Destress in Downtown: Finding Peace Amidst the Holiday Hype

The Christmas countdown is in its final moments, and the air is alive with flurries of holiday preparations. With guests arriving, recipes to cook, last-minute gift shopping, not to mention the wrapping, the to-do list sometimes challenges the magic, pleasure and relaxation that should accompany the holiday experience. It’s necessary that we take a step back and pause for a moment. This time of year brings a quiet calm to Edenton. The town offers plenty of opportunities for you to catch your breath and enjoy a minute or two to yourself. Here are a few of my favorite ways that Edenton helps me recover the magic in the midst of the holiday hubbub.

Get Out

But I mean that with love. Breathing fresh air, getting out of the house and stretching your legs is the perfect break. How much time can you spare? An hour or just 15 minutes? Either works! Edenton is a lovely walking town and pretty ideal for those who want to stroll just a couple of blocks or spend hours winding through downtown. And if you don’t want to brave the chilly air, I find that driving through the streets – playing Christmas carols on my speaker, of course – relaxes me as much as walking.

Photo Credits to the Edenton Historical Commission

Slip away in the evening and watch as the setting sun colors the sky and sound with dusky purples and grays. I suggest heading to the water’s edge at the Historic Edenton Waterfront Park, the current home to the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse. Walk along West Water Street to watch as the sun sinks into the sound. Or admire the views of the water and docked boats by taking East Water Street. Follow it past the Barker House, past the Edenton Bell Battery and until it takes you to the bridge to Hayes Farm Road. Although you’re still downtown, the serenity surrounding the waterfront offers the sensation of being at the edge of the world.   

You can also head into the heart of Edenton and find the Christmas spirit exuded from the historic homes decorated for the holidays. Some decorations evoke images of the town from its Colonial days. With the candles in the window and fresh greenery embellishing the front doors, porches and gates, you almost hear the sound of horse hooves on cobblestone or carolers in the streets. But in the 21^st century, the refreshing quiet is interrupted only by the occasional passing car. Other homes showcase contemporary decorations, with colorful lights illuminating the exteriors and massive Christmas trees filling the windows. It’s like walking through a neighborhood in a feel-good Christmas movie (but don't expect to see any snow).

If you opt to unwind from behind the steering wheel, however, one advantage is that you can see more of the town if you’re short on time. By way of car, the area outside of downtown is a welcome spot to explore and feel the peace. Have you ever driven down a rural country road while watching the sun set? It’s mesmerizing when the gentle light catches the harvested fields and turns them a golden color, and the shades of navy, violet and peach color the skies.

Photo Credits to the Edenton Historical Commission

The peaceful streets are ideal for a contemplative stroll amidst the twinkling lights’ glow. Away from the Christmas to-do list, chores and other preparations, you're free to clear your head and take in the beauty of the homes and downtown. Let the inviting and festive atmosphere remind you how the holiday season is supposed to feel, and bask in the moment’s peace – the gift wrapping can wait. 

This is the final blog for the rest of the year, so be sure to check back in 2019 for a new year of new Edenton events and activities. Happy holidays from all of us at Edenton This Week, and we'll see you in the New Year!