Holiday scene

Boston Christmas Guide 2024

Boston's Best Christmas Events for 2024!

Last updated February 18, 2025.

From the towering Christmas tree at Boston Common to the beloved Holiday Pops at Symphony Hall, Beantown transforms into a winter wonderland each December. The historic cobblestone streets and brownstones of Beacon Hill take on an extra charm dusted with snow.

Whether you're catching The Nutcracker at the Opera House, gliding across Frog Pond's ice, or browsing the Downtown Holiday Market, Boston's mix of colonial character and modern festivities creates a unique holiday atmosphere that draws locals and visitors alike.

Explore our wicked awesome holiday guide below!

When is Christmas? Thursday, December 25th, 2025

Boston Holiday Light Displays

Boston Common Tree Lighting

The Boston Common Tree Lighting is a cherished holiday tradition that marks the official start of the winter holiday season in Boston. The event features a beautifully decorated white spruce tree donated by Nova Scotia, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the two cities. The tree lighting ceremony includes festive activities such as a sampling village with photo-ops, giveaways, and refreshments. The evening is filled with community, music, and holiday joy as Mayor Michelle Wu joins Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer on stage.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 5
  • ⏰ Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • 🏛️ Venue: Boston Common
  • 📍 Address: 139 Tremont St Boston MA

Boston's Enchanted Trolley Tour & Tree Lightings

Boston's Enchanted Trolley Tour & Tree Lightings is a festive holiday event that brings joy to children across Boston. The tour features visits with Santa, Mayor Wu, and Office of Neighborhood Services staff, along with tree lightings in various neighborhoods. This event captures the spirit of the holiday season, creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 7 - December 8, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: (See website for times)
  • 🏛️ Venue: Hastings Lot, Wolcott Square, Mattapan Square, Hyde Square, J.P. Monument, Brigham Circle, Bolling Building, Blackstone Square, Oak Square, Codman Square, Adams Corner, M Street Park, Beach Street and Harrison Ave, Paul Revere Mall, Winthrop Square (the Training Field), Maverick Square
  • 📍 Address: View on map

Holiday Decorations in the Public Garden

The Boston Public Garden features a variety of holiday decorations, including festive lights and ornaments. The garden's iconic Swan Boats are adorned with seasonal decorations, and the area around the lagoon is transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights and holiday-themed statues. The garden's design and statues, such as the Make Way for Ducklings statues, are highlighted during this time of year.

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Winter Wonderland at Southwick Zoo

Winter Wonderland at Southwick's Zoo transforms over 40 acres into a glittering holiday spectacular. The event features stunning light tunnels, grand illuminated displays, and a variety of festive activities. Visitors can enjoy a holiday train ride for a unique view of the twinkling lights, ride the carousel, and meet some of the zoo's friendliest animals at the petting zoo. The Spirit Queen and the Queen of Arendelle return with breathtaking holiday performances, adding extra magic to the season. Guests can also visit Santa's Beach Side Bar for spiked seasonal drinks and the Kringle Café for freshly baked cookies and pastries. Santa Claus himself will be waiting to greet guests at Santa's Barn.

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Commonwealth Avenue Mall Holiday Lights

The Commonwealth Avenue Mall Holiday Lights in Boston feature a dazzling display of twinkling lights along the historic Commonwealth Avenue Mall. This cherished tradition is a collaboration between the City of Boston and the Friends of the Public Garden. The event includes a festive atmosphere, community spirit, and the warmth of togetherness. Families can marvel at the iconic holiday light display that has delighted Bostonians for decades.

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Zoolights at Stone Zoo

ZooLights at Stone Zoo in Stoneham, Massachusetts, transforms the 26-acre zoo into a dazzling winter spectacle with thousands of twinkling lights. Visitors can stroll through festively decorated Yukon Creek, home to black bears, Canada lynx, reindeer, and more. The event includes special activities like meeting Santa and decorating cookies. It's a unique opportunity to see the zoo's animals at night while surrounded by an incredible light decoration.

