Christmas Events for Kids in Massachusetts (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

18 min read

Massachusetts has 18 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from ZooLights at Stone Zoo in Stoneham on November 20 to Holiday Storytime (0 - 5) in Revere, on December 24. 14 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in every state.

The short version

  • 18 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Massachusetts for 2026, in Boston, Worcester and Springfield
  • First: ZooLights at Stone Zoo, Stoneham, November 20. Runs latest: ZooLights at Stone Zoo, Stoneham, through January 3
  • Free: The Lighting of the Quadrangle 2026, Scenes from Gwendolyn's Nutty Nutcracker, Family Holiday Concert, Urban Nutcracker, Visit with Santa!, Children's Afternoon Craft: Gingerbread Man Cookie Decorating, Gingerbread Storytime, Gingerbread House Decorating, The Nutcracker: A Preview, The Great Grinch Gathering, Make Graham Cracker Gingerbread Houses, Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating, Polar Express Party and Holiday Storytime (0 - 5)
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Watercolor illustration: Rally the corgi stands on a red train seat looking out at falling snow, a lit Christmas tree and a white dove. Text: Choo choo! The train starting could be heard. Hello cute white bird!
Rally watching the snow and a lit Christmas tree, from the pages of Rally Takes the Train.

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Massachusetts Christmas train rides page.

Massachusetts Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
18 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Boston, Worcester and Springfield
Season
November 20, 2026 to January 3, 2027
Free events
14
Kinds of events
holiday story time, holiday crafts, Santa visit and holiday lights
Last checked

City guides in Massachusetts

Plan your December

When each Massachusetts Christmas event for kids happens

The first is ZooLights at Stone Zoo in Stoneham on November 20; the last runs to December 24. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Massachusetts? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

Like it so far? See the full book

25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Boston

13 confirmed events for kids in Boston, including nearby Lynn, Medford, Revere, Stoneham, Wayland, Wellesley and Weston, soonest first.

Stoneham: ZooLights at Stone Zoo

Holiday lightsZoo New England · Stoneham

Host
Zoo New England (opens in a new tab)
Where
Stone Zoo, 149 Pond St, Stoneham, MA 02180 (near Boston)
When
Fri November 20 (4 to 9:30 pm), Fri November 27 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sat November 28 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sun November 29 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Fri December 4 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sat December 5 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sun December 6 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Fri December 11 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sat December 12 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sun December 13 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Fri December 18 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sat December 19 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sun December 20 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Tue December 22 (4:30 to 8:30 pm) and Wed December 23 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), 2026
Cost
Timed tickets required, prices vary by date; Santa visit $5 per guest age 2 and up
Ages
All ages; children under 2 free
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

ZooLights turns Stone Zoo in Stoneham into a winter wonderland with tree-lined paths aglow with thousands of twinkling lights. This year Yukon Creek becomes a candy-themed display, complete with a festive model train set. On select nights, Santa meets families inside the Animal Discovery Center for short visits, and parents can take their own photos.

ZooLights runs nightly from November 20, 2026 to January 3, 2027, from 4 to 9:30 pm with last entry at 8:30 pm, and is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Tickets are required for everyone age 2 and up, with plan-ahead pricing online and higher prices at the gate. Santa visits run 4:30 to 8:30 pm on Fridays through Sundays from November 27 to December 20, plus December 22 and 23, for $5 per guest age 2 and up, paid on site by card only.

Parent tip: Buy ZooLights tickets online ahead of time since evenings can sell out. Santa visits are first come, first served, take card or Apple Pay only, and include no professional photos.

See dates and details from Zoo New England (opens in a new tab)

Boston: Faneuil Hall Marketplace's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting

Tree lightingFaneuil Hall Marketplace · Boston

Host
Faneuil Hall Marketplace (opens in a new tab)
Where
Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, 4 S Market St, Boston, MA 02109
When
Saturday, November 21, 2026, 2 to 6 pm
Cost
No ticket or price listed
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Faneuil Hall Marketplace holds its annual Holiday Tree Lighting at Quincy Market, one of Boston's best known holiday traditions. The afternoon features live performances and holiday decor around the marketplace, and at 6 pm sharp the tree is lit with help from Make-A-Wish and Santa himself. Families can pair the lighting with a stroll along the Freedom Trail or early holiday shopping.

