liquors

Walden Street Antiques

Area Farms Verrill Farm

Thoreau Depot ATA Cycles

Walden St

Main St

Walden St

West

Concord Flower Shop

Concord Outfitters

Debra’s Natural Gourmet

Doe + Fawn

Joy Street Life + Home

Commonwealth Ave

Lawless Upholstery and Furnishings 119 Commonwealth Ave

Loveday

Potager Soap Company 152 Commonwealth Ave

Puck and Abby 84a Commonwealth Ave

Reflections 101 Commonwealth Ave

Vintages 53 Commonwealth Ave

West Concord Shopping Plaza 1200 - 1224 Main St

West Concord Wine & Spirits 1215 Main St

WHERE TO EAT

Concord Center Caffè Nero

Main St Comella’s 33 Main St

Concord’s Colonial Inn 48 Monument Square

Fiorella’s Cucina 24 Walden St

Haute Coffee 12 Walden St

Helen’s Restaurant 17 Main St

Main Streets Market & Café 42 Main St

Sally Ann’s Bakery & Food Shop 73 Main St

Thoreau Depot

80 Thoreau 80 Thoreau St

Bandoleros 195 Sudbury Rd.

Bedford Farms Ice Cream 68 Thoreau St

Dunkin’ 117 Thoreau St

Farfalle Italian Market Café 26 Concord Crossing

Karma Concord Asian Fusion 105 Thoreau St

New London Style Pizza 71 Thoreau St

Sorrento’s Brick Oven Pizzeria 58 Thoreau St

Starbucks 159 Sudbury Rd

West Concord

Adelita 1200 Main St

Club Car Café 20 Commonwealth Ave

Concord Teacakes 59 Commonwealth Ave

Dino’s Kouzina & Pizzeria 1135 Main St

Dunkin’ 1191 Main St

Nashoba Brook Bakery 152 Commonwealth Ave

Saltbox Kitchen 84 Commonwealth Ave

Walden Italian Kitchen 92 Commonwealth Ave

West Village Tavern 13 Commonwealth Ave

Woods Hill Table 24 Commonwealth Ave

WHERE TO STAY

Concord Center

Concord’s Colonial Inn 48 Monument Sq

North Bridge Inn 21 Monument Sq

Lexington

Inn at Hastings Park 2027 Massachusetts Ave

West Concord

Residence Inn by Marriott 320 Baker Ave

Appleton Design Group

The Attias Group

Barefoot Books

Concord Flower Shop

Concord Teacakes

Debra’s Natural Gourmet

Dunkin’ (two locations)

Puck and Abby

Reflections

Verrill Farm Vintages

We are thrilled to be part of your community, and we’re here to help with all your travel plans whether you’re dreaming of a long vacation, a quick weekend getaway, a relaxing cruise, or something in between!

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Your dreams are our expertise, and creating unforgettable "wow" moments is what drives us Travel is just the beginning; with us, the possibilities are endless, and every experience is designed to inspire and enrich your journey

We steer you to the places and people who provide truly transformational travel e scout out re with our eye toward

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Every detail is curated to enrich your journey, ensuring you receive the finest in luxury and comfort By booking with us, you experience more than just a stay you enjoy a carefully crafted, elevated experience that leaves nothing to chance C

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We leverage our extensive personal relationships with top hotel managers, sales directors, & key insiders to deliver experiences beyond what’s available to the public

Our personalized concierge services are designed to simplify your life and turn your desires into reality From securing the best seats at exclusive events to arranging private, once-in-a-lifetime experiences we take care of every detail so you can fully immerse yourself in the moment.

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Milestone Celebrations Milestone Celebrations Honeymoons and Anniversaries Honeymoons and Anniversaries Wellness Escapes Wellness Escapes Flights and Private Aviation Flights and Private Aviation Ocean and River Cruising Ocean and River Cruising Meetings and Incentive travel Meetings and Incentive travel Yacht Charters Yacht Charters

HISTORIC CONCORD: Plan Your Visit

Concord has many historic sites of interest. Below is contact information for each, along with their hours of operation. Please check the website before visiting, as sites may be closed on holidays or for private events.

