65 Things to do in Boston around Christmas & New Year’s 2022
When:
Monday, Dec 19, 2022 9:00a -
Saturday, Dec 31, 2022 10:00p
Monday, Dec 19, 2022 9:00a -
Saturday, Dec 31, 2022 10:00p
Where:
Boston
Surrounding areas
Boston, MA
Admission:
$Varies
Categories:
Date Idea, Drinks, Festivals & Fairs, Food, Good for Groups, Meetup, Music, Nightlife, Party, Photoworthy, Seasonal
Event website:
https://www.thebostoncalendar.com/events/65-things-to-do-in-boston-around-christmas-new-year-s-2022
The holiday season is far from over. The week leading up to Christmas is the jolliest one yet, and here in Boston, the festive spirit lasts for the week after, too. From nights sipping eggnog cocktails to days spent decking your halls with boughs of holly, there’s so many things to do in Boston around Christmas and New Year’s. Before 2023 strikes, make sure to celebrate Santa’s big visit and ring in the Yuletide cheer.
When: 12/22-12/24; Thu, 5-10pm; Fri-Sat, 5-11pm
Cost: Varies
Where: Kendall Square
What: Looking for a ‘Holiday Spiked-Chai’ or a ‘Snowball Old Fashioned’? At Miracle, the holiday-themed cocktail pop-up bar, you can see bartenders don ugly sweaters while pouring some Jingle Balls Nog. Plus, check out the Malden location while you’re at it.
Solstice: Reflections on Winter Light
When: 12/20-12/21; Tue-Wed, 5-9:30pm
Cost: $30
Where: West Cambridge
What: The winter solstice is the shortest day of the life, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be full of holiday joy. Wander through Mount Auburn Cemetery while admiring large-scale art and light displays and undeniable beauty.
When: 12/19-12/25; Mon-Sun, 4pm-12am
Cost: FREE
Where: Somerville
What: Watch the night light up right before your very eyes. This year, Somerville has some of the best holiday lights in all of Boston, and you can see gleaming lights sparkle and shine under the Boston sky.
Ice Skating on the Frog Pond at Boston Common
When: 12/19-12/24; Mon, 10am-3:45pm; Tue-Fri, 10am-9pm; Sat, 10am-10pm
Cost: Downtown
Where: $8+
What: When in doubt, skate it out. The Frog Pond is Boston’s most iconic skating spot, and you and your loved ones are guaranteed to have an unforgettable holiday experience.
Live Jazz Entertainment in the Lobby Lounge
When: 12/24; Sat, 4-7pm
Cost: FREE
Where: Back Bay
What: Jam out to jazzy holiday classics in the lobby of the Mandarin Oriental. The hotel lobby will be a sight to behold, and you can top off your night with a glass of champagne from the wine bar.
When: 12/20-12/24; Tue-Sat, Times vary
Cost: $39-375
Where: Downtown
What: It’s a Christmas classic, so don’t miss out. Watch the Sugar Plum fairy leap and twirl, the winter fairies spin through the snow, and Clara meet the Nutcracker himself.
When: 12/20-12/24; Tue-Sat, Times vary
Cost: $4-130
Where: Back Bay
What: Start practicing your “fa la la las”! With the Boston Pops, you can celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with your absolute favorite tunes.
When: 12/19-12/23; Mon-Wed, 5pm-12am; Thu-Fri, 5pm-1am
Cost: Varies
Where: South End
What: Don your best ugly sweater for the best jolly drinks. Shore Leave is going through a holiday transformation with some of the best festive foods and drinks around.
When: 12/19-12/23; Mon-Fri, Times vary
Cost: Varies
Where: Chinatown
What: Nutcracker’s a holiday tradition, but sometimes it’s fun to see a new twist on the classic. Urban Nutcracker is set in modern-day Boston, so you might see some pirouettes in front of the Citgo Sign.
When: 12/23; Fri, 8-11pm
Cost: $15
Where: Mid-Cambridge
What: It’s important to commemorate all holidays, even Christmas eve eve. Celebrate the night with Cambridge Festivus and watch performances from Boston’s best poets, singers, and comedians.
