You may have heard the old expression, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, just a bad choice of clothing.” Winter is a fantastic time to explore all that Concord has to offer. So, bundle up, grab a friend, and let the adventure begin!

Shop and Stroll

Stroll the charming shops in Concord Center, along Thoreau Street, or in West Concord – the festive lights and holiday decorations will spark a sense of wonder. And the variety of boutiques in each of these neighborhoods ensures you will find truly unique gifts for your loved ones this holiday season. 

Don’t miss the outdoor entertainment and parade in the lead up to the Annual Tree Lighting on December 3 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Santa will even make an appearance aboard one of Concord’s fire trucks!

The fun continues in West Concord with the Holiday Stroll on December 9 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with arts and crafts, outdoor entertainment, and a pop-up arts fair. As the sun sets, be sure to visit the shop windows of Debra’s Natural Gourmet to see their stunning menorah collection on display.

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Go Take a Hike!

Concord is surrounded by nature, and winter is a beautiful time to explore. Your senses are in for a treat with a walk (or snowshoe excursion) in the woods, along the Battle Road, or following the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail. Stop and listen to the orchestra of winter birds. Look carefully at the fallen snow, and you may see deer tracks or other signs of local wildlife in the area. Freshly fallen snow reflects the light and can cheer a winter day. A moonlight stroll is magical with sparkling snow under moonlight. And the haunting call of owls stirs a sense of magic and mystery. On a clear night, the stars are crisp and bright – you might even see a shooting star!

Looking for a great place to get started? Scan the QR Code to access our trail guide from the Discover Concord Guide to the Great Outdoors. With eight trails to choose from, the call of the wild is promising adventure!

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Explore Outdoor History

Concord’s early colonial history, revolutionary history, and literary legacy are all around us. A walking tour of Concord is a great way to explore. Through November 30, a 75-minute historic walking tour leaves from the Concord Visitor Center each day at 1:00 p.m. Other tours are available at VisitConcord.org. Looking for a group or customized tour? Be sure to reach out to Concord Walking Tours at ConcordWalkingTours.com. 

If you prefer to venture out on your own, there is so much to see and explore. Stroll the grounds of Minute Man National Historical Park, Walden Pond State Reservation, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Old Hill Burying Ground, or South Burying Ground and learn about the early chapters of Concord. All are open until sunset and are lovely on a winter’s day. See the map of Historic Concord on p. 32.

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From snowshoeing to cross country skiing, ice skating, and, of course, the classic sledding, families have fun all winter long in the many outdoor spaces in and around Concord.

The trail list at the QR code to the left provides great spots for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Ice skating favorites include Walden Pond, Macones Pond (Lowell Road, near Barnes Hill Road), and Kennedys Pond (off Old Mill Road in the Old Rifle Range). Safety is important when skating, so please remember to never skate alone – and always be sure that the ice layer is at least 6” thick before lacing up those skates.

Sledding is good fun for all ages. The hill at Concord-Carlisle High School has easy access and good parking. Those seeking the thrill of a steep incline should head to Punkatasset Hill off Monument Street or to the big hill on Nawshawtuc Road, near Willard Common. 

There’s so much to do in Concord this winter – so get out there and have fun! Don’t forget your mittens…