The event is Saturday, November 21, 2026, with festivities from 2 to 6 pm. It takes place outdoors at Quincy Market, a short walk from the State, Haymarket and Government Center MBTA stations. No ticket or price is listed on the event page, and the marketplace's restaurants and shops are open around it. The marketplace's holiday market also opens for the season soon after, on November 27.

Parent tip: Take the T, since the marketplace is a short walk from State, Haymarket and Government Center. Arrive well before 6 pm to find a spot where little ones can see the tree.

See dates and details from Faneuil Hall Marketplace (opens in a new tab)

Wellesley: Scenes from Gwendolyn's Nutty Nutcracker

Holiday story timeFreeWellesley Free Library · Wellesley

Host
Wellesley Free Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Wellesley Free Library, Main Library, Wakelin Room, 530 Washington St, Wellesley, MA 02482 (near Boston)
When
Saturday, November 28, 2026, 10:30 to 11 am
Cost
Free
Ages
Fun for all ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Local author David Ira Rottenberg visits the Wellesley Free Library to read his picture book, Gwendolyn's Nutty Nutcracker. While he reads, ballet students from the Community Dance Academy at Walnut Hill perform a stage version of the story, so children get a mini ballet and a read-aloud in one short program. Afterward kids can meet both the author and the dancers.

The program is Saturday, November 28, 2026 from 10:30 to 11 am in the Wakelin Room at the Main Library on Washington Street in Wellesley. It is free and billed as fun for all ages, and kids are encouraged to wear their tutus. At thirty minutes, it is a good fit for younger children with short attention spans, and it makes a gentle start to the holiday season on Thanksgiving weekend.

Parent tip: Kids are invited to wear tutus. The Wakelin Room has a capacity limit, so arrive a little early for a good seat.

See dates and details from Wellesley Free Library (opens in a new tab)

Wayland: Family Holiday Concert

Holiday showFreeWayland Free Public Library · Wayland

Host
Wayland Free Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Wayland Free Public Library, Round Room, 5 Concord Rd, Wayland, MA 01778 (near Boston)
When
Sunday, December 6, 2026, 3 to 4 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 0 to 6 and their grown-ups
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Wayland Free Public Library hosts a Family Holiday Concert with Parody Playhouse, founded by award-winning songwriter and performer Erica Leigh. The show invites families to sing, dance and play together through music, movement and playful twists on familiar favorites. It is designed for little ones from birth to age 6 and the grown-ups who love them, and the Friends of the Wayland Library provide refreshments.

The concert is Sunday, December 6, 2026 from 3 to 4 pm in the library's Round Room on Concord Road. It is free and no registration is required. The concert is part of Wayland Center's Holiday Open House, so families can make an afternoon of it in the town center. Little ones are encouraged to join in rather than sit still.

Parent tip: Come ready to move, since this is a high-energy, interactive show. Combine it with Wayland Center's Holiday Open House the same day.

See dates and details from Wayland Free Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Boston: Urban Nutcracker

Holiday story timeFreeBoston Public Library · Boston

Host
Boston Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Boston Public Library, Central Library in Copley Square, 700 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116
When
Sunday, December 6, 2026, 1 to 2 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 3 to 8
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

City Ballet of Boston brings excerpts of The Urban Nutcracker, its modern, Boston themed take on the holiday classic, to the Central Library in Copley Square. After the performance, children listen to a reading of the Nutcracker story and then learn a few new dance moves from a City Ballet teaching artist.

The program is geared toward young movers ages 3 to 8 and is free, and it takes place on a Sunday afternoon when the Central Library is open. It pairs well with a walk through Copley Square and a look at the children's library afterward. The library asks that requests for disability accommodations or language services be made at least two weeks ahead through ask@bpl.org or 617-536-5400.

Parent tip: Dress kids in clothes they can move in for the dance portion. Other Boston branches host the same program on different December weekdays.

See dates and details from Boston Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Lynn: Children's Afternoon Craft: Gingerbread Man Cookie Decorating

Holiday craftsFreeLynn Public Library · Lynn

Host
Lynn Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lynn Public Library, Children's Department, 5 North Common St, Lynn, MA 01902 (near Boston)
When
Thursday, December 10, 2026, 3 to 4 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Children up to 12 years of age
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Lynn Public Library's Children's Department brings back its gingerbread man cookie decorating craft for the holidays. Each child who attends gets one gingerbread man cookie to decorate, and kids are encouraged to come with their best design idea. The program is open to children of all abilities.

