Things To Do in Boston This Weekend: Dec. 20-Dec. 22, 2024
Boston comes alive with festive cheer on the weekend before Christmas, offering something magical for everyone. From the beloved melodies of the Holiday Pops Concert to the twinkling lights of the SoWa Winter Festival and the joy of skating on the Frog Pond, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this weekend.
Holiday Pops Concert
- What: Holiday Pops Concert
- When: Dec. 16-24, 2024
- Where: Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston, MA 02115
- Cost: Tickets range from $57 to $92 per person
Santa Claus makes a guest appearance at the Holiday Pops Concert, a beloved Boston holiday tradition that captures the season’s magic. Conductor Keith Lockhart and the Tanglewood Festival Chorus unite to celebrate the festivity with songs such as “Jingle Bells,” “The 12 Days of Christmas,” and “Sleigh Ride.”
Harvard Square Holiday Craft Fair
- What: Harvard Holiday Craft Fair
- When: Dec. 20-22, 2024, Friday 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Where: 1426 Massachusetts Ave., close to the T station
- Cost: Free
Celebrating its 39th season in 2024, the Harvard Holiday Craft Fair is the perfect pit stop on your holiday shopping spree. With over 30 vendors specializing in products ranging from wheel-thrown pottery and handcrafted jewelry to exotic artisan items and handmade chocolate, you’ll find something for everyone on your list — including yourself.
The Polar Express Train on Cape Cod Central Railroad
- What: The Polar Express Train on Cape Cod Central Railroad
- When: Nov. 22-Dec. 23, 2024, on select dates. Departure times are at 2 p.m. on select dates, 4:30 p.m., 6 p.m. on select Thursdays, and 7 p.m.
- Where: 70 Main St., Buzzards Bay, Boston, MA 02532
- Cost: Ticket prices range from $54 to $114, and group rates are available
This event is perfect for families, those who love the story of the Polar Express, or those who love trains and want a fun indoor activity during the holiday season. The Polar Express Train Ride is the pinnacle holiday fun activity filled with magic. Enjoy hot cocoa and Walker’s shortbread cookies as you journey to the North Pole for a 90-minute adventure and meet beloved holiday characters, including Santa Claus.
Ice-Skating on the Frog Pond at Boston Common
- What: Ice-Skating on the Frog Pond
- When: Varies by day: generally 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. Closes early Dec. 24 and Dec. 31 and is closed on Dec. 25
- Where: Boston Common Frog Pond, 38 Beacon St., Boston, MA 02108
- Cost: $10 for people 58 inches and over; free for under 58 inches. Skate rentals: $15 for adults; $10 for kids
USA Today voted this the #1 outdoor ice-skating rink in the U.S. Whether you’re new to skating or a veteran, ice-skating on the Frog Pond at Boston Common is the perfect outing. With the beautiful Boston skyline as your backdrop, the winter memories you make here will last a lifetime.
SoWa Winter Festival
- What: SoWa Winter Festival
- When: Nov. 29 to Dec. 22, 2024. Hours vary by day: generally 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekends
- Where: SoWa Power Station, 550 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA 02118
- Cost: $10; children 12 and under free
You’ll find the SoWa Winter Festival tucked in the South End artists’ enclave. Here, the region’s best small businesses convene to feature over 100 spots so you can find the perfect trinket or gift for your loved ones. The festival features vendors who offer delights ranging from treats for man’s best friend to handmade soaps and candles.
