Holly Folly: Provincetown's 2026 LGBT Holiday Festival

Holly Folly is Provincetown’s annual LGBTQ+ holiday celebration, returning to the tip of Cape Cod from December 4–6, 2026.

First launched in 1997 as a way for the LGBTQ+ community to celebrate the holiday season together, it has grown into one of the biggest LGBTQ+ holiday gatherings in the US. This year, the celebrations are expanding beyond the traditional kickoff weekend with additional Holly Folly events throughout December.

Why should you go?

Holly Folly is Christmas with a distinctly Provincetown twist. Expect festive parties, live entertainment, holiday shopping and plenty of camp, with the town’s LGBTQ+ community at the heart of the celebrations.

Past Holly Folly favourites have included the Jingle Bell Run & Champagne Brunch, drag bingo, holiday sing-alongs, dance parties and performances by local entertainers. The programme also makes the most of Provincetown’s independent shops, boutiques, galleries and restaurants along Commercial Street.

One of the town’s most memorable festive sights is its Christmas tree made entirely from lobster pots, a wonderfully Ptown take on the traditional holiday decoration.

Holly Folly in Provincetown

Holly Folly is as much about Provincetown as it is about the individual events. The LGBTQ+ community has been part of Ptown’s identity for generations, and the holiday festival brings visitors together with local performers, businesses, restaurants, galleries and bars.

The December celebrations are a particularly good excuse to experience Provincetown outside its busy summer season, when the town takes on a quieter but still distinctly LGBTQ+ character.

Holly Folly events

The main Holly Folly weekend runs from December 4–6, 2026, with further events planned throughout December. The programme changes each year, so check the latest listings before travelling for details of parties, performances, shopping events and other festive activities.

Where should I stay?

Staying in central Provincetown puts you close to the holiday celebrations, Commercial Street, LGBTQ+ bars, restaurants, galleries and shops. Accommodation can be limited during popular event weekends, so booking ahead is recommended.

Check out our gay-friendly hotels in Provincetown.