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Boston Holiday Events

Our December list of holiday kids and family activities guide gives you a one-stop shop to find fun things to do in and around Boston with the family. This handy list is organized by region to make it easy to find something fun to do no matter where you are in the Greater Boston area.

Boston Metro

Candlelight: Holiday Special featuring “The Nutcracker” and Boston, $$
Sat, December 7, 2024  -  Sat, December 7, 2024   
Get your tickets now to discover Holiday music featuring “The Nutcracker” and More at Temple Ohabei Shalom under the gentle glow of candlelight.
Emerald Glow at Charlesgate: LED Trees in GreenBoston, Free
Thu, November 30, 2023  -  Sun, March 31, 2024   
In conjunction with the annual holiday tree lighting on Boston Common and the tree lighting along Commonwealth Avenue Mall, for the third year, the Emerald Necklace Conservancy will bring light to Charlesgate Park by...
What's Open on Patriot's Day?Boston
Mon, April 15, 2024  -  Mon, April 15, 2024   
Patriot's Day is the MA state holiday is also known as the day of the Boston Marathon and the 11:05 a.m. Red Sox game. Here's a list of what is open on Patriots Day in MA.
Emerald Glow at Charlesgate: LED Trees in GreenBoston, Free
Thu, November 30, 2023  -  Sun, March 31, 2024   
In conjunction with the annual holiday tree lighting on Boston Common and the tree lighting along Commonwealth Avenue Mall, for the third year, the Emerald Necklace Conservancy will bring light to Charlesgate Park by...
Boston Public Garden Swan Boats 2024Back Bay
Sat, April 13, 2024  -  Mon, September 2, 2024   
The Swan Boats have been in operation since 1877, and have since become a cultural icon for the city. Swan Boats are a fleet of pontoon pleasure boats which operate in the Boston Public Garden lagoon.
What's Open on Patriot's Day?Boston
Mon, April 15, 2024  -  Mon, April 15, 2024   
Patriot's Day is the MA state holiday is also known as the day of the Boston Marathon and the 11:05 a.m. Red Sox game. Here's a list of what is open on Patriots Day in MA.
The Anchor at Shipyard ParkCharlestown, Free
Mon, April 15, 2024  -  Sun, September 1, 2024   
The Anchor is an all-ages gathering space that is complemented by an inclusive and dynamic programming and events calendar, public art, youth initiatives and complimentary public amenities.
Piers Park Opening Day & Free SailingBoston, Free
Sat, May 4, 2024   
Join in for our 26th opening day! From 1-3pm we’ll have food, music, and free sailing! This event is fun for all ages and everyone is welcome.
Lilac Sunday at Arnold Arboretum 2024Jamaica Plain, Free
Sun, May 12, 2024  -  Sun, May 12, 2024   
This beloved Boston tradition celebrates the lilacs as well as many other special collections at their peak at this lovely time of year. Come celebrate spring at the Arnold Arboretum.
ICA WatershedBoston, Free
Wed, May 22, 2024  -  Fri, October 4, 2024   
Located in the Boston Harbor Shipyard and Marina in East Boston, the ICA Watershed transforms a 15,000-square-foot, formerly condemned space into a new civic and cultural asset. This exciting new cross-harbor...
Somerville Memorial Day ParadeSomerville, Free
Sun, May 26, 2024  -  Sun, May 26, 2024   
The Memorial Day Parade will begin starting at 3pm and will continue until 7pm. This event is free for the public to attend to honor the officer who lost his life.
ICA Free Admission - Memorial DayBoston, Free
Mon, May 27, 2024  -  Mon, May 27, 2024   
In honor of Memorial Day the ICA is offering FREE admission for all on Memorial Day. Peruse four outstanding exhibitions as well as an interactive art studio.
Memorial Day Open House: Museum of Fine Arts (MFA)Boston, Free
Mon, May 27, 2024   
Celebrate Memorial Day at the Museum of Fine Arts and visit the Museum for a fun-filled day of vibrant activities your whole family will enjoy. Join us for a day of celebration with free general admission for all,...
Guide to Boston Spray Parks & Wading PoolsBoston, Free
Sat, June 1, 2024  -  Tue, September 3, 2024   