When: 12/22-12/23; Thu, 6-8pm; Fri, 7-9pm
Cost: Varies
Where: North Brookline
What: Disney on Ice will make you feel that childhood wonder again. You can watch heroic Disney tales play out before your very eyes– all on ice! Watch family favorites like Moana, Elsa, and Rapunzel swirl and twirl all night.
Apres-Ski Cocktail Tasting Experience
When: 12/19-12/24; Mon-Thu, 4-11pm; Fri-Sat, 4pm-12am
Cost: $89
Where: Back Bay
What: You don’t need to take a flight to Colorado to visit an alpine ski lounge. All you need to do is head downtown. At the Four Seasons’ apres-ski cocktail tasting experience, you can enjoy the very best winter drinks and snacks.
Deck The Halls by Candlelight at Hammond Castle Museum
When: 12/22; Thu, 6-8pm
Cost: $20
Where: Gloucester
What: Take a step back in time when you enter the Hammond Castle Museum, an iconic palace in the heart of Gloucester. Hammond Castle’s iconic arches are aglow and decked out with Christmas decor. Tour the grounds and admire the grandeur.
When: 12/19-12/23; Mon-Fri, 4-8pm; Sat, 10am-1pm
Cost: $5-27
Where: Wellesley
What: Step into a Narnia of hundreds of decorated trees, twinkling lights, a Snow Village, a festive railroad display, and so much more.
Après Ski Pop-up Lodge at Publico Boston
When: 12/22-12/24; Thu, 4pm-12am; Fri-Sat, 4pm-1am
Cost: Varies
Where: South Boston
What: There’s nothing cozier than a cabin, and at Publico Boston, you can pretend like you’re tucked away in the midst of the mountains. Admire the vintage ski-decor and you’ll be living for the lodge life.
The Holiday Market at Snowport
When: 12/19-12/24; Mon-Wed, 3-8pm; Thu-Sat, 11am-9pm
Cost: FREE
Where: Seaport
What: Snowport’s your one-stop shop for everything holiday. Whether you’re looking for stocking stuffers, perfect holiday gifts, mouthwatering hot chocolate, or just a spot to lounge by a firepit, Snowport’s one of Boston’s most magical places to go.
Christmas Eve at Town Meeting Bistro
When: 12/24; Sat, 5-8pm
Cost: $125
Where: Lexington
What: The Christmas Eve dinner at Town Meeting Bistro can be described in two words: magical and festive. Enjoy a three course meal complete with potato leek soup, mushroom risotto, sticky toffee pudding, and so much more.
The Main Stage Holiday Show at Improv Asylum
When: 12/20-12/23; Tue-Fri, Times vary
Cost: $29
Where: North End
What: The holidays can be stressful, so it might help to laugh a little. Say “ho, ho, ho” this year at a Holiday Show at Improv Asylum.
When: 12/22-12/23; Thu-Fri, 3:30-4:30pm
Cost: $10-20
Where: Downtown
What: Boston’s a historic city throughout the year, and during Christmas it’s no different. On the Historic Holiday Stroll,, you can learn about classic 19th century traditions with a tour guide donning Dickens-esque attire.
When: 12/24; Sat, 11am-12pm
Cost: $20
Where: Back Bay
What: Does your kiddo love belting out “Jingle Bell Rock”? They’ll love a Holiday Pop Matinee even more, where they can watch some of Boston’s best singers perform holiday classics. These shorter performances are perfect for kids.
When: 12/19-12/24; Mon-Sat, 10:30am-6:30pm
Cost: $30
Where: Back Bay
What: It’s time for a winter miracle. This stunning, immersive experience brings holiday cheer right to you. Marvel at beautiful light displays and magnificent visuals from the timeless holiday tale.
Holiday Pop-up Bar at Tradesman Charlestown
When: 12/19-12/24; Mon-Thu, 11:30am-11pm; Fri-Sat,10am-11pm
Cost: Varies
Where: Charlestown
What: Get into the holiday spirit with the most elegant, Christmassy decor in all of Charleston. Plus, grab a delicious winter cocktail while you’re at it.
INNgloo Wonderland at Inn at Hastings Park
When: 12/21-12/24; Wed-Fri, 11:30am-8pm; Sat, 10am-8pm
Cost: Varies
Where: Lexington
What: Escape the chill in a cozy winter igloo. Drink and dine under sparkling, twinkling lights and listen to jazzy tunes as you devour a delicious meal.
