Take A Cup of Kindness
The Holiday Season on the Outer Cape
by Steve Desroches via Provincetown Magazine
In “Auld Lang Syne” there’s a line about toasting to the past with a “cup of kindness,” making it clear as to how it became a traditional song to celebrate the New Year. In the darkest time of the year, and in a country where cruelty, callousness, and ignorance are held as ideals by many in power, it can be difficult to revel in the holidays of the season. But that is exactly why these holidays are so important. It’s not about stuffing our faces, buying crap no one needs or even wants, or drinking oneself into oblivion. They are about gratitude and generosity, creating light in the dark, empathy and charity, and yes, joy, fun, and celebrating community.
Here in Provincetown, visitors often express that the Cape tip is their escape, happy place, or that it’s magical. But the town is not immune to the real world, of course. The element that creates that feeling of belonging, peace, and bliss is not innate. It comes from a choice and commitment that requires all of us to ensure what makes Provincetown special continues to thrive. In fact, doing so is an effective act of resistance against the dark forces that seem unstoppable. History shows us that they are not. By doubling down on what makes the Outer Cape a refuge for some many often pushed to the fringes of society, be it in work or play, is important. Even taking a rest from the news and the state of affairs is effective. The holiday season on the Outer Cape continues to grow in events, gatherings, and celebrations, especially in Provincetown. Mixing the cozy and the camp, Provincetown is all about community this time of year, and it’s a beautiful thing. Here’s a partial outline of many of the happenings on the Cape tip in November, December, and on into the New Year. Here’s to kindness in 2026! And who knows…maybe three ghosts will visit the White House on Christmas Eve.
Some call it the off season, but that term seems to be fading in use as it’s a misnomer that Provincetown is dead in the winter. In addition to Provincetown being beautiful in the winter, it’s often also when the town can be intensely creative as writers, artists, and performers use the time to focus and present their work without the distraction of tourists and day jobs. The Fine Arts Work Center (FAWC) hosts monthly FAWC Fridays, featuring live music and food trucks as the public is invited to see and hear the work produced by the fellows in residence. The Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM) features exhibitions year-round, as well as speakers and special events.
