Enchanted Village, a Boston Christmas Tradition, Now at Jordan's in Avon, Mass.

Enchanted Village, Jordan's Furniture, Avon, Mass. (photo by Eric)
Enchanted Village proves that great Christmas traditions span the generations with equal enthusiasm.

Once a landmark at the former Jordan Marsh department store at Downtown Crossing in Boston, Mass., Enchanted Village is now a suburban Boston staple at Jordan's Furniture in Avon, Mass.

Truly spectacular with its life-like yuletide scenes and animated figurines created by a 1930s Bavarian toy maker, Enchanted Village is simply an instant memory. While furniture stores aren't exactly known as Christmas destinations (other than shopping, of course), Jordan's has wonderfully carried on the tradition by allotting 8,000 sq. ft. of space to this amazing Boston attraction. Of course, Santa is there, too, to meet and greet kids that are frequently in awe of the whole Enchanted Village experience. True to tradition, also, admission is free.

Just as good news: the legendary Jordan Marsh blueberry muffins are sold at the Enchanted Village
Jordan Marsh blueberry muffin (photo by Eric)
entrance. We don't know what exactly makes the Jordan Marsh blueberry muffin better than others, but one taste confirms why this baked good has household-name status in the Boston area.

Thank goodness for Jordan's Furniture resurrecting, in 2009, this important part of Boston history. It was born in the late 1950s, closed in the early 70s, and reopened from 2003-2006. All that closed time dampened many a Boston's Christmas spirit, but the times when operating in Boston created memories that could never be taken away.

Now Enchanted Village is back with a strong private company and all displays well maintained or enhanced. What's more, the holiday magic has expanded with Enchanted Ice -- a 4,000 sq. ft. indoor ice skating rink with artificial ice and a changing light scheme. It's just $5 to skate.

If you had to pick one Christmas event in the Boston area, this would be it. Time-tested, creative and full of holiday cheer that cannot fully be described, Enchanted Village is truly special.

Enchanted Village runs through Jan. 4, 2015. For Enchanted Village and Santa's hours, log onto the Jordan's Furniture web page.

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