Boston and the Greater Boston area light up with spectacular Christmas displays throughout the holiday season. From the waterfront trellis lighting at Christopher Columbus Park to ZooLights at Stone Zoo and Jordan's Enchanted Village, the region offers dozens of festive light attractions. Explore free outdoor displays and ticketed holiday experiences perfect for the whole family.
Last Updated: December 2, 2025
ZooLights at Stone Zoo
Location: Stoneham
Dates: November 14 - January 4, 4:00 - 9:30 p.m. (Closed Nov. 27 and Dec. 25)
Cost: $$
Transform your holiday season at Stone Zoo's enchanting nighttime celebration, where thousands of brilliant lights drape across tree-lined pathways to create an immersive winter escape. This festive evening event combines the magic of illuminated displays with opportunities to spot beloved animal residents like flamingos, black bears, and reindeer in their holiday habitat, offering families a unique blend of natural wonder and seasonal charm.
Highlights:
- Thousands of twinkling lights creating a magical winter wonderland.
- Festive displays and animal encounters enhancing the holiday atmosphere.
- Special holiday experiences like meeting Santa and enjoying zoo rides.
Festival of Trees
Location: Wellesley
Dates: November 28 – December 28, 2025
Cost: $$
The Festival of Trees at The Garden at Elm Bank showcases a magical atmosphere with illuminated lightscapes and intricately designed model train displays. Visitors can explore dozens of uniquely decorated trees, participate in activities like roasting marshmallows, and enjoy hot cocoa as they wander through the festive setting.
Highlights:
- Experience a magical holiday atmosphere with sparkling lights and festive trees.
- Marvel at intricate model train displays winding through charming holiday scenes.
- Enjoy the beauty of the Garden at Elm Bank illuminated with dazzling holiday lightscapes.
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2025 Trellis Lighting at Christopher Columbus Park
Location: Boston
Dates: November 24, 2025
Cost: FREE
The 2025 Trellis Lighting at Christopher Columbus Park marks the annual holiday lighting ceremony of the park's iconic 260-foot trellis. Festive treats like eggnog and hot chocolate will be available as visitors enjoy live musical performances and meet Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
Highlights:
- The annual holiday lighting ceremony of the signature trellis at Christopher Columbus Park.
- Festive treats including eggnog from H.P. Hood and hot chocolate and cookies from the Boston Marriott Long Wharf.
- Enjoy musical performances that add to the festive atmosphere.
The Enchanted Village at Jordan's Furniture
Location: Avon
Dates: Closed for the season.
Cost: $$
Step into a nostalgic winter wonderland at The Enchanted Village at Jordan's Furniture in Avon, where a meticulously restored vintage Victorian Christmas village comes alive with whimsical animated scenes and glowing holiday lights. This cherished New England tradition invites guests to wander through enchanting displays, meet Santa Claus, and enjoy festive attractions that blend classic charm with modern holiday fun. More than just a display, it’s a living storybook of Christmas past, offering families a magical escape into the spirit of the season.
Highlights:
- Relive a beloved New England holiday tradition with a recreated vintage Christmas village.
- Capture memorable photos with Santa Claus to create lasting holiday memories.
- Experience thrilling rides like 'The Tube' for a snow-free slide down a mountain.
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Methuen Festival of Trees
Location: Methuen
Dates: November 22 – December 6, 2025
Cost: $12
Step into a winter wonderland at this beloved holiday celebration showcasing nearly 250 imaginatively decorated trees, mini-trees, and festive wreaths throughout a charming venue. This community-driven event invites visitors to admire the creative displays, participate in exciting raffles for a chance to take home a decorated tree, and explore a curated gift shop brimming with holiday treasures. Perfect for starting your seasonal celebrations with family and friends in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Enter to win one of the beautifully decorated trees to take home for Christmas.
- Discover a wide array of handcrafted gifts and festive items in the holiday gift shop.
- Participate in a children's scavenger hunt designed to engage young visitors.
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Deck The Halls Holiday Celebration at Hammond Castle Museum
Location: Gloucester
Dates: November 21 - January 4
Cost: $$
The Deck The Halls Holiday Celebration at Hammond Castle Museum invites visitors to explore the historic castle adorned with unique holiday themes and opulent décor inspired by European castles. Guests can enjoy guided tours and extended evening hours during the 'Deck the Halls by Candlelight' tours throughout December.