CONCORD FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Concordlibrary.org

Main Branch: 129 Main Street (978) 318-3300

Monday: 10 am – 8 pm

Tuesday through Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm

Friday and Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm

Open Sundays 1 pm - 5 pm

Special Collections: 129 Main Street (978) 318-3342

Monday: 10 am – 6 pm

Tuesday through Friday: 9 am – 5 pm

CONCORD MUSEUM

Concordmuseum.org

53 Cambridge Turnpike | (978) 369-9763

Through November 27

Tuesday - Sunday: 10 am - 4 pm

November 28 – January 1

Tuesday - Friday: 10 am - 4 pm

Saturday and Sunday: 10 am - 5 pm

Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day

January 2 – March 27

Thursday - Sunday: 10 am - 4 pm

Open MLK Day, Presidents’ Day, and February School Vacation Week

CONCORD VISITOR CENTER

Visitconcord.org

58 Main Street | (978) 318-3061

Through November 30

Every day: 9 am - 4 pm

December: Open weekends and holiday weeks

January/February: Open for private events, specialty tours, and group tours only

LOUISA MAY ALCOTT’S ORCHARD HOUSE

Louisamayalcott.org

399 Lexington Road | (978) 369-4118

Monday - Friday: 11 am - 3:30 pm

Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm

Sunday: 1 pm - 5 pm

MINUTE MAN NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

Nps.gov/mima/planyourvisit/ minute-man-visitor-center.htm

250 N. Great Road (Lincoln) | (781) 674-1920

Grounds are open year-round from sunrise to sunset. The Visitor Center is closed for the season.

THE NORTH BRIDGE & VISITOR CENTER

Nps.gov/mima/planyourvisit/ north-bridge-visitor-center.htm

174 Liberty Street | (978) 369-6993

Grounds are open year-round from sunrise to sunset. The Visitor Center is closed for the season.

OLD HILL BURYING GROUND

FreedomsWay.org/place/old-hillburying-ground 2-12 Monument Square

THE OLD MANSE

Thetrustees.org/place/the-old-manse 269 Monument Street | (978) 369-3909

Check the website or call for hours.

THE RALPH WALDO EMERSON HOUSE

Ralphwaldoemersonhouse.org

28 Cambridge Turnpike | (978) 369-2236

Closed for the season.

THE ROBBINS HOUSE Robbinshouse.org

320 Monument Street | (978) 254-1745

Closed for the season.

SLEEPY HOLLOW CEMETERY, INCLUDING AUTHORS RIDGE FriendsofSleepyHollow.org 120 Bedford Street | (978) 318-3233

SOUTH BRIDGE BOAT HOUSE

469 Main Street | (978) 369-9438

Closed for the season.

SOUTH BURYING GROUND

Concordma.gov/1958/SouthBurying-Ground Main Street and Keyes Road

WALDEN POND STATE RESERVATION

Mass.gov/locations/waldenpond-state-reservation 915 Walden Street | (978) 369-3254

Open daily – see website for hours

THE WAYSIDE

Nps.gov/mima

455 Lexington Road | (978) 369-6993

Call for hours and events

Kim

NOVEMBER 22, 7:30PM

The Umbrella Concert Series expands with Salt Lick Sessions, casual and intimate shows spotlighting some of your future-favorite musical acts emerging through the Salt Lick Incubator program (partner in last season’s Brandi Carlile concert). Discover multi-genre up-and-comers Tonina, Chance Emerson, and Micah Edwards, and watch for an announcement of our February 7 Salt Lick Headliner artist soon!

A GIFT OF ARTS! Want to give the art-lovers in your life something special this holiday? Why not give an exhilarating arts experience! The Umbrella now offers online Gift Certificates good toward any stage production, art class or workshop! TheUmbrellaArts.org/Gift-Certificates

Though we might gather in different ways, Christmas for many brings meaningful days.

