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.
ZooLights at Stone Zoo
Location: Stoneham
Dates: November 14 - January 4, 4:00 - 9:30 p.m. (Closed Nov. 27 and Dec. 25)
Cost: $$
ZooLights at Stone Zoo features thousands of twinkling lights that illuminate the zoo, creating a winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy festive displays and animal encounters while participating in special holiday experiences like meeting Santa Claus and riding the Carousel and Jungle Fun ride.
Highlights:
- Thousands of twinkling lights creating a magical winter wonderland.
- Festive displays and animal encounters enhancing the holiday atmosphere.
- Special holiday experiences like meeting Santa and enjoying zoo rides.
Festival of Trees
Location: Wellesley
Dates: November 28 – December 28, 2025
Cost: $$
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: $$
The Enchanted Village at Jordan's Furniture features a recreated vintage Victorian Christmas village with magical moving figurines. Visitors can capture memorable photos with Santa, experience thrilling rides like 'The Tube,' and enjoy an indoor ice skating experience on 'Enchanted Ice.'
Highlights:
- Relive a beloved New England holiday tradition with a recreated vintage Christmas village.
- Capture memorable photos with Santa Claus to create lasting holiday memories.
- Experience thrilling rides like 'The Tube' for a snow-free slide down a mountain.
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Methuen Festival of Trees
Location: Methuen
Dates: November 22 – December 6, 2025
Cost: $12
The Methuen Festival of Trees features over 300 beautifully decorated trees, mini-trees, and wreaths, creating a festive atmosphere filled with holiday cheer. Visitors can enter for a chance to win one of the trees, browse through the holiday gift shop, and engage in a children's scavenger hunt.
Highlights:
- Enter to win one of the beautifully decorated trees to take home for Christmas.
- Discover a wide array of handcrafted gifts and festive items in the holiday gift shop.
- Participate in a children's scavenger hunt designed to engage young visitors.
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Deck The Halls Holiday Celebration at Hammond Castle Museum
Location: Gloucester
Dates: November 21 - January 4
Cost: $$
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.
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in Boston.