Today is Giving Tuesday, a global generosity movement unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world. Please consider making a donation to these non-profit organizations with properties in Essex who work to preserve our local history and open spaces:

You can also give to the Mr. & Mrs. Dexter Woodman Scholarship by dining at Woodman's today: ten percent of sales go directly to supporting the scholarship to assist young people to attend college.

We invite you to #ShopSmall this holiday season and spend your money closer so your community can go farther! Shopping in Essex is always a fun treasure hunt. Discover special gifts for everyone on your list: from jewelry, fine art, artisan creations, gifts for babies and growing kids–to vintage, mid-century modern and antique furniture and décor.

Gift cards for an Essex restaurant, a getaway stay at Shea’s Riverside Inn and Motel, a massage from True North Hypnosis and Wellness, an Essex River Cruise, Agawam Boat and Fishing Charter or fly fishing trip with Sea Fly Charters on the Essex River will give the ones you love something to look forward to!

See our website for hours and information. Let’s support our small businesses who have been there for us! Social distancing and masks required to keep everyone safe.

Above (left to right): Sea Meadow Gifts, N. Larson Jewelry Designs, Wheelworks Pottery

Vote for your Light Up Essex favorites in the Residential Light Fight and Merchant Light Fight! Cash prizes for the winners plus bragging rights to the Chris Williams handmade trophy for the Merchant Light Fight winner. Kids’ Creation Contest entries are due December 13th and the winner will ride with Santa in this year‘s First Annual Essex Holiday Parade! A shout out to the LUE team for hanging beautiful wreaths along the causeway.

Extend your festive drive through Essex to see the Winter Lights on Cape Ann featuring over 150 lighted locations and creative window displays in neighboring Cape Ann towns! Click below for a map:

This year marks a new tradition in town: Essex Holiday Parade! Keep your eyes out for a cast of holiday characters and Santa, who will be riding on an Essex Fire Engine with the winner (to be announced) of the Light Up Essex Kids’ Creation Contest. Come early to dine and shop in Essex, then join us to watch the parade!

Please abide by social distancing and wear appropriate face coverings. Special thanks to Light Up Essex, Essex Youth Commission, Essex PTO, Essex Safety Departments, and Essex Merchants Group/VisitEssexMA for making it happen!