Learn about different celebrations from around the globe.

Text and illustrations adapted from Joy to the World: Christmas Around the Globe (Barefoot Books), written by Kate DePalma and illustrated by Sophie Fatus.

Colombia

The Day of Little Candles

Dia de las velitas, the Day of Little Candles, is celebrated as a public holiday in Colombia on December 7. It marks the beginning of the Christmas season. Families light lanterns called faroles and small candles for Mary. These lights are placed on the streets, in windowsills, in parks and anywhere they can be seen. Many people walk through the cities, admiring the candles and festive decorations outside shops and homes.

Barefoot Books is an award-winning, 30-year-old independent children’s book publisher based in Concord, MA. Learn more by visiting www.barefootbooks.com.

Ethiopia

Genna

In the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, Christmas is celebrated on January 7 and is called Genna. Most Christians fast for 43 days before Genna, eating simple meals only once a day with no meat, dairy, eggs, or oil. When they break their fast, families eat around a basket-like table called the mesob. When the lid is removed, the mesob holds a feast for everyone to share. The practice of gursha is when one family member feeds another a large bite of food by hand.

Australia

Beach Picnic

Australia is in the southern half of the world, so it is summer at Christmastime. Over 80% of Australians live on the coast. Many families like to eat their Christmas meal outdoors, because the beach is often the coolest place to be on a hot day. The Boxing Day Test — one of the most anticipated cricket matches in the world — is held the day after Christmas. It features the Australian cricket team and an international team. Tickets sell out months in advance!

Lebanon

Nativity Scene

Families work together to create large Nativity scene in their homes, complete with fresh bean sprouts for greenery. These works of art often show the entire city of Bethlehem surrounding a cave where Mary and Joseph rest. At midnight on Christmas Eve, Jesus is placed in the crib to symbolize his birth. In Lebanon, Baba Noel brings gifts to children, especially those most in need. He doesn’t sneak in to hid gifts — he meets children face to face!

Serbia

Christmas Straw

Before Christmas Eve dinner, a badnjak is chosen and brought inside. A badnjak is an oak branch with its leaves still attached that is used in the fire on Christmas Eve. Once the badnjak has been collected and properly blessed, straw is scattered over the floor of the home, while the grown-ups imitate hens saying “kvo kvo kvo!” and drop little treats on the straw. The children peep “piji piju!” like chicks and search for the treats.

New Favorites for Your Holiday Table

MILLIONAIRE’S SHORTBREAD

1 cup plain flour

1/3 cup sugar (super fine sugar is best)*

1 ½ cups unsalted butter (divided)

Preheat the oven to 325° F.

14 oz sweetened condensed milk

4 tablespoons golden syrup

8 oz plain chocolate

Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.

Put the flour and sugar in a bowl and rub in 1 cup of the butter – the mixture will be sandy but malleable enough to form a ball shape. Press the mixture into the pan and press down. Prick it with a fork and bake for five minutes. Then lower the oven temperature to 300° F and cook for a further 30 minutes or until pale golden and no longer doughy. Leave to cool in the pan.

Melt the remaining butter in a pan over low heat for two to three minutes, then add the milk and syrup. Whisk the mixture until the butter is mixed in. Bring to a slow simmer, then, keeping the temperature even, cook for 10 minutes, stirring continuously, until the mixture is thickened and light brown. Pour the sauce over the shortbread and leave to set.

Break the chocolate into pieces and place in a microwaveable bowl. Microwave for one minute 45 seconds on high, or until fully melted, stirring halfway through. Let cool, then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the toffee mixture and cool in the fridge for one hour. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy.

*To make your own superfine sugar, just measure out the same amount of granulated sugar. Place it in a food processor and blend at high speed for one to two minutes. Stop before the sugar granules turn to powder.

