Holiday Events Near You

For many families, the most special part of the holiday season is the time spent with friends and loved ones, sharing meals and traditions. Maybe you’re hosting or attending any number of parties and celebrations. We love coming up with delicious appetizers to please a crowd! The holidays can be especially enjoyable in our corner of the country, where the winter weather and New England landscape provide picturesque scenes that have inspired carols and traditional activities.

There are a number of festive events taking place, perfect for a fun outing with visiting friends and relatives. We have a few suggestions of holiday events in the area sure to entertain your crew of all ages and keep everyone in the holiday spirit.

December 22

Teddy Bear Tea at Taj Boston

3:00-5:00 pm

Taj Boston

15 Arlington Street

Boston, MA 02116

This elegant affair to entertain children with holiday activities such as cookie decorating, crafts, and story time with Mrs. Claus, also serves as a fundraiser for the Highgate Charitable Foundation.

December 23

Irish Tenor Ciaran Nagel & Tara Novak w/ Ishna present “A Celtic Christmas”

1:30 pm – 3:30 pm

The Irish Cultural Centre of New England

200 New Boston Drive

Canton, MA 02021

Enjoy the music and traditions of Ireland with performances that will leave you breathless. It’s a musical celebration of the season you won’t forget.

December 31

Hal Holiday & The Tones: 7th Annual Rocking New Year’s Eve Party

Double Tree Hotel by Hilton-Andover

Characters Night Club

123 Old River Rd

Andover, MA 01810

A great way to celebrate the new year is to party without worrying about a ride home. Join the fun here and consider booking a room so you can stay the night. The cost of admission includes appetizers, party favors, and even a gift to you for attending.

December 31

4th Annual New Year’s Eve Hootenanny at Loretta’s Last Call!

Loretta’s Last Call

1 Lansdowne Street

Boston, MA 02215

If you’re a little bit country, the party to ring in the new year starts at 9:00 and includes a dinner buffet and champagne toast.

Ongoing Events (except for Christmas Day)

Zoolights

5:00 pm – 9:00 pm (and sometimes 10:00 pm)

Franklin Park Zoo, Stone Zoo

Viewing the holiday lights is a wild adventure when you get to do it at our favorite local zoos! Special events and activities also are planned especially for this “after hours” celebration of the season.

Winterlights

5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Stevens-Coolidge Place

North Andover, MA

Have you seen the lights right here in our own town this year? The garden of this historic home is decked out with thousands of holiday lights that amaze visitors. Dress for the cold as you walk the grounds and enjoy family activities.

Blink! Light and Sound Show

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Boston, MA

For a free entertaining performance, put a stop at Faneuil Hall on your pre- and post-holiday shopping or sightseeing plans. The lights and sounds of the season are a must-see.

Boston Ballet presents The Nutcracker

Boston Opera House

What would Christmas be without The Nutcracker? Tickets are still available for this professional, beloved production. No matter if it’s your first time or an annual tradition years in the making, you’ll love every minute of the familiar music and dancing.

The Polar Express 4-D Experience

Boston Museum of Science

“Journey to a world where dreams become real.” Featured in digital 3-D and brought to life with 4-D multisensory effects, you and your family will be immersed in the Polar Express experience.

However you decide to enjoy the holiday season, keep Butcher Boy in mind when choosing the perfect meal to be part of your daytime or evening celebration. If you’ve already ordered your holiday roast, it’s ready to be picked up! If you are still looking for ideas and advice on what to serve, we can help with that, too!

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for more fun ideas. Tell your friends we’re there!