When: 12/19-12/24; Mon-Fri, 11:30am-11:30pm; Sat, 10am-11:30pm
Cost: Varies
Where: South Boston
What: Need somewhere warm and sheltered from the (snow) storm? Take refuge in a cozy winter igloo, and munch on scrumptious bites while you’re at it.
When: 12/20-12/24; Tue-Wed, 4-11pm; Thu-Fri, 4pm-12am; Sat, 2pm-12am
Cost: Varies
Where: South Boston
What: Dine under a night sky and watch millions of twinkling lights shine above you. At the Lookout Rooftop Igloo Bar, you can see stunning views of the skyline while munching on apps and sipping cocktails.
When: 12/22-12/23; Thu-Fri, 5:30-10pm
Cost: Varies
Where: Allston
What: Looking for somewhere with a view? How about the 16th floor? Soak in gorgeous views of the Charles as you and your loved ones down locally-crafted microbrews.
Ice Skating in the Fenway: The Rink at 401 Park
When: 12/19-12/23; Mon-Fri, 3-9pm
Cost: $6-10
Where: Fenway
What: Lace up your skates and get moving. At The Rink at 401 Park, you can twirl and spin like an Olympian on a gleaming ice rink.
'Boston's Big Band Christmas' at City Winery
When: 12/21; Wed, 8-10pm
Cost: $30-38
Where: Downtown
What: Don’t be a scrooge. Open your heart to the Christmas spirit and dance along to holiday bands at this once-a-year celebration.
Classic Rock Holiday Concert/Party
When: 12/21; Wed, 7-9pm
Cost: $12-20
Where: Somerville
What: Turn down your Spotify holiday playlist, and turn up at a Classic Holiday Rock Concert. Jam out to bangin’ holiday tunes with a Grammy nominated artist singing along with you.
(Nichols) Home for the Holidays
When: 12/22; Thu, 10am-12:30pm
Cost: $16
Where: South Boston
What: Go home for the holidays at the Nichols home, decked out in its holiday finest. This historic home, right in the heart of Beacon Hill, will welcome you with holly and ivy.
Eatalian Holiday Walking Tour & Tasting
When: 12/21; Wed, 12-12:45pm
Cost: $25
Where: Back Bay
What: Eataly is 45,000 feet of the most incredible Italian dishes you could ever dream of. Learn about the best ingredients for Christmas dinner while wandering through the shop on a walking tour.
NHL Boston Bruins vs. Winnipeg Jets
When: 12/22; Thu, 6:55-8:30pm
Cost: Varies
Where: West End
What: Root for the Bruins during one of their most anticipated games of the season! You can cheer on your favorite players with the help of your friends and family.
Friday Afternoon Tea at Trifecta
When: 12/21; Fri, 11:30am-3:30pm
Cost: $99
Where: Back Bay
What: Are you an oolong or English breakfast person? At Trifecta, it doesn’t matter, because you’ll be in heaven while sipping their luxury teas. Enjoy a cozy afternoon while munching on an eclectic assortment of sweets, scones, and tea cakes.
Upside Down Holiday Trees at the Liberty Hotel Lobby Bar
When: 12/19-12/25; Mon-Thu, 4-10pm; Fri, 12pm-12am; Sat, 10am-12am; Sun, 4-10pm
Cost: Varies
Where: West End
What: You’ll feel like you’re in a Grinch in Whoville when you head to the Liberty Hotel. You can listen to holiday jazz classics while admiring the wacky and wild upside down holiday trees.
When: 12/20-12/24; Tue-Fri, 10am-4pm; Sat, 10am-5pm
Cost: $8-18
Where: Concord
What: This year, the Concord Museum is celebrating the wonders of Children's literature. You’ll be awed by 34 miraculous trees, all dressed up with ornaments and whimsical decor.
When: 12/19-12/21; Mon-Wed, 4-9:30pm
Cost: $17.95
Where: Stoneham
What: Polar bears, foxes, and reindeer alike can marvel at the magical lights strewn about Stone Zoo this year. Thousands of twinkling lights await you at Stone Zoo’s 26 acres.
