Entertaining at Home on Nantucket: A Christmas Stroll Guide by Leslie Linsley

There is nothing quite like being on Nantucket for Christmas Stroll Weekend. It is the prettiest time of year when the island is transformed into a holiday wonderland. The trees lining Main Street are lit and the shops and galleries are all aglitter. Nantucket still maintains many traditions associated with the past, especially those of small towns throughout the country. Perhaps this is why our island has become such a popular place to spend the holidays. Whether you'll be in a rented house or your second home and entertaining guests for the weekend, make it as special and memorable as possible for everyone, including yourself. The secret is in the pre-planning for a no-hassle weekend. The following are a few suggestions to guarantee a special time for everyone of all ages in your group. For more on the weekend itself, see the full guide to Nantucket Noel and the Christmas Stroll, and for entertaining ideas beyond the holiday season, see at home on Nantucket.

Before your arrival think about how you'll make the house warm and welcoming even if it isn't your own. Call Flowers on Chestnut to have holiday arrangements delivered ahead of time. Order some of their gorgeous candles for the table. When you open the front door, you'll feel like a guest. Moor's End Farm, Bartlett's Farm and Marine Home Center have fresh wreaths for a simple door decoration.

1. Entertaining at home will enhance the experience of being part of the Nantucket community. Pick up everything you need for a pre-cooked holiday dinner from Bartlett’s Ocean View Farm or The Meat and Fish Market on Amelia Dr.
2. Make your wine list and have Brix or Epernay deliver to your “home away from home.”
3. You’ll want to put in an early order your bread and bakery treats from Born and Bread on Federal St. Be forewarned, they sell out fast while everything’s fresh. When stocking up at the Stop & Shop don’t forget everyone’s favorite Portugese bread where Something Natural also sells their amazing soups. Always good to have simmering on the stove to make the kitchen warm and inviting where everyone can help themselves. No need to be on the same schedule.
4. Entertain guests at home with a catered dinner from Island Kitchen, a year ‘round favorite. They’ll have everything ready when you are. No fuss, no hassle so you can be a guest at your own table. And there’s nothing more fun than doing the Stroll and coming home to a pre-fixed dinner, sitting around the table, and sharing the day’s experiences without fuss or being rushed. It’s the perfect way to imagine owning your own island home, having future celebrations, and building Nantucket family memories.
5. Before heading off for the day, encourage everyone to pick up a small, grab bag gift with an island theme at the Christmas Stroll Marketplace. It will be fun to pass the grab bag around the table after dinner for a pre-Christmas surprise!
6. If you have small children in your group, add cookie mix to your market list for a “sweet” together activity when you’re taking a Stroll break.
7. Stop by Mitchell’s Bookcorner at the top of Main St. Look for Leslie during Stroll weekend, when she often signs copies of her book “Christmas On Nantucket” (Globe Pequot) there. It’s a nice souvenir of your Stroll Weekend and the perfect personally inscribed Christmas gift.

Making the most of Nantucket's Christmas Stroll Weekend requires a touch of pre-planning but promises an unforgettable holiday experience. By arranging for festive decor and pre-ordered meals, you can immerse yourself and your guests in the island's charming traditions and community spirit. From fresh wreaths and candles to catered dinners and local treats, each suggestion is designed to enhance the cozy, celebratory atmosphere.

Don't miss the unique activities like the grab bag gift exchange and the opportunity to take home a memento of the season with a signed copy of "Christmas On Nantucket." With these plans in place, you're set to create special memories that will warm your heart for years to come.