From Lights to Hot Cocoa to Music, These Are the Holiday Festivities Bostonians Can’t Miss This Season

Though colder temperatures are coming back to Boston, the return of holiday season marks one of the warmest, most vibrant times of year. And though it can come with some overwhelm—between finding the perfect gifts, crafting the perfect meals and setting up décor, our schedules get busier and our to-do lists get longer—it’s important not to lose sight of all the magic that makes this season so special. 

To keep that magic at the forefront, you don’t have to wait until the day-of to enjoy holiday spirit and cheer. All season long, Bostonians can enjoy celebratory energy by heading to Prudential Center for themed festivities. The Pru’s holiday season calendar includes classic holiday traditions and honors the sentiments that the holidays represent, from dazzling light displays and hot cocoa to giving back to those in need. By marking these events on your calendar now, you can make sure you won’t let the season go by without taking the time to relax and enjoy holiday highlights. When you’re looking for some cheer and to focus on what matters most about this special time of year, here are the dates you won’t want to forget. 

Enjoy An Afternoon of Holiday Delights and Entertainment

Holiday Wonderland; 12/7/24 12:00-3:00pm 

Looking for photo ops, complimentary hot cocoa, live performances and other holiday treats? On December 7th, the Pru is rolling all these iconic holiday experiences into one event at their Holiday Wonderland. At noon, when the event begins, Santa himself will be arriving at the Pru on a Duck Boat decked out with holiday décor. Live holiday performances will welcome Santa as the event starts, and other performers and DJs will be keeping the entertainment strong throughout the afternoon.  

Also, while the wonderland takes place on Boylston Plaza, more fun will be happening inside Prudential Center—and it’s the perfect opportunity to do some unique, special and festive holiday gift shopping. The Cultural Survival Bazaar, part of a series of cultural festivals that promote Indigenous artists and artisans, will be taking place in Belvidere Arcade in Prudential Center from December 5th to 8th. At the Bazaar, Indigenous artists sell their work, which includes traditional and contemporary crafts, artwork, accessories, jewelry, home goods and more—and in addition to the shopping, you’ll get to talk to and learn from the makers and enjoy live music and storytelling. And the Boston Women’s Market, which features local food, drink and unique handmade products from women-owned businesses in the area, will be hosted by View Boston from 12:00-5:00pm on the 7th. Plus, while you’re shopping these one-of-a-kind finds and supporting local women artisans, you’ll be scoring breathtaking views from Prudential Center’s iconic location. 

Sparkling Lights on the Boston Skyline

31 Nights of Light; runs until 1/1/25 

Running through to the new year, Prudential Center is partaking in its annual celebration called 31 Nights of Light (which has become an iconic and beloved part of the holiday season in Boston). Each night in December, the top of the Pru lights up a different color in support of that night’s partner—and each partner is a participating nonprofit organization that represents the importance of giving back this holiday season. This year, partners include important organizations like Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation, and the lights also honor the 3 holidays that occur within the 31-night timespan: Christmas, Hannukah and New Year’s Eve. By the time we enter 2025, the Pru will have lit up 31 times—and it’s worth seeing the colorful, lovely displays as many nights as you can. 

Sip Hot Cocoa and Listen to the Songs of the Season

Carolers & Cocoa; Fridays from 12/6/24 to 12/20/24, 4:00-6:00pm 

2 of the most iconic (and fun!) holiday motifs are the season’s music and its treats—and with Carolers & Cocoa, Prudential Center ties together professional caroling with warm, delicious hot cocoa. Occurring Friday evenings throughout the month of December (12/6, 12/13 and 12/20), professional carolers from New York and Boston will perform a full repertoire of winter and holiday themed numbers inside at the top of the Boylston St. entrance (adjacent to Aritzia). The entertainment is a full show in and of itself, but it’ll be even more enjoyable with a hot cup of delicious cocoa in your hand.  

Share Your Wish Lists with Santa

Santa in the City; 12/6/24, 12/7/24, 12/14/24, 12/21/24 12:00-6:00pm 

Before he makes his way down your chimney on Christmas Eve, Santa is back in his Pru brownstone for Santa in The City at Hynes Court (across from Sweetgreen adjacent to Hynes Convention Center). Your little ones can bring their gift wish lists to meet Santa and ensure he knows just what to bring them—and plus, seeing him with their own two eyes is a good reminder to keep up being good the rest of the year! You’ll leave full of holiday spirit and with a souvenir photo.  

Give Back In The Spirit of The Season

Giving Tree; begins 12/2/24 

This year, Prudential Center is partnering with Cradles to Crayons—a group dedicated to providing basic clothing essentials to children in need—again for their annual Giving Tree holiday drive. Starting December 2nd, you’ll be able to drop off donations next to the Concierge Desk in the Pru and help children in need feel celebrated and loved this holiday season. Underneath all the fun and celebration that the season brings, there’s a foundation of gratitude for the time you’re able to spend with loved ones and the gifts you’re able to give and receive—and spreading those values is a great way to get in the holiday spirit.