Experience the enchantment of Moonlight Magic in downtown Shelburne Falls on Black Friday, November 28, 2025, from 4 to 9 PM. Now celebrating 40 years, this beloved event transforms the village into a glowing winter wonderland filled with festive lights, community spirit, and a variety of engaging activities for all ages.
Make Your Own Lantern with The Art Garden
Get ready for Moonlight Magic with The Art Garden’s free Paper Lantern Workshop! Community members of all ages are welcome to stop in and make a lantern on Friday, Nov. 21 from 6-9 PM or Saturday, Nov. 22 from 1-5 PM at The Art Garden in Shelburne Falls. No registration required—just come and create. Then, bring your lantern and join the Parade of Lights during Moonlight Magic.
An Evening of Festivities and Traditions
The event kicks off with the Parade of Lights at 5 PM, featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus leading a dazzling procession through the village streets. New this year as part of the parade is Moonlight Motors where people will light up their local business vehicle, farm truck or tractor, golf cart or other vehicle and join the parade.
The parade culminates at the corner of Bridge Street and Deerfield Avenue, where Santa lights the Community Tree, spreading holiday cheer throughout the village. From there, the celebration continues to Santa’s Workshop for memorable photo opportunities and visits with the holiday icons.
Guests can explore luminaria-lined streets, enjoy festive storefront decorations, and participate in the new Children’s Scavenger Hunt with prizes. There are opportunities to paint ornaments at Handle Factory or make your own bookmark at The Arms Library. These workshops not only add to the festive atmosphere but also offer creative experiences for visitors of all ages.
Engaging Entertainment and Local Flavor
Live performances bring the village to life with local musicians like Welcome Yule, the Holly Jolly Horns brass ensemble, and storytellers sharing farming tales and holiday songs.
The event features a makers market at The Mill on Conway Street, a craft fair at the Shelburne Falls Eagles Club and Buckland Town Hall, and the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum offering magical trolley rides from 4-8 PM.
Photo credit: Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum
Local shops and restaurants extend their hours for holiday shopping and dining, many offering special activities and promotions. Highlights include Keystone Market, McCusker’s Market, Buckland Pizza, Shelburne Pub & Brew, and Juicebox Wine Bar, among others, creating a vibrant marketplace atmosphere throughout the village.
Community Spirit and Support
Moonlight Magic began in 1985 as a way to invigorate local businesses on Black Friday and has grown into a major community celebration. The event is organized with the help of volunteers and supported by local businesses and sponsors. Free shuttle services courtesy of Adventure East and The Academy at Charlemont facilitate easy access around the village.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, discover unique gifts, enjoy live entertainment, or simply take in the magical ambiance, Moonlight Magic offers a special opportunity to connect with the Shelburne Falls community and start the holiday season with warmth and joy.
For more details and updates, visit the official event page at shelburnefalls.com and the Moonlight Magic Facebook page.
This enchanting event invites everyone to be part of a cherished local tradition that brightens the season and celebrates the spirit of togetherness.
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