Boston comes alive during Christmas with dazzling decorations, festive tree lightings, and holiday cheer around every corner. Whether you’re a local or visiting the city for the holidays, the magical displays throughout Boston will fill you with festive joy. Here are some of Boston’s best places to see Christmas decorations and tree lighting.

Boston Common Tree Lighting

The Boston Common tree lighting is a cherished tradition that has been a part of the city’s holiday season for over 75 years. Each year, a tree gifted from Nova Scotia is placed in the center of the Common. The lighting ceremony is filled with live performances, ice skating, and thousands of twinkling lights.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Faneuil Hall Marketplace is home to one of Boston’s largest Christmas trees. The historic area transforms into a winter wonderland with its towering trees, illuminated storefronts, and festive music. Visitors can also enjoy the “Blink!” light and sound show, where over 350,000 lights blink in sync with holiday tunes.

Copley Square Tree Lighting

Copley Square’s annual tree lighting is a family-friendly event held in the heart of Back Bay. The square is beautifully decorated, and the lighting of the tree is accompanied by a visit from Santa, live music, and performances by local choirs. Don’t miss the nearby Boston Public Library’s decorated wreaths.

Christopher Columbus Park

Christopher Columbus Park offers a stunning holiday display with its blue-lit trellis extending along the waterfront. The park’s tree lighting is a magical event that draws visitors to see the twinkling lights against the backdrop of Boston Harbor. It’s an excellent spot for a peaceful evening stroll by the water.

Seaport District Lights

The Seaport District becomes a glowing wonderland during the holiday season. The streets are lined with artfully designed light installations, making it one of the trendiest areas to explore Christmas decorations. Check out the Seaport Common, where the signature tree lights up the area, and enjoy festive pop-up shops.

Prudential Center

The Prudential Center celebrates the holidays with its 31 Nights of Light event. Each night, the tower is lit in different colors to honor various local organizations. The center also features a festive tree in the courtyard and beautifully decorated storefronts. It’s a must-visit for holiday shopping and Christmas lights.

Beacon Hill Holiday Decorations

Beacon Hill is known for its classic, timeless beauty, and during Christmas, the neighborhood transforms into a picture-perfect scene. The elegant brick buildings are adorned with festive wreaths, red bows, and garlands, and the lamp posts along the cobblestone streets are decorated with greenery and ribbons, creating a charming holiday atmosphere.

Boston Public Garden

The Boston Public Garden is a lovely place to take in the beauty of the holiday season. Its historic footbridges and pathways are lit with string lights, and the pond freezes over for ice skating. A giant Christmas tree stands in the center, offering a beautiful backdrop for holiday photos.

Harvard Square Holiday Fair

Harvard Square embraces the holiday spirit with its festive decorations and holiday fair. The fair features local artists, crafters, and vendors selling unique, handcrafted gifts. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy the square’s Christmas tree and holiday displays that light up the streets.

Somerville Illuminations Tour

Somerville’s Illuminations Tour is one of the most exciting holiday traditions just outside of Boston. This self-guided tour takes you through the streets of Somerville, where residents decorate their homes with extravagant lights and displays. It’s a festive and fun way to experience holiday lights while exploring a charming neighborhood.

Snowsport Winter Village

Snowport Winter Village in the Seaport District is one of Boston’s most festive holiday attractions. The village features ice skating, curling, and a variety of holiday pop-up shops. The decorations are spectacular, with sparkling trees, wreaths, and lights adorning the entire area, making it perfect for families and visitors of all ages.

Commonwealth Avenue Mall

Commonwealth Avenue Mall, stretching through the heart of Back Bay, is decorated with sparkling lights throughout winter. The tree-lined promenade offers a beautiful, peaceful setting for a holiday walk, and the historic statues along the avenue are illuminated, creating a serene and festive environment.

Quincy Market Christmas Tree

The Quincy Market Christmas tree is another must-see holiday attraction. This iconic location features a large tree that is the focal point of the market’s holiday decorations. Visitors can also enjoy shopping, dining, and live performances under the festive lights that adorn this historic market space.

Enchanted Trolley Tour

The Enchanted Trolley Tour brings Christmas cheer to Boston’s neighborhoods. This festive event sees a trolley traveling through the city with Santa on board, stopping in different communities for tree lightings and celebrations. It’s a great way to explore multiple city areas and see various tree lighting in one evening.

Boston Pops Holiday Concert

While not a traditional display, the Boston Pops Holiday Concert is one of the city’s most beloved Christmas events. Held at Symphony Hall, this festive concert is accompanied by dazzling holiday decorations that transform the venue into a winter wonderland. The music and the festive decor create a magical holiday experience.

Encore Boston Harbor

Encore Boston Harbor’s holiday decorations are a sight to behold. The luxurious resort and casino transform into a winter wonderland with elaborate light displays, towering Christmas trees, and festive decor. It’s an excellent destination for those looking to experience the holiday season in a glamorous setting.

Boston’s North End

Boston’s North End, famous for its Italian eateries, gets into the holiday spirit with festive lights and Christmas decorations. Hanover Street, the main thoroughfare, is beautifully lit, and many restaurants adorn their exteriors with holiday decor. The North End is perfect for a festive night of dining and holiday cheer.

SOWA Winter Festival

The SOWA Winter Festival is a massive holiday market featuring local artisans, food trucks, and festive drinks. The space is filled with Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and holiday decorations, making it an ideal spot for gift shopping and enjoying the festivities. The festival has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.