The craft is Thursday, December 10, 2026 from 3 to 4 pm in the Children's Department on North Common Street. It is free and for children up to age 12. The number of cookies is limited, so sign-up is needed, and registration opens Monday, November 23 at 9 am. Families who need accommodations can contact the library's children's staff before the program. Children can take their decorated cookie home or enjoy it right after the program, making this a fun after-school stop during the busy weeks before the holidays.

Parent tip: Register soon after sign-ups open on November 23, since cookies are limited. Each child present gets one cookie.

See dates and details from Lynn Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Wellesley: Gingerbread Storytime

Holiday story timeFreeWellesley Free Library · Wellesley

Host
Wellesley Free Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Wellesley Free Library, Main Library, Wakelin Room, 530 Washington St, Wellesley, MA 02482 (near Boston)
When
Thursday, December 10, 2026, 10:30 to 11:15 am
Cost
Free, drop in
Ages
Ages 1 to 5
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Wellesley Free Library's children's staff host a special Gingerbread Storytime for little ones. The program starts with a fun gingerbread story, then moves to a snack and interactive, hands-on gingerbread activities and crafts. It is sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries.

Storytime is Thursday, December 10, 2026 from 10:30 to 11:15 am in the Wakelin Room at the Main Library. It is designed for ages 1 to 5 and is free, with no registration required, so families can simply drop in. Food will be served, and the library asks families to let staff know if a child needs any accommodations. Questions can go to the children's librarians by email through the library. It is a sweet first library outing for very young children.

Parent tip: Food is served, so tell the children's staff ahead of time about allergies or other needs. It is a weekday morning program, best for toddlers and preschoolers not yet in school.

See dates and details from Wellesley Free Library (opens in a new tab)

Wellesley: Gingerbread House Decorating

Holiday craftsFreeWellesley Free Library · Wellesley

Host
Wellesley Free Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Wellesley Free Library, Main Library, Wakelin Room, 530 Washington St, Wellesley, MA 02482 (near Boston)
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 11 am to 3:45 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Best for children age 4 to 14
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Children can build and decorate their own festive gingerbread house at the Wellesley Free Library. Using graham crackers and royal icing, each child decorates an individual house to their heart's content and takes it home. The program is sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries and OUT Metrowest.

There are four 45-minute sessions on Saturday, December 12, 2026, at 11 am, noon, 2 pm and 3 pm, held at the Main Library. The program is free and best for children ages 4 to 14. Space is limited, so only children who will make a house should register, not adults, and families are asked to sign up for just one session. Registration begins December 5, so mark the date if you want a spot.

Parent tip: Register as soon as sign-ups open on December 5, and bring a flat box or tray to carry the finished house home.

See dates and details from Wellesley Free Library (opens in a new tab)

Weston: The Nutcracker: A Preview

Holiday story timeFreeWeston Public Library · Weston

Host
Weston Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Weston Public Library, Community Room, 87 School St, Weston, MA 02493 (near Boston)
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026
Cost
Free
Ages
For all ages
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Weston Public Library hosts a reading of The Nutcracker geared to young children. As the story is read, dancers from the Commonwealth Ballet Company act out some of the parts, giving kids a close-up taste of the ballet in a library setting. After the reading, children get to meet the dancers.

The program is Saturday, December 12, 2026 in the library's Community Room on School Street, and the library says the exact time is still to be announced, so check back before you go. It is free and for all ages. No registration is required, but families can sign up to receive a reminder email, and the room holds about sixty people. It is a good way to introduce children to the ballet before seeing a full performance.

Parent tip: Check the event page for the final start time closer to the date, and sign up for the reminder email so you hear about it.

See dates and details from Weston Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Revere: The Great Grinch Gathering

Holiday craftsFreeRevere Public Library · Revere

Host
Revere Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Revere Public Library, 179 Beach St, Revere, MA 02151 (near Boston)
When
Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 4 to 6 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Revere Public Library throws a Great Grinch Gathering for families. Kids can settle in to watch the Grinch movie and then move on to themed crafts and other activities spread across the Children's Room, the Main Library and the Green Room. It is an easy way to share a holiday favorite with friends and neighbors.

The gathering is Tuesday, December 15, 2026 from 4 to 6 pm at the library on Beach Street. It is free, open to all ages, and no registration is required. With a two-hour window after school, families can come for the movie, the crafts or both. Grown-ups are welcome to stay and craft alongside their kids, and the library's spaces make it easy for families with children of different ages to find something to enjoy.