From The Bee’s Knees British Imports 566 Massachusetts Ave, Acton, MA | TheBeesKneesBritishImports.com

HHoliday gatherings sparkle with cherished family recipes, where Grandma’s savory turkey dressing and Mom’s chicken supreme steal the spotlight. These heartwarming classics are staples on our plates and in our memories. But this season is also a great opportunity to add some excitement to the menu! Why not surprise everyone with a new dessert or festive cocktail? Try one of these at your next holiday get-together—your guests will absolutely love the fresh twist!

THE GLASS SLIPPER

2 oz Belvedere vodka

¼ oz Luxardo Liqueur

¼ oz Cointreau

2.5 oz white cranberry juice

1 oz lime juice

4 drops rhubarb bitters

Crystal sugar for rim and whole cranberries for a garnish

In a shaker filled with ice add all the ingredients, shake for 15 seconds and strain into a sugar rim coupe glass.

From Ideal Mixology

@Ideal Mixology (Instagram) Idealmixology@gmail.com

F A M I L Y P O R T R A I T S

From our farm to your table –delicious, fresh-made food, served in a lively and welcome atmosphere Open for dinner Tuesday - Thursday 5pm - 9pm; Friday & Saturday 5pm - 10pm; Sunday 5pm - 9pm Join us for Sunday Brunch 11am - 3pm

home decor accessories gifts

Commercial & Residential Upholstery Services, Antique Restoration & Furniture Repair

Upholstery and restoration services – shop from an astonishing array of fabric choices

Designer furniture (including McKinley leather furnishings)

Bespoke custom furniture –Headboards, Ottomans, Sectionals

Wall paper coverings from Thibaut, Schumacher, Zoffany, and more

Indoor and Outdoor rugs by Dash & Albert

119 Commonwealth Ave. West Concord LawlessUpholstery.com @lawlessupholstery

elebrate the season with a radiant collection of fine art and handmade objects. Discover the imaginative and abstract creations of our featured artists, Tim Dunnbier and Cécile Ganne, and Karen Gaudette’s enchanting scratchboard animals. Delight in petite paintings by Zoe Pashkiss, delicate floral works by Alice Rosa, and cozy handmade textiles. Add a touch of color with vibrant ceramics, unique ornaments, and sparkling jewelry. Stop by and bask in the holiday glow!

THREE STONES GALLERY 32 Main Street, Concord, MA 978.371.1333 n threestonesgallery.com follow us @threestonesgallery

Giving Back to Community

Non-profit groups are at the core of Concord’s beloved cultural and historic heritage. They preserve our history, foster our creativity, educate, inform, and even feed our community. These are the people and volunteers who serve Concord year-round, and our town would be so much less vibrant without them. We encourage you to give generously as you think about your year-end giving. Here, we spotlight some of the many treasured philanthropic organizations in our town.

CONCORD ART

You are why we’ve been Concord’s Center for the Visual Arts for 100 years! Your support sustains us and encourages our continued growth. It is because of you that we present eighteen exhibitions annually, maintain an important collection of 20th century artists, offer an unparalleled program of art classes, workshops, demonstrations, tours, and artist talks, encourage emerging artists and curators, and are the visual arts center for more than 1,000 members. Please give generously this holiday season at ConcordArt.org/donate/ 37 Lexington Road, Concord, MA 978-369-2578

CONCORD CARLISLE ADULT COMMUNITY EDUCATION

Give the gift of lifelong learning with a gift certificate from CCACE! Or donate to support our scholarship fund. We’re a self-supporting program of the Concord Carlisle Regional School district. For more information, or to donate, please contact us: ace@concordps.org | 978-318-1432 ConcordCarlisleACE.org

CONCORD CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC

Concord

Conservatory of Music (CCM) aims to cultivate the love and lifelong benefits of music through highquality, accessible instruction, performance, and community engagement for all ages. CCM is a vibrant, welcoming cultural pillar that enriches lives through music through private, rigorous 1:1 instruction, group classes, The Listening Project, Singing with Parkinson’s Chorus, the Concert & Lecture Series, and much more. Ticket and information at ConcordConservatory.org or call 978-369-0010

/ConcordConservatory

THE CONCORD PLAYERS

Founded by Louisa May Alcott 105 years ago, The Concord Players have been providing the Concord community with quality productions ever since. With your donation and support, we will be able to continue for another 100 years! Thank you for your generosity this holiday season!

