Frostival, Fireworks and Fairy Lights
Ever dreamed of staring in your very own ‘Hallmark Movie’? Well welcome to Boston during Frostival season!
Boston is the closest US city to the UK, and arguably its prettiest. It’s easy to navigate on foot, complete with Insta-ready snowy scenes from cobbled, gas-lit streets to the elegant harbour and in winter, it would grace any romantic movie poster.
Here’s our guide to getting the most out of Boston during Frostival, when the city revels in its winter wardrobe, glittering with fireworks and drone show celebrations (December), ice skating, a 75 ft Ferris Wheel (from early February), Christmas markets galore and more fairy lights than you can shake a candy cane at.
Snowport in the Seaport District
Break out the bobble hats, we’re headed down to the waterfront! The Seaport becomes one of Boston’s most vibrant winter hangouts. Snowport Holiday Market brings together artisanal stalls featuring New England-only focused fare, interspersed with winter-themed games, curling lanes, creative pop-ups, and plenty of seasonal treats. Visitors can hunt down famous Betty the Yeti or sip a hot toddy in cosy rooftop igloos overlooking the skyline. Snowport is ideal for mixing with the locals, browsing, snacking, and soaking up Boston’s festive buzz. So, grab an eggnog latte and get stocking-shopping! (November December).
Copley Square Winter Activation
Copley Square is located in the City’s charming Back Bay neighbourhood. It has just completed a beautiful restoration. This is Frostival HQ. This immersive experience transforms Copley Square with installations, themed performances, and interactive winter attractions. It becomes a seasonal tourism hub as many of Boston’s most beloved hotels are located here. Get set for stories, S ’mores and more at the Frostival Lodge.
Skating, Strolls and Outdoor Adventures
Boston’s centuries old streets feel especially magical with a hot chocolate in hand. Try L.A. Burdick in Back Bay, which couldn’t look more like a gingerbread house if you bit a chunk out of it or devilishly divine Cacao in the South End. Wander through the pretty boutiques of Charles Street or curl up by the fire with a best seller at Hallmark-movie-worthy, Beacon Hill Books.
Families won’t want to miss the ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ statue in the Public Gardens. The bronze duck family will be dressed for the season, creating picture-perfect childhood moments.
Boston Common glows under its famous 5,000-light Christmas tree and visitors can take to the ice at the iconic Frog Pond throughout the winter season. The rink has full facilities including skate hire but is open sided in case you would rather watch the experts than participate.
For New Year’s Eve 2026, you can enjoy both the Waterfront Ice Sculpture Stroll and the city’s signature event, First Night Boston, featuring fireworks, music, performances and family-friendly entertainment.
Follow the official Boston Holiday Lights Trail for the best views of seasonal sparkle or tour via trolley on the Holiday Lights and Sights Tour operated by Old Town Trolley Tours.
More information on what Boston has to offer in every season visit: www.meetboston.com