As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to embrace the festive spirit and make the most of your time in Boston. If you’re feeling the pressure of your semester exams, don’t worry — I’ve got your back. This list is full of enchanting holiday events that will make your winter in Boston memorable. Take a break from studying and enjoy these events with your friends and family.
Where: Boston Common
When: Thursday, Nov. 30
Time: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Cost: Free!
The annual Boston Common Tree Lighting Ceremony is the crown jewel of holiday events in the city. This annual tradition marks the official start of the holiday season in Boston, so you can join thousands of residents and visitors as they gather to witness the 45-foot Christmas tree illuminated for the first time. The event is a heartwarming experience featuring live music, holiday snacks and a special appearance by Santa Claus. It’s the perfect way to kickstart the holiday season in one of Boston’s most iconic places.
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
Where: Bock Centre Wang Theatre
When: Thursday, Dec. 7
Time: 7 p.m.
Cost: Depends on your seat!
If you want the perfect excuse to dress up with your friends and family, plan to spend a night at the theater! Why catch “The Nutcracker” before exams? Because it can be a magical study break. This musical is a Christmas tradition and a festive mood-lifter. Watching this show is the perfect way to reminisce on the nostalgic movie and enjoy a spectacular live performance!
Winter Holiday Market at Snowport
Where: Seaport
When: Nov. 10 – Dec. 31
Time: Monday – Thursday, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m – 9 p.m.
Cost: Free to enter, but depends on how much you spend inside!
If you’re looking for a holiday market that provides not just shopping, but rather an entire experience, check out Seaport’s Holiday Market. Picture it: the enchanting glow of twinkling lights, festive vendors with unique gifts and an atmosphere bursting with holiday excitement. It’s the place to find that special handcrafted present, indulge in seasonal snacks and immerse yourself in creativity at over 20 galleries featuring local artists.
Where: Boston Common
When: Nov. 20 – March 8
Cost: $15 for adult skate rentals
Ice skating is not just about skating, it’s also about the camaraderie and memories made with friends and family. The best part about skating at the Common is that it’s just four T stops away from Ruggles, and a quick walk from there. If you’re looking for a fun, photogenic adventure that’s close to campus, the Boston Common Frog Pond is the ideal place to go. You can go for this activity before or after any other event downtown since it is located in such a prime location. Rent your skates and enjoy a hot cup of cocoa at the pond cottage!
Where: Mostly the Back Bay neighborhood, including Copley Square, the area in front of Boston Public Library the plaza next to Copley Place Mall, Boston Common and Boston Harbor
When: Dec. 31, noon – midnight
Cost: Free!
Welcome the New Year with Boston’s biggest celebration at First Night Boston. The festival kicks off with fireworks over Boston Common at 7 p.m. As the clock ticks closer to midnight, prepare for a dazzling pyrotechnic spectacle over Boston Harbor, marking the birth of 2024. The celebration includes live music, ice sculptures by renowned artists, a special ice skating show at the Boston Common Frog Pond and the traditional People’s Procession parade from Copley Square to Boston Common. Whether this is your first New Year in Boston or not, this is the perfect way to get an entire experience of what most locals do to celebrate.