Lady Smith Manor’s Christmas Market

Step into a world of enchantment this holiday season at Lady Smith Manor’s Christmas Market in the charming village of Dorchester, New Brunswick. This year’s event invites you to unlock the magic as you walk through the wardrobe into a Narnia-inspired wonderland. Embark on the “Quest for Narnia” Challenge, where solving clues and completing tasks brings the market’s festive spirit to life. Browse one-of-a-kind artisan gifts and vintage treasures, and savour sweet, locally crafted treats. Mark your calendars - and get your tickets now - for this unforgettable holiday experience. It all unfolds Saturday, November 16, 2024 (11am - 7pm) and Sunday, November 17, 2024 (10am - 4pm).

Christmas at the Manor

Christmas at the Manor is a magical experience for all ages that you won’t want to miss. Owners, Miriam Andrews and Stephen Trites spend months preparing for this beloved event, and in the weeks leading up to opening day, the manor undergoes a breathtaking transformation. Over 20 Christmas trees are carefully decorated, mantels are dressed in festive splendor, and whimsical holiday vignettes fill every corner. “The best reward,” Miriam shared, “is seeing the joy on our visitors faces.” While every event she plans is extraordinary, Miriam shoots for the stars with an extra special push to tie up the year in a big spectacular bow for this annual Christmas Market.

Past Christmas Markets

Take a stroll down memory lane with a glimpse of past Christmas Markets at Lady Smith Manor (LSM), and get a taste of the magic that awaits you this year.

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas (2021)

My first encounter with the LSM Christmas Market was in 2021 during their themed ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. From that very moment, I knew this festive event would become an annual tradition. Miriam’s impeccable attention to detail is unmatched, and year after year, she raises the bar and elevates the visitor experience. Meanwhile, Stephen brings her creative vision to life with absolute perfection.

A Dicken’s Christmas (2022)

In 2022, LSM delighted visitors with A Dicken’s Christmas, transforming the historic home into scenes inspired by this Victorian-era festive story. Each corner featured a new vignette from A Christmas Carol, inviting guests to immerse themselves in a whimsical blend of nostalgia and storytelling magic.

The Nutcracker (2023)

The 2023 Christmas Market transported guests into the enchanting world of The Nutcracker. Highlights included a scavenger hunt, giant nutcrackers, waltzing snowflakes, a Sugarplum Fairy display in the Land of Sweets, and opportunity to search out the Mouse King, and the elusive Golden Nutcracker.

Each year brings new surprises and themes, ensuring that no two markets are the same. What wonder awaits this year? There’s only one way to find out - join the fun at LSM for another unforgettable Christmas at the Manor!

Local Artisans and Vintage-Inspired Vendors

Each year, a carefully curated selection of 20+ local artisans and vintage-inspired vendors is invited to showcase their handcrafted creations and unique finds at LSM’s Christmas Market. These talented vendors set up in decorative booths throughout the first floor of the manor and on the beautiful outdoor grounds under festive tents. From sweet treats and vintage treasures, to holiday wreaths, art, leather goods, homeware, candles, jewelry, bath and body products, farm produce, and more, there’s something for everyone at Christmas at the Manor.

1840 Georgian Manor

LSM’s 1840 Georgian manor was once the home of Sir Albert James Smith, a former Premier of New Brunswick. In 2019, Miriam and Stephen acquired the manor and have been passionately restoring it to its original grandeur ever since. Their goal is to breathe new life into this provincial treasure, blending history with community through their ongoing events. Both the summer and Christmas markets give nostalgic nods to the events that were once held at the manor, with the exquisite setting - featuring 19th and 20th Century antiques - adding an extra layer of charm to these one-of-a-kind events.

Christmas at the Manor Grand Door Prize

Be sure to enter the Grand Door Prize Draw at this year’s Christmas Market. Each year one lucky winner is selected to receive a coveted basket filled with a special item from every vendor. The winner is drawn live on Facebook the Monday following the event. It is a wonderful way to sample the products offered by the talented artisans, creators, makers and merchants who make Christmas at the Manor truly special.

