Beyond lights and markets, Greater Boston offers unique seasonal experiences and holiday activities. Watch Santa arrive by helicopter at Quincy City Hall, ice skate at Boston Common Frog Pond, or discover themed attractions and festivals. From free community events to special holiday experiences throughout the region.
Santa's Arrival by Helicopter
Location: Quincy
Dates: Annual Event
Cost: FREE
Experience the magic of the holiday season as Santa Claus makes a thrilling arrival by helicopter at Pageant Field in Quincy, Massachusetts. This festive event marks the official start of Christmas celebrations with a spectacular aerial entrance, creating unforgettable memories for families and visitors. Join the community for a joyful gathering filled with holiday cheer and seasonal fun.
Venue: Quincy City Hall
Address: 1305 Hancock St, Quincy, MA 02169
Phone: (617) 376-1000
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Santa Claus arrives by helicopter, offering a spectacular and memorable start to the holiday festivities.
- A community gathering designed to celebrate the official arrival of Santa Claus for the holiday season.
- Witness Santa Claus make a grand entrance via helicopter, a unique and exciting way to kick off the holiday season.
Beverly Holiday Parade
Location: Beverly
Dates: Sunday, November 30, 2025
Cost: FREE
Celebrate the spirit of the season at the 2025 Beverly Holiday Parade, a cherished community tradition showcasing nearly 80 vibrant floats, marching bands, and local groups along a scenic 1.7-mile route from Beverly High School to the Beverly Depot. This festive event uniquely features live broadcasts on BevCam and YouTube, bringing the holiday cheer to viewers near and far while honoring community service and togetherness.
Highlights:
- The annual Beverly Holiday Parade, a community tradition.
- A 1.7-mile parade route starting at Beverly High School and ending at the Beverly Depot.
- Live broadcast of the parade on BevCam and YouTube for wider viewing.
Annual Tree Lighting at Dandelion Park
Location: Marshfield
Dates: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Cost: FREE
Ring in the holidays at Dandelion Park’s beloved Annual Tree Lighting, a cherished Marshfield tradition that brings the community together in festive spirit. Watch as the park’s holiday tree sparkles to life, enjoy heartwarming carols sung by local voices, and meet Santa Claus for memorable moments. Savor steaming cups of hot cocoa and sweet treats while soaking in the joyful atmosphere that marks the true start of the season.
Highlights:
- The annual tree lighting ceremony marks the start of the holiday season.
- A special appearance by Santa Claus adds to the festive cheer.
- Community gathering with carols, hot cocoa, and cookies.
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Boston Common Tree Lighting
Location: Boston
Dates: December 4, 2025
Cost: FREE
Celebrate the start of the holiday season at Boston Common’s iconic Tree Lighting event, featuring a majestic 45-foot white spruce from Nova Scotia adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. Enjoy live festive performances, a special visit from Santa Claus and Rudolph, and a spectacular synchronized illumination of Boston Common, the Public Garden, and Commonwealth Avenue Mall, creating a dazzling winter wonderland in the heart of the city.
Venue: Boston Common
Address: 139 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-635-4505
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- The 84th annual Boston Common Tree Lighting ceremony.
- A special appearance by Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
- The synchronized lighting of holiday displays across Boston Common and the Public Garden.
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Hanukkah Festival of Lights at Museum of Fine Arts
Location: Boston
Dates: Thursday, December 18, 2025
Cost: $
Experience the warmth and joy of Hanukkah at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts with an evening dedicated to celebrating light, culture, and creativity. This special event blends immersive art displays, live musical performances, and interactive activities that honor Jewish traditions and contemporary expressions. Enjoy flexible pay-what-you-wish admission, making this celebration accessible to all.
Venue: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Address: 465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: 617-267-9300
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Celebrate Hanukkah with an evening of art, music, and activities.
- Enjoy pay-what-you-wish general admission during the event.
- Experience a vibrant community gathering filled with performances celebrating Jewish cultures and identities.
First Night Boston Ice Sculptures
Location: Boston
Dates: December 31 (noon) - January 1 (12:30 AM)
Cost: FREE
Step into a winter wonderland at City Hall Plaza for First Night Boston’s dazzling ice sculpture display, where renowned artists transform massive blocks of ice into breathtaking tributes to Massachusetts’ 250th anniversary. Marvel at the iconic illuminated 'BOSTON' sign and intricate carvings that capture key moments in the state’s history, all set against a backdrop of live music, family-friendly performances, and the festive energy of New Year’s Eve. As night falls, the sculptures glow with vibrant lights, culminating in a spectacular fireworks finale over Boston Common and the Harbor.
