The Christmas Tree Challenge

Last year I was over scheduled, worn out, and down right in a bad mood for most of December.  We didn't even have time to get our tree until just a few days before Christmas.  I was determined to not let that happen again this year so right after Thanksgiving I came up with the idea for the Christmas Tree Challenge.  Basically, it was a hunt around Boston and Cambridge to see all of the Christmas displays we could see.  I made a list, JO suggested we leave some blanks for write-ins, and we were off.

We started at the Nine Zero Hotel

and Omni Parker

 Of course, we had to stop for dinner and drinks along the way.  One night we hit up Marliave, which never disappoints.  And no trip to Marliave is complete without the chocolate truffles!

Then we saw some more trees!

The Ritz

Macy's Tree

The Four Seasons- loved it

We also stopped at Avery's at the Ritz along the way.  This is a really nice, quite bar with a gas fireplace and great bubbles.  JO felt the need to order another dessert.

Then, more trees

The Taj

Crazy Boston Tea Party Gingerbread House

Fairmont

Lennox

The Mandarin

Inman Square

Another night we stopped at the Kendall Hotel for dinner.  It had been quite a long time since we had eaten at their restaurant, the Black Sheep, and we had definitely forgotten how delicious the food is.  We ordered a ton of apps and enjoyed the lovely atmosphere.

We also had drinks at the Liberty Hotel because we just had to see their upside down trees!

Another night found us in Harvard Square, and after checking out the tree at the Charles Hotel and watching Home Alone on the big screen at the Brattle, we made our way to Nubar for a cocktail and to snap a picture with the tree!

We enjoyed the live band in the Square playing Christmas music

This was a great way to celebrate in the city and I think it's going to become a new holiday tradition.  In terms of winners- my vote goes to the Omni Parker for old world charm (although the Four Seasons was a close second) and the Liberty for modern decor!