Festive Holiday Events in Boston: Celebrate the Season
The holidays in Boston are pure magic – and you can feel it as soon as you arrive. The city is transformed into a winter wonderland, from the sparkling lights against the snow to the magnificent decor to the cheerful vibe all around. Light up your winter with these holiday events in Boston and make this season one to remember.

Warm Up with the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops
Lively and bright, merry and fun for all ages – the Holiday Pops with the Boston Symphony Orchestra will undoubtedly fill you with the holiday spirit. Tickets sell out early for these popular shows at Boston Symphony Hall, which is beautifully decked out for the season with lavish decor. Keith Lockhart conducts the world-famous Boston Symphony Orchestra during an evening of special holiday music and classic carols to sing along to. You’ll find both evening and matinee performances from December 4-24, including a special Sensory Friendly concert on December 7 for children and adults with sensory sensitivities. Every performance also features a visit from Santa Claus plus photos for the kids. If it’s been a while since you sang along to “Jingle Bells” or “White Christmas” – do your inner child a favor with a delightful evening with the Holiday Pops.

Go Ice Skating on the Frog Pond at Boston Common
Glide around the ice in a Norman Rockwell-style scene in real life, from the snowy surrounds at Boston Common to the twinkling Christmas lights that adorn the elegant mansions on Beacon Hill beyond. Just moments from our hotel, the seasonal ice rink at Boston Common offers an invigorating outdoor activity that’s especially perfect for a couple’s getaway. You can rent skates right there at the outdoor ice rink, which is open seven days per week during the holiday season (closed on Christmas). Frolic in the snow at Boston Common afterward, where you can even go sledding and build snowmen, right here in the center of the city – and don’t miss the extravagant holiday tree nearby. Walk back to our hotel afterward to warm up with hot cocoa (or an Irish whiskey).

Discover the Magical World of The Nutcracker with the Boston Ballet
One of the season’s most top performances year after year, The Nutcracker with the Boston Ballet is a whimsical tale of Christmas toys that come to life. Dancing snowflakes, courageous toy soldiers, and the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy weave a classic tale of dreamlike enchantment and the magic of the holidays. Watch the evil Mouse King battle the charming Nutcracker Prince – and follow Clara and Fritz on a Christmas Eve adventure that will linger in your memories forever. Opulent costumes, gorgeous sets, and Tchaikovsky’s brilliant score make The Nutcracker a beloved tradition for many families in the Boston area. The show runs through December 29 at Citizens Bank Opera House, with both matinee and evening performances.

Light Up the Party at Blink! at Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Boston’s historic Faneuil Hall Marketplace is already a fantastic destination for holiday shopping and dining, with full-on decor and funky street performers outside. But during the holiday season this famous attraction takes the experience to a whole new level with a spectacular sound and light show that set the marketplace ablaze with festive fun. More than 350,000 LED lights and merry music sparkle, dance, and create an immersive holiday vibe. There’s also a giant 85-foot holiday tree, which is the tallest in the entire Northeast. Blink! at Faneuil Hall Marketplace is free to enjoy and takes place numerous times every half-hour from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (7:00 p.m. on Sundays) through early January. While you’re there, check out the unique Boston-themed boutiques for one-of-a-kind gifts that speak to the spirit of the city.

Explore Boston Harbor on an Elegant Holiday Cruise
Hop on board a sophisticated yacht for a merry-making sightseeing tour of historic Boston Harbor. The luxury yacht Northern Lights sets sail on numerous special cruises throughout the holidays, from evening rendezvous to brunch expeditions. Inspired by the yachts of the 1920s, the Northern Lights is festively adorned for a feeling of celebration. See the famous sights from the enclosed lower deck or venture up top for an open-air tour of the city from a maritime perspective. Cruises on offer this holiday season on the Northern Lights include a Holiday Sunset Cruise, Holiday Brunch Cruise, Cocoa & Carols Holiday Cruise, Holiday Jazz Cruise, An Irish Christmas Carol Cruise, Cocoa & Blues Holiday Cruise, New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise, and a New Year’s Day Brunch Cruise. Book early to ensure your space on the ship. All aboard!

Feel the Delight & Wonder of the Holidays at Revere Hotel
Cozy. Handcrafted. Unique. Relish the magic of the season with a winter getaway to Revere Hotel, a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel in the heart of the city near Boston Common. Infused with a rebellious spirit and inspired by the legends of the city, our downtown retreat is designed for the adventurous, the authentic, the intrepid urban pioneers. Indulge in genuine New England cuisine at Rebel’s Guild and sleep late in a luxurious, heavenly bed. Walk to the Theater District and enjoy the perfect location for exploring world-famous attractions and holiday events in Boston. Find yourself at the Revere Hotel and craft your ideal experience in our incredible home city.