ConcordPlayers.org | 51 Walden Street | 978-369-2990

FRIENDS OF MINUTE MAN NATIONAL PARK

The Friends of Minute Man proudly support free events, education, and preservation at Minute Man National Historical Park. In this 250th anniversary year, the Park needs our support more than ever. Your contribution will help tell the story of our nation’s birth in the place where it all began. Make a year-end gift today at FriendsOfMinuteman.org/annual-appeal FriendsOfMinuteman.org | 174 Liberty Street, Concord, MA | 978-318-7822

FRIENDS OF SLEEPY HOLLOW

The Friends of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Inc., continue in our third decade to beautify, enhance, and promote this Town treasure through donor support. Your generous gift is deeply appreciated. Give online at FriendsOfSleepyHollow.org/Donate.html

Or mail your kind donation to

The Friends of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Inc., PO Box 313, Concord, MA 01742 info@friendsofsleepyhollow.org

FREEDOM’S WAY NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA

2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding. Throughout the country the occasion will be commemorated as an opportunity to reflect on the past and explore the future.

Within the Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area, where the events that launched the American Revolution took place, 2025 and 2026 provide an opportunity to showcase the region’s unique role in the creation of the American story, inspiring the regional initiative, Freedom’s Way 250. Please join us by supporting this effort to to commemorate the semiquincentennial and illuminate the region’s rich history. Your generous donation is deeply appreciated. Please give at FreedomsWay.org/support/ 94 Jackson Rd., Suite 311, Devens, MA 01434 | 978.772.3654

LOUISA MAY ALCOTT’S ORCHARD HOUSE

Your generous contribution helps support the world of Little Women at Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House, where guests from around the globe are invited to explore the very rooms where this cherished story was brought to life. With nearly 80% of the original furnishings still in place, Orchard House offers an intimate glimpse into the daily lives of the Alcott family, as if they’ve just stepped out

for a moment. Now in its second century of education, inspiration, and preservation, this Concord landmark remains a timeless destination, inviting visitors to walk through history and be enchanted by the enduring magic of the Alcotts’ legacy. Please give generously at LouisaMayAlcott.org/donate to help us share this story for generations to come! 399 Lexington Road, Concord, MA | 978.369.4118

CONCORD SCOUT HOUSE

Please help support community events at our historic barn venue right in the heart of Concord Center! Concord Scout House is the home for all Scouting in town, the Barn Co-op Nursery School, regular Contra Dances open to the public, and numerous community events. Book your next wedding, party, memorial, or ceremony with us today!

ConcordScoutHouse.org/give 74 Walden Street, Concord, MA 978-369-3455

THE TRUSTEES OF RESERVATIONS

Give the Gift that Lasts All Year! A green gift of Trustees Membership is perfect for any occasion: graduations, weddings, family reunions, co-worker appreciations, holidays, and more! TheTrustees.org/membership/

THE UMBRELLA ARTS CENTER

72¢ of every dollar donated helps to fund arts education classes, performing arts events, and visual arts programs. Make your tax-deductible gift to The Umbrella by December 31 to help us reach our goals! TheUmbrellaArts.org/Support 40 Stow Street, Concord, MA 978-371-0820

WRIGHT TAVERN

Please help support us as we transform the Wright Tavern into an Experiential Museum for all to enjoy- please give generously! Thank you – and Happy Holidays!

WrightTavern.org/donate 2 Lexington Road, Concord, MA 978-369-9602

Let Verrill Farm take care of your Thanksgiving dinner from fresh Stonewood Farm Turkeys to sides, desserts, and even floral arrangements!