Venue: City Hall Plaza
Address: 1 City Hall Square, Boston, MA 02201
Phone: 617-439-7700
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A spectacular display of ice sculptures, including historical tributes and the iconic 'BOSTON' sign.
- A vibrant New Year's Eve celebration with a full schedule of live music, performances, and family-friendly activities.
- A grand finale featuring fireworks over Boston Common and Boston Harbor.
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Jolly Jingle Express
Location: Woburn
Dates: Sunday December 14, 2025
Cost: $$
Embark on a festive 70-minute journey aboard the Jolly Jingle Express departing from Anderson Station in Woburn, where children and families are immersed in a magical North Pole adventure. Encounter Santa Claus and his lively elves, enjoy captivating live performances by local music and drama students, and receive a cherished silver jingle bell keepsake. This enchanting holiday train ride blends storytelling, music, and festive surprises to create unforgettable memories.
Highlights:
- A whimsical train ride to the North Pole, complete with Santa and his elves.
- Engaging live performances by talented music and drama students.
- A special gift of a silver jingle bell for each child.
Wakefield Lighting of the Lights
Location: Wakefield
Dates: Friday, December 2, 2025 at 6:30 PM
Cost: FREE
The Wakefield Lighting of the Lights is a cherished annual celebration that ushers in the holiday spirit with warmth and community joy. Gather under the twinkling lights at Wakefield Veterans Memorial Common for a magical evening featuring festive music, a special visit from a beloved snowman character, and a heartwarming lighting ceremony that unites neighbors of all ages. Sip on complimentary hot chocolate as you sing along to classic carols and experience the enchanting glow that transforms the town into a winter wonderland.
Highlights:
- Experience the annual tradition of the Lighting of the Lights ceremony.
- Gather with the community for a festive start to the holiday season.
- Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate to warm up during the evening's festivities.
Boston Common Frog Pond Ice Skating
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $
Experience the magic of winter at Boston Common Frog Pond, where outdoor ice skating unfolds beneath the glow of historic trees and festive city lights. This beloved seasonal tradition offers a quintessential New England holiday atmosphere, with opportunities for skating lessons, family fun, and special performances by elite skaters. The rink’s central location makes it a perfect spot to soak in Boston’s holiday spirit while enjoying fresh air and classic winter recreation.
Venue: Boston Common
Address: 38 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-635-2120
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Historic Common
- Outdoor rink
- Boston landmark
Seaport District Ice Skating
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $
Experience the magic of winter at Boston's Seaport District with the 2025 seasonal ice skating rink, where visitors can glide across a stunning eco-friendly Swiss Glice® surface framed by sparkling waterfront views. This unique rink blends indoor-outdoor elements, offering a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere enhanced by twinkling lights, festive treats, and nearby holiday markets. It’s a perfect winter escape combining active fun with the charm of Boston’s bustling harborfront.
Venue: Seaport District
Address: Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA 02210
Highlights:
- Waterfront rink
- Modern district
- Harbor views
Faneuil Hall Holiday Carolers
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Experience the enchanting sounds of the Faneuil Hall Holiday Carolers in Boston, where traditional and contemporary holiday melodies fill the historic marketplace. This festive event brings together talented vocalists and musicians performing live amid the glow of holiday lights and decorations, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere unique to Boston’s holiday season. Visitors can immerse themselves in timeless carols while exploring the vibrant holiday market setting.
Venue: Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Address: 4 South Market Street, Boston, MA 02109
Phone: 617-523-1300
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Live carolers
- Historic marketplace
- Free entertainment
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First Night Boston New Year's Eve
Location: Boston
Dates: December 31, 2025
Cost: $
Boston's premier New Year's Eve celebration transforms the city into a vibrant hub of artistic expression and festive revelry. Spanning over 12 hours of free programming, this beloved tradition features live musical performances across multiple venues, two spectacular fireworks displays, and intricate ice sculptures celebrating Massachusetts's 250th anniversary. From the colorful parade marching through downtown to the midnight harbor fireworks welcoming 2026, First Night Boston delivers an inclusive, family-friendly experience that has defined New England's New Year's Eve since 1976.
