Christmas Tree Lighting 2024-2025 in Boston

The much-awaited Boston Christmas tree lighting ceremonies usually begin right after Thanksgiving in late November. By December, the city is all dressed up and shining. The switch-on ceremonies attract large crowds with free live entertainment and appearances by Santa, loved by everyone.

Holiday Trellis Lighting: Christopher Columbus Park (November 25, 2024)

The annual lighting of the trellis in Christopher Columbus Park is performed by the Mayor, who switches on the 50,000 lights along the 260-feet (80-m) trellis at the beautiful waterfront. The event features festive music, community carol sing-alongs, and a chance to talk to Santa Claus, everyone's favorite grandpa. Local vendors annually set up their booths at the waterfront, offering delicious hot chocolate, baked goods, and Boston's classic clam chowder. Holiday trellis lighting is set to begin at 5 pm, so consider arriving earlier to witness this beautiful spectacle in action.

Boston Common Tree Lighting (December 5, 2024)

The official Boston Christmas Tree has been lit each year since 1941 in the Boston Common. Since the 1970s, the tree has been provided every year by Nova Scotia in gratitude for Boston's assistance after the 1917 Halifax Explosion. The event is completely free to the public and features celebratory fireworks, holiday carols, and a mesmerizing atmosphere of merriment.

Boston Common Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony is held on the last Thursday of November or the first Thursday of December from 6 pm to 8 pm by the Visitors Information Center on Tremont Street. The ceremony is conducted by the Mayor, members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and, of course, Santa. About 7,000 spectacular Christmas tree lights are followed by lights on dozens of other trees in the Common. Live music and entertainment and an ice-skating show on a Frog Pond are completed with the grand finale and fireworks.

Holiday Lights on the Mall (late November, 2024)

Immediately after the lighting of the Boston Commons Christmas tree, the historic Commonwealth Avenue Mall brightens up with thousands of gleaming light bulbs. Hosted by the Friends of the Public Garden and the City of Boston, this beautiful walkaway is dotted with a vibrant festive illumination. The event normally kicks off with Christmas tree lighting at Kenmore Square at approximately 6:30 pm and is followed by the lighting of the entire avenue. The spectacle is completely free to witness. Delicious food, souvenirs, and beverages are available near the venue.

Massachusetts State House Tree Lighting (November 26, 2024 TBC)

Massachusetts State House features a giant Christmas tree in the Rotunda, which lights up after Santa gives a kick-off of the holiday season in Massachusetts state. Once you are there, explore the treasures of the State House. After the lights are switched on, walk across Beacon Street to Boston Common and enjoy skating on the Frog Pond ice rink. The event typically takes place on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. Witnessing this imposing historical landmark in thousands of lights is truly a unique opportunity.

Christmas Trees at Faneuil Marketplace (November 26, 2024)

Faneuil Marketplace features one of the most beautiful Christmas trees in Boston. The lighting ceremony takes place at the Marketplace Centre with carolers, performances, and other entertainment in late November or early December. DJs perform their festive sets, while businesses give out samples of their products or sell delicious snacks and beverages. Besides the festive program, you can go for some holiday shopping at Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Also, grab a bite at one of the historic taverns along Union Street, serving some of the most delicious fare in the area. While the festivities span from 3 pm to 7 pm, the lights are usually switched on at 6 pm sharp.