Place your order by November 19th! Curbside pickup on Tuesday Nov. 26th (12-5pm) or Wednesday, Nov. 27th (8:30am - 5pm). As we make everything in-house and from scratch, quantities are limited and we expect to sell out some items, so make sure to place your orders early.

Trivia CONCORD

QQuestions 1 - 3: The year is 1882. You have recently been hired as a cook in a Concord household. You lied on your resume and have actually never cooked before, but you can read and have a few recipes your cousin’s friend tore out of an old receipt (recipe) book for you. (How hard can it be?) Giving a new definition to sweating in the kitchen, can you figure out the first three questions?

1 Your first recipe is a savory pie that calls for an “exaltation” to be mixed with breadcrumbs, herbs, vegetables, and stock and placed in a pastry crust. What is an “exaltation?”

A. Salted cow hooves

B. Multiple larks

C. Whipped cream

D. A prayer uttered loudly (you should have known this was a bad idea!)

2 Your new employer pops their head into the kitchen to confirm the “Bermuda Witches” will be at the dinner. Are they referring to:

A. Lamb in a simmered rum sauce garnished with radish

B. Their visiting stepsisters

C. Descendants of convicted Salem witches who now live in Concord

D. A cake covered with jelly and freshly grated cocoa-nut

E. You have no idea. Just smile, nod, and say, “yes.”

Your employer wants “green” ice cream for the holiday dinner. Ice cream has been in Massachusetts since the Colonial era so you are familiar with it, but what should you do to make the ice cream green?

A. Pre-make it and leave it on the counter for a week until it looks green enough, and then refreeze it

B. Add pickled-lime juice

C. Add specially prepared boiled spinach

D. Add Crème de Menthe

December 20, 1774. Concord’s Reverend William Emerson and his wife, Phebe Bliss, are visiting your Concord house. You have some lovely East India Company tea stored in your kitchen. Should you offer them a cup? Yes, no, or maybe?

5In his essay “Wild Apples,” Henry David Thoreau wrote about an old English custom practiced on New Year’s Eve when groups of boys would gather in apple orchards, encircle the apple trees, and repeat a chant encouraging the trees to grow strong through the winter. What was the name of this custom?

A. Bough-Lifting

B. Apple-Howling

C. The Ritual of Rootimus Profundus

D. Muggle-Incanting

6On Christmas Eve of 1854, twenty-twoyear-old Louisa May Alcott placed what she called her “first born” into her mother’s Christmas stocking as a gift. What was this “first born?”

7Which Concord author who lived at The Wayside wrote a book that featured a family that was too poor to have a Christmas?

8Louisa May Alcott wrote Little Women, Part First in 1868. The volume’s opening line begins with Jo March bemoaning, “Christmas won’t be Christmas without any [what]?”

A. Christmas tree

B. Presents

C. Snow

D. Kittens

9In Little Women, on Christmas morning the March sisters give their Christmas breakfast away to a poor family in need. That evening, their wealthy neighbor, Mr. Laurence, gifts the family a lavish Christmas dinner. The meal includes “white and pink ice cream.” What ingredient could have made the ice cream pink? Select all that apply.

A. Nectarines

B. Strawberries

C. Cow’s Blood

D. Cochineal Powder

10Some gifts are hard to top. In 1884, as a sign of friendship, France presented what gift to America?

A. The Statue of Liberty

B. A crown once worn by King George III and captured by France

C. The hat and sword of British General Cornwallis surrendered at the Battle of Yorktown

D. A mural-sized painting of John Adams, George Washington, and Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette

Barrow Bookstore Presents:

A1. B. Multiple larks are called an “exaltation.” The 1882 cookbook 366 Menus and 1200 Recipes of the Baron Brisse recommends you use at least two to three dozen larks per pie, and if the seasoning is not enough, wrap them in bacon. Your guests will be singing your culinary praises.

