STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. — The community's beloved recreation of the Norman Rockwell painting "Home for Christmas" returns after a two year hiatus due to the pandemic. 

 

"We're looking forward to having it back. We've had had two year hiatus because of COVID. So it's very exciting that we're going to have the tradition continuing considering it's our 33rd year," Stockbridge Chamber Executive Director Barbara J. Zanetti said.

 

Stockbridge is offering a variety of family activities to replicate the cozy, holiday cheer that was depicted in the painting from Friday, Dec. 2, until Sunday, Dec. 4.

 

"We're recreating what Rockwell put on canvas. And that's a small New England town feel of being home for Christmas. It's not exactly the same," Zanetti said

 

"… So bring back a simpler time for people to enjoy and kick off the holiday season." 

 

The painting takes the onlooker on a Christmas Eve walk along the snowy main street in Stockbridge showcasing many of the town's historic buildings including the Red Lion Inn, the old town office, the general store, and the antique shop.

 

"I am hoping that they will feel the comfort of what our New England town offers, which is bringing you home for the holidays," she said.

 

A piece of history -- New England life in 1967 -- is locked away in the painting.

 

The space above the market where Rockwell made his studio from 1953 to 1957 is frozen in time, showcasing Christmas cheer with the brightly lit tree sitting in the window. 

 

The windows of "social hub" Red Lion Inn are darkened because at that time the inn was closed during the winter. It wasn't until 1969 that it became open year-round.  

 

Unlike the painting, the windows of the historic inn will shine bright as it participates in the weekend festivities by serving hot beverages on the front porch from noon until 3 on Saturday, Dec. 2, and house special food booths on Sunday, Dec. 3, from noon until 2. 

 

But like the painting, the streets will be filled with antique cars, weather permitting. 

 

Zanetti said she is looking forward to seeing not just the residents but also the tourists who visit the area to partake in the event . 

 

The weekend will feature live performances, historic property tours, holiday markets, winter lights, and more. 

 

Some events do require registration and masks are mandatory indoors at all locations. More information on the weekend lineup here.