Things To Do with Kids on Christmas in Boston

1. Go snow tubing

You will have to cross state lines on Christmas Day, but you'll get bigger hills, like Loon Mountain, New Hampshire, for Snow Tubing.

2. Go for a hike

Take your little ones to The Cove or on another favorite wintertime walk for a Christmas afternoon of nature and adventure. FREE

 
Old and young learn from and share with each other during the holidays and all year long. Photo courtesy of Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly, Boston

3. Volunteer with Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly

Bring companionship, nutritious meals, and flowers to elders throughout Boston as a Holiday Celebrations Volunteer. Sign up in advance. FREE

 
Mass Audubon maintains trails, forests, and natural wonders across Massachusetts. Photo courtesy of Massaudubon.org

4. Explore Mass Audubon

Whether you're interested in coastal views, serene walks through the woods, or a hilltop vista, Massachusetts boasts a statewide network of natural wonders to explore. Discover one in your area.

5. Walk the Freedom Trail

Explore the city's rich history by checking out 15 Coolest Spots for Kids on the Freedrom Trail. Though indoor spaces and attractions are closed December 25, you can go to outdoor spaces like Boston Common, the Old North Church, and the Paul Revere statue. Bundle up, grab a thermos of hot chocolate, and enjoy a day filled with adventure. FREE

6. See the lights and sights

When the sun goes down, take a drive to see holiday lights in Somerville, Attleboro, and all over Greater Boston. FREE 

 
Christmas Day is a great time to explore Boston's bustling Chinatown. Photo courtesy of Yelp

7. Explore Chinatown

Step through the elaborately decorated gate into a neighborhood brimming with beautiful architecture and enticing markets. Learn a new phrase, catch sight of dancing dragons, and indulge your taste buds in the variety of restaurants, ranging from Beijing-styled snacks, to dishes inspired by Thai, Malaysian, and Indian cuisine.

8. Go see a movie

Most theaters are open Christmas Day. Sing 2 opens December 22!

9. Watch airplanes

We know from the experience of flying on Christmas Day that 1., the airlines don't close for the holiday and 2., we'd rather be at home watching the airplanes take off from the North Shore. FREE

Boston Common is a great place to frolic. Photo courtesy of the Friends of the Public Garden 

10. Play in the park.

Go for a stroll in the Public Garden, stopping to say "Merry Christmas" to Mrs. Mallard and her ducklings. Then head over to Boston Common to greet the frogs inside Tadpole Playground while the kids get their sillies out on the play structure. Larz Anderson Park is awesome for kids in winter, too. FREE

11. Make it a family game day

Maximize the opportunity for free time together by choosing from some of the Best Board Games for All Ages. Grab the snacks and unleash the giggles. The best part? Changing out of pajamas is optional! FREE

 
Order a whole branzino with buttered leeks or other restaurant fare on Christmas. Photo courtesy of Saltbox Kitchen

12. Give the stove a holiday

Tired of cooking? We hear you. Many Boston restaurants open on Christmas are offering dine-in or take-out.

 
Journey through an enchanted forest on a 2.5 mile tour of lights. Photo courtesy of Bright Nights at Forest Park, Facebook

13. Visit Bright Nights at Forest Park

Unleash your holiday spirit at one of the Northeast's premier experiences named "One of the Top Ten Holiday Happenings in America" at the city of Springfield's treasured Bright Nights tradition celebrating its 26th season. 

14. Enjoy the Gift of Lights

New Hampshire Motor Speedway is trading in the checkered flags for 3.5 million twinkly LED lights for the 11th annual Gift of Lights. You will cruise through 2.5-mile of lights at this drive-thru experience, including the Tunnel of Lights.

15. Venture to Cape Ann

More than 50 locations take part in Winter Lights on Cape Ann. Pack up the car and family and go follow the clusters of twinkling lights and festive displays.

16. Play Christmas games 

If you're tired of Clue and Trivial Pursuit, check out 20 Fun Christmas Games for the Whole Family and start a new tradition. FREE

17.  Head to the Seaport

Head to Snowport and try your hand at curling, dine in an igloo, and search for Betty the Yeti.

Explore Boston Harbor on Christmas. Photo by Massachusetts Bay Lines

18. Take a beach stroll

Summer excitement is replaced by winter tranquility, but you can still pick 1 of 7 Hidden Gem Beaches for Families Near Boston and enjoy the salty air and quiet on Christmas. Pack an extra blanket to go with the beach chair and don't forget the beach toys for making sand or snow castles.

19. Get crafty

Enjoy a family day off by completing one of 100 Awesome Art Projects for Creative At-Home Fun. Hint: if you complete number 18 in the morning, you can paint seashells in the afternoon. 

20. Get your city selfie game on

Consider it a gift from the city, but Boston parking meters are free on holidays. So drive around the city, find beautiful spots, and take photos to your heart's content. 

Post originally published December 2012; updated December 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2021