2. D. A cake covered with jelly and freshly grated cocoa-nut. Try your hand making Bermuda Witches with this (condensed) recipe from Eliza Acton’s 1882 cookbook, Modern Cookery For Private Families: New Edition, published in London by Longmans, Green, Reader, and Dyer. “[Thinly] slice equally some rice, pound, or Savoy cake; spread one half of it with Guava jelly, or with fine strawberry, raspberry, or currant jelly of the best quality on this strew thickly some fresh cocoa-nut grated small and lightly; press [it] over the remainder of the cake, and trim [the slices] pile them slopingly in the centre of a dish upon a very white napkin folded flat, and garnish them with small sprigs of myrtle.”

3. C. Add specially prepared boiled spinach. If you answered D, Crème de Menthe, you were close, but it wasn’t invented until 1885 by pharmacist Emile Giffard, who was experimenting with the benefits of mint. So, for this question, enjoy your spinach-flavored ice cream. Dying to make your own? Find a recipe in famed Victorianera chef Agnes B. Marshall’s cookbook The Book of Ices

and after the first day of March next we will not purchase or use any East India tea whatsoever.” That’s March of 1775 so if you have it, you could serve it to the Emersons, but you may wish to let the decision steep until you read the room.

5. B. Apple-Howling. Standing in circles around the apple trees, the boys would chant,

“Stand fast, root! Bear well, top! Pray God send us a good howling crop: Every twig, apples big; Every bough, apples enow!”

4. Yes, No, and Maybe. Although Phebe Bliss came from a family of Loyalists, her husband, the Reverend William Emerson, was an ardent supporter of the Patriot cause. On October 20, 1774, in response to the Intolerable Acts and other perceived injustices against the colonists by distant Parliament, the First Continental Congress agreed to a boycott of British goods. The boycott went into effect on December 1, 1774, and included the language that “from

6. Louisa’s first book, Flower Fables. Written when Louisa was sixteen years old, Flower Fables was a collection of short stories Louisa wrote for Ralph Waldo Emerson’s youngest daughter, Ellen. Years later, the book was published just in time for Louisa to place the finished novel into her mother’s stocking on Christmas Eve. In the accompanying letter to her mother, Louisa wrote, “I hope to pass in time from fairies and fables to men and realities.”

7. Harriot Lothrop. Lothrop, who wrote under the name Margaret Sidney, wrote most of the Five Little Pepper books while living at The Wayside, a house that was formerly occupied by the Alcotts and the

Hawthornes. In The Five Little Peppers and How They Grew, little Davie observed that the children “never had a Christmas.” His sister, Polly, often begged her mother to hang up stockings for her younger siblings, “but there was never anything to put in them, and the winters were cold and hard, and the strictest economy only carried them through.”

8. B. Presents. “’Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents’” grumbled Jo, lying on the rug.”

9. B (Strawberries) and D (Cochineal Powder). As described in J. Thomson’s 1877 book Street Life in London, cochineal powder was used in ice creams to give a red color. Other than adding a grainy texture, cochineal did not contribute to the taste. Which is good since it was made of crushed bugs.

10. A: The Statue of Liberty. Designed by French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, the statue’s construction was started in 1876 and finished in 1884 when it was formally gifted to the United States. Giving definition to “some assembly required,” the statue was disassembled in France into 350 pieces, packed into 214 crates, and shipped to America where it was reassembled on Bedloe’s Island. Today, the island is called Liberty Island, and the statue is maintained by the United States Park Service.

For a list of sources, email barrowbookstore@gmail.com.

For more than 50 years, Barrow Bookstore has been a favorite of residents and visitors alike, specializing in Concord authors and history, children’s books and literature. The shop also provides a wide array of gently read and rare titles ranging from paperbacks to first editions and original manuscripts. Staff members have all worked as tour guides and reenactors in Concord and are happy to share their knowledge about the town and its history. Discover more at barrowbookstore.com.

Courtesy of Barrow Bookstore

Celebrate the holidays with the Concord Museum

Family Trees: A Celebration of Children’s Literature

November 27 – January 1

Celebrate children’s books and a love of reading through dozens of decorated story trees, each inspired by a picture book.