Parent tip: No sign-up needed, so you can drop in after school. Plan to arrive near 4 pm if your kids want to see the whole movie.

See dates and details from Revere Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Boston: Make Graham Cracker Gingerbread Houses

Holiday craftsFreeBoston Public Library · Boston

Host
Boston Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Boston Public Library, Jamaica Plain Branch, 30 South St, Boston, MA 02130
When
Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 4 to 5:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Children and families
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Jamaica Plain branch of the Boston Public Library invites families to an after-school gingerbread house workshop. Kids build their own houses out of graham crackers, and the library provides all of the materials. Everything children make is theirs to keep and carry home. The program is listed for children from toddlers through age 12 along with their families.

The workshop is Wednesday, December 16, 2026 from 4 to 5:30 pm at the Jamaica Plain branch on South Street. It is free and no registration is listed, so families can come by during the ninety minutes. The library asks anyone who needs a disability accommodation or language services to contact the branch at least two weeks ahead so staff can arrange it.

Parent tip: Bring a box or bag to carry the finished house home, and request any accommodations at least two weeks in advance.

See dates and details from Boston Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Revere: Holiday Storytime (0 - 5)

Holiday story timeFreeRevere Public Library · Revere

Host
Revere Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Revere Public Library, Children's Room, 179 Beach St, Revere, MA 02151 (near Boston)
When
Thursday, December 24, 2026, 11 am to noon
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 0 to 5
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Revere Public Library's Children's Room hosts a Holiday Storytime for the youngest readers on Christmas Eve morning. Miss Lisa reads a holiday-themed story aloud and then leads children in a themed craft to match, giving families a calm, cozy activity on one of the busiest days of the season.

Storytime is Thursday, December 24, 2026 from 11 am to noon. It is designed for ages 0 to 5, it is free, and no registration is required, so families can simply come by. The same weekly storytime runs on other December Thursdays with arctic animal and winter themes if you want to make it a regular outing. Little ones can take their finished craft home, and the short hour fits nicely into a Christmas Eve morning before the rest of the day's plans.

Parent tip: The library may keep shortened hours around the holiday, so plan to arrive on time and head out right after the craft.

See dates and details from Revere Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Worcester

3 confirmed events for kids in Worcester, soonest first.

Worcester: Frosty Festival 2026

Holiday story timeEcoTarium · Worcester

Host
EcoTarium (opens in a new tab)
Where
EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester, MA 01604
When
Sat December 5 and Sun December 6, 2026, 10 am to 5 pm
Cost
Included with general admission; planetarium shows need a separate ticket
Ages
Kids of all ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The EcoTarium turns its museum into a winter festival for one weekend. The centerpiece is an indoor sock skating rink on a slick synthetic ice surface, so kids can slide and spin without blades or cold. Both days include a Science Discovery Winter Story Time at 11 am, winter science programs, tabletop activities like snowflake symmetry and winter tracks, and a build a winter shelter experience.

On Saturday, Drawbridge Puppet Theater performs Chicken Little and The Three Pigs at 1 pm and 2 pm. On Sunday there is a mascot meet and greet with the Heeler Pup Sisters from 12:30 to 2:30 pm. Face painting, glitter tattoos, hair tinsel and holiday photo opportunities round out the day. Festival activities are included with general admission, while planetarium shows require a separate ticket.

Parent tip: Plan around the 11 am Winter Story Time, which runs both days. Members get an early sock skating hour and a member breakfast on the Saturday.

See dates and details from EcoTarium (opens in a new tab)

Worcester: Visit with Santa!

Santa visitFreeWorcester Public Library · Worcester

Host
Worcester Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Worcester Public Library, Frances Perkins Branch, 470 West Boylston Street, Worcester, MA 01606
When
Monday, December 7, 2026, 5 to 7 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Children of all ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa is making an evening visit to the Frances Perkins Branch of the Worcester Public Library. Children can talk with Santa and pose for a photo, and there is a winter craft to work on while waiting for a turn. The visit is sponsored by the Friends of the Worcester Public Library and is free.

Time and space are limited, so the library hands out numbered tickets at the door, and tickets are available until 30 minutes before the event ends. Families should bring their own camera or phone for photos. The library lists the visit for babies and young children through tweens. The Frances Perkins Branch sits on West Boylston Street in the north end of the city. Because the visit runs from 5 to 7 pm on a Monday, it works well as an after school or after work stop. If this date does not fit, the library calendar also lists Soul Santa visits at other branches in early December.