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Boston Holiday Markets and Shopping

Snowport: Boston Seaport's Holiday Wonderland

Snowport: Boston Seaport's Holiday Market is a vibrant holiday destination featuring over 120 businesses, an expansive dining area with 17 food and beverage concepts, and a variety of activities including outdoor iceless curling, freshly cut trees, and holiday tree lighting. The market offers a one-stop shopping experience with gifts, treats, and surprises for all ages.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: November 8 - December 29, 2024
  • ⏰ Time: Monday-Thursday, 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • 🏛️ Venue: Boston Seaport
  • 📍 Address: 100 Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA 02210

SoWa Winter Festival

The SoWa Winter Festival is a premier holiday market and shopping event in Boston's South End neighborhood, featuring over 100 local makers and specialty food vendors. The festival offers a diverse array of handmade and artisanal goods, gourmet food items, and festive entertainment. Visitors can explore beautifully designed jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and home decor, as well as indulge in delectable dining options from various food trucks and vendors. The event also includes live music, holiday photo ops, and hands-on crafting experiences.

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Downtown Boston Holiday Market

The Downtown Boston Holiday Market is an outdoor artisan and craft market located in the Summer Street Pedestrian Zone. The market features a diverse array of vendors offering handcrafted products, including art, jewelry, beauty items, knitwear, pottery, and more. The event is part of the holiday festivities in Downtown Boston, which include Santa visits, live entertainment, and other special events.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: November 29 – December 22
  • ⏰ Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
  • 🏛️ Venue: Summer Street Pedestrian Zone
  • 📍 Address: 32 Summer Street, Boston, MA 02110

Holiday Shopping at Copley Place

Copley Place in Boston offers a luxurious holiday shopping experience with a variety of high-end retailers and dining options. The mall features designer shops, luxury brands, and a range of dining choices from casual cafes to fine-dining restaurants. It is conveniently located in the heart of the Back Bay area, close to other major shopping areas like Newbury Street and Prudential Center.

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The Merriest Month at Bow Market

The Merriest Month at Bow Market is a festive celebration featuring family-friendly festivities, wintry workshops, and seasonal shopping. The event includes various activities such as candle making, holiday tree lighting, and yoga classes. It also offers opportunities for shopping and discovering unique gifts. The event is designed to make every day feel like a holiday, with something happening every day from Small Business Saturday until Christmas.

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Boston Holiday Shows and Entertainment

Boston Pops Holiday Pops

The Boston Pops Holiday Pops is a festive and family-friendly concert series celebrating the holiday season with classic carols and new arrangements of seasonal favorites. Conducted by Keith Lockhart, the performances feature the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra and the Metropolitan Chorale. The concerts include signature pieces like 'Sleigh Ride' and 'The Twelve Days of Christmas,' as well as a festive sing-along and a visit from Santa Claus.

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Boston Ballet's The Nutcracker

Boston Ballet's The Nutcracker is a spectacular production featuring technically challenging choreography, stunning performances, and vibrant costumes. The ballet includes grand pas de deux, enchanting snow scenes, and high-flying Russian dancers. It also showcases exciting performances by 83 students from the Boston Ballet School. The production is led by Music Director Mischa Santora and scenic and costume designer Robert Perdziola, who created larger-than-life sets and over 350 intricate costumes.

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Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Lost Christmas Eve

Trans-Siberian Orchestra's 'The Lost Christmas Eve' is a spectacular holiday show featuring a blend of rock, classical, and holiday music. The performance includes iconic songs and a narrative that captures the essence of the holiday season. This event promises to be an unforgettable experience with its grand scale and emotional depth.

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Disney on Ice

Disney on Ice is a spectacular ice show featuring talented performers in elaborate costumes portraying beloved Disney characters. The show combines dance, music, and exciting moments from various Disney movies, including Frozen, Moana, and The Little Mermaid. It is a top family event in Boston, typically held at Agganis Arena and TD Garden.

