It all happening this December in Stowe, Vermont

The mountain resort of Stowe, Vermont, offers endless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors – from world-class skiing and snowboarding to snowmobiling, cross country skiing on a seemingly endless trail system, snow shoeing, dog sledding or ripping down a hill on an unusual sled.

Located at the foot of Mt Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, the idyllic village of Stowe, Vermont has been hosting travelers for over 200 years. Stowe offers over 70 unique shops, 40 restaurants, and almost 50 different lodging establishments ranging from full service resort spas to quaint bed and breakfasts, all locally owned.

The holidays in Stowe are reminiscent of coming home to the perfect New England village. Holiday Highlights this year include:

- Santa Claus is coming to Stowe. Kids can send letters to Santa Claus, c/o Stowe Area Association, PO Box 1320, Stowe, Vermont 05672, and Santa will have letter in-hand for a private consultation with each child. At Stowe Mercantile on Main Street in the village, Saturdays December 8 and 15, noon and 2pm.

- A 20-piece orchestra joins the13th Annual Handel’s Messiah Community Sing-In, Friday, December 21st, 7:30pm, Stowe Community Church. Vermont singers will perform solos, but everyone is encouraged to join in the choruses. Bring your own score, or they will loan you one to share.

- The Vermont Mozart Festival presents. The Oriana Singers will be performing J.S. Bach Christmas Oratorio BWV 248, Cantatas 1-3, Motets and Carols, Stowe Community Church. Gala reception to follow at the Helen Day Arts Center. Thursday, December 13, 7:30.

- Helen Day Art Center’s Annual Festival of the Trees and Lights’ theme this year will be the importance of PEACE in our lives and in the world. Exhibit begins Tuesday, December 4th and extends through the holidays.

- Paine’s Christmas Tree Farm offers visitors a chance to take a wagon ride through the orchards in search of the perfect tree, or choose from various fresh pre-cut trees. Farm will also ship your tree to your home for an additional fee.

- Think of Stowe for an unhurried, unique shopping experience. Our nearly 70 shops are “un-chained”—all locally owned and operated! Fine crafts, one-of-a-kind fashions, body products, jewelry, specialty foods, and of course the best outerwear and sports equipment, the better to get you ready for winter sports in Stowe.

- The art of candy cane making at Laughing Moon Chocolates. November 24&25, December 1&2, 8&9, 15&16, and December 22&23, 2:00pm.

- Santa Comes to North Country Animal League on December 8. Have your picture taken with Santa between 11 am and 2 pm and enjoy holiday refreshments.

- Lamoille County Players presents MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET at the Hyde Park Opera House New stage adaptation of this charming Christmas classic. Dec 7-9 and 14-16.

- Well Heeled, offering absolutely exquisite shoes and accessories for every affair offers complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine every Friday from 5:30-7:30 for extended shopping hours, Thanksgiving through New Years.

- Dine on top of the world at Stowe Mountain Resort’s Cliff House Summit Dining Series Dinner, December 29.

For more information, visit Gostowe.com or Stowe.travel.