Parent tip: Arrive early to collect a numbered ticket, since tickets stop 30 minutes before the end. Bring your own camera.

See dates and details from Worcester Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Worcester: Polar Express Party

Holiday story timeFreeWorcester Public Library · Worcester

Host
Worcester Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Worcester Public Library, Main Library, 3 Salem Square, Worcester, MA 01608
When
Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 4 to 5 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Children 0 to 7
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Two days before Christmas, the Worcester Public Library's Main Library hosts a party built around the beloved picture book The Polar Express. Children are invited to come in their coziest pajamas for an hour of activities inspired by the story, along with hot cocoa.

The library lists the party for young children, from babies through age 7. It is a library event held downtown in Salem Square, so it is free and indoors, which makes it an easy late afternoon outing during the busy days before the holiday. The Main Library is the largest location in the Worcester Public Library system, so families can browse the children's room for holiday picture books before or after the party. The party lasts one hour, which suits short attention spans and leaves time to get home before dinner.

Parent tip: Kids are encouraged to wear pajamas. The library calendar does not show registration for this one.

See dates and details from Worcester Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Springfield

2 confirmed events for kids in Springfield, soonest first.

Springfield: The Lighting of the Quadrangle 2026

Santa and Mrs. ClausFreeSpringfield Museums · Springfield

Host
Springfield Museums (opens in a new tab)
Where
Springfield Museums Quadrangle, 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103
When
Friday, November 27, 2026, 5 to 7 pm
Cost
Free, museum admission not required
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Springfield Museums open the Grinchmas season by switching on an outdoor lighting display across the museum buildings and the landscaped Quadrangle grounds. The free community celebration features appearances by Santa, Mrs. Claus and the Grinch, plus hot cocoa, cider and cookies.

Families can also visit the Grinch's Grotto and explore the Super Sweet Superheroes exhibit during the evening, and the museum notes short train rides on the grounds. Museum admission is not required for the lighting. Earlier the same day, from 10 am to 5 pm, Holiday Happenings fills the museums with Grinch themed crafts, giant bubbles and a jazzy brass trio, included with museum admission. Together the two events make a full day out on the day after Thanksgiving, with the lights as the finale.

Parent tip: This is an outdoor evening event the day after Thanksgiving, so dress warmly. Come earlier in the day if you also want the indoor Holiday Happenings activities.

See dates and details from Springfield Museums (opens in a new tab)

Springfield: Grinchmas Saturday 2026

Santa visitSpringfield Museums · Springfield

Host
Springfield Museums (opens in a new tab)
Where
Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103
When
Sat December 5 and Sat December 12, 2026, 10 am to 5 pm
Cost
Free with museum admission
Ages
Whole family
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

On Grinchmas Saturdays, the Springfield Museums, home of the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum, offer a full day of hands on Grinch inspired activities. Kids can build a sleigh for the Mt. Crumpit Derby, design a Who Hash label, play Stick the Antler on the Dog, add a house to a gingerbread Who-ville and make a 3D heart ornament.

From 11 am to 2 pm, Santa hosts a meet and greet and each child receives a free book to take home, one per child while supplies last. The Grinch himself poses for photos from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm in the Grinch's Grotto. Activities are included with museum admission, so families can also explore the rest of the museums, including the Dr. Seuss Museum, on the same visit.

Parent tip: Arrive by late morning for the Santa meet and greet, since the free books go while supplies last. The Grinch takes a short break every 40 minutes.

See dates and details from Springfield Museums (opens in a new tab)

Near a state line? Our guides to Christmas events for kids in Rhode Island, Christmas events for kids in New Hampshire and Christmas events for kids in Connecticut list more confirmed events, and the national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Massachusetts Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Massachusetts in 2026?

