New England is the quintessential storybook place to enjoy Christmas gatherings throughout the holiday season. It’s the stuff holiday movies are made of, as well as great literature like “Twas the Night Before Christmas,” “A Christmas Carol,” and “Little Women.”
We’ve curated this list of some lesser-known, insider spots near in New England that offer unique and heartwarming holiday experiences. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure, a romantic getaway, or simply a nostalgic trip through time, this list covers it all.
We hope you enjoy your holiday season, and take plenty of time to relax, eat, and gather with family and friends.
~ Kayla & Shawn
MASSACHUSETTS
wellesley, massachusetts
November 22 – December 31, 2024
The Festival of Trees at the Massachusetts Horticultural Society offers a dazzling holiday display with beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and holiday lights. Open from November 22 to December 31, 2024, this event is perfect for families, with activities like scavenger hunts, a Snow Village model train exhibit, and opportunities to win one of the decorated trees to take home. This festive celebration combines creativity and holiday cheer, making it a standout destination in the Greater Boston area.
Get your tickets here.
boylston, massachusetts
November 23 – January 5, 2025
Night Lights at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill runs from November 23, 2024, to January 5, 2025. This dazzling display features radiant and colorful light installations, a new ice skating rink, a model train, and seasonal treats like s’mores and warm drinks. The garden provides picturesque photo opportunities and festive fun for the entire family.
Click here for more info.
mendon, massachusetts
November 21 – December 29, 2024
Southwick’s Zoo Winter Wonderland transforms the zoo into a glowing holiday escape from November 21, 2024, to December 29, 2024. Visitors can enjoy illuminated light displays, meet Santa, and indulge in seasonal treats while strolling through the zoo’s festive atmosphere.
Get your tickets here.
lancaster, massachusetts
November 29 – December 30, 2024
The Lancaster Celebration of Lights is a spectacular drive-thru experience featuring over 1 million LED lights, a 90-foot Christmas tree, and a 300-foot multi-colored tunnel. Running from November 29, 2024, to December 30, 2024, this family-friendly event is a must-see during the holiday season.
More info and tickets here.
phillipston, massachusetts
Kick Off: November 29, 2024
The Red Apple Farm Winter Festival kicks off on November 29, 2024, offering a cozy holiday experience. Visitors can enjoy festive lights, seasonal treats, and family-friendly activities in the charming farm setting, perfect for creating holiday memories.
Check out more info here.
boston, massachusetts
Cocoa & Carols Holiday Cruise offers a luxurious holiday experience aboard the festively decorated yacht Manhattan. This 1.5-hour Boston Harbor cruise is perfect for families, featuring hot cocoa, holiday treats, and cheerful carols that fill the air. Enjoy breathtaking views of the harbor, cozy up with loved ones, and soak in the holiday spirit. Tickets range from $54 to $68 per adult, making this a festive must-do for the season.
Get your tickets here.
Another cornerstone of the city’s holiday traditions is Boston’s Common Tree Lighting (December 5, 2024, at 6 PM). Wander through the Boston Common and the Public Garden as the city’s lights sparkle against the snowy backdrop. Don’t miss the festive markets (Snowport and SoWa’s Winter Festival), ice skating on Frog Pond, and live performances throughout December.
Click here for Boston’s tree lighting.
More info on Snowport Holiday Market here.
Looking for info on SoWa Winter festival? Click here.
waltham, massachusetts
The Lyman Estate Greenhouses are a hidden holiday gem, dating back to 1804. During the holiday season, the greenhouses are transformed into a festive oasis, adorned with seasonal decorations. Visitors can explore exotic plants, enjoy the peaceful ambiance, and shop for unique holiday plants and decorations, making it a serene holiday outing.
Click here for more info.
attleboro, massachusetts
November 28 – January 1, 2025
The La Salette Christmas Festival of Lights is a breathtaking tradition that attracts visitors from across the region. Beginning on November 28, 2024, and running through January 1, 2025, this festival features over 300,000 lights illuminating the grounds of the La Salette Shrine. Visitors can enjoy the stunning outdoor displays, listen to festive music, explore the gift shop, and savor refreshments at the food court. With its peaceful ambiance and beautiful nativity scenes, this event is a must-visit for those seeking a spiritual and awe-inspiring holiday experience.
More info here.
sudbury, massachusetts
The historic Wayside Inn, established in 1716, provides a warm and inviting setting for the holidays. Guests can enjoy a traditional holiday meal by the fireplace while exploring the inn’s beautifully decorated grounds. Its cozy charm and rich history make it a perfect destination for a festive holiday outing.
