Holiday Events in MetroWest Boston: 2026 Seasonal Celebrations
Looking for holiday events in MetroWest Boston? From sparkling light displays and tree lightings to holiday strolls, markets, Santa visits, parades, and seasonal performances, communities throughout the region are getting ready to celebrate.
Here are holiday events happening across MetroWest Boston and nearby communities throughout November and December 2026.
Ashland Holiday Events
Holiday Stroll & Tree Lighting
Celebrate the season at the Holiday Stroll & Tree Lighting at The Corner Spot on Saturday, December 5 from 2–6 PM.
Lunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Bring the family to Ashland Ale House on December 5 and 6 from 12–3 PM for lunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Children will receive a toy, and Scott the Magician will provide additional entertainment.
Boylston Holiday Events
Night Lights at New England Botanic Garden
Experience Night Lights at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill from November 21 through January 3, 2027.
More than half a million lights transform the Garden into a winter wonderland filled with glowing displays, whimsical surprises, and festive scenery.
Framingham Holiday Events
35th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Celebrate the season at Framingham’s 35th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 11, 2026.
Framingham History Center Big Band Winter Gala
The Framingham History Center Big Band Winter Gala takes place on Saturday, December 5 from 6–10 PM at Village Hall on the Common.
Inspired by WWII-era radio programs, the evening features live entertainment from Dan Gabel and his orchestra, elegant fare, and historical storytelling.
Franklin Holiday Events
A Wreath of Franklin
Celebrate throughout downtown Franklin during A Wreath of Franklin on Saturday, December 12, beginning at 11 AM at THE BLACK BOX.
The day features holiday activities, local shopping, arts and cultural programming, and community celebrations.
Holliston Holiday Events
20th Annual Holliston Holiday Stroll
The Holliston Holiday Stroll returns on Saturday, November 28 at noon with Holly Trolleys, shopping markets, a chili contest, Stroll with Scrooge, and the annual Lions Club tree lighting at Blair Square.
Hopedale Holiday Events
Hopedale Winter Stroll & Shop Hop
Explore local vendors, historic buildings, food, drinks, and seasonal activities during the 15th Annual Hopedale Winter Stroll & Shop Hop on Saturday, December 5 from noon–7 PM.
The evening concludes with a tree lighting and visit from Santa.
Marlborough Holiday Events
New England Holiday Market
Shop handmade gifts and specialty foods at the New England Holiday Market on December 12 and 13 from 10 AM–4 PM at the Best Western Royal Plaza Trade Center.
The juried holiday market features 125 exhibitors offering handmade products and specialty foods.
Medway Holiday Events
Medway Christmas Parade
Celebrate the season at the Medway Christmas Parade on Saturday, November 28 at 5:30 PM, beginning at Medway High School.
Mendon Holiday Events
Southwick’s Zoo Winter Wonderland
Take a magical nighttime journey through Southwick’s Zoo Winter Wonderland from November 20 through January 3, on Fridays through Sundays.
The zoo comes alive with spectacular holiday lights and handcrafted seasonal displays.
Natick Holiday Events
Santa’s Elevator Express
Head to Natick Mall for Santa’s Elevator Express from November 1 through December 24.
Families can take an immersive “elevator” ride to the North Pole, meet Santa, take photos, and make holiday memories together.
Sherborn Holiday Events
Celebration of the Turkeys
Celebrate Thanks-living at Unity Farm Sanctuary’s Celebration of the Turkeys on Sunday, November 22.
Hourly tours run from 11 AM–3 PM and offer visitors the opportunity to meet the sanctuary’s turkeys and other rescued animals.
Sturbridge Holiday Events
Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village
Experience Christmas by Candlelight on select dates in November and December.
Enjoy candlelit scenery, festive music, horse-drawn carryall rides, seasonal demonstrations, storytelling, treats, and the sparkling Christmas Tree Trail.
Sudbury Holiday Events
A Christmas Carol at Wayside Inn
The Wayside Inn’s Martha-Mary Chapel presents A Christmas Carol on December 5, 12, and 13 at 4:30 PM.
The Sudbury Savoyards bring the classic holiday story to life in a staged reading.
Winter Solstice Luminaria Walk
Join Sudbury Valley Trustees for the Winter Solstice Luminaria Walk on Monday, December 21 from 3:30–5:30 PM at Wolbach Farm.
Walk the luminaria-lit trail at your own pace, gather around the solstice fire, enjoy drinks and snacks, and welcome the return of the light.
Wellesley Holiday Events
Festival of Trees at the Garden at Elm Bank
Celebrate the season at the Festival of Trees from November 25 through December 28.
The Garden at Elm Bank fills with festive trees, sparkling lights, model trains, and cozy holiday experiences for visitors of all ages.
Plan Your Holiday Season in MetroWest Boston
Whether you’re searching for holiday lights, a family outing, a festive market, a Santa experience, or a classic tree lighting, MetroWest Boston has seasonal events for visitors of all ages.
Check individual event websites before visiting for the latest dates, times, ticket information, and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Holiday Events in MetroWest Boston
Where can I see holiday lights in MetroWest Boston?
Popular holiday light experiences include Night Lights at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill and Winter Wonderland at Southwick’s Zoo.
What holiday strolls are happening in MetroWest Boston?
Holiday strolls and downtown celebrations are planned in Ashland, Holliston, Hopedale, Franklin, and other communities throughout the region.
Where can I shop for holiday gifts in MetroWest Boston?
Visitors can shop local downtown districts, attend seasonal markets such as the New England Holiday Market in Marlborough, and browse independent shops throughout MetroWest.
Are there family-friendly holiday events in MetroWest Boston?
Yes. Families can enjoy Santa experiences, tree lightings, parades, light displays, holiday markets, Christmas by Candlelight, and the Festival of Trees.
What holiday events happen around Thanksgiving weekend?
Thanksgiving weekend events include the Holliston Holiday Stroll, Medway Christmas Parade, Festival of Trees, and other seasonal attractions beginning in late November.