Venue: Various Boston locations
Address: Boston, MA
Highlights:
- NYE celebration
- Fireworks
- Family-friendly
Boston Harbor Holiday Cruises
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Experience the magic of Boston's winter season aboard elegant vessels cruising through historic Boston Harbor. These festive maritime celebrations feature live holiday entertainment, gourmet dining options, and panoramic views of illuminated landmarks including the USS Constitution and Zakim Bridge. From intimate cocoa and caroling experiences to elegant brunch and dinner cruises, these waterborne festivities blend New England maritime tradition with seasonal cheer, creating memorable holiday moments against the backdrop of Boston's iconic skyline.
Venue: Boston Harbor
Address: Various departure points
Highlights:
- Harbor cruises
- Skyline views
- Holiday dining
Museum of Science Holiday Exhibits
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Celebrate the holiday season at Boston's Museum of Science with immersive festive exhibits that blend wonder and education. Explore intricate model train displays set in a magical winter landscape, engage with interactive science activities themed around holiday illusions and natural phenomena, and enjoy special seasonal programming designed to inspire curiosity and joy for all ages.
Venue: Museum of Science
Address: 1 Science Park, Boston, MA 02114
Phone: 617-723-2500
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Science exhibits
- Planetarium
- Family programming
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New England Aquarium Holiday Visits
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Celebrate the holidays at the New England Aquarium in Boston with a festive twist on marine exploration. Guests can enjoy dazzling underwater views, special holiday-themed activities, and unique encounters with playful seals, sea turtles, and penguins. The aquarium is adorned with seasonal decorations, and visitors can catch exclusive family-friendly events like holiday movie nights and interactive animal encounters, making it a memorable winter destination for all ages.
Venue: New England Aquarium
Address: 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
Phone: 617-973-5200
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Marine animals
- Waterfront location
- Family attraction
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Museum of Fine Arts Holiday Tours
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Explore Boston's premier art collection during the festive season with guided tours through galleries featuring masterpieces spanning 5,000 years of artistic achievement. The Museum of Fine Arts transforms into a cultural holiday destination where visitors can discover renowned works by Van Gogh and Monet alongside ancient Egyptian treasures, all while enjoying the museum's elegant atmosphere enhanced by seasonal programming and special exhibitions celebrating art and creativity.
Venue: Museum of Fine Arts
Address: 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: 617-267-9300
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- World-class art
- Holiday exhibitions
- Avenue of the Arts
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Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Holiday
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Experience a enchanting evening of holiday celebration within the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum's stunning Venetian-inspired palace. This special seasonal event features live musical performances spanning four centuries of winter traditions, performed by acclaimed ensembles including the American Brass Quintet and Vox Vocal Ensemble. Guests can explore the museum's galleries after hours, participate in festive sing-alongs in the courtyard, and enjoy seasonal refreshments at Café G, creating a sophisticated yet joyful atmosphere that blends art, music, and holiday spirit.
Venue: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Address: 25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: 617-566-1401
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Venetian palace
- Art collection
- Courtyard garden
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Institute of Contemporary Art Holiday
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Celebrate the holidays at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston with a vibrant mix of art, music, and family-friendly festivities. Experience immersive installations, creative workshops, and special performances that blend contemporary culture with seasonal cheer. Enjoy harbor views, interactive art projects, and unique holiday events that make the ICA a standout destination for festive inspiration and joyful exploration.
Venue: ICA Boston
Address: 25 Harbor Shore Drive, Boston, MA 02210
Phone: 617-478-3100
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Contemporary art
- Harbor views
- Modern architecture
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Boston Children's Museum Holiday
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Experience a winter wonderland at Boston Children's Museum's seasonal celebration, featuring interactive ice skating on socks, igloo fort building, and a mesmerizing Northern Lights-inspired art installation. This tenth-year tradition combines playful activities with artistic wonder, creating an immersive holiday atmosphere where children can explore creativity, movement, and imagination through hands-on winter experiences alongside character meet-and-greets and cozy reading nooks.
