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
Santa Claus makes a grand entrance at Quincy City Hall, arriving by helicopter to kick off the holiday festivities. This community gathering offers attendees the chance to witness this unique and exciting arrival, bringing excitement and joy to the start of the season.
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
The Beverly Holiday Parade is an annual community event featuring a 1.7-mile route that starts at Beverly High School and ends at the Beverly Depot. This parade includes floats, bands, and community groups, and is broadcast live on BevCam and YouTube for wider viewing.
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
The Annual Tree Lighting at Dandelion Park marks the beginning of the holiday season, featuring a special appearance by Santa Claus. Starting at 4:00 PM, attendees can enjoy carols, hot cocoa, and cookies as they gather for this festive community event.
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.
Media:
Boston Common Tree Lighting
Location: Boston
Dates: December 4, 2025
Cost: FREE
The 84th annual Boston Common Tree Lighting ceremony features the ceremonial lighting of the grand Christmas tree, a special appearance by Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and synchronized lighting displays across Boston Common and the Public Garden.
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.
Media:
Hanukkah Festival of Lights at Museum of Fine Arts
Location: Boston
Dates: Thursday, December 18, 2025
Cost: $
Celebrate Hanukkah at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, with an evening filled with art, music, and performances. This event features pay-what-you-wish general admission, offering an inclusive experience for all attendees.
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
City Hall Plaza will host a spectacular display of ice sculptures, including historical tributes and the iconic 'BOSTON' sign, as part of the First Night Boston celebration. The event includes live music and performances, culminating in a grand fireworks finale over Boston Common and Boston 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.
Media:
Jolly Jingle Express
Location: Woburn
Dates: Sunday December 14, 2025
Cost: $$
The Jolly Jingle Express offers a whimsical train ride to the North Pole, featuring Santa and his elves. This magical experience lasts 70 minutes and includes live entertainment from music and drama students, as well as a special gift for children.
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 Lighting of the Lights ceremony in Wakefield is an annual tradition that marks the start of the holiday season. Attendees can enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and participate in a community sing-along during this festive event.
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.
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in Boston.