Christmas events in Massachusetts offer an incredible variety of experiences, from festive markets to dazzling light displays and heartwarming community gatherings. As the holiday season approaches, Massachusetts transforms into a winter wonderland. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, unique holiday shopping experiences, or immersive Christmas performances, there’s something for everyone. In this guide, Jump Streets Movers highlights Christmas events in MA, focusing on cities like Boston, Springfield, and Lowell, to help you make the most of this magical time of year.
Best MA Cities to Visit During the Christmas Season
Christmas is around the corner, and it is the perfect time to spend your holidays exploring the following MA cities:
- Boston
- Springfield
- Chelsea
- Cambridge
- Lowell
- Lynn
- Bedford
- Somerville
- Newton
- Quincy
Boston is Always the First Choice, and for a Reason
Christmas events in MA start early in Boston. Boston is filled with classic holiday treats and activities in December. Numerous shows, lights, music, and markets make the city feel alive with seasonal cheer. If you are thinking about moving to Boston this winter, these events will make the first weeks of December memorable. Here are some of the best things to do in Boston this Christmas:
One of the star attractions this season is the Boston Common tree lighting and holiday lights trail. Thousands of lights glow nightly from early December into January. Families line up for photos by the giant Christmas tree brought from Nova Scotia.
Boston’s Nutcracker performances, holiday concerts, and Boston Pops holiday shows fill the calendar. The Nutcracker ballet runs through much of December at Citizens Opera House and local theaters. Enjoying a show makes a great break after unpacking during a move.
In addition to performances, Boston hosts festive markets like SoWa Winter Festival with local artisans and seasonal food stands. Wander with hot cocoa in hand and discover unique gifts. The city also offers family favorite events like Santa sightings, holiday craft markets, and outdoor ice skating at Frog Pond. These are great ways to explore Boston after relocating.
Bright Nights in Springfield: Lights and Cheer
If you’ve recently moved with movers from Springfield MA, this is the time to explore the city. Head west to Springfield for one of the most iconic Christmas events in Massachusetts. Bright Nights at Forest Park is a long‑running holiday lights event that lasts from late November through early January.
This display includes hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights along a scenic three‑mile drive at Forest Park. Vehicles travel slowly through festive arches, light tunnels, and smiling scenes coordinated to holiday music. Did you know Springfield’s Bright Nights also features a “Santa’s Magical Forest” and themed light sections? Santa greets visitors, perfect for families after a big move to Springfield.
Christmas Events in Massachusetts: Go to Cambridge
Cambridge adds its own flavor to MA Christmas events with festive community activities. One popular stop is the North Cambridge Holiday Stroll, featuring local businesses, treats, and a seasonal tree lighting on December 13 on Mass Ave.
Walking the streets with neighbors brings cheer and inspiration. Cambridge’s historic neighborhoods look especially festive during the season. If you are considering moving to Cambridge, this event is a great way to check out the local culture. And if you’re moving during the Christmas season, our movers Cambridge MA are at your disposal.
Cambridge hosts additional holiday pop‑ups, small concerts, and local markets throughout December. Pop into cafes and shops with holiday windows and lights.
Lowell Winter Celebrations and Santa Parades
Lowell’s WinterFest and Christmas festivities offer rich experiences for all ages. Events typically include live music, food vendors, and art markets, giving plenty of reasons to explore Lowell this December. One of the standout celebrations is the annual Night‑Time Santa Parade on December 6. Santa travels along the Lowell Showboat, followed by festive activities. Lowell’s winter scene also features a series of Santa visit days throughout December, with photo ops and local holiday pop‑ups.
This city is a joy for families thinking of relocating here with movers Lowell MA during the Christmas events that blend tradition and community fun. While Lowell doesn’t have the huge light shows of Boston or Springfield, it offers timeless, community‑focused celebrations.
