Sweater Weather Comes to Ptown
by Roger Porter via Edge Media
This time of year – when summer light fades to autumn color and blends into wintery white – Provincetown, MA transforms into a winter wonderland, becoming the relaxing spot for shared meals, strolls along the dunes, and memorable moments with your LGBTQ+ loved ones. How does Provincetown mainstay keep the magic going year-round?
The queer artist enclave shakes the summer sand out of its hair for magical fall and winter nights: inclusive events celebrate the diverse rainbow palette; shops and boutiques stay open late; holiday spirit honors tradition; and warm smiles from locals remind us that in this community, we can be who we are in the streets of this historic New England town. So grab your queer besties and cozy up to the fire because it’s sweater weather in Ptown, a season for festive flavors and unforgettable memories
History buffs may have it wrong: Provincetown is the true spot where the Pilgrims first landed in 1620 (unlike the Elementary school stories of Plymouth Rock). To honor this historical truth, the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum commemorates the historical landing. Come out on Thanksgiving Eve, November 26, to witness the Lighting of the Monument and join a community of revelers to “throw the switch” with a bit of music and fun.
“One look at the monument gets into your soul in a way you can’t shake,” said Courtney Hurst, executive director for the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum, in an interview. “That night when the community is here, it’s a visceral feeling of love.”
The winter months are the perfect time for visitors and locals alike to explore the historical roots of Ptown’s artist colony. The Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM) offers five galleries of local artistic wares on display as well as a collection of “the art movements that have shaped our world.” Doors are always open and free of charge – take this as your opportunity to see one of its revolving exhibitions, gaze at the permanent collection, or attend an opening/artist reception. The Provincetown Commons, likewise, is the perfect winter getaway for taking in the rich history of art in the Cape. The art preservation and exhibition space holds a number of events each year, including upcoming showcases Illuminating Cape Cod: A Collective Vision and Life in the Abstract by Laurence Young. Or check out the gallery at the Fine Arts Work Center, a collection of the creative works from local artists whose work challenges and moves our community.
