Tired of the same old snowy village layouts? Bring the breeze in with Lemax’s Plymouth Corners—a collection that lets you build a coastal Christmas full of lighthouses, dockside cafés, and charming seaside shops. It’s festive, yes, but also refreshing and totally unique.
This is the village for collectors who crave atmosphere and those business owners looking to shake up their holiday décor with something a little more unexpected. Anchors, sailboats, and seashells meet garland, snowcaps, and twinkling lights. It works—and when it’s done right, it becomes one of the most memorable setups in any season.
What Makes Plymouth Corners Stand Out
Most Lemax villages lean into nostalgia or fantasy. Plymouth Corners leans into location. It’s rooted in New England harbor vibes, with all the rustic detail and nautical flavor you’d expect.
Some of the standout 2025 buildings include:
- Seaside Santa’s Boathouse – Santa arriving by rowboat? Instant scene stealer.
- Maritime Holiday Market – Cozy indoor lights meet outdoor dock displays.
- The Lighthouse Café – A charming blend of Christmas cheer and coastal café culture.
The collection is full of natural wood textures, ropes, stone, and weathered shingles. It’s coastal, but still winter—like the holidays spent by the bay, bundled in scarves, sipping hot cocoa with the smell of sea salt in the air.
Styling Tips for a Coastal Christmas Display
To really make this theme pop, consider these design tips:
- Stick to a coastal palette: whites, blues, and muted greens, with pops of red and gold for holiday spirit.
- Use sand or light gravel in place of fake snow—or mix both to show a chilly beach town vibe.
- Layer in driftwood, seashells, or tiny boat props as scene enhancers.
For backdrops, pale blue or foggy gray works beautifully. Even just adding a fabric backdrop with gentle wave patterns can transform the entire layout into a believable coastal town.
Building a Layout with Flow and Realism
A great Plymouth Corners layout has movement. Think docks and walkways, not straight streets. Try this:
- Start with your largest structure (like the lighthouse or café) on a raised platform, as if it’s up on a bluff.
- Use wooden craft sticks or faux piers to create boardwalk paths that lead to smaller shops or market stalls.
- Add elevation using crates or foam risers hidden beneath light cloth or coastal mesh netting.
Consider adding a small reflective surface or mirror to simulate a harbor or icy shoreline. A single, well-placed piece of “water” can change the whole energy of the scene.
Great Pairings from Other Lemax Villages
Plymouth Corners plays surprisingly well with select buildings from Santa’s Wonderland and even Sugar ‘n Spice. Here are a few cross-collection pairings that fit:
- Reindeer Bait & Tackle (Santa’s Wonderland) adds humor and continuity.
- The Taffy Pull Shop (Sugar ‘n Spice) works as a seasonal boardwalk candy store.
- Snowy Pines Cabin from Caddington makes a great inland anchor.
The key is consistency in tone. Stick to buildings that have wood, stone, or cozy exteriors and avoid anything too glitzy or urban.
FAQ
Is Plymouth Corners only for Christmas displays?
Not at all! While it fits beautifully in a holiday village, its nautical look works year-round. Many collectors display Plymouth Corners as a summer village or mix it with seasonal accents like autumn leaves or spring flowers.
Where can I find older Plymouth Corners buildings?
Try eBay, Amazon, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist. Prices can range from $20 for smaller shops to $100+ for limited edition or retired buildings. Early fall is often the best time to shop.
Can I blend Plymouth Corners with other Lemax collections?
Yes, but do it selectively. Focus on buildings with rustic finishes or outdoor market elements. Avoid city-style pieces unless you can visually separate them within your layout.
What’s the best way to light a coastal display?
Soft white string lights or warm LED tea lights work best. Add small lantern props or dock lamps for extra authenticity. Battery-powered options make it easy to hide wires.