We confirmed 18 Christmas events for kids in Massachusetts for 2026 on each host’s own page: ZooLights at Stone Zoo in Stoneham (November 20), Faneuil Hall Marketplace's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting in Boston (November 21), The Lighting of the Quadrangle 2026 in Springfield (November 27), Scenes from Gwendolyn's Nutty Nutcracker in Wellesley (November 28), Frosty Festival 2026 in Worcester (December 5), Grinchmas Saturday 2026 in Springfield (December 5), Family Holiday Concert in Wayland (December 6), Urban Nutcracker in Boston (December 6), Visit with Santa! in Worcester (December 7), Children's Afternoon Craft: Gingerbread Man Cookie Decorating in Lynn (December 10), Gingerbread Storytime in Wellesley (December 10), Gingerbread House Decorating in Wellesley (December 12), The Nutcracker: A Preview in Weston (December 12), The Great Grinch Gathering in Revere (December 15), Make Graham Cracker Gingerbread Houses in Boston (December 16), Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating in Medford (December 21), Polar Express Party in Worcester (December 23) and Holiday Storytime (0 - 5) in Revere (December 24). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Boston, Massachusetts?

For families in and around Boston, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: ZooLights at Stone Zoo (in Stoneham, Nightly, Nov 20 to Jan 3, 4 to 9:30 pm; Santa on select nights, timed tickets required, prices vary by date; santa visit $5 per guest age 2 and up); Faneuil Hall Marketplace's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting (Sat, Nov 21, 2 to 6 pm, tree lit at 6 pm, no ticket or price listed); Scenes from Gwendolyn's Nutty Nutcracker (in Wellesley, Sat, Nov 28, 10:30 to 11 am, free); Family Holiday Concert (in Wayland, Sun, Dec 6, 3 to 4 pm, free); Urban Nutcracker (Sun, Dec 6, 1 to 2 pm, free); Children's Afternoon Craft: Gingerbread Man Cookie Decorating (in Lynn, Thu, Dec 10, 3 to 4 pm, free, registration required); Gingerbread Storytime (in Wellesley, Thu, Dec 10, 10:30 to 11:15 am, free, drop in); Gingerbread House Decorating (in Wellesley, Sat, Dec 12, sessions at 11 am, noon, 2 pm and 3 pm, free, registration required); The Nutcracker: A Preview (in Weston, Sat, Dec 12, time to be announced, free); The Great Grinch Gathering (in Revere, Tue, Dec 15, 4 to 6 pm, free); Make Graham Cracker Gingerbread Houses (Wed, Dec 16, 4 to 5:30 pm, free); Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating (in Medford, Mon, Dec 21, 6 pm or 7 pm sessions, free, registration required); Holiday Storytime (0 - 5) (in Revere, Thu, Dec 24, 11 am to noon, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Boston section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Worcester, Massachusetts?

For families in and around Worcester, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Frosty Festival 2026 (Sat and Sun, Dec 5 and 6, 10 am to 5 pm, included with general admission; planetarium shows need a separate ticket); Visit with Santa! (Mon, Dec 7, 5 to 7 pm, free); Polar Express Party (Wed, Dec 23, 4 to 5 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Worcester section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Springfield, Massachusetts?

For families in and around Springfield, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: The Lighting of the Quadrangle 2026 (Fri, Nov 27, 5 to 7 pm, free, museum admission not required); Grinchmas Saturday 2026 (Sat, Dec 5 and Sat, Dec 12, 10 am to 5 pm, free with museum admission). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Springfield section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Massachusetts?

Yes. 14 of the 18 events here are free: The Lighting of the Quadrangle 2026 in Springfield, Scenes from Gwendolyn's Nutty Nutcracker in Wellesley, Family Holiday Concert in Wayland, Urban Nutcracker in Boston, Visit with Santa! in Worcester, Children's Afternoon Craft: Gingerbread Man Cookie Decorating in Lynn, Gingerbread Storytime in Wellesley, Gingerbread House Decorating in Wellesley, The Nutcracker: A Preview in Weston, The Great Grinch Gathering in Revere, Make Graham Cracker Gingerbread Houses in Boston, Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating in Medford, Polar Express Party in Worcester and Holiday Storytime (0 - 5) in Revere. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Massachusetts this December?

Santa appears at ZooLights at Stone Zoo in Stoneham (November 20), Faneuil Hall Marketplace's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting in Boston (November 21), The Lighting of the Quadrangle 2026 in Springfield (November 27), Grinchmas Saturday 2026 in Springfield (December 5) and Visit with Santa! in Worcester (December 7). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Massachusetts?

Holiday story times on this page: Scenes from Gwendolyn's Nutty Nutcracker in Wellesley, Frosty Festival 2026 in Worcester, Urban Nutcracker in Boston, Gingerbread Storytime in Wellesley, The Nutcracker: A Preview in Weston, Polar Express Party in Worcester and Holiday Storytime (0 - 5) in Revere. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Which Massachusetts Christmas events are best for toddlers?

