Activities in Boston for Kids in December 2025

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Boston Ballet's The Nutcracker
Boston Opera House, Boston
Through December 28, 2025
Slip away into the warm drawing room of the Silberhaus family and watch as Clara’s surroundings transform before your eyes. From the dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy to the iconic snow scene, this classical ballet—set to the beloved music of Tchaikovsky—continues to enthrall audiences of all ages. Website

The BSO's Holiday Pops
Boston Symphony Hall, Boston
Rejoice as the Boston Pops return for performances filled with holiday music favorites, the jubilant Pops sing-along, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. Started in 1973 by Boston Pops Conductor Arthur Fiedler, these concerts take place in the magical atmosphere of world-famous Symphony Hall, beautifully decorated to evoke all the magic and charm of the season. Website

2025 Boston Common Tree Lighting
Boston—FREE
Friday, December 4, 2025
It's the 84th Annual Boston Common Tree Lighting! Hosted by Mayor Michelle Wu, with special appearances by Santa and Rudolph. The ceremony includes lighting Boston's official Christmas tree and trees through the Commons and Public Garden. Website

Mayor's Enchanted Trolley Tour
various locations
Downtown Boston — FREE
December 6-7, 2025
For the 29th year, the Mayor's Enchanted Trolley Tour will continue the festive tradition of lighting holiday trees while bringing holiday spirit to children across Boston. The event includes visits with Santa, tree lightings, and more. Website

SNOWPORT at Seaport Common
Seaport—FREE
Through December 31, 2025
Hold on to those handwarmers -- the Seaport has been shaken up in a giant snow globe, transforming the neighborhood into a magical winter wonderland. Website

Sutton Chain of Lights
Sutton — FREE
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Join businesses, churches, and organizations in Sutton for the annual town-wide celebration welcoming the holiday season. Held every year on the first Saturday of December, the event features free trolley rides to all the participating locations, food, children's activities, shopping, and lots of cheer. Website

Night Lights: Dazzling Gardens at New England Botanic Garden
Boylston
Through January 4, 2026
Enter an illuminated world where the stars of the botanic garden shine, and where sparkling experiences and one-of-a-kind light displays inspire joy that lasts all year. It’s a celebration of nature like never before seen—bright, bold, and full of dazzle. Website

Taunton Lights on Festival
Taunton Green —FREE
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Unwrap the magic of the city at Taunton's Lighting of the Green & 2025 Lights On Festival for this annual, community-loved celebration featuring live entertainment, kids' activities, fireworks, and a magical display of holiday lights on the historic Taunton Green. Website

The Union Square Jingle
Somerville
Sunday, December 7, 2025
This celebration of Union Square sparkle, discovery, and delight is sure to jumpstart holiday shopping and get the whole family exploring all that the “38th coolest neighborhood in the world” has to offer! Website

Kids Only! Holiday Sale
Maria L. Baldwin Community Center, Cambridge
Thursday & Friday, December 11-12, 2025
Begun in 1986, the Kids Only Holiday Sale provides an opportunity for school-age children to purchase gifts for family and friends in a safe, supportive and fun environment. Website

Anthony Williams’ “Urban Nutcracker”
Boch Center Shubert Theater, Boston
December 13 - 21, 2025
Anthony Williams’ “Urban Nutcracker”, the modern Boston-centric holiday classic presented by City Ballet of Boston, returns this December. Website

Annual Menorah Lighting on the Boston Common
Boston — FREE
Thursday, December 25, 2025
Head over to the Boston Common for the 41st annual celebration of Chanukah as the community kindles one of New England’s tallest menorahs! The event includes lighting the 22-foot menorah, greetings from dignitaries, a live music ensemble, and more. Website

Candlelight Concert: Christmas Favorites
Simons Theatre, Brookline
Saturday, December 26, 2025
Get lost in the magic of this candlelit Christmas performance from the Listeso String Quartet. Website

Bessie’s Rockin’ Noon Year’s Eve
Discovery Museums, Acton
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Get ready to shake, rattle, and roll into the New Year by making party hats and noise makers! Come decked out in festive pajamas and stick around for the countdown to 12:00 (noon) with a Noon Years’ Eve ball drop. Website

First Night Boston 2026
Boston — FREE
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Since 1975, 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. In keeping with this fantastic Boston tradition, the First Night celebration will open 2026 with an array of performances. Website