In this episode of Notable New England, I reflect on highlights from the podcast’s first full year, share what listeners loved most in 2025, and talk about where the show is headed in 2026. I also share a few New England–inspired New Year’s resolutions—from being a tourist in your own backyard to supporting public libraries and showing up for local community life. A cozy, community-focused conversation about New England, connection, and what’s next.

📌 Show Notes & Resources:

🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links 🔹 Music licensing & credits

💙 Support Notable New England:

Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here

To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewengland You'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation.

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🎙️ Podcast Website: https://notablene.podbean.com/ 📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com

Content warning: This episode begins with a message of condolences related to the Brown University & Brookline, MA shootings. While details are not discussed, the mention of the events could be triggering for some listeners. There are also brief references to adult themes when discussing historical Christmas traditions, so listener discretion is advised, particularly if young ears are present.

What did Christmas look like generations ago and how did those traditions shape the holidays we celebrate today?

In this festive episode, I’m joined by Brian Earl, host of the beloved podcast Christmas Past and author of the new book Of Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past. Brian grew up in Stoughton, Massachusetts, and shares both fascinating historical insights and personal New England Christmas memories from his childhood.

We dive into the origins of holiday traditions, surprising facts about Christmas you may not know, and the stories behind how Christmas celebrations have evolved over time. Brian also talks about the inspiration behind his podcast and his new book.

Whether you love Christmas history, enjoy learning about holiday traditions, or feel nostalgic for New England winters, this episode is full of warmth, history, and seasonal charm.

📌 Show Notes & Resources:

🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links 🔹 Music licensing & credits

💙 Support Notable New England:

Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here

To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewengland You'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation.

📢 Follow Notable New England:

🔹 Patreon 🔹 BuyMeaCoffee 🔹 Substack 🔹 Facebook 🔹 Instagram 🔹 Threads 🔹 Bluesky 🔹 YouTube 🔹 TikTok 🔹 Reddit

🎙️ Podcast Website: https://notablene.podbean.com/ 📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com

Looking for meaningful holiday gifts with real New England charm? In this episode, I share a curated, unsponsored list of my favorite New England-made gifts and local experiences—from L.A. Burdick Chocolate and the Vermont Country Store to King Arthur Baking classes, Maine lobster deliveries, New Haven pizza tours, the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail, Newport Mansions memberships, Del’s Lemonade goodies, and more.

Perfect for anyone wanting to shop local, support small businesses, and find unique gifts across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.

Tune in for a cozy, thoughtful New England holiday gift guide that makes shopping easier and a whole lot more fun.

📌 Show Notes & Resources:

🔹 Episode Sources, References & Featured Links 🔹 Music licensing & credits

💙 Support Notable New England:

Join our Notable New England Patreon community for a dedicated space to connect, explore New England history, hidden gems, and local stories without the distractions of traditional social media! Get early, ad-free episodes and exclusive perks starting at just $2 a month. Your support helps cover production costs and keeps engaging episodes coming! Or, sign up for free and connect with other lovely listeners. 👉 Join here

To make a one-time donation to Notable New England, head over to buymeacoffee.com/notablenewengland You'll get an on-air shout out of thanks for your donation.

📢 Follow Notable New England:

🔹 Patreon 🔹 BuyMeaCoffee 🔹 Substack 🔹 Facebook 🔹 Instagram 🔹 Threads 🔹 Bluesky 🔹 YouTube 🔹 TikTok 🔹 Reddit

🎙️ Podcast Website: https://notablene.podbean.com/ 📩 Contact: gbossmusicco@gmail.com