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Boston has always captured winter beautifully – twinkling streets, lively neighbourhood markets, ice-skating beneath city lights and seasonal shows across its theatres. This year, the city is turning up the magic, bringing colour, sparkle, and fresh experiences to every corner of the city with the inaugural Boston Frostival, a brand-new celebration running from late November through February. Designed to reimagine the winter season, Frostival combines long-loved traditions with exciting new programming to create a city-wide festival packed with creativity, culture, and must-see moments.
From illuminated drone displays to immersive installations and exclusive events, this is the perfect moment to recommend Boston as a standout winter destination.
Discover more winter inspiration via the Boston Winter Bucket List: https://www.meetboston.com/blog/post/winter-bucket-list/ and the full winter guide at: https://www.meetboston.com/explore/seasons/winter/
Winter magic across Boston
Snowport in the Seaport District
Down by the waterfront, the Seaport becomes one of Boston’s most vibrant winter hangouts. Snowport brings together artisan stalls, winter-themed games, curling lanes, creative pop-ups, and plenty of seasonal treats – all set against lively harbour views. Visitors can hunt down famous Betty the Yeti for a photo moment or sip a Betty-inspired cocktail in cosy rooftop igloos overlooking the skyline. Snowport is ideal for browsing, snacking, and soaking up Boston’s festive buzz.
Winter action at TD Garden
For sports-loving clients, winter is prime time to experience Boston at full tilt. Whether it’s the roar of the Bruins on the ice or the Celtics lighting up the court, TD Garden delivers nonstop excitement.
Big-name artists also perform here throughout winter – ideal for clients wanting to pair their city break with a concert. Lady Gaga is among the major artists featured in TD Garden’s seasonal line-up. Browse the full schedule at: https://www.tdgarden.com/events/
Skating, strolls and outdoor adventures
Boston’s winter days are perfect for exploring. Visitors can take to the ice at the iconic Frog Pond, glide across neighbourhood rinks or wander through areas filled with sparkling lights and seasonal installations.
Beacon Hill’s cobbled streets feel especially magical with a hot chocolate in hand, while waterfront strolls offer crisp harbour views. Boston Common glows under its famous 5,000-light Christmas tree, and families won’t want to miss the much-loved bronze ducklings in the Public Garden – often dressed for the season, creating picture-perfect moments.
For New Year’s Eve 2025, clients 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. More details can be found at: https://www.firstnightboston.org/ Follow the official Holiday Lights Trail for the best views of seasonal sparkle Boston Holiday Lights Trail | View the 2025 Schedule or tour via trolley on the Holiday Lights and Sights Tour operated by Old Town Trolley Tours.
Culture, shows and fireside evenings
From Broadway-style theatre and orchestral performances to world-class museums and intimate galleries, Boston’s cultural scene thrives in winter.
Holiday Pops at the Boston Symphony Orchestra is a seasonal staple, blending beloved festive music with a touch of magic. Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker and the powerful production Black Nativity remain must-see winter traditions.
Museums shine during this season – visitors can explore the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, dive into travelling exhibitions at the Museum of Fine Arts or step into the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum for an experiential slice of history followed by tea and treats at Abigail’s Tea Room.
Cosy cafés, heated terraces, rooftop igloos, and warmly lit restaurants all add to the city’s winter charm, creating inviting spaces for travellers to unwind after a day of exploring.
Boston’s culinary scene adds even more warmth. The city is home to restaurants recognised in the MICHELIN Guide, perfect for clients who travel with their tastebuds. Discover more here: https://www.meetboston.com/things-to-do/restaurants/michelin/
SoWa Winter Festival
Taking place from 28 November to 28 December, the SoWa Winter Festival fills the historic Power Station with more than 125 local vendors selling handmade art, holiday gifts, specialty foods, and festive cocktails. It’s a brilliant indoor option and a favourite among visitors seeking unique seasonal finds.
What’s new – Boston Frostival
New for winter 2025 we see the start of Boston Frostival, blending beloved traditions in the city with standout new attractions to create one of the most exciting winter line-ups in the US:
Weekly drone shows over Boston Common
Every Saturday from 29 November–20 December, holiday-themed aerial performances light up the sky above Boston Common, creating a spectacular new take on festive evenings in the city. The views are magical and the atmosphere buzzing – an unmissable moment for couples, families, and festive travellers alike.
Copley Square Winter Activation (6–28 February)
Inspired by the Winter Games in Milan, this immersive experience transforms Copley Square with installations, themed performances, and interactive winter attractions. It becomes a seasonal hub right in the heart of Back Bay, connecting guests to some of Boston’s most beloved winter hotspots.
Ferris Wheel on the Rose Kennedy Greenway (Planned for February)
Expected to become one of Frostival’s standout new attractions, this Ferris Wheel will lift riders above the Greenway for panoramic views of the city skyline, waterfront, and harbour. It’s set to offer a fresh vantage point on winter in Boston, perfect for photo lovers and first-time visitors.
Femme Fête Wine Festival – 28 February
A one-day celebration spotlighting women winemakers from around the world, held at the Cyclorama. Travellers can enjoy tastings, storytelling, and a vibrant showcase of female-owned wineries – a brilliant addition for food- and wine-loving clients visiting at the end of winter.
Winter-long culinary experiences also continue with the Boston Wine & Food Festival, running January through March. Details at: https://www.meetboston.com/event/boston-wine-%26-food-festival/88262/ For more information on Frostival visit: Boston Frostival
Where to stay: Winter