Sturbridge, M.A. – Old Sturbridge Village (OSV) is open for the 2024 season with visitor-favorite programs returning as well as expanded programming and new offerings. Opening day for 2024 is Friday, January 12. The museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through February 18. In time for February school vacation week, beginning Wednesday, February 21 the museum is open Wednesday through Sunday.
As a part of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service, AmeriCorps team members will bring several special programs to OSV on Monday, January 15, 2024. Old Sturbridge Village AmeriCorps team members will lead several special activities such as a youth hearth cooking workshop (pre-registration required), contribute to the community quilt display, and will give special readings. In honor of the day, Old Sturbridge Village is offering free standard daytime admission on Monday, January 15 for residents of the towns in the Old Sturbridge Academy school district: Brimfield, Brookfield, East Brookfield, North Brookfield, Holland, Monson, Palmer, Southbridge, Spencer, Sturbridge, Wales, and Webster. Adults must provide proof of town residency for free admission.
On select Saturdays through February 24, visitors to Old Sturbridge Village will get a rare chance to tour the historic village lit only by candles, oil lamps, lanterns, and firelight during Evening of Illumination. Visitors will be treated to music and storytelling throughout the tour and will see OSV artisans at work by candlelight. Each tour will begin with hot cocoa or coffee and will conclude in the Bullard Tavern, where guests can enjoy warm beverages and light fare. This program is designed for adults. Evening of Illumination takes place on January 27, February 10, and February 24. Tours begin at 6:00 p.m. and last approximately 90 minutes. $35 for Old Sturbridge Village members and $50 for non-members. Pre-registration is required.
Maple Days returns on select dates in February and March. OSV’s working sugar camp demonstration shows maple sugaring as it was done in early 19th-century New England. See the entire sugar-making process, from tapping the trees to “sugaring off,” and learn why maple sugar was more commonly used than maple syrup in early New England. Costumed historians will also cook period foods made with maple products and the tinner and cooper will make maple-related items.
New this winter season and being served on select dates, guests can enjoy expanded food and beverage offerings. A limited number of seats are available for Afternoon Tea on Saturday, February 3, and Sunday, February 4. Ox & Yoke Café will be transformed into a simple, yet classic, atmosphere complete with linens, flowers, and more. Guests can sip an assortment of teas, and taste a variety of small bites including delectable sandwiches and mini desserts. Reservations are required. Visitors to OSV on Saturday, February, 17 have the option to dine in the Bullard Tavern Great Room. Live music, a warm atmosphere with a fire in the hearth, and traditional hearty fare are part of Fireside Lunch which is offered for an additional fee. Menu and additional details online at www.osv.org.
Starting January 12th, the Ox & Yoke Mercantile is open Friday – Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Find gifts for every occasion made here in New England including home décor, bath and body, books, unique food items, Village-made crafts and kits, gardening supplies, children’s books, toys, and so much more.
Tickets to Old Sturbridge Village can be purchased online in advance. For more information visit www.osv.org.
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