Christmas Events in Massachusetts: Visit Quincy
Quincy, near Boston, brings its own events to Christmas events in MA calendars. One highlight this year is the Annual Christmas Parade. Locals gather for floats, music, and community spirit.
In the second half of December, Quincy’s holiday calendar continues with community festivities and seasonal cheer. One highlight is the Generals Park tree lighting and holiday celebration in early December, perfect for friends and families to enjoy after moving to Quincy. This event is perfect for families looking to enjoy the season and explore local shops for unique gifts. If you’ve recently moved with movers Quincy MA, this is a great opportunity to experience the town’s warm holiday spirit and meet your neighbors. For those planning a move, attending such community gatherings will help you feel right at home.
Christmas Events in Lynn, MA
After relocating with movers Lynn MA, visit the following Christmas events:
- Lynn Christmas Eve Parade (December 24) – Celebrate Christmas Eve with the Lynn Christmas Eve Parade featuring floats, music, and festive cheer. It’s a great way for families and residents to come together and enjoy a holiday tradition.
- The Nutcracker at Lynn Auditorium (December 20) – The Greater Salem Ballet Company performs The Nutcracker at Lynn Auditorium with shows at 12 PM and 4 PM. This holiday classic offers a chance to enjoy a beloved performance right in the city.
- Tree Lighting Events and Live Music – Throughout December, enjoy tree lighting ceremonies and live music events around downtown Lynn. These festive gatherings are perfect for getting into the holiday spirit and connecting with the local community.
- Holiday Hot Chocolate Stands and Local Markets – Warm up with holiday hot chocolate from local stands and visit the holiday markets in Lynn for seasonal treats and unique gifts, making it an ideal spot for winter shopping and community fun.
Bedford Offers The Best Christmas Events in Massachusetts
New Bedford is full of festive events this December that will make your holiday season special. The 30-foot Christmas tree at the New Bedford Free Public Library is a must-see, beautifully lit after the Christmas parade. The parade features performances by the New Bedford High School marching band, local entertainers, and a holiday greeting from Santa and Mrs. Claus. For more holiday cheer, don’t miss AHA! Night on December 13, which brings arts, music, and family activities to downtown. Museums, galleries, and shops stay open late, offering crafts, performances, and twinkling lights.
Another highlight is the dNB Holiday Stroll, where you can ride an antique fire truck, enjoy live holiday music, and meet Santa. With Ho-Ho-Ho-tel Deals at the New Bedford Harbor Hotel, you can enjoy a festive stay with breakfast and free Wi-Fi for as low as $129 per night. Whether you’re exploring, shopping, or enjoying the lights, there’s something for everyone in New Bedford this December!
After visiting these events, who knows, maybe you wish to move here. If so, our movers Bedford MA are at your disposal.
Christmas Events in Somerville, MA
Somerville offers a lively mix of MA Christmas events that bring festive joy across the city this December. The season begins with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Somerville City Hall Concourse on December 4, where lights, music, treats, and Santa’s grand entrance kick off holiday fun in the community.
The city’s Illuminations tour runs from December 12 through January 12, letting you take a self‑guided walk, bike ride, or drive to view creative holiday light displays mapped by the Somerville Arts Council. On December 13, join a group bike tour to see the lights together.
Local markets add more cheer, including the Somerville Flea Holiday Market at the Arts at the Armory with artisan gifts on December 7 and 21, plus other seasonal markets and holiday pop‑ups you’ll find around town. If you’re thinking about moving with movers Somerville MA this winter, these events are a fun way to explore the neighborhood and connect with your new community.
Visit Newton, MA
Newton celebrates the holidays with a variety of exciting Christmas events in MA that bring festive cheer to all ages. One of the highlights is the Festival of Trees at Elm Bank in Wellesley (just outside Newton), which runs from November 28 to December 28. This event features beautifully decorated trees and a Snow Village with model trains. Visitors can also enjoy s’mores by the fire pit. Advance tickets are required for this magical experience.
