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Massachusetts Christmas Guide 2021

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The holidays are here! Just like that, it’s Christmastime again. Beyond the shopping lists and decorating tips, this season is about spending meaningful time with family. Are you looking for fun holiday activities to do with kids in the Boston area? For free, budget-friendly, and splurge-worthy holiday events, read on for lots of family-friendly options!

Family-Friendly Holiday Activities in Greater Boston

ZooLights at Stone Zoo

November 19 – January 9, 4:00 to 9:30 p.m. (Closed 11/25 & 12/25)

Experience the Stone Zoo in full holiday cheer! Thousands of festive lights illuminate a one-way path through the Yukon Creek area of the zoo, home to arctic animals such as black bears, reindeer, bald eagles, Canada lynx, and arctic foxes. 

Tickets must be purchased online in advance.

Non-Member: $13.95 / 4-pack: $50.00

Member: $12.95 / 4-pack: $45.00

Guests under age 2 are free

The Polar Express 4D Experience at the Museum of Science

Sat Nov 20, 2021 – Thu Dec 23, 2021

Based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, the Polar Express 4D Experience is a must-see. Come to the Museum of Science. This 15-minute immersive experience brings a digital 3D visit to the North Pole to life with added 4D effects. Recommended for ages 5+. 

Admission with Exhibit Halls ticket + timed ticket. 

Adults: $29 Entrance Hall + $10 Timed Ticket

Children 3-11: $24 Entrance Hall + $8 Timed Ticket

Seniors 60+: $25 + $9 Timed Ticket

Children Under 3: Free

Winterlights at Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens

Fri Nov 26, 2021 – Sun Jan 9, 2022

4:30pm to 8:30pm

Visit this gorgeous garden property for a spectacular, artfully designed display of holiday lights. Bring the whole family along for a magical and safe outdoor experience. Food and refreshments available.

Advanced purchase of timed tickets required. 

Adults: $15 Member / $20 Non-Member

Children: $5 Member / $10 Non-Member

Children Under 2: Free

Christmas on the Common at Bridgewater

Sunday, December 5, 2021

12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Bring the whole family for holiday fun on the town common! There will be music, food, crafts, local businesses and civic groups, and of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus!

All ages, FREE

Festival of Trees and Snow Village at Elm Bank at Wellesley 

Fri Nov 26, 2021 – Sun Dec 19, 2021

Visit to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society for beautifully decorated trees, an indoor snow village, a model railroad, outdoor light displays, and a fire fit with s’mores. 

Timed tickets are required.

Adults: $15

Mass Hort Members: $10

Children under 12: Free 

Santa’s Wonderland at Foxborough 

Sun Nov 7, 2021 – Fri Dec 24, 2021

Bring the family for a FREE visit and photo with Santa at Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops in Foxborough. Hours vary throughout the season, check the website for hours and timed reservations. Santa will be sitting behind a magic shield this year. 

All Ages; FREE

Magic of Lights at Foxborough 

Fri Nov 19, 2021 – Fri Dec 24, 2021

5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Pack up the car and head to Gillette Stadium for a drive-thru holiday lights display! Enjoy a spectacular display of holiday favorites accompanied by a festive soundtrack. This year, brand-new displays including Illuminating Mega Trees, Prehistoric Christmas, Big Foot Monster Trucks and the Snow Flurry Tunnel are among this year’s new additions along with classic favorites including the 12 Days of Christmas, Toyland and the Enchanting Tunnel of Lights.

All Ages

Purchase tickets online in advance, tickets will not be sold at the gate

$40/car

Ice Skating at Frog Pond

Opening Soon for winter skating – check website for updates & hours

Come to the Boston Common for outdoor ice skating at Frog Pond! This is one of the most iconic holiday activities to do with kids in Boston. Voted Best Outdoor Skating Rink in the US by USA Today. Skate rentals, lockers, skate sharpening, skating aid rentals for beginners available. 

Admission price based on skater’s height. See website for season’s passes. 

58-inches and over: $6.00

Under 58-inches: free

Illuminations Tour at Somerville

Come to Somerville for this amazing months-long lights display! Using the Tour’s handy map, take a self-guided tour of the most decked-out houses in town anytime. Caroling will happen around town on Thursday, December 9th from 6:00-8:00 p.m.

All ages, Free

Lunch with Santa Cruise at Boston Harbor

Cruise along the Boston Harbor with incredible skyline views. Includes a lunch buffet with additional kid-friendly options, goodie bags, kids activities, DJ entertainment and dance floor, photo op with Santa available for purchase on board. 

Purchase tickets online in advance:

Adult: $69.90

Adult Ticket with Guaranteed Window Table: $94.90

Child (Ages 3-12): $54.90

Kids 2 and Under: Free