There are numerous cities in the northeast that vacationers can settle for in December, but none of them matches Boston. The city transforms into a magical paradise with a unique charm that comes alive at Christmas. From huge Christmas trees to ice skating in some of the most impressive rinks to beautiful streets lined with colorful sparkling lights, plus lots of fun adventures, there is a lot to experience in Boston during Christmas. You don't want to miss these fun activities in Boston for the ultimate Christmas celebration.
10 Attend The Faneuil Hall Tree Lighting
While there is numerous tree-lighting ceremony to explore in the city, the Faneuil Hall Tree Lighting is the most spectacular! Occurring every year, this is one of the most iconic events in Boston and sees people gathering in its magnificent cobblestone streets near the Quincy Market witness as the tree brightened up. There are a lot of fun experiences, including live performances from local artists, comedians, and brands.
- Date: November 22 at 6:00 pm
9 Have Fun At Boston First Night
Happening on New Year's Eve, Boston First Night is a must-attend for vacationers into fun activities and performances. The event features different celebrations happening in more than just one location and features live performances, arts and crafts, the making of sculptures, and displaying of multiple fireworks by the night. The event has occurred since 1975 in Boston and is scheduled to occur on New Year's Eve, 2023, with exciting things to see and do.
- Date: December 31
8 Attend The SoWa Winter Festival
SoWa (South of Washington) is located in the city’s Back Bay area, one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city, always brimming with fun adventures, especially for travelers into arts & crafts. The neighborhood hosts the annual SoWa Winter Festival, giving some of the most talented local artists and crafters the to showcase their impressive pieces for the world to see. During the event, vacationers will also find a good number of food vendors and several entertainment opportunities to enjoy.
- Date: November 25-27
7 Enjoy A Show At A Concert Or Theater
Boston boasts several concert venues and theaters, which come alive at Christmas, offering several holiday-themed performances and shows during the festive season. Some of the best theaters to check out are Wang Theater, Boston Opera House, Symphony Hall, and Wilbur Theater. The holiday-themed performances coming this year include:
- Celebrate the Season with Patti Labelle: December 2
- Disney on Ice: Find Your Hero December 22
- Kenny G: December 17
6 Have Fun At The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker is one of the most interesting traditions in New England and attracts audiences of all ages thanks to its stunning sets, amazing characters, and choreography like no other. This event has wowed audiences for years, and it's a perfect place to be for families and friends. Happening at the Opera House, the show involves Clara, a girl from the Silberhaus family, and her magical journey to the Kingdom of the Nutcracker Prince, where her wildest dreams are realized. It features sets and costumes from the Georgian era.
- Date: November 26
- Price: $71
5 Go Festive Shopping
Fortunately, Boston is full of some of the most impressive holiday markets, malls, and boutiques selling different items, usually at discounted prices. From unique hand-crafted items to locally manufactured materials to luxury goods and vintage clothing, there are many things that vacationers can present as gifts to their loved ones. Some of the places to check out are Downtown Crossing, Boston’s Historic Market District, Harvard Square in Cambridge, and Beacon Hill.
4 Go Ice Skating
Winter can be cold in the Commonwealth, but ice skating is still one of the fun activities in Boston for the ultimate Christmas celebration. Visiting an ice rink is an activity cherished by both Bostoners and visitors. Luckily, there is no shortage of rinks in Boston, even for first-timers and the less experienced. Having a cup of hot chocolate from one of the best coffee shops in the city after spending fun moments in an ice rink. Boston Common Frog Pond, Rink at 401 Park, and Warrior Ice Arena are some of the most spectacular rinks to check out.
3 Attend The Free Light Show, Boston Blink! In Faneuil Hall
Boston Blink!, a light show occurring at the Faneuil Hall, is free for access by the public. Walking through the hall, which is filled with colorful lights, is a fulfillment and is a perfect way of immersing oneself in the Christmas spirit. The light show lasts the whole of December and January. All the lights blink to the playing Christmas music during the show. It is an excellent way of spending at least 30 minutes in the evening, perhaps after staying outdoors for hours.
- Dates: December 3 – January 1
2 Attend Free Events At Harvard Square
Harvard Square hosts several events and concerts that vacationers can attend for free. Between December 17-18, there will be a virtual Christmas concert. A holiday fair will also be held at Harvard Square, which runs up to Christmas. There are a lot of other things travelers can do around Harvard that guarantee fun experiences, including joining a free Harvard walking tour to have a glimpse of the history of the world-famous university.
1 Stroll Through Beacon Hill
Going on a holiday stroll in Beacon Hill is one of the most fun activities in Boston for the ultimate Christmas celebration. The place is packed with some of the most stunning buildings, restaurants, and hotels - and is always considered one of the prettiest parts of Boston. Beacon Hill's cobblestoned streets are lined with brownstones. There is still a lot to enjoy in this neighborhood at Christmas, including visiting and taking a picture with Santa.