We shot this story on the first COLD COLD night this winter...and, I have to say, the Seaport was CHILLY! But, honestly, the SECOND we opened the door and stepped into The Seaport's village, it was like entering a different time...a different world. Everything looked so amazing in the dark....the tall ships against the dusky sky....the glistening water....the lanterns lighting the walkway. It was an amazing experience....very festive and special.
Our tour guide was "Mrs. Thomas Stillman"...played by a lovely Stonington actress. Her job was to walk us visitors through a holiday story...with stops inside and outside along the way. The first event was a carriage ride...where we got to chat with a notable chap -- Santa! Then, we started delivering Christmas cards to various homes...where our story started to unfold. An army hero was lost after the Civil War....most of his family believed him to be dead...but several townspeople were holding out hope for a miracle.
This is Year 31 (wow) for the Lantern Light Tour....every season the story changes...since there are so many return customers who make it a holiday tradition every year. But, each year there are 5 things that remain the same. Vistitors will: 1.) take a carriage ride...2.) eat a cookie 3.) see Santa 4.) participate in a traditional dance and....5.) go aboard a ship.
The dance was FUN! A great break from the cold....and the trip aboard the LA Dunton was COOL....there's just something about ships in the winter....awesome. And, listening to the actors inside the Colonial homes was quite an experience, too...to really see the candlelight and firelight which lit up their homes at night...so dim....it really felt like we were on a trip back in time.
The story was sweet...and timely....it made us think of the present...and how many people will be missing their loved ones this holiday season.
The Lantern Light Tour was really special. I recommend it to failies with older children...and, if you can't make it this year, there's alwas 2010! Enjoy....and happy holidays from all of us at DayTrippers!