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Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas The Musical

Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas The Musical is a heartwarming holiday classic that brings the beloved children's book to life on stage. The musical features catchy and heartfelt numbers, including 'You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch' and 'Welcome Christmas.' The story follows the Grinch, a miserly and miserable creature who plots to steal Christmas from the Whos in Whoville. However, through kindness and community, he discovers the true value of the holiday. The production is known for its vibrant and thrilling performance, faithful to Dr. Seuss' imaginative vision.

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Holiday Concerts at Faneuil Hall

Holiday Concerts at Faneuil Hall in Boston feature a variety of Christmas-themed performances, including concerts by the Boston Pops and other local musicians. The events take place in the historic Faneuil Hall Marketplace, known for its festive atmosphere and unique local shops and restaurants. The concerts are part of the broader holiday celebrations in Boston, which include festive shopping, dining, and street performances.

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Commonwealth Ballet's The Nutcracker

Commonwealth Ballet's The Nutcracker is a holiday classic inspired by Tchaikovsky's beloved score. The production brings Clara's dream world to life with festive sets, colorful costumes, and outstanding dancing. The ballet features a family party set before a magical tree, filled with laughter, magic, and wonder. This fully staged production is sure to captivate and entertain all ages, making it the perfect start to the holiday season.

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Black Nativity

Black Nativity is an African American retelling of the Christmas story through gospel music, dramatic dance set to African drums, and Black vernacular speech. The show presents the traditional Christmas story as a narrative of common people receiving the divine gifts of joy and hope. It features a cast of children and adults embodying the joy and hope of the Christmas season. The performance includes traditional Christmas carols sung in gospel style, along with original songs created specifically for the show. The musical arrangements and theatrical performances are unique, making the Boston version distinct from other productions.

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Urban Nutcracker

Urban Nutcracker is a modern holiday classic that blends classical ballet with tap, hip hop, swing, and more. It is a multicultural celebration at the Boch Center Shubert Theatre, featuring a diverse cast of over 150 local performers. The show includes dance styles inspired by Ukrainian traditions, African American culture, Spanish flamenco, Indian Bollywood, and many other cultural influences. It is an organic interpretation brought about by the unifying of cultures, showcasing the changing face of Boston through its vibrant rhythms and diverse dance forms.

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The Midwinter Revels: The Selkie Girl and the Seal Woman

The Midwinter Revels: The Selkie Girl and the Seal Woman is a theatrical celebration that brings together Irish and Cabo Verdean music, dance, and storytelling. The show takes place in a small fishing village on Ireland's Atlantic coast, where villagers gather in the local pub to celebrate the winter solstice. The story revolves around a marine biologist from Cabo Verde who arrives at the pub, leading to a transformative retelling of the Selkie myth. The performance features a variety of songs and dances, including traditional Irish jigs and reels, as well as Cabo Verdean drumming and singing. The show highlights the cultural exchange and community spirit of the winter solstice celebrations.

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South Boston Holiday Stroll

The South Boston Holiday Stroll is a festive event that transforms the Broadway business district and surrounding areas into a holiday wonderland. The event features Santa Claus riding on an antique fire truck, accompanied by an up-and-coming MusicBall singer. Santa's route includes stops at Medal of Honor Park, the Library on East Broadway, the West Broadway Municipal Parking Lot, and the corner of C Street and West Broadway. The Original Dickens Carolers will stroll along East Broadway, while the Mistletones will entertain along West Broadway. Free Pedicab rides will be available to whisk customers to their favorite establishments.

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A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol is a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic novella, following Ebenezer Scrooge through a series of magical ghostly encounters. The production features an all-star cast and crew, including David Coffee as Ebenezer Scrooge and Cheryl McMahon as Mrs. Dilber/Mrs. Fezziwig. The show includes dazzling special effects, traditional songs like 'God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman,' and colorful costumes. It has become a cherished holiday tradition for families and friends, having been seen by more than one million people since its debut in 1989.

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Yippee-Ki-Yay

Yippee Ki Yay is a hilarious one-man parody of the classic action film Die Hard, written by Richard Marsh. The play is a loving tribute to the iconic movie, featuring a solo performance by Darrel Bailey. It is a 75-minute production with no intermission, filled with rhyming couplets and energetic action sequences.