Check it out here.
monson, massachusetts
December 2024
Silver Bell Nights at Silver Bell Farm is a magical evening experience perfect for families and holiday enthusiasts. Running on select nights throughout December 2024, this event features tractor-pulled wagon rides through a festive trail illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights. Guests can also enjoy holiday treats, warm up by a cozy fire pit, and visit the barn to shop for handmade gifts and decorations. The charming atmosphere and attention to detail make this a heartwarming addition to your holiday season.
Purchase your tickets here.
sturbridge, massachusetts
Select Evenings: December 2024
Step back in time with Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village, a beloved holiday tradition. Running on select evenings in December 2024, this event offers a glimpse into 19th-century holiday celebrations with candlelit pathways, carolers, sleigh rides, and festive performances. Guests can explore beautifully decorated historic homes, enjoy seasonal treats, and shop for handcrafted gifts. With its nostalgic charm and immersive atmosphere, this event is perfect for those seeking a unique and heartwarming holiday experience.
More info here.
stockbridge, massachusetts
December 6-8, 2024
In early December, Stockbridge brings Norman Rockwell’s iconic painting “Main Street at Christmas” to life. From December 6–8, 2024, visitors can see vintage cars, beautifully decorated storefronts, and charming town celebrations, making it feel like stepping into a holiday card.
Click here for more info.
vermont
WOODSTOCK, vermont
December 13-15, 2024
Woodstock’s Wassail Weekend running from December 13–15, is a hallmark of New England’s holiday season. This picturesque town hosts a horse parade, carriage rides, and opportunities to make your own ornaments. The weekend is capped off with traditional holiday concerts and cheer, making Woodstock a must-visit for a classic Christmas experience.
Get your tickets here.
stowe, vermont
December 6-8, 2024
Nestled in the mountains, Stowe is the epitome of a winter wonderland. Its cozy downtown area, complete with twinkling lights and unique holiday markets, pairs perfectly with world-class skiing and winter activities for a well-rounded holiday getaway. From December 6–8, you can watch the Stowe community light up at night, complete with holiday decorations, festive wagon rides, a holiday bazaar, and visits with Santa.
You can check out more info here.
MAINE
boothbay harbor, maine
November 21-December 31, 2024
The Gardens Aglow at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is a breathtaking event that features over 750,000 dazzling lights. Running from November 21 to December 31, 2024, this celebration also includes a lighted boat parade. Boothbay Harbor’s quaint downtown shops and holiday spirit are the perfect backdrop for this magical experience.
Get your tickets here.
KENNEBUNKPORT, MAINE
December 5-15, 2024
The Christmas Prelude running from December 5–15 in Kennebunkport is one of New England’s most celebrated events. From tree-lighting ceremonies to festive fireworks and street parades, the town transforms into a hub of holiday joy. Stroll through the streets adorned with twinkling lights and enjoy local artisan crafts and seasonal treats.
Learn more here.
OGUNQUIT, MAINE
December 13-15, 2024
Ogunquit’s Christmas by the Sea celebration (December 13–15, 2024) offers coastal charm with tree lightings, caroling, and even a bonfire on the beach. This seaside town’s festive atmosphere is perfect for a unique and cozy holiday getaway.
Get more info here.
rhode island
NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND
November 22 – December 29, 2024
Step back in time and explore the festive elegance of Newport’s Gilded Age mansions, decked out for the holidays. With sparkling lights and special holiday tours throughout December, this destination offers a luxurious take on Christmas traditions. From November 22 to January 1, wander the Newport Mansions, which are full of festive touches. If you’re looking for lights specifically, from November 22 to December 29, The Breakers and its landscape will be covered in festive colored lights. Be sure to grab tickets, as there’s a timed admission every 30 minutes from 4 PM to 6 PM.
Get your tickets here.
connecticut
essex, connecticut
Home to the Trees in the Rigging Community Carol Sing and Boat Parade on December 1, Essex is the perfect destination for nautical holiday fun. This unique event combines caroling with a parade of festively decorated boats, creating a magical waterfront display.
Get more info here.
mystic, connecticut
Starts on December 6, 2024
Mystic comes alive with the Festival of Lights at Olde Mistick Village. On December 6, 2024, over 6,000 luminaries light up this historic area, creating a magical atmosphere alongside live holiday music and warm treats from local vendors. The Lantern Light Village series at Mystic Seaport Museum also takes place on various dates in December (6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, and 22) from 5 to 8 PM.
Check out the Festival of Lights here and get your tickets to the Lantern Light Village series here.
new hampshire
portsmouth, nh
Portsmouth’s Vintage Christmas transforms this historic seacoast city into a festive destination with parades, holiday markets, gingerbread house contests, and special performances. Stroll through the town’s cobblestone streets illuminated by twinkling lights to enjoy a truly timeless holiday experience.
Learn more about Vintage Christmas here.
