Holiday Happenings in Boston MA
A Quick Guide to the Best Holiday Events
If you’re joining us in Boston this December, you’ve come at a great time! There’s a chill in the air and possibly snow on the ground, but you’ll bask in the warmth of our hospitality and good cheer.
A Pops Christmas Party by the BSO
Since 1973, the Boston Pops has performed festive concerts every holiday season. To date there have been 200+ narrators and no fewer than 16 choirs and choruses. The renowned Arthur Fiedler was the first of 26 conductors to lead the glorious Holiday Pops. Current conductor Keith Lockhart has led the iconic group of musicians since 1995. With a huge following around the world, the Pops offers kids’ Matinees and performs for thousands of music lovers at various venues and through their streaming platform, as well as numerous digital media outlets. Starting December 16, Holiday Pops offers a special streaming concert, for a very reasonable price.
The Pops is part of the Boston Symphony Orchestra; the founder of the BSO, a Civil War veteran, started the Pops to serve as summertime employment for musicians who needed work outside of the traditional six-month winter music season.
Keep it rolling
For the festive Christmas Party on Wheels ( BYOB, 21+) head over to The Bebop (Boylston St. at Mass Ave.) in the Back Bay. Imbibe as you enjoy a comfortable ride to see Boston in all its Christmas light-glory. The Bebop is conveniently located in the heart of the Berklee campus. This popular bistro and watering hole also features the daily acoustic Berklee Showcase at 5 pm, live music 7 days a week, a wide repertoire of styles, and special events.
Cirque du Soleil
Cirque du Soleil’s first-ever Christmas production in New England, 'Twas the Night Before... can be found at the Boch Center. Enjoy this modern retelling of J. Clement Moore’s classic tale as only the Cirque de Soleil can present it! This event runs from November 25 through Dec 11, 2022.
The Gingerbread Man in Salem
The Good Witch of Salem presents Let’s Catch The Gingerbread Man! Come aboard the Holiday Trolley in nearby Salem for a great adventure and memorable family fun. December 10-11, 2022.
A new twist on The Nutcracker
Anthony Williams’ Urban Nutcracker, a modern holiday classic set in downtown Boston, returns to the Shubert Theatre for the 2022 holiday season. Set in present-day downtown Boston, this dance and theatrical performance blends Duke Ellington’s signature rhythms with the classical sounds of Tchaikovsky. Urban Nutcracker brings the requisite classical ballet, alongside tap, hip hop, flamenco, and jazz to really mix it up. Dec 17 - 23, 2022.
The Choir of Saint Paul's
Harvard Square is the home of one of the premier boys’ and mens’ choirs in the country. The Choir boasts an illustrious run with chart-topping recordings, long-time collaborations with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Boston Lyric Opera, Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Boston Pops. The group has appeared on Good Morning America and at Fenway Park. The acclaimed Choir presents "Christmas in Harvard Square" on two Sundays, December 11 and December 18 at 3 pm at St. Paul’s Parish, 29 Mount Auburn Street, Cambridge. Saint Paul’s Choir School is conducted by Director of Music and Choirmaster James Kennerley.
New Years Eve 2023 in Beantown
First Night Boston invites you to help us welcome the New Year as only Boston can. Eat and drink, dance and play, as you get ready to sing in 2023, Beantown-style! Enjoy events located throughout the city, culminating with an epic fireworks display at midnight over historic Boston Harbor. First Night’s earliest events start at noon with Chu Ling Dance Academy’s outdoor exhibition of Chinese Folk Dance at Copley Place Mall, while simultaneously, at Copley Square, the Riverside Theatre Works’ Sweet Harmony, an eclectic vocal performance troupe. Check the website for events scheduling. First Night Boston offers family-friendly fun for the kiddos, as well as adult-oriented events.
Naughty or nice?
One of Boston’s most-attended bar crawls, Santacon is a wild time for those 21+. Even if you don’t partake in the event, it sure is fun to see all of the Santa Clauses carousing downtown. Better to be nice, so leave the naughty stuff at home!
The Boston holiday season is fun for all ages and proclivities. Experience the holiday cheer and enjoy yourself. …and to all a Good Night!
Don't forget to book a room with a view of Boston Harbor now for your holiday stay in Beantown.