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Boston Tuba Christmas

Boston Tuba Christmas is an annual event featuring over 100 regional brass instrument players performing classic holiday favorites. The event takes place at the Downtown Crossing Steps, where participants wear festive holiday attire and play various instruments in the tuba family, including euphonias and sousaphones. This event honors Harvey G. Phillips and William J. Bell, and it is a unique opportunity for the public to hear their favorite Christmas carols played by tuba and euphonium players of all ages.

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Boston Other Holiday Activities

First Night Boston

First Night Boston is a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration featuring artistic performances, ice sculptures, a parade, and fireworks. The event includes live music, children's activities, and a dramatic pyrotechnic show. It takes place in various locations around Boston, including City Hall Plaza, Boston Common, and the Back Bay neighborhood.

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New Year's Eve Fireworks over Boston Harbor

The New Year's Eve Fireworks over Boston Harbor is a nearly 40-year tradition featuring live music, ice sculptures, and a spectacular fireworks display. Visitors can explore the waterfront, enjoying seasonal activities and festive atmosphere as the year draws to a close.

Details:

  • 📅 Dates: December 31, 2025
  • ⏰ Time: (See website for times)
  • 🏛️ Venue: Boston Harbor between East Boston and Boston's North End
  • 📍 Address: View on map

The City of Quincy’s Christmas Parade

The City of Quincy's Christmas Parade is a cherished annual event that brings together floats, marching bands, and costumed characters to spread holiday joy. The parade route begins at the intersection of Hancock Street and Walter J. Hannon Parkway, continuing up Hancock Street to North Quincy High School. The event includes a ceremonial Tree Lighting, Santa's arrival via helicopter, and various activities such as strolling Victorian carolers, street performers, and letter writing to Santa. The Hancock Adams Common is decked with twinkling lights and holiday displays, adding to the festive atmosphere.

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Assembly Row’s Annual Ice Sculpture Stroll

Assembly Row's Annual Ice Sculpture Stroll is a festive event featuring eye-catching ice sculptures, holiday-themed giveaways, and fun surprises around Assembly Row. The event encourages families to explore the unique ice sculptures, enjoy special giveaways, and discover exciting surprises. This year, the event is also partnering with The Elizabeth Peabody House to collect food donations, spreading the holiday spirit.

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Ice Skating at Boston Common's Frog Pond

Ice skating at Boston Common's Frog Pond offers a unique outdoor experience with public skating, skating lessons, and various skating aids. The rink is renowned for its winter skating program and features a variety of activities, including the First Night Skating Show on New Year's Eve. The Frog Pond is managed by The Skating Club of Boston in partnership with the Boston Parks Department, providing opportunities for both beginners and experienced skaters.

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Hanukkah Menorah Lighting at Boston Common

The Hanukkah Menorah Lighting at Boston Common is a significant annual event where the community comes together to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. The event features a giant 22-foot tall menorah, one of the tallest in New England, which is lit by community leaders and dignitaries. The ceremony includes greetings from local elected officials and community leaders, as well as live music. This tradition has been ongoing since 1983 and serves as a beacon of hope and unity for the Jewish community, highlighting the importance of religious freedom and the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days during the Maccabean Revolt.

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Visits with Santa at Prudential Center

Visits with Santa at Prudential Center offer a delightful holiday experience where children can meet Santa Claus in his festive Back Bay living room. The event provides an opportunity for kids to share their wish lists with Santa, and families can capture special souvenir photos. This activity is part of the holiday season festivities at Prudential Center, enhancing the joy and spirit of the season.

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Jordan's Enchanted Village

Jordan's Enchanted Village in Avon, Massachusetts, is a holiday tradition that dates back to the 1960s and 1970s. The village features a recreated Victorian Christmas setting with moving figurines and holiday lights. Visitors can stroll through the village for free and enjoy various attractions, including The Tube, LITE (Laser Imagination Theater Experience), Enchanted Ice, and Reindeer Games. The village also offers photos with Santa and the sale of iconic Jordan Marsh blueberry muffins.

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