Lady Smith Manor Diaries

Since 2019, Miriam has been documenting the renovation journey on this 25-room, 8000-square-foot manor through her weekly vlog series, the Lady Smith Manor Diaries. Follow along to see the latest updates, discover creative techniques, and pick up helpful renovation tips. Beyond the vlogs, Miriam also runs a website featuring an online shop with branded merchandise, a special LSM coffee blend, and more.

Miriam is active on social media platforms, keeping followers engaged with behind-the-scenes content and seasonal surprises too. In 2021 she launched a YouTube Advent Calendar series that featured daily posts leading up to the manor’s first Christmas Day celebration. In 2022 and 2023, she delighted viewers with a Twelve Days of Christmas series, sharing favourite holiday traditions, how-to decorating tips, festive recipes, and daily giveaways - including the highly coveted prize of an overnight stay at the manor. Miriam’s creativity knows no bounds, and she promises exciting surprises and plans every year.

Holiday Treats

Warm up with a hot chocolate or apple cider from Bellevue Orchard, or enjoy a cozy cocktail created at The Thirsty Whippet Pub. You’ll also find Mrs. Dunster’s bite-sized chocolate and sugar donut nuggets and festive Sussex Ice Cream. After you enjoy your treats, cuddle up and capture a Victorian Christmas Card photo opportunity. Update your Facebook profile or feed the gram with your favourite Christmas at the Manor instagrammable moment. Don’t forget to tag #ChristmasattheManor

Limited-Edition LSM Keepsake

Each year, Christmas at the Market unveils a new Limited-Edition LSM Keepsake - a handcrafted tree ornament that have become a must-have for collectors. Fans eagerly await the release, hoping to be the first to get their hands on the latest creation. LSM has just debuted the lovely 2024 ornament on their latest vlog episode and it is a beauty.

Victorian Christmas

Experience the magic of the holiday season with a Victorian Christmas at Lady Smith Manor. This year’s festive extravaganza takes place on Saturday, November 16 (11am - 7pm) and Sunday, November 17th (10am - 4pm). Admission is just $5, with free entry for children under 12. Tickets sell quickly, so book your Christmas at the Manor tickets in advance to secure your spot at this spectacular event!

LSM Special Events

LSM is open year round with ongoing special events from vintage picnics, afternoon teas, live music performances, movie nights, book clubs, murder mystery nights, and themed balls. Stop by The Thirsty Whippet Pub, to also enjoy weekly specials and special events. Stay tuned on their social media channels.

Lady Smith Manor Special Events

Looking for a unique event venue? LSM is available for photo shoots, creative workshops, corporate events, and meeting spaces. For couples dreaming of a romantic celebration, LSM offers an Exclusively Yours Weekend Wedding Package, featuring accommodations, exclusive access to the manor - including The Thirsty Whippet Pub - wedding planning support, personalized decor and setup, as well as furniture and tableware rentals. For a more intimate option, consider the Uniquely Yours Micro Wedding Package or the Intimately Yours Micro Wedding Package. Write the next chapter of your love story at LSM.

The Manor Keys

Unlock exclusive experiences with the Manor Keys Program, a membership that brings you closer to the heart of LSM and The Thirsty Whippet Pub. As a Manor Key holder, you’ll enjoy discounts, rewards, and early access to all event tickets, along with the rare opportunity to book a stay at the Manor - a privilege that makes membership truly special. Having stayed in each of the Manor’s three suites - the Parisian, Sandpiper, and Woodland - I can assure you that every stay is a luxurious experience. Take a look below for a glimpse of the suites, and learn more about becoming a Manor Key Holder.

Lady Smith Manor’s Summer Market

Step back in time and experience the charm of an Lady Smith Manor Summer Market. Nestled in the picturesque village of Dorchester, New Brunswick, the 1840 Georgian Manor creates a nostalgic backdrop for a day filled with vintage treasures, artisan vendors, family-friendly activities, and old-fashioned summer treats. Don’t miss a chance to create lasting memories at this delightful event!

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!