Welcome to Alpine Advent

I’m Tara Stewart, a New Englander who fell in love with European Christmas markets during my travels across Austria, Germany and France. Those magical winter evenings, surrounded by the warm glow of wooden chalets, the scent of mulled wine and fresh fir branches, and the joy of discovering one-of-a-kind treasures from local artisans, stayed with me long after I returned home to New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

But here’s what struck me most: the community spirit. These weren’t tourist attractions. They were genuine celebrations of regional craftsmanship and holiday tradition that brought neighbors together and welcomed visitors as friends.

Tara and James in Annecy, France

The Town at the End of the Road

Over the years, I helped businesses bring new ideas to life in Boston, New York, London, Brussels and Dubai. With each move, I made friends and got involved in the community. When my family and I moved to Waterville Valley full time in 2020, I wanted to do the same here and contribute to the place we call home.

Living here, I saw how quiet Town Square could feel on a winter evening. I knew it could be the heart of something special.

A child standing in a quiet, snowy Town Square in Waterville Valley before the market, with the tree and gazebo behind
Alpine Advent, Waterville Valley, Est. 2025 logo

Market Magic

Alpine Advent is my dream of bringing that same magic home. Not as a copy, but as something uniquely ours, celebrating the artisans, craftspeople and culinary crafters who call New Hampshire home.

In 2025, twelve wooden chalets filled Waterville Valley’s Town Square. More than 20,000 people came. Thirty-two artisans sold their work, the tree lit up the square, and fireworks rang in the new year.

This year, it’s becoming a tradition. Every artisan is still chosen by hand, and every purchase supports someone who pours their heart into their craft.

I can’t wait to see you in the square.

Warmly,
Tara

Our Traditions

Handmade gifts, seasonal treats and holiday moments in a real mountain village. Every chalet celebrates New Hampshire’s artisans, with the warmth of a town that shows up for its neighbors.

Experience the Atmosphere

Twinkling lights over wooden chalets dressed in fresh greenery, mugs of hot cocoa, and the White Mountains all around. Stay for the moment the lights come on over the square.

Visit Us

Alpine Advent opens with a Black Friday Preview Night on Friday, November 27, then runs every Saturday and Sunday from November 28 through December 27, plus Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Plan your visit

Get Involved

Whether you’re browsing handcrafted gifts, warming up with something sweet or soaking in the lights, Alpine Advent invites everyone to celebrate winter in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Artisans can apply for one of our last open chalets, and local businesses can partner with us.

See how we brought it to life · Apply for a chalet · Partner with us

Two friends laughing together in Town Square, with the lit tree behind them
Kids holding hot cocoa in Alpine Advent mugs inside a Happy Holidays photo frame, with the lit tree behind them

Plan Your Visit

Mark your calendar and start a White Mountain holiday tradition of your own. Sign up for updates to meet this year’s artisans before anyone else.