Holiday events around New England

Between shopping and decorating and cooking, the holidays can be a stressful time of year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t squeeze in some fun, too. From making your own candy canes to taking a wintry sleigh ride, here’s a round-up of some of the best holiday events in New England.

Nantucket Noel

If you find yourself on the island this holiday season, Nantucket is hosting a slew of holiday events from now until Jan. 1, 2010, and includes craft fairs, a wine tasting, and musical performances. Visit nantucketchamber.org for the full list of events.

Northern Lights Express

Board the Northern Lights Express to Santa’s Train Workshop, which offers light displays inside and outside the train. Santa is scheduled to make an appearance during the ride. Reservations recommended. Visit rmne.org for more information on departure times and dates.

Now through Dec. 22. Railroad Museum of New England, 242 E. Main St., Thomaston, Conn. 860-283-7245.

Boston-12/11/2010- During the annual Santa Speedo Run which started at the Lir Irish Pub & Restaurant on Boylston Street, a runner in a body suit carrys a large mp3 player sound sytem running at the start.Boston Globe staff photo by John Tlumacki (metro) Library Tag 12122010 Metro

Festival of Trees Family Day

Visit the Berkshire Museum as it dots its collection of antique silver decorative arts with scores of decorated trees. The day-long event takes place on Dec. 14 and will feature several fun activites, including an “animals up close’’ show, cookie decorating, and a performance by the Blafield Children’s Chorus. The decorated trees will be on display throughout the month.

Admission: adults, $11; children ages 3-18, $6, and children under 2 are free. The Berkshire Museum, 39 South St., Pittsfield. 413-443-7171. www.berkshiremuseum.org.

The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is hosting a Christmas Market and a Fireside Book Club this month, as well as free guided tours. Visit mainegardens.org for the full schedule of events.

Now throughtout December. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, 132 Botanical Gardens Dr., Boothbay, Maine. 207-633-4333.

Victoria Mansion holiday tours

The Victoria Mansion in Portland, Maine, is a national historic landmark and features custom handmade furniture and decorative art, and original wall paintings. It’s decorated for the holiday season, and visitors can explore the mansion on self-guided tours. Visit victoriamansion.org for more details.

Now until Jan. 5. Victoria Mansion, 109 Danforth St., Portland, Maine. 207-772-4841. Admission: Adults, $15; students, 6-17, $5.

‘The Nutcracker’

See productions of the seminal holiday classic “The Nutcracker’’ at venues across New England, including the Boston Opera House, the Center for the Performing Arts in Vermont, and the Collins Center for the Arts in Maine.

Visit the web sites for further information.

The Hearthside House

The Hearthside House in Rhode Island will be open for self-guided tours and various holiday events throughout December, including a “Home for the Holidays Candlelight Tour’’ on Dec. 28 and 29. Visit hearthsidehouse.org for the full schedule of events.

Candy cane making demonstrations

Candy makers from Laughing Moon Chocolates in Vermont will be hand for homemade candy cane making demonstrations every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 11 a.m. Or for $6, you can whip up some of the holiday treats yourself. Visit laughingmoonchocolates.com.

Now until Dec. 22. Laughing Moon Chocolates, 78 South Main St., Stowe Village, Vt. 802- 253-9591. Cost: Free to watch.

Sleigh rides

Charmingfare Farm in Candia, N.H., is hosting 30-minute horse-drawn sleigh rides where visitors travel through lights and holiday scenes, greeted by costumed characters along the way. There’s also a petting zoo, a bonfire, hot beverages, and snacks. Visit visitthefarm.com for more details.

Charmingfare Farm, 774 High St., Candia, N.H. 603-483-5623. Admission: Price varies by party size and date, check the website for more information.