Looking for holiday activities in Boston? There are so many great things to do with family and friends at Christmastime in Boston. From live performances to ice skating rinks, holiday markets to tree lightings, there’s no place like the Hub for the holidays. Discover my favorite holiday traditions in my hometown.
Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Visions of Sugarplums will dance in your head…and right before your eyes! Nothing quite rings in the holiday season like Boston Ballet’s magical production of The Nutcracker. It’s fun for the whole family. Grab dinner beforehand across the street at Legal Crossing, where they pay tribute to the season with Nutcracker-inspired cocktails. Then arrive early to see the spectacular Opera House lobby decked out in its holiday finest and have your picture taken with beloved characters from the show.
Irish Christmas Carol Cruise
Ho, ho, ho and a bottle of…whiskey! Take to the seas and toast to the holidays with an Irish Christmas Carol Cruise. Sing along to Irish holiday carols performed by the live band Slainte while sailing past the Boston skyline (all from within a comfortable, temperature controlled cabin, rest assured). My husband and I happened upon this spirited holiday cruise during our first year in Boston. We had such a blast, we vowed to make it a tradition. Looking to make it extra special? Book a table beforehand at the Rowes Wharf Sea Grille, located at the Boston Harbor Hotel just steps away from where the cruise boards. Enjoy views of the harbor and an unforgettable dining experience.
Ice Skating at Snowport
Experience a magical winter wonderland at Seaport’s new Winter Village Snowport. Lace up your skates for a spin around the ice rink, try your hand at iceless curling, and then warm up with hot cocoa and freshly baked waffles. While you’re in the area, stop by the holiday pop up shops in Seaport Common and hunt for unique, local gifts. Afterwards, head to Envoy Hotel’s Lookout Rooftop Bar. Sip specialty cocktails and enjoy views of the Boston skyline from within a heated igloo.
Wreath Making with Alice’s Table
Make your holiday season bloom! Join Alice’s Table at one of their festive wreath making events in your local city. In South Boston, Capo Restaurant’s roaring wood fire and cozy holiday decor was the perfect setting for my girls night out. We sipped festive cocktails, took in the fresh evergreen scents, drooled over delicious pasta, and took home our very own creation at the end of the night. Book early – these popular holiday events sell out fast.
Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops
Just hear those sleigh bells jingling and timpani’s tingling too! Visit the historic Symphony Hall for Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops performance filled with holiday music favorites, a sing along, and even a visit from Santa. Book table seating on the orchestra level to enjoy full-service dinner and drinks during the show. Or sit up in the center of the balcony for the best acoustics in the house.
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What are some of your favorite holiday activities in Boston? Share in the comments below!
I have never been in Boston, not yet!
I hope you get the chance to someday!
I’ve never been to Boston, but I can feel the Christmas cheer! Can’t wait to visit some day 🙂
It’s magical around the holidays! Hope you get a chance to visit someday! 🙂
Boston looks so lovely during the holidays. Would love to experience it some day! Thanks for sharing this holiday guide.
I hope you get the chance to! It’s well worth braving the cold for some of the holiday magic 🙂