Boston Winter Will Return to City Hall Plaza
Mayor Marty Walsh announced an ice rink, artisanal market, and enchanted Christmas tree maze.
Photo by Madeline Bilis
Although jack-o-lanterns still sit on porches and the stress of Thanksgiving dinner is just a dull nag so far out, Bostonians will soon have the chance to lace up their ice skates—and not just to be prepared in case Coach Bruce Cassidy calls on locals to help the ailing Bruins.
Mayor Marty Walsh’s office announced Wednesday that City Hall Plaza will host the second annual Boston Winter beginning Friday, November 24. Last year, more than 300,000 visitors flocked to the inaugural festival, which will feature outdoor skating, holiday shopping, and other entertainment attractions.
“I look forward to opening Boston Winter for the second year in a row, welcoming friends, families, and residents to City Hall Plaza to enjoy this new holiday tradition,” Walsh said in a press release. “Last year was an overwhelming success in showing the potential for City Hall Plaza to serve as a holiday destination.”
In partnership with Berkshire Bank and Millennial Entertainment group, Boston Winter will host performances from local artists and community members, an enchanted Christmas tree maze, and a Bavarian Village, according to the Mayor’s office. Boston Winter will also be a prime opportunity to check off some holiday shopping: The festival’s market will have more than 85 shops filled with local and international items, along with (of course) many yummy treats.
Though the market and its conjoining attractions will cease on December 31, visitors can enjoy the skating path through February. The route weaves around a marquee “Boston” sign and should provide an opportunity to snap an Instagram picture that will earn no fewer than 86 likes.
Boston Winter is part of Mayor Walsh’s “Rethink City Hall” initiative, which aims to make the plaza a welcoming hub of innovation and excitement. So though your triple axle may be a little bit rusty, you’ve got some time to snag some innovation and perfect the jump. And even if you’re not Nancy Kerrigan, you can still enjoy some hot chocolate and Bavarian pretzels starting next month.
