Lady Smith Manor’s Christmas Market

UPDATED NOVEMBER 17, 2025

Christmas at the Manor

Each holiday season, the grand 1840’s heritage home at Lady Smith Manor transforms into a festive experience like no other. Guests wander room to room discovering local art, handcrafted décor, and vintage-inspired treasures, all thoughtfully curated to spark wonder and connection.

As in years past, Lady Smith Manor continues to captivate visitors of all ages, blending fresh creative themes with beloved traditions. And while each season brings something new to explore, the heart of the experience remains constant: a celebration of community, imagination, and the simple joys of the holidays.

The sixth year’s Wonderland theme added a playful, magical spirit to the experiences that has made Christmas at the Manor a Maritimes favourite. Families, friends, and neighbours found something to delight every sense, creating a snapshot of holiday magic that lingers long after the last carol fades.

Alice’s Christmas Wonderland (2025)

In 2025, Alice’s Christmas Wonderland welcomed guests into a whimsical world of twinkling lights, curious treasures, and festive cheer inspired by the timeless tale. From the moment visitors stepped inside and spotted Alice’s legs dangling through the rabbit hole in the ceiling, about to land in a flower bed of blooms, it was clear they were in for an adventure.

Every corner held something imaginative and new to discover. Guests followed clues on the Curious Christmas Quest, collected stamps and sampled seasonal blends on the Tea Passport Trail, decorated cookies and handcrafted ornaments, and warmed up with coffee, hot chocolate or apple cider, and tasty donut bites. Many lingered over comforting lunches and festive drinks at The Thirsty Whippet, adding a delicious pause to their day of exploring.

Several embraced the theme by arriving in their best Wonderland-inspired attire for the costume contest, cozying up by the outdoor fire, and capturing photos in the “Through the Looking Glass” booth — a keepsake reminder of a day where wonder truly took centre stage.

This year also featured the much-loved Grand Door prize, a tradition that sees one lucky guest receive a basket filled with a special item from every vendor. Collectors were equally delighted by the release of the limited edition keepsake ornament, eagerly sought after every year.

A Look Back at Past Themes

Stroll through the next few sections for a glimpse of past Christmas Markets at the Manor for a taste of the sense of wonder that awaits in 2026.

Narnia-Inspired Wonderland (2024)

LSM’s 2024 Christmas Market invited you to unlock the magic as you walked through the wardrobe into a Narnia-inspired wonderland. Guests embarked on the “Quest for Narnia” Challenge, where solving clues and completing tasks brought the market’s festive spirit to life.

The Nutcracker (2023)

The 2023 market transported guests into the enchanting world of The Nutcracker. A scavenger hunt, giant nutcrackers, waltzing snowflakes, and a Sugarplum Fairy in the sparkling Land of Sweets delighted visitors young and old, while the search for the Mouse King and the elusive Golden Nutcracker added a burst of playful excitement.

A Dicken’s Christmas (2022)

In 2022, Lady Smith Manor became a living storybook of Victorian charm. Scenes from A Christmas Carol, unfolded room by room, inviting guests to wander through vignettes that blended nostalgia, whimsy, and heartfelt storytelling.

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas (2021)

My first encounter with the LSM Christmas Market was in 2021 during the cozy and imaginative ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas theme. From that moment, I knew this festive event would become an annual tradition. Miriam’s impeccable attention to detail is unmatched, and each year she raises the bar. Stephen brings her creative vision to life with precision and artistry, making the transformation of the manor feel nothing short of magical.

Local Artisans and Vintage-Inspired Vendors

Every year, more than twenty carefully selected local artisans and vintage-inspired vendors bring their handcrafted creations and one-of-a-kind finds to the Manor. Their booths line the first floor and extend across the festive outdoor grounds beneath cozy tents.

Sweet treats, vintage treasures, holiday wreaths, art, leatherwork, candles, jewelry, bath and body products, homeware, and fresh preserves fill the space with colour and creativity. These offerings are at the heart of the Market’s charm, creating a warm and thoughtful holiday shopping experience that feels personal and memorable.

The Manor’s History & Restoration

The 1840 Georgian manor was once home to Sir Albert James Smith, a former Premier of New Brunswick. In 2019, owner Miriam Andrews and Stephen Trites purchased the property and began an extensive restoration to revive its original grandeur.

Their vision went beyond preservation; they set out to reestablish the manor as a thriving community gathering place. Today the home hosts summer and Christmas markets, afternoon teas, vintage picnics, live music, movie nights, book clubs, murder mystery nights, and themed balls. It also serves as a distinctive venue for weddings and corporate events.

Looking Ahead

As one season closes, anticipation quietly begins for the next. Miriam is already dreaming up new ideas and crafting the details that will shape the Christmas 2026 Market. While the theme remains a secret for now, guests can expect the same imagination, heart, and holiday spirit that define Christmas at the Manor year after year. For full details on this event or others, keep a close watch at Lady Smith Manor.

Until then, the memories of this year’s Wonderland linger and carry the magic forward into the seasons ahead.

Lady Smith Manor’s Summer Market

Summertime at the Manor brings its own kind of enchantment. Set against the picturesque village of Dorchester, the Lady Smith Manor Summer Market evokes a sense of stepping into the past. Visitors browse vintage treasures and artisan creations while enjoying family-friendly activities, nostalgic touches, and old-fashioned treats. It’s a charming warm-weather tradition that complements the magic of the Christmas Market.

This post was sponsored by Lady Smith Manor; however, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Follow Maritimes Maven on FaceBook, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn & Threads. Subscribe to be the first to receive my latest articles. Share articles you love with your social media community so they, too, will discover, There’s No Place Like Home!