CHRISTMAS
For many of us, Christmas is our favorite season — the one we wait for all year long. And did you notice it started a little earlier this year? Our writer, Renee, heard her first Christmas carol on November 9th. “I remember the date,” she says. “And the song? I’ll Be Home for Christmas!” And she’s already drinking her Ho Ho Joe’s coffee (from Beanstock coffee Cape Cod)
There are so many reasons to embrace this utterly splendid holiday: the twinkling lights that pop-up all-over town, the comfort of holiday teas and coffees in cozy cafés, and those sweet holiday cards arriving in the mail with pretty pictures and updates from loved ones. The visits and calls from near and far; family gathering together; and of course, the holiday films. Admit it — you’ve watched Home Alone a hundred times, and Elf too. (Yes, we know all the lines by heart by now: “I’m in love, I’m in love, and I don’t care who knows it.”)
It might feel like it started early this year — and that’s okay. Why not? Getting a head start simply brings the joy sooner. It’s an elevated, magical time — and we say, let’s welcome it with a twinkle in our eye. No Scrooges here!
Some great ways to spread Christmas cheer here in Boston this December....
Boston Common Tree Lighting
Thursday, December 4 (6-8 pm) at Boston Common — the official tree lighting ceremony with live music, Santa, and festive cheer.
Copley Square Tree Lighting
Monday, December 1 (4-6 pm) in Back Bay at Copley Square — a lovely neighborhood event with Santa and Rudolph, plus light refreshments. Boston.gov
Snowport Holiday Market
At the Seaport (100 Seaport Blvd) running through November into December (Nov 7–Dec 28) — more than 130 vendors, festive food & drink, winter games, and outdoor holiday atmosphere. If you love Boston and you love Christmas time...Tree Lighting, Friday night Dec 5th 5-8pm. We’ll see you there!
SoWa Winter Festival
In the South End (soWa Power Station) from Nov 28 through Dec 28 — an indoor/outdoor holiday market with 100+ vendors, art, gifts, and treats. You can do all your shopping in one sweep here.
Holiday Pops! by the Boston Symphony Orchestra
At Symphony Hall, December 4–24, 2025 — a holiday concert tradition with family-friendly matinees and sing-alongs.
Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil
At the Wang Theatre through December 14, 2025 — a spectacular circus-style holiday show combining magic, performance art, and the story of Christmas. We’ve heard rave reviews.
Urban Nutcracker
At the Boch Center’s Shubert Theatre, December 13–21, 2025 — a modern twist on the Nutcracker with hip-hop, flamenco, jazz and more.