By Maura Keller | Photo courtesy Stoughton Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1847, the charming town of Stoughton is teeming with art, culture and Norwegian heritage. During the holiday season, Stoughton reminds visitors of the feel-good Christmas movies: wonderful scenes, unexpected finds and friendly shopping. And while there are many activities to enjoy in Stoughton throughout the year, the holiday season boasts a special variety of activities.
For starters, the historic Stoughton Opera House hosts national acts nearly every Thursday through Saturday, and the Stoughton Center for the Arts is also showcasing “A Christmas Story” on Dec. 3-4.
For holiday shoppers looking for unique products, Stoughton is featuring a variety of pop-up artisan shops on Nov. 27 and Dec. 4 at Chorus Public House, a chic and spacious venue exuding a classic vintage feel. You are also bound to find some holiday gift gems at the many locally- owned shops dotting the town. Overall, Stoughton has something to offer for everybody: fine art, fiber arts, home and kitchen goods, baby gifts, women’s clothing, books and games.
In addition, Livsreise, Stoughton’s Norwegian Heritage Center, and the variety of locally-owned shops and eateries are some must-enjoy places. For the active person, a trip to Lake Kegonsa State Park for some late-season hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing is only a few miles north of Stoughton and is a great way to usher in the wintry weather.
All the activities and shopping are bound to leave you feeling hungry. As such, neigh- bors and visitors alike can sample artisan cider at Mershon’s Cidery, find their favorite treats at Fosdal Home Bakery, or make themselves at home in the comfort- able Viking Brew Pub. By dusk, the best place to drive by is the local Holiday Lights Show at Rotary Park, which is synced to music and enjoyed from the warmth and comfort of your car.
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
STOUGHTON’S VICTORIAN HOLIDAY WEEKEND
Dec. 2-5
The Victorian Holiday weekend in Stoughton is a flavorful time filled with thousands of Christmas lights, holiday treats and all-around holiday cheer. The lights are set to holiday music at Stoughton Rotary Park, and families can enjoy kid-friendly holiday activities all weekend long.
“A CHRISTMAS STORY”
Dec. 3-4
The Stoughton Opera House hosts national acts nearly every Thursday through Saturday. During the holiday season, check out their rendition of “A Christmas Story” at this historic venue.