Venue: Boston Children's Museum
Address: 308 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Phone: 617-426-6500
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Children's museum
- Interactive exhibits
- Family programs
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Arnold Arboretum Winter Walks
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Experience the serene beauty of the Arnold Arboretum during the holiday season with guided winter walks that reveal the quiet majesty of the landscape. These walks offer a refreshing escape into nature, where visitors can discover the subtle wonders of dormant trees, frost-kissed paths, and seasonal wildlife, all while learning about the Arboretum’s rich history and ecological significance. Each walk is led by knowledgeable guides who share stories and insights, making it a perfect way to connect with nature and community during the festive period.
Venue: Arnold Arboretum
Address: 125 Arborway, Boston, MA 02130
Phone: 617-524-1718
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Botanical garden
- Harvard facility
- Free admission
Media:
Freedom Trail Holiday Walking Tours
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $
Experience the magic of Boston’s holiday season with the Freedom Trail Holiday Walking Tours, where 19th-century Dickensian guides lead you through festively decorated historic sites. This immersive 60-minute stroll reveals the origins of Boston’s Christmas traditions, enhanced by sparkling lights and beautifully adorned trees along the iconic Freedom Trail. Enjoy exclusive discounts at landmark museums after the tour, blending history with holiday cheer.
Highlights:
- Historic sites
- 2.5-mile trail
- Guided tours
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Boston Public Library Holiday Tours
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Explore the architectural grandeur and artistic treasures of Boston's iconic Central Library during the festive holiday season. This historic Copley Square landmark showcases three centuries of design excellence, from the McKim Building's classical elegance to contemporary installations. Visitors can discover seasonal exhibitions, including the thought-provoking 'Revolution! 250 Years of Art & Activism in Boston,' while experiencing the library's stunning interiors adorned with notable art and decorative elements. Perfect for those seeking cultural enrichment combined with holiday atmosphere in one of America's most beautiful public libraries.
Venue: Boston Public Library
Address: 700 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-536-5400
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Historic library
- Architecture tours
- Free admission
Media:
Fenway Park Holiday Tours
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Celebrate the holiday season with Fenway Park Holiday Tours, a unique opportunity to explore Boston’s legendary baseball stadium adorned in festive décor. Experience behind-the-scenes access to historic landmarks within the ballpark, enhanced by special seasonal touches and a captivating LED light show on the Green Monster. This immersive tour blends sports heritage with holiday cheer, creating a memorable winter outing for all ages.
Venue: Fenway Park
Address: 4 Jersey Street, Boston, MA 02215
Phone: 617-226-6666
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Historic ballpark
- Red Sox venue
- Stadium tours
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TD Garden Holiday Events
Location: Boston
Dates: December home games 2025
Cost: $$$
Celebrate the holiday season at TD Garden in Boston with a festive lineup of events blending sports, music, and seasonal cheer. Experience the electric atmosphere of Bruins and Celtics games enhanced by holiday decorations, special performances, and exclusive fan experiences. This unique celebration offers a vibrant mix of sports excitement and holiday spirit under one roof, making it a must-visit destination for festive entertainment in 2025.
Venue: TD Garden
Address: 100 Legends Way, Boston, MA 02114
Phone: 617-624-1050
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Bruins and Celtics
- Holiday games
- Arena atmosphere
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Blue Hills Reservation Winter Hiking
Location: Milton
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Experience the serene beauty of Blue Hills Reservation this Christmas 2025, where winter transforms the landscape into a peaceful wonderland just minutes from Boston. Wander through snow-dusted woodlands, cross frozen brooks, and discover panoramic views of the city skyline from scenic ridges. With over 125 miles of well-marked trails, this winter hike offers something for every skill level, from gentle nature walks to invigorating climbs, all wrapped in the quiet magic of the season.
Venue: Blue Hills Reservation
Address: 695 Hillside Street, Milton, MA 02186
Phone: 617-698-1802
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Hiking trails
- Skyline views
- Free outdoor recreation
Boston Duck Tours Holiday Edition
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: $$
Experience Boston's iconic landmarks adorned with festive holiday décor while cruising through the city's historic neighborhoods on an amphibious DUCK vehicle. This seasonal tour combines the unique thrill of transitioning from city streets to the Charles River with winter holiday atmosphere, offering passengers breathtaking views of Boston and Cambridge illuminated by seasonal lights. Your entertaining ConDUCKtor guide shares stories of Boston's revolutionary heritage while the city sparkles with holiday cheer, creating a memorable blend of history, adventure, and seasonal magic.
Highlights:
- Amphibious vehicle
- Land and water
- Holiday narration
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Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in Boston.