With all the expenses of the season piling up at once, it’s a bonus when parents find free holiday and Christmas events in Boston for kids. Here are our picks for the best events near Boston celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year’s without needing to dig into your wallet (except maybe to take out your T pass). Hop aboard the Mayor’s Enchanted Trolley for a tour throughout Boston neighborhoods or take in a festival with live music in Watertown. Get hot cocoa with Mrs. Claus in North Andover; and as a bonus, get a picture with Santa. The Annual Menorah Lighting will take place in the Boston Common, Seaport, and South End. And, of course, everyone will love ringing in the New Year in the heart of Boston.
There are more free holiday light displays to see in our list of Boston’s Best Holiday and Christmas Light Shows and there are free holiday activities for kids at holiday markets. For more holiday and Christmas ideas, explore our Holiday Fun Guide for Boston Kids.