The Manchester Vermont area is the perfect place to embrace the beauty and enchantment of the upcoming winter months and the festive holiday season. As the inns and hotels begin to “deck the halls” in anticipation of the beloved Shires’ Holiday Inn Tours, many of our local restaurants are crafting seasonally inspired holiday menus, while shops are gearing up to make your holiday shopping a breeze and stress-free.
Holiday Dining
Hungry for Holiday festivities? With Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa fast approaching, now’s the time to plan ahead! Reserve your spot at your favorite local restaurant, pre-order take-home meals and festive desserts, or stock up on everything you need to create your signature holiday dishes at home. Take the stress out of the season—plan early and enjoy more meaningful moments with the ones you love.
Celebrate this special time with a festive meal at one of these local favorites, each offering a blend of traditional and seasonal dishes: Holiday Dining. Our neighborhood restaurants not only provide delicious seasonal and locally sourced food, but some also offer first-rate lodging right on the premises. Lack a spare bed for your guests visiting from out of town? Too full to get behind the wheel of your car? One too many holiday cocktails? Don’t worry, reserve a room at any of the many fine lodging properties in Southern Vermont, then eat and drink to your heart’s content.
Manchester Merriment & More
In just a few short weeks, the magic of Manchester Merriment will be upon us! Get ready to make memories and celebrate the season with your favorite annual traditions, including the sparkling Community Holiday Tree Lighting & Festivities, the dazzling Holiday Lighted Tractor Parade, the cozy charm of the Shires Holiday Inn Tours, the festive Menorah Lighting, and, of course, the jolly fun of the Santa Express—just to name a few.
This holiday season is packed with joy-filled, family-friendly events that are sure to spread cheer to all ages. So, be sure to check our daily events calendar often for the latest details on both beloved classics and exciting new holiday activities. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and you won’t want to miss a moment of the merriment!
Experience Christmas Eve in 1912 this winter at Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home. Celebrate the beauty of the holiday season by visiting Robert Todd Lincoln & Mary Lincoln’s home during the month of December. The Georgian Revival mansion is decorated to evoke “Christmas Eve in 1912″—one of a handful of Christmas times that the Lincoln family spent in residence at their Vermont home. Visit Hildene Thursday–Monday, 10 am–4:30 pm to experience the special display.
Winter Adventure
Just a 15-minute drive from Manchester Center, Bromley Mountain is set to open for skiing and snowboarding on Friday, 11/28. A short 30-minute drive away, Stratton Mountain will kick off daily operations on Wednesday, 11/26, offering skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and snowmobiling. Of course, Mother Nature plays a key role in ensuring optimal conditions for these exciting winter activities, so be sure to check in with both ski areas regularly for updates on snow conditions before you head out.
Make Your List and Check it Twice
Escape the holiday shopping crowds, hectic city streets, and crowded malls, and discover Southern Vermont’s premier shopping destination. Stroll through a variety of unique local shops, charming boutiques, designer outlets, and artisan galleries, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Green and Taconic Mountains and breathing in Vermont’s crisp, fresh air.
Many retailers are already offering Black Friday deals now, so you can start finding perfect gifts early. If you find yourself in Manchester on Black Friday, you’ll enjoy the convenience of stores opening earlier and staying open later—making it easier than ever to check your holiday shopping list off. And don’t miss the celebration of Small Business Saturday, a perfect opportunity to support local shops while finding one-of-a-kind treasures.
From Black Friday sales to Cyber Monday deals, you’ll uncover last-minute gift ideas that make holiday shopping stress-free, giving you more time to spend the season with the ones you love most.
Life in Manchester
With its picturesque scenery, rich history, and thriving local culture, Manchester appeals to those seeking a slower pace without sacrificing access to great dining, shopping, and outdoor adventure. From world-class skiing and hiking to a bustling arts scene and excellent schools, this welcoming town provides an exceptional quality of life year-round. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to put down roots, Manchester’s mix of rustic elegance and modern convenience makes it a truly special place to call home.
Southwestern Vermont Health Care (SVHC) provides comprehensive medical services to residents through its Northshire Campus and the main hospital in Bennington. The Northshire Campus offers primary care, pediatrics, and specialty services such as cardiology and orthopedics, all within a Patient-Centered Medical Home model. The Bennington hospital delivers advanced services, including cancer care, emergency services, and specialized treatments.
Both facilities are part of Dartmouth Health, ensuring high-quality, accessible healthcare close to home. SVHC also engages the community through events like their annual Jingle Bell Fundraising Event that takes place in December each year, which supports local healthcare programs and enhances patient care. By participating, donating, or attending, you can help SVHC continue providing exceptional services to the community.
VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region has been providing compassionate, patient-centered care across Bennington, Franklin, and Rutland counties for over 75 years. Their skilled nursing, therapy, hospice, and palliative care services are delivered by a dedicated team committed to making a difference in the community.
One meaningful way you can support their mission is through donating or shopping at their Thrift Shop. Donations of high-quality, gently used clothing for men, women, and children help generate revenue that supports over $2 million in charitable care annually. Every contribution, big or small, directly helps VNA & Hospice continue providing essential services to those in need. Shopping at the Thrift Shop is another way to make a difference—find treasures for yourself while supporting a vital community resource
The Manchester, Vermont area is the best place to DINE, SHOP, STAY, and EXPERIENCE everything that Southern Vermont has to offer. Discover the charm and beauty of our quintessential Vermont town, where you can unwind, recharge, and celebrate the holidays in a picturesque setting. Manchester has become a sought-after spot during this season, thanks to its diverse indoor and outdoor activities, festive events, rich cultural experiences, unique shopping, and locally sourced cuisine. We can’t wait to welcome you back soon!
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