Sometimes a leisurely drive or stroll through town is all it takes to conjure up a generous dose of holiday spirit.  In many NH towns, one can find festive holiday decor still hanging brightly well into February. March and early April find melted snow turned to mud and slush, a rather dreary backdrop for many of the (by then) tired and weatherworn decorations.  The last holdouts of holiday cheer then reluctantly take down the wreaths, lights and other trimmings, to be either properly discarded or boxed away for safekeeping until the next holiday season.

A few festive images from around town:

 

It is worthwhile to note that some of the most beautiful decorations are also the simplest.  There is a certain restraint evident.  Green garlands, red bows and a smattering of well placed white lights and candles are all that are needed to enhance the already existing charm of the structures they adorn.