These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Family Holiday Concert in Wayland (Ages 0 to 6 and their grown-ups), Gingerbread Storytime in Wellesley (Ages 1 to 5) and Holiday Storytime (0 - 5) in Revere (Ages 0 to 5).

Are there kids' Christmas events in Massachusetts on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: ZooLights at Stone Zoo in Stoneham (through January 3) and Holiday Storytime (0 - 5) in Revere (through December 24).

How much is ZooLights at Stone Zoo in Stoneham?

Timed tickets required, prices vary by date; Santa visit $5 per guest age 2 and up. ZooLights at Stone Zoo is on Fri November 20 (4 to 9:30 pm), Fri November 27 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sat November 28 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sun November 29 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Fri December 4 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sat December 5 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sun December 6 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Fri December 11 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sat December 12 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sun December 13 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Fri December 18 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sat December 19 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Sun December 20 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), Tue December 22 (4:30 to 8:30 pm) and Wed December 23 (4:30 to 8:30 pm), 2026 at Stone Zoo. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Faneuil Hall Marketplace's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting in Boston?

No ticket or price listed. Faneuil Hall Marketplace's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting is on Saturday, November 21, 2026, 2 to 6 pm at Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is The Lighting of the Quadrangle 2026 in Springfield?

Free, museum admission not required. The Lighting of the Quadrangle 2026 is on Friday, November 27, 2026, 5 to 7 pm at Springfield Museums Quadrangle. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Scenes from Gwendolyn's Nutty Nutcracker in Wellesley?

Free. Scenes from Gwendolyn's Nutty Nutcracker is on Saturday, November 28, 2026, 10:30 to 11 am at Wellesley Free Library, Main Library, Wakelin Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Frosty Festival 2026 in Worcester?

Included with general admission; planetarium shows need a separate ticket. Frosty Festival 2026 is on Sat December 5 and Sun December 6, 2026, 10 am to 5 pm at EcoTarium. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Grinchmas Saturday 2026 in Springfield?

Free with museum admission. Grinchmas Saturday 2026 is on Sat December 5 and Sat December 12, 2026, 10 am to 5 pm at Springfield Museums. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Family Holiday Concert in Wayland?

Free. Family Holiday Concert is on Sunday, December 6, 2026, 3 to 4 pm at Wayland Free Public Library, Round Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Urban Nutcracker in Boston?

Free. Urban Nutcracker is on Sunday, December 6, 2026, 1 to 2 pm at Boston Public Library, Central Library in Copley Square. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Visit with Santa! in Worcester?

Free. Visit with Santa! is on Monday, December 7, 2026, 5 to 7 pm at Worcester Public Library, Frances Perkins Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Children's Afternoon Craft: Gingerbread Man Cookie Decorating in Lynn?

Free, registration required. Children's Afternoon Craft: Gingerbread Man Cookie Decorating is on Thursday, December 10, 2026, 3 to 4 pm at Lynn Public Library, Children's Department. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread Storytime in Wellesley?

Free, drop in. Gingerbread Storytime is on Thursday, December 10, 2026, 10:30 to 11:15 am at Wellesley Free Library, Main Library, Wakelin Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread House Decorating in Wellesley?

Free, registration required. Gingerbread House Decorating is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 11 am to 3:45 pm at Wellesley Free Library, Main Library, Wakelin Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is The Nutcracker: A Preview in Weston?

Free. The Nutcracker: A Preview is on Saturday, December 12, 2026 at Weston Public Library, Community Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is The Great Grinch Gathering in Revere?

Free. The Great Grinch Gathering is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 4 to 6 pm at Revere Public Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Make Graham Cracker Gingerbread Houses in Boston?

Free. Make Graham Cracker Gingerbread Houses is on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 4 to 5:30 pm at Boston Public Library, Jamaica Plain Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating in Medford?

Free, registration required. Family Gingerbread Cookie Decorating is on Monday, December 21, 2026, 6 to 7:45 pm at Medford Public Library, Bonsignore Hall. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Polar Express Party in Worcester?

Free. Polar Express Party is on Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 4 to 5 pm at Worcester Public Library, Main Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Storytime (0 - 5) in Revere?

Free. Holiday Storytime (0 - 5) is on Thursday, December 24, 2026, 11 am to noon at Revere Public Library, Children's Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Massachusetts?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Massachusetts Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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