Highlights:
- Immerse yourself in the 7th annual 'Deck The Halls' holiday celebration at the historic Hammond Castle Museum.
- Experience the castle adorned with opulent, unique holiday décor inspired by European castles.
- Enjoy the enchanting ambiance of 'Deck the Halls by Candlelight' evening tours throughout December.
Faneuil Hall Holiday Lights
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Celebrate the arrival of the holiday season at Boston’s iconic Faneuil Hall Marketplace, where a towering 50-foot Norway spruce is adorned with thousands of sparkling lights and festive decorations. This beloved annual event features a lively tree lighting ceremony, live performances by local artists, and special appearances by Santa Claus, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere that captures the spirit of Christmas in the heart of the city.
Highlights:
- Historic marketplace
- Shopping and dining
- Free viewing
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Newbury Street Holiday Lights
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Experience the enchanting Newbury Street Holiday Lights in Boston’s Back Bay, where over 270 trees and 50 planters are adorned with shimmering festive lights, transforming the iconic shopping district into a winter wonderland. This seasonal illumination highlights the street’s elegant architecture and vibrant storefronts, creating a captivating holiday atmosphere that blends urban charm with festive magic.
Address: Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116
Highlights:
- Back Bay shopping
- Elegant boutiques
- Victorian architecture
Seaport District Holiday Lights
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Experience the Seaport District Holiday Lights in Boston, a dazzling celebration that transforms the waterfront into a vibrant winter wonderland. Featuring Boston’s tallest holiday tree adorned with over 10,000 sparkling lights, this event combines innovative light installations with festive music and local flavors. Visitors can explore unique pop-up markets and interactive displays that capture the spirit of the season in a modern urban setting.
Address: Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA 02210
Highlights:
- Modern development
- Waterfront location
- Shopping and dining
Prudential Center Holiday Display
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Celebrate the spirit of the season at Boston’s Prudential Center Holiday Display, where the iconic Prudential Tower transforms into a dazzling beacon of festive lights throughout December 2025. This immersive holiday experience features synchronized light shows, vibrant color themes honoring diverse traditions, and artistic installations that bring the Winter Garden to life. Visitors can enjoy a unique blend of shopping, dining, and seasonal entertainment in the heart of Back Bay, creating memorable moments for all ages.
Highlights:
- Mall shopping
- Back Bay location
- Holiday display
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Copley Square Holiday Decorations
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Celebrate the holiday season at Boston's newly renovated Copley Square, where festive lights illuminate the iconic public space against the historic Boston Public Library backdrop. This annual event features a dazzling tree lighting ceremony, live musical performances, and joyful appearances by Santa Claus and Rudolph, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Experience the blend of tradition and modern park enhancements in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay during Christmas 2025.
Address: Copley Square, Boston, MA 02116
Highlights:
- Historic square
- Library backdrop
- Public space
North End Little Italy Lights
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Experience the North End's enchanting transformation into a festive Italian-American winter celebration, where historic Little Italy comes alive with twinkling holiday decorations and seasonal charm. This beloved community tradition blends Boston's rich Italian heritage with classic Christmas spirit, featuring local businesses, restaurants, and shops adorned with elegant lights and holiday décor. Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets filled with the aroma of seasonal treats, live entertainment, and the warmth of neighborhood gatherings that capture the essence of a traditional Italian holiday celebration reimagined in Boston's most historic neighborhood.
Address: Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02113
Highlights:
- Little Italy
- Italian restaurants
- Neighborhood charm
Harvard Square Holiday Lights
Location: Cambridge
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Immerse yourself in the enchanting glow of Harvard Square’s holiday lights, where the heart of Cambridge transforms into a festive wonderland each Christmas season. This beloved tradition blends whimsical illumination with lively community spirit, featuring a signature tree lighting ceremony, storybook-inspired decor, and a bustling holiday market. Unique touches like a life-sized gingerbread house, live music, and special appearances make it a standout celebration for all ages.
Address: Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA 02138
Highlights:
- Harvard area
- College town
- Shopping and dining
Beacon Hill Holiday Lights
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Experience the enchanting Beacon Hill Holiday Lights event, where historic cobblestone streets and iconic brick townhouses are adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical winter wonderland. This festive evening stroll along Charles Street features charming decorations, live holiday music, and seasonal treats, offering a unique blend of Boston’s rich history and warm holiday spirit. The event culminates with a spectacular tree lighting that illuminates the neighborhood in cozy, festive glow.