When: 12/20; Tue, 9pm-12:30am
Cost: FREE
Where: Porter Square
What: Rock out to Christmas classics and belt the holiday carols louder than the rest of your friends. Queue up the “Santa Baby.”
When: 12/19; Mon, 7-9pm
Cost: $80
Where: South End
What: Deck your halls with boughs of holly. This season, you can join Bluebird Bouquets and make the perfect holiday wreath for your front door. Your neighbors will be jealous.
Ice Skating at Skate @ Canal District Kendall
When: 12/19-12/24; Mon-Tue, 12-5pm; Wed-Thu, 12-8pm; Fri, 12-9pm; Sat, 11am-9pm
Cost: $5-13
Where: Cambridge
What: Canal District Kendall has everything you could ever need from a skating rink, and it’s right in the heart of Kendall Square. You can even take private lessons and learn the triple-axel.
White Christmas -- The Sing-A-Long Version
When: 12/19-12/21; Mon-Wed, Times vary
Cost: $15
Where: Arlington
What: I’m dreaming of a… Christmas sing-a-long! There’s nothing better than warming up your voice, enjoying a holiday classic, and belting the very best carols.
When: 12/23-12/24; Fri-Sat, 10am-6pm
Cost: Varies
Where: Downtown
What: Welcome back to the Holiday CrEATor Market, the perfect place to sample the very best holiday snacks and wander around dozens of unique artisanal vendors.
When: 12/22-12/24; Thu, 4-8pm; Fri-Sat, 1-6pm
Cost: FREE
Where: Allston
What: There’s always that one person that’s impossible to shop for. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. At the Arthaus Holiday market, you can find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts that anyone will love.
When: 12/23; Fri, 11am-8pm; Sat, 10am-8pm
Cost: Varies
Where: Back Bay
What: Ready to make that perfect Christmas card? Look no further. At the Pru, you can take that perfect holiday shot with Santa Claus himself.
’The Holiday Sing-Along!’ With Phil Berman & Sarah Nolen
When: 12/21-12/23; Wed-Fri, Times vary
Cost: $12.50-16
Where: Brookline
What: You and your kiddos can enjoy a holiday sing-along– complete with fun and friendly puppets! There will also be snowmen, jingle bells, and lots of holiday decor.
Ice Skating on DCR Kelly Outdoor Rink
When: 12/19-12/23; Mon-Fri, 12-7:30pm; Sat, 12-2:50pm
Cost: $2-3
Where: Jamaica Plain
What: For only $2, you can be taking laps around the rink and sharpening your skate skills for the winter ahead.
When: 12/22; Thu, 4:30-5:30pm
Cost: FREE
Where: Downtown
What: Need a last minute Christmas gift? There’s nothing that says “I love you” quite like something DIY. Make your own painted silk scarf at the Public Library.
‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’
When: 12/21; Wed, 6-7:30
Cost: FREE
Where: Lower Allston
What: Is Tim Burton’s classic a Halloween flick or a Christmas classic? Decide for yourself at a free showing, and watch Jack Skellington dance and sing with his skeleton crew.
When: 12/23; Fri, 8:30-11:30pm
Cost: FREE
Where: Weymouth
What: Ain’t nothing but a… Elvis show! Jam out to all-time rock n’ roll hits with Elivs and his bangin’ band.
When: 12/21; Wed, 7:30-8:30pm
Cost: $21
Where: Waltham
What: Tap your feet along to Celtic seasonal airs. Grab some hot cocoa and ring in the holidays within a 1793 carriage house.
When: 12/21; Wed, 7:30-9pm
Cost: $30
Where: Watertown
What: Cue the piano, the bass, and the drums. It’s time for some yuletide jazz, so don your warmest sweater and embrace the merriment.
When: 12/19-12/25; Mon-Sun 4pm-12am
Cost: FREE
Where: Back Bay
What: Watch the night sky illuminate with a different color every night for the month of December. When dusk sets in, look to the Pru to see greens, reds, blues, golds, and more.
When: 12/19-12/24; Mon-Sat, 9am-9pm
Cost: Varies
Where: Fenway
What: If you haven’t gotten your Christmas tree yet, don’t fret. There’s still plenty of time left to get that perfect pine. Check out the Fenway Tree Farm and don’t forget to grab a wreath, too.