Newton also has its own array of charming events, like Winter in Wooville at Polar Park in Worcester (just a short drive away), where the ballpark transforms into a sparkling holiday wonderland. Visitors can stroll through dazzling lights and enjoy festive activities. Another great event is ZooLights at Stone Zoo, offering a winter wonderland of lights and animals for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you’re new to Newton or just visiting, these MA Christmas events provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the holiday spirit!
Holiday Travel Tips for Christmas Events in Massachusetts
When to go: Most events run from early December through late December, with some extending into New Year’s weekend. Light displays, markets, concerts, and parades fill calendars week to week.
thebostoncalendar.com
Getting around: Boston’s public transit makes it easy to attend shows and markets without driving. For Springfield, Cambridge, Lowell, and Quincy, plan for short walks and local transit or driving routes.
Early planning helps: Plan your holiday itinerary on time and obtain the tickets before the mad rush is on.
Family fun: From Santa parades in Quincy to Boston’s skating rinks and Springfield’s light displays, holiday events are family‑friendly. These are perfect ways to explore your new community post‑move.
Make Your Own Christmas Event
Creating your own Christmas event at home can be a fun and festive way to celebrate the season with family and friends. Here are a few ideas to make your holiday gathering memorable:
- Christmas Movie Marathon – Set up a cozy movie night with Christmas classics like Home Alone, The Grinch, and Elf. Provide blankets, pillows, and plenty of popcorn for a relaxed and festive evening.
- Holiday Craft Party – Invite guests to join in making DIY Christmas ornaments or wreaths. Provide craft supplies like glitter, glue, ribbons, and pinecones for a creative and interactive experience.
- Christmas Cookie Decorating – Bake a batch of sugar cookies and set up a decorating station with icing, sprinkles, and candy. Everyone can have fun decorating their own cookies to take home.
- Secret Santa Gift Exchange – Host a Secret Santa gift exchange with a fun twist. Set a theme, such as homemade gifts or items under a specific price range, and enjoy the surprise of giving and receiving thoughtful presents.
- Christmas Carol Karaoke – Turn your living room into a karaoke stage and have a Christmas carol sing-off. You can use a karaoke machine or play instrumental versions of classic holiday songs for everyone to sing along.
- Winter Wonderland Party – Transform your home into a winter wonderland with decorations like fairy lights, snowflakes, and festive music. Serve hot chocolate and mulled wine, and invite guests to wear their coziest winter attire.
- Christmas Potluck Dinner – Host a holiday potluck where everyone brings their favorite dish. Whether it’s a classic Christmas dinner or a variety of appetizers and desserts, sharing food makes the event extra special.
Celebrate the Season Your Way
No matter where you are in Massachusetts, there are countless ways to embrace the holiday spirit. From vibrant tree lightings and enchanting parades to intimate, cozy home gatherings, the opportunities to make lasting memories are endless. Whether you explore a local festival, attend a performance, or create your own festive event at home, the holiday season offers something for everyone. So, gather your loved ones, enjoy the warmth of the season and all the Christmas events in Massachusetts, and create a celebration that’s uniquely yours.
References:
Guide, B. D. (2025). Boston Events December 2025 – Top Things to Do – Boston Discovery Guide. Boston-Discovery-Guide.com. https://www.boston-discovery-guide.com/boston-event-calendar-december.html
Christmas Festivities – Lowell Area Chamber. (2025). Discoverlowell.org. https://www.discoverlowell.org/christmas-festivities/
DesRosiers, A. (2025, November 25). NB Festive – Explore New Bedford. Explore New Bedford. https://explorenewbedford.org/special-events/nb-festive/
The Ultimate 2025 Holiday Guide: Newton-Needham Area – Community Kangaroo | Find family events in Greater Boston. (2025, December 2). Community Kangaroo | Find Family Events in Greater Boston. https://communitykangaroo.com/newton/holiday/
