Free Events in Boston this Holiday Season

Free Events

The official Boston Common Christmas Tree lit up at night for the free annual event.

Boston Common Tree Lighting

Ages: All Ages
Dates: Est. Dec 4, 2025
Focus / Description: Kick off the season at this classic, free family winter event. See the official tree from Nova Scotia light up, enjoy fireworks, and listen to live music.
Location: Boston Common (near Frog Pond), Boston, MA 02111

Outdoor Fun

A family walks along the historic Freedom Trail in Boston during winter.

Walk The Freedom Trail

Ages: All Ages
Dates: Open Daily
Focus / Description: Grab your winter hats and take a free family walk through American history. This 2.5-mile trail is one of the best ways to see 16 historic sites.
Location: Trail starts at Boston Common, Boston, MA 02108

Children and families sledding down Flagstaff Hill in the Boston Common after a snowfall.

Sledding at Flagstaff Hill

Ages: All Ages
Dates: Open Daily (snow dependent)
Focus / Description: When the snow falls, this is the best sledding hill in Boston. Located right on the Common, it's a perfect, free activity for an active winter afternoon.
Location: Boston Common (near Soldiers & Sailors Monument), Boston, MA 02116

Snow-covered trees and walking paths at Arnold Arboretum in Boston during winter.

Winter Walk at Arnold Arboretum

Ages: All Ages
Dates: Open Daily (Dawn to Dusk)
Focus / Description: Escape the city for a beautiful, free winter walk. Harvard's 281-acre arboretum is open all winter and offers stunning landscapes and peaceful trails.
Location: 125 Arborway, Boston, MA 02130

Local Gems

The grand, historic interior of Bates Hall in the Boston Public Library, a free indoor activity.

Explore the Boston Public Library

Ages: All Ages
Dates: Open Daily (check hours)
Focus / Description: Need to warm up? This architectural gem is a fantastic free indoor activity. Explore the stunning Bates Hall, the peaceful courtyard, and free exhibits.
Location: 700 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116