Address: Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114
Highlights:
- Historic neighborhood
- Brick streets
- Victorian charm
Downtown Crossing Holiday Lights
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Downtown Crossing in Boston becomes a dazzling holiday destination each Christmas season, featuring a vibrant display of sparkling lights that illuminate Washington Street and surrounding alleys. This festive event combines enchanting overhead light installations with beautifully decorated trees and the iconic Macy’s holiday windows, creating a magical urban winter atmosphere perfect for holiday shopping and seasonal celebrations.
Address: Washington Street, Boston, MA 02108
Highlights:
- Urban shopping
- Pedestrian district
- Downtown lights
Back Bay Holiday Lights
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Back Bay Holiday Lights transforms Boston’s historic Back Bay neighborhood into a shimmering winter wonderland each December. Elegant streets like Commonwealth Avenue and Newbury Street glow with thousands of sparkling lights adorning trees, storefronts, and architectural details, creating a sophisticated festive ambiance. Visitors can enjoy a blend of classic charm and modern holiday cheer in one of Boston’s most iconic districts.
Address: Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116
Highlights:
- Elegant neighborhood
- Victorian brownstones
- Upscale area
Waterfront Holiday Lights
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Experience the magic of the Boston Waterfront transformed into a dazzling holiday spectacle for Christmas 2025. The Waterfront Holiday Lights event features thousands of shimmering blue and white LED lights illuminating iconic trellises, trees, and waterfront pathways, creating a festive ambiance against the backdrop of Boston Harbor. Visitors can enjoy live holiday music, seasonal treats, and interactive displays that celebrate the spirit of the season in a unique harborfront setting.
Address: Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA
Highlights:
- Harbor views
- Waterfront promenade
- Free viewing
South End Holiday Lights
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
The South End Holiday Lights transform Boston's vibrant neighborhood into a luminous winter wonderland, where artistic light installations and whimsical displays adorn tree-lined streets and historic brownstones. This celebration stands out for its creative flair, blending contemporary artistry with classic holiday cheer, inviting visitors to stroll through a dazzling outdoor gallery aglow with color and imagination. Unique pop-up performances and interactive light sculptures make it a dynamic destination for all ages.
Address: Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02118
Highlights:
- Trendy neighborhood
- Art galleries
- Restaurant scene
Charles River Esplanade Holiday Lights
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
The Charles River Esplanade Holiday Lights transform the scenic riverfront into a luminous winter wonderland, featuring the innovative 'Hatchlings' installation—a series of whimsical, solar-powered light pavilions inspired by the iconic Hatch Shell. These interactive displays blend art, sustainability, and festive cheer, offering a unique blend of environmental awareness and holiday magic. Visitors can stroll along the Esplanade and experience a dazzling array of programmable lights that change color and pattern, creating an enchanting atmosphere after dark.
Address: Esplanade, Boston, MA
Highlights:
- River views
- Walking paths
- Free outdoor space
Quincy Market Holiday Decorations
Location: Boston
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Quincy Market in Boston, where the historic marketplace transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland. The centerpiece is a towering 50-foot Christmas tree adorned with thousands of sparkling lights and ornaments, illuminated during a festive ceremony featuring live performances, seasonal treats, and special appearances. This celebration blends rich Boston traditions with vibrant community spirit, creating an unforgettable holiday atmosphere for all ages.
Address: 206 S Market Street, Boston, MA 02109
Highlights:
- Historic market
- Food court
- Shopping arcade
Cambridge Crossing Holiday Lights
Location: Cambridge
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Cambridge Crossing Holiday Lights transforms the heart of Kendall Square into a luminous winter wonderland, featuring a dazzling canopy of modern LED lights that stretch across Jacobs Street and The Common. This immersive display blends cutting-edge design with festive cheer, inviting visitors to stroll beneath shimmering arches and through a vibrant public art installation that celebrates the spirit of the season. The event stands out for its innovative use of light and interactive elements, making it a must-see for anyone seeking a fresh take on holiday traditions in Boston.