Summertime in Boston means it's time splash in spray parks! There's plenty of free water fun to be had all around the city, and we've rounded up some of our favorite spots.
Juneteenth at the ICA - Free AdmissionBoston, Free
Wed, June 19, 2024  -  Wed, June 19, 2024   
The ICA is offering FREE museum admission for all on Juneteenth, Monday, June 19. Advanced timed tickets are required and will be available to reserve beginning on Saturday, June 17 at 10 AM.
Boston Fireworks & Pops Concert | July 4th 2024 | Hatch Shell EsplanadeBoston, Free
Thu, July 4, 2024   
Enjoy the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra and a spectacular display of fireworks over the Charles River. This year maestro Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra are set to entertain at Boston’s annual...
Winteractive Art ExperienceBoston, Free
Wed, January 17, 2024  -  Sun, April 14, 2024   
WINTERACTIVE is a walkable, free Canadian Art experience featuring 16 artworks and interactive play elements, presented by the Downtown Boston Business Improvement District throughout the winter.
Holi MelaBoston, Free
Sat, March 30, 2024  -  Sat, March 30, 2024   
Holi is a festival of colors in India. Shanti Restaurant and Roslindale Village Main Street is bringing this celebration to Adams Park. Come join us for a vibrant and joyous celebration of colors!
[Not Quite] Total Eclipse of the ParkBoston, $
Mon, April 8, 2024  -  Mon, April 8, 2024   
Venture to Spectacle Island for an afternoon of solar eclipse viewing from Boston Harbor! Featuring unobstructed views of Boston and its surroundings, Spectacle Island will offer a unique opportunity to experience 2024 partial solar eclipse.
Dudley Farm DayRoxbury, Free
Sat, April 20, 2024  -  Sat, April 20, 2024   
Dudley Farm Day is baaaaa-ck for its second year! Join us for a day of farm animals, wool weaving, butter making, seed planting, craft-making fun here at the Shirley-Eustis House.
Duckling Day Boston 2024Boston, $$$
Sun, May 12, 2024  -  Sun, May 12, 2024   
The Friends of the Public Garden, in association with the City of Boston Parks and Recreation Department, celebrates Mother’s Day with Boston-area families during its annual Duckling Day event. The next Duckling Day...
2024 Memorial Day Flag GardenBoston, Free
Thu, May 23, 2024  -  Mon, May 27, 2024   
Home Base and Massachusetts Military Heroes Fund invite you to help create Boston’s iconic Memorial Day Flag Garden tribute.
Boston 4th of July Events, Activities & ParadeBoston, Free
Mon, July 1, 2024  -  Thu, July 4, 2024   
Residents and visitors are invited to view the City of Boston's official commemoration, enjoy the Boston Pops Spectacular televised performances, and participate in Boston Harborfest programming.
Boston Fireworks & Pops Concert | July 4th 2024 | Hatch Shell EsplanadeBoston, Free
Thu, July 4, 2024   
Enjoy the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra and a spectacular display of fireworks over the Charles River. This year maestro Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra are set to entertain at Boston’s annual...
First Night Boston 2025 - New Year's EveBoston, Free
Tue, December 31, 2024  -  Wed, January 1, 2025   
For over 40 years, Boston’s First Night has been a New Year’s Eve celebration of artistic performances, the wonders of the season and the beginning of a new year.
Egg HuntBoston, Free
Sat, March 30, 2024  -  Sat, March 30, 2024   
Welcome to the Egg Hunt event at Johnson Park! Get ready for a fun-filled morning of searching for colorful eggs hidden around the park. Bring a basket to collect all the eggs you find!
Easter Hunt at BowSomerville, Free
Sun, March 31, 2024  -  Sun, March 31, 2024   
Join us for some Easter family fun! Enjoy an Easter egg hunt (bring your own bag or basket), photos with the Easter Bunny 12-1pm (donations welcome!), themed snacks, gifts, and more around the market
Kabbalat Shabbat and Dinner with Zach MayerBoston, $
Fri, April 5, 2024  -  Fri, April 5, 2024   
Join us for a musical and meaningful shabbat service with Boston-based Saxophonist: Zach Mayer. Community Shabbat Dinner with good food, drinks, schmoozing and making connections follows!

