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10 Holiday Things in Massachusetts That Aren't in Boston

Everyone loves to do holiday activities, but so many times they are in Boston, which might not always be the most accessible for everyone. Here's 10 things around Massachusetts that can bring up the holiday spirit, in no specific order!


  1. Edaville Railroad

The Edaville Railroad has many light displays to look at, the Edaville Express railroad ride, the new Christmas market, plus the merry-go-round and Ferris wheel! It is fun for the entire family with pictures with Santa for the kids and alcohol for 21+ guests!


Edaville Railroad. Photo Courtesy: Edaville Railroad
Edaville Railroad. Photo Courtesy: Edaville Railroad

  1. Explore Nantucket

While the Christmas stroll has already occurred this year, Nantucket is always filled with festive fun! Many local shops are decorated with festive iconography, and trees decorated by local students, shops, and families line the streets! A great advantage to going during the winter, is it's a little less busy compared to the summer! But just note, if you're typically one who visits during the summer, your favorite shop or restaurant might not be open, but it's okay, because you can always find a new favorite!


  1. Chanukah Festival in Newton

For those of you who may celebrate Chanukah, there is a festival in Newton! There will be entertainment from Rubin Brothers, Sufganiyot from Blacker's Bakery, drinks from Espresso Dave, STEAM projects and crafts, and a Dreidel tournament!


  1. Visit the Newport Mansions

While this list is about Massachusetts, this is right on the border, and many in Massachusetts grew up visiting the Newport Mansions. The most famous one is The Breakers which was featured in The Great Gatsby movie. These houses have been preserved in their style from the 1920s and are decorated as they would've been at the time. This is a must visit for any history lovers!


Newport Mansions during Christmas. Photo Courtesy: Discover Newport
Newport Mansions during Christmas. Photo Courtesy: Discover Newport

  1. Visit the Plymouth Patuxet Museums

Another great visit for those who love history, the Plymouth Patuxet Museums, formerly referred to as Plymouth Plantation, acts as a living history museum! They have many holiday events such as recreations of the first Christmas dinner, pinecone Christmas tree making, and more! They also have a gift shop, perfect to visit for any history buffs in your life!


  1. Southwick's Zoo Winter Wonderland

Between now and December 28th, visit the Southwick's Zoo for their special Winter Wonderland, where they have many things for everyone! For the foodies, they have Kringle Cafe which serves baked goods, hot drinks, and other goods! They also have the Galliford's Restaurant & Tavern which features a full-service menu. For the shopaholics, they have the Purple Peacock Gift Shop, perfect for anyone who needs to get a gift for an animal-loving friend! If you want entertainment, they have several holiday shows, and a Santa meet and greet!


  1. Gardens Aglow at Heritage Museums & Gardens

At the Heritage Museum and gardens, they use a magical light show to transform the gardens into a winter wonderland! They have a Santa meet and greet amongst vintage cars, a vintage 1908 carousel, food from a cafe and a food truck, as well as activities for kids!


  1. New Year's Eve 2025 in Webster

For those looking to ring in the New Year, we have a perfect event for you! This 21+ event features an optional dinner with steak, cod, chicken, vegetarian pasta primavera, and if you don't want dinner, you can still partake in the included Champagne toast!


  1. Night Lights: Dazzling Gardens New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill

For those who are looking for outdoors activities we have just the thing for you! They have many decorative light displays amongst the garden for the festive vibe! They have theme nights including Ugly Sweater Night, Holiday Pajamas Night, and Vintage Glam Night! They also have sensory lights for those with autism and other sensory issues. If you're feeling charitable, they have food drive that they partake in!


Night Lights: Dazzling Gardens New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. Photo Courtesy: Boston Uncovered
Night Lights: Dazzling Gardens New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. Photo Courtesy: Boston Uncovered

  1. Enchanted Village at Jordan's Furniture in Avon

From now until December 30th, visit the Enchanted Village at Jordan's Furniture for some holiday fun! They have a tube slide, indoor light show, ice skating, carnival style games, and a 4D showing of Rudolph, in addition to their classic indoor holiday village.


No matter how one spends their holidays, it is important to spend it with ones you love, but doing something a little out of the ordinary can help make the season feel a little more magical!

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