Address: Cambridge, MA
Highlights:
- Modern development
- Near MIT
- Shopping district
Assembly Row Holiday Lights
Location: Somerville
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Assembly Row transforms into a winter wonderland during the 2025 holiday season, featuring festive decorations, twinkling lights, and seasonal entertainment throughout the mixed-use shopping and dining destination. From November through December 24, visitors can experience holiday pop-up shops, seasonal dining experiences, and family-friendly activities that blend shopping, dining, and celebration in one vibrant location.
Highlights:
- Mixed-use development
- Shopping and dining
- Waterfront location
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Legacy Place Holiday Lights
Location: Dedham
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Legacy Place transforms its outdoor shopping destination into a winter wonderland with elegant holiday lighting displays throughout the Dedham location. This upscale seasonal experience combines festive illuminations with the venue's curated collection of dining and retail establishments, creating a sophisticated holiday atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy extended shopping hours while taking in the decorative lights, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both holiday ambiance and seasonal shopping opportunities.
Address: 680 Legacy Place, Dedham, MA 02026
Phone: 781-326-6800
Highlights:
- Upscale shopping
- Near Boston
- Modern development
Patriot Place Holiday Lights
Location: Foxborough
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Cost: FREE
Patriot Place Holiday Lights transforms Gillette Stadium into a dazzling winter wonderland each Christmas season, offering a spectacular drive-through journey illuminated by millions of twinkling LEDs. This immersive experience features larger-than-life animated displays, themed tunnels, and festive scenes that delight guests of all ages from the comfort of their own vehicle. Unique highlights include interactive light tunnels, seasonal storytelling moments, and photo opportunities that capture the magic of the holidays in Foxborough.
Highlights:
- Gillette Stadium
- Shopping center
- Patriots venue
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Wakefield Lighting of the Lights
Location: Wakefield
Dates: Friday, December 2, 2025 at 6:30 PM
Cost: FREE
Join the Wakefield Center Neighborhood Association for their annual Lighting of the Lights ceremony. This beloved community event marks the start of the holiday season with the ceremonial illumination of the Upper Common. Attendees can enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and a heartwarming choir performance, with a special appearance by a festive snowman.
Highlights:
- Annual tradition of the Lighting of the Lights ceremony
- Complimentary hot chocolate to warm up during the evening's festivities
- Community sing-along with a choir performing holiday carols
Beverly Holiday Parade
Location: Beverly
Dates: Sunday, November 30, 2025
Cost: FREE
Join the festive spirit at the annual Beverly Holiday Parade! This beloved community event features a vibrant procession of floats, marching bands, and community groups traveling a 1.7-mile route. Watch the spectacle unfold as participants assemble at Beverly High School and the parade steps off, making its way down Cabot Street to the Beverly Depot. The event is broadcast live on BevCam and YouTube, ensuring everyone can share in the holiday cheer.
Address: 100 Sohier Rd, Beverly, MA 01915
Website: Visit Website
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
Boston Common Tree Lighting
Location: Boston
Dates: Thursday, December 4, 2025
Cost: FREE
Boston's official 2025 Christmas tree comes from Nova Scotia. The lights are set to sparkle around 7:55 pm, followed by the lighting of nearly 80 other trees throughout the Boston Common and Public Garden. This marks the 54th time a tree has been donated and commemorates 107 years of friendship between Nova Scotia and Boston.
Highlights:
- Boston's official Christmas tree lighting ceremony
- Lighting of nearly 80 trees throughout Boston Common and Public Garden
- Commemorates 107 years of friendship between Nova Scotia and Boston
Copley Square Tree Lighting
Location: Boston
Dates: Wednesday, December 1, 2025
Cost: FREE
The Boston Parks and Recreation Department hosts this annual celebration featuring a guided tour of the newly renovated Copley Square, arts & crafts, appearances by Santa Claus and Rudolph, and musical performances by vocalist Joelle James, the Boston Children's Chorus, and Symphonic of Emerson College. Attendees are invited to enjoy cookies and pictures with Santa at Fairmont Copley Plaza at 6 p.m.
Address: Copley Square, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-635-4505
Highlights:
- Annual tree lighting ceremony at Copley Square
- Appearances by Santa Claus and Rudolph
- Musical performances by Boston Children's Chorus and Emerson College Symphonic
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in Boston.