West Suburbs

Patriot's Day in LexingtonLexington, Free
Sat, April 13, 2024  -  Mon, April 15, 2024   
Celebrate the birth of American independence where it all began. This family-free weekend is free. There are re-enactments, concerts, activities, ceremonies, and a great parade.
Lexington Patriots Day Battle Day ScheduleLexington, Free
Mon, April 15, 2024  -  Mon, April 15, 2024   
Each year in mid-April, thousands of people flock to historic Lexington and Concord and Minute Man National Historical Park to celebrate Patriot's Day. View the reenactment schedule of the events leading up to the...
Lexington Discovery DayLexington, Free
Sat, May 25, 2024   
Celebrate the beginning of summer at Lexington's annual Discovery Day. This tradition combines a street fair and sidewalk sale, and will again be held in the Muzzey Street/Waltham Street Municipal parking lot behind...
Peter Rabbit's Spring Egg Roll at Powisset FarmDover, $
Fri, March 29, 2024  -  Fri, March 29, 2024   
Celebrate spring on the farm with an old-fashioned Egg Roll at Powisset Farm! Children will compete in rolling wooden eggs on our slalom course.
Easter Egg Hunt & Spring CelebrationWestford, $
Sat, March 30, 2024  -  Sat, March 30, 2024   
Hop over to Good Pickin' Farm for our Spring Celebration & Easter Egg Hunt! Activities, Petting Zoo, Food, Drinks, Vendors, and More! See you there!
Easter Brunch at the Inn at Hastings ParkLexington, $$$
Sun, March 31, 2024  -  Sun, March 31, 2024   
Join us for a delectable and magical Sunday along with your friends and family! Easter in Town Meeting Bistro will host an Egg Hunt and appearances from the Easter Bunny!
Rock Fest at Powisset FarmDover, $$
Sun, April 7, 2024  -  Sun, April 7, 2024   
Get rocking at Powisset Farm! If you love getting dirty, digging in the earth, breathing the early spring air, and having fun outside, this event is for you!
Spring Spectacular & Egg Hunt at Berlin FarmsBerlin, $$
Today  -  Sun, March 31, 2024   
Hippity hop on down to Berlin Farms and enter the enchanted world of Peter Cottontail's magical carrot patch. An eggs-tra special event. An eggs-tra special event! Egg hunt, moon bounce, games, real bunnies, hugs from...
Sudbury Memorial Day Parade 2024Sudbury, Free
Mon, May 27, 2024   
The Sudbury Memorial Day Parade, Ceremonies, and Program is held on the last Monday in May. Sudbury has formally honored its war dead for more than 100 years. The parade and ceremonies honor veterans of all wars that...
Santa's Elevator Express at Natick MallNatick, $$
Sat, November 16, 2024  -  Tue, December 24, 2024   
Take an exciting adventure to the North Pole! Step into the magical elevator and head to Santa's workshop, where you'll have the chance to take pictures and spend quality time with Santa!
Peter Rabbit's Spring Egg Roll at Powisset FarmDover, $
Fri, March 29, 2024  -  Fri, March 29, 2024   
Celebrate spring on the farm with an old-fashioned Egg Roll at Powisset Farm! Children will compete in rolling wooden eggs on our slalom course.
Family Egg HuntSudbury, Free
Sat, March 30, 2024  -  Sat, March 30, 2024   
Families are invited to hop on over to First Parish of Sudbury for a Family Egg Hunt, Crafts, & Activities! For kids 10 and under.
Paul Revere and William Dawes Ride in Arlington (Menotomy)Arlington, Free
Mon, April 15, 2024  -  Mon, April 15, 2024   
The Regulars are out! Join the “Menotomy Welcoming Committee” in our annual tradition as we greet National Lancers riders reenacting the rides of Paul Revere and William Dawes!
Acton's July 4th CelebrationActon, Free
Thu, July 4, 2024  -  Thu, July 4, 2024   
Featuring a free concert and spectacular fireworks. Free admission and donations are welcome. Bus shuttle service from Nagog Park Drive parking areas to NARA will begin at 5:30 p.m.

North Suburbs

Winchester Block Party & Town Day 2024Winchester, Free
Sat, June 1, 2024  -  Sat, June 1, 2024   
Thousands of individuals and families attend each year to enjoy a day of browsing exhibits, playing games, competing in athletics, eating (!), listening to different types of music, attending the health fair, and...
Topsfield Fair 2024Topsfield, $$
Fri, October 4, 2024  -  Mon, October 14, 2024   
Enjoy America's oldest and finest agricultural fair w/ New England‘s largest carnival midway, cool demos, (ranging from beekeeping to miniature trains), a Grange Museum, pumpkin weigh-offs, live entertainment and the...
Appleton Farms April Vacation Week CampHamilton, $$$
Mon, April 15, 2024  -  Mon, April 15, 2024   
There is no better place to spend spring farm days than in exploring in the fields & forests and learning to love the outdoors in all seasons!

