This week, we were once again off to South Deerfield, Massachusetts, where we explored Yankee Candle Village, a Western Mass holiday staple. There is still time for you to go during this holiday season!
Yankee Candle is located off Exit 35 of I-91 north. It is about 40 minutes from campus on a day with light traffic. However, if you choose to go during the holiday season, you will likely encounter traffic close to the store and lines within as it's very populated, especially on the weekends. I recommend going during the week if you have a day free from classes.
Yankee Candle is known for celebrating Christmas all year long. After walking in the doors, no matter what time of year you choose to go, you'll find yourself in the Christmas spirit. With decorations all over the store all year long and a general holiday spirit, you'll find it easy to forget that it may still be 70 degrees in New England.
Of course, you'll find a ton of candles within the store, but if those don't interest you, there are tons of other fun things to check out and participate in, including making your own wax hands and candles or picking customizable ornaments. Checking out the Christmas villages, the "snowflake factory" where snow is in the forecast every four minutes, or all the beautiful ornaments set up in the shops within the Bavarian Village. Santa's workshop is filled with toys, a countdown to Christmas, presents circling the ceiling on a track, and occasionally Santa himself there to greet kids. Don't miss out on the candy room and food court, where you can find homemade fudge, quick food such as pizza, and a Ben & Jerry's ice cream shop.
In total, we spent about two hours exploring the entirety of Yankee Candle. However, I can't stress enough that you will encounter lines if you decide to go during the weekend any time in November or December. The whole experience can still be enjoyable if you plan accordingly and, sometimes, be prepared for crowds!
In terms of cost, while it is entirely possible to go to Yankee Candle without spending any money other than on transportation, it's also possible to make this a costly trip. The candles, which are known for being very nice and making a great gift, can be expensive. Also, the food within the food court and participating in making custom products can be expensive. I recommend checking out the location and possibly participating in one of the customizable activities but grab food before you leave Longmeadow or after you arrive back.