When: 12/19-12/24; Mon-Sat, 8am-10pm
Cost: Varies
Where: Allston
What: Have a tree-tacular Christmas. Boston Christmas Trees has your pick of the best Balsam and Fraser firs (and wreaths) in the Northeast.
When: 12/19-12/24; Mon-Sat, 9am-8pm
Cost: Varies
Where: Seaport
What: Take a stroll around Seaport’s Snowport before making your way to the Winter Wonderland of The Tree Market. Breathe in the fresh evergreen scent and bring home your favorite tree.
Letters to Santa at CambridgeSide
When: 12/19-12/23; Mon-Fri, 11am-7pm
Cost: FREE
Where: Kendall Square
What: Does your kiddo want to be pen pals with Santa? Head to CambridgeSide to send a letter straight to the North Pole.
When: 12/19-12/23; Mon-Wed, 7am-9pm; Thu-Fri, 7am-11pm
Cost: FREE
Where: Downtown
What: At High Street Place, you can grab a holiday cocktail while the kids can write a letter to Santa, Rudolph, Dancer, Prancer, and the rest of the gang.
Italian Dinner with Tiramisu Finale
When: 12/22; Thu, 6-9pm
Cost: $100
Where: Downtown
What: Celebrate Christmas by learning how to cook with your loved ones. There’s nothing more delicious than classic Tiramisu. You’ll be drooling by the time it’s over.
Don’t be a grinch this year. Celebrate Christmas week in Boston and spread holiday cheer for all.
Bonus: Post Christmas Fun
Christmas might be over on Dec. 26, but that doesn’t mean the festive season is over. There are so many more great things to do in the week post-Christmas, and we’ve highlighted our top favorites so that you can take advantage of Boston’s best events. Keep your spirits high before the New Year’s fun even starts.
Note: All following events occur post-Christmas week, Dec. 26- Jan.1
When: 12/27-12/30; Tue-Fri, Times vary
Cost: $73-86
Where: Back Bay
What: You can see it to believe it. Real-life magic happens right before your very eyes at Intimate Illusions, where master illusionist Ivan Amodei reveals something extraordinary in the midst of a luxury ballroom.
When: 12/26-12/31; Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm
Cost: $5-10
Where: Charlestown
What: It’s Christmas break for the kiddos, which means that the USS Constitution Museum is celebrating vacation week. Stop by for family-friendly activities and festive crafts.
When: 12/28; Wed, 1:55-10pm
Cost: Varies
Where: West End
What: The world-famous Globetrotters have trotted their way over to Boston. Watch their shocking skills and ankle-breaking moves as you cheer on for a slam-dunk.
When: 12/30; Fri, 9:30pm-12:30am
Cost: $20-30
Where: Davis Square
What: The 30th should be just as celebrated as the 31st, and the 1st for that matter. Cheer for New Year’s Eve Eve with themed cocktails and drag performances at Crystal Ballroom.
Late Night Detention: Standup in a Speakeasy
When: 12/30; Fri, 10-11:30pm
Cost: $15-20
Where: Mid-Cambridge
What: Sneak into a Speakeasy and sample specialty $4 drinks. You’ll be cackling at the comedy lineup all night long.
When: 12/28; Wed, 6-7:30pm
Cost: FREE
Where: Lower Allston
What: Celebrate the end of 2022 with the whole family. This winter bash includes hot cocoa, mocktails, sugar-cookie-decorating, homemade treats, fun activities, and so much more.
Night Shift Brewing Comedy Night
When: 12/28; Wed, 7-8:30pm
Cost: $15
Where: Everett
What: Free beer you say? That’s right, pints from Night Shift Brewing are included with a purchase to their hilarious comedy night. You’ll be in stitches by the end of it.
"Cinderella" By Tanglewood Marionettes
When: 12/28-12/30; Wed-Fri, Times vary
Cost: $12.50-16
Where: Brookline
What: Bibbidi, bobbidi, boo. The story of Cinderella is a classic, and now you can watch the tale performed by the Tanglewood Marionettes. You’re due for a visit from the Fairy Godmother.
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