South Suburbs

Marshfield Holiday Light ShowMarshfield, $$
Sun, November 24, 2030  -  Sat, December 30, 2023   
The display at the Marshfield Fairgrounds is returning for its third year for those looking for a drive-thru lights display on the South Shore. It’s got dozens of large displays along the mile, and they’ll twinkle in...
Nantucket Wine Festival 2023Nantucket, $$$$
Wed, May 15, 2024  -  Sun, May 19, 2024   
More than 100 wineries and restaurants will be featured at this annual event. Enjoy a variety of wine tastings in Nantucket homes, dinners and seminars.
Marshfield Fair 2024Marshfield, $
Sat, August 16, 2025  -  Mon, August 25, 2025   
This year's fair offers great family entertainment with hundreds of farm animals, daily free shows, free grandstand attractions, arts & crafts, 4 H & Agricultural exhibits, horticultural displays & much more.
Easter Egg Hunt & Family Fun Day at The ICCCanton, $
Sat, March 30, 2024  -  Sat, March 30, 2024   
Come Join us for our Easter Family Breakfast morning at the ICC! The Easter Bunny will be on site alongside a full morning of Art's N' Craft.
Easter Egg Hunt - East BridgewaterBridgewater, Free
Sat, March 30, 2024  -  Sat, March 30, 2024   
It's that time of year again for a fun Egg Hunt! Come join us at Camp Satucket for a fun filled morning! Bring your Basket!!
Kids DJ Pool PartyNew Bedford, $
Sat, March 30, 2024  -  Sat, March 30, 2024   
Let the kids swim and have fun in the pool while DJ Jordan Paiva interacts and play games with the kids. The lifeguard will be present!
Marshfield Holiday Light ShowMarshfield, $$
Sun, November 24, 2030  -  Sat, December 30, 2023   
The display at the Marshfield Fairgrounds is returning for its third year for those looking for a drive-thru lights display on the South Shore. It’s got dozens of large displays along the mile, and they’ll twinkle in...

Western Mass

The Big E 2024Western Mass, $$$
Fri, September 13, 2024  -  Sun, September 29, 2024   
The Big E is a New England autumn tradition and the ninth largest fair in North America. There's no better place to enjoy the sights, sounds and taste tempting aromas of the fall season than at The Big E.

Central Mass

Easter Egg Hunt at the FarmLunenburg, $
Sat, March 30, 2024  -  Sat, March 30, 2024   
Join Lanni Orchards for the annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Farm! Enjoy seasonal fun and support a small local farm. The Easter Bunny will be in attendance from 10-3.

Maine

Dino Egg HuntMaine, $
Fri, March 29, 2024  -  Sun, March 31, 2024   
The Easter Bunny let a mama dinosaur hide the eggs throughout the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine. Children are invited to hunt for colorful eggs and the lucky golden egg.
Kittery Easter Egg HuntMaine, Free
Sat, March 30, 2024  -  Sat, March 30, 2024   
This event is free and no pre-registration is required. Don’t forget to bring a bag or basket to collect the eggs and be on the lookout for the special golden egg.
9th Annual Papa's Peeps Egg HuntMaine, $
Sat, March 30, 2024  -  Sat, March 30, 2024   
We’re thinking 🌸SPRING🌸 and already getting ready for our annual Easter egg hunt, Papa’s Peeps!! Mark your calendars so you don’t miss this exciting event- fun for peeps of all ages! 🐣
Charity Egg Hunt at Sandy HillMaine, $
Sat, April 20, 2024  -  Sat, April 20, 2024   
Sandy Hill Farm's annual Easter Egg Hunt will challenge children to find eggs along a 1-mile trail. At the end, kids exchange their eggs for a goodie bag of cider donuts & more.

New Hampshire

Hampton Beach Master Sandsculpting Sand Castle CompetitionNew Hampshire, Free
Thu, June 20, 2024  -  Sat, June 22, 2024   
The fun starts when 250 tons of imported sand is dropped on Hampton Beach. After the competition, the entire area will be illuminated for night viewing through June.
Hampton Beach Fireworks 2024New Hampshire, Free
Tue, May 26, 2026  -  Tue, December 31, 2024   
Fireworks are held weekly every Wednesday during the summer, on the beach at the top of B and C Streets, beside the Atlantic Ocean. Bring a blanket and the whole family to experience the magic of the night sky lit by a display of beautiful fireworks.

New England

What's Open on Memorial Day?New England
Mon, May 27, 2024  -  Mon, May 27, 2024   
What's open for fun on Memorial Day in Greater Boston? Check here to find out.

Rhode Island

Waterfire Providence 2024 (Season Announcement on 4/18!)Rhode Island, Free
Mon, April 18, 2022  -  Sat, April 20, 2024   
WaterFire centers on a series of 100 bonfires that blaze just above the surface of the three rivers that pass through the middle of downtown Providence.
Easter Egg Hunt at Castle Hill InnNewport, $$
Sat, March 30, 2024  -  Sat, March 30, 2024   
Search high and low for a variety of prizes hidden all across The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn; one lucky grand prize-winner will receive an overnight stay.

Other Boston Area

Massachusetts Free Fishing Weekend (Freshwater)Other Boston Area
Sat, June 1, 2024  -  Sun, June 2, 2024   
Take a friend or family member fishing -- you won't need a fishing license in freshwater for these two days! All other fishing regulations apply.

Multiple Locations

More Boston Holiday Events

You can find lots more family-friendly Boston events each week on the BostonCentral calendar and our popular things to do this week newsletter.