Shaker Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time of reflection on all the blessings we experienced during the year. Many of us are diverted from that reflection by the flurry of preparation, over-indulgence and football games but spirituality pervades the very atmosphere at Hancock Shaker Village during the holiday weekend.

From November 29th and 30th, the Village will offer events designed to evoke the serenity of the season. On the 29th, visitors can escape the hectic pace of Black Friday with Turkey Walk ’n’ Talk, a peaceful guided walk along the one-mile Farm & Forest Trail. The walk ends in the barnyard where turkeys lucky enough to survive the day will strut their stuff and visitors can say hello to sheep, cows, goats, donkeys and chickens.

The Walk & Talk is included in admission and is free to members

Also, on Friday, Shop ’n’ Sip, 10AM–4PM, visitors will have a chance to do some shopping at the Shaker Mercantile, a unique store celebrating the region’s best artisans and handcrafted gifts, while avoiding Black Friday crowds. Mimosa will be served while you shop. No admission is required to access the shop.

Saturday brings the Grateful Shaker Supper at 6PM. The Shakers ate communally for more than 100 years in the Brick Dwelling. Visitors can step back in time and savor a harvest meal by candlelight, accompanied by live music, all just steps from the gardens where much of the food was produced. After dinner, a tour of the dwelling house will be offered.

Tickets are $90 for non-members and $81 for members. If a room is booked at the historic Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge MA, a 10 percent discount is offered on both dinner and room. To redeem this offer, book tickets by phone and mention this promotion: Dinner—413-443-0188; Room—413-298-5545.

Hancock Shaker Village is located at 1843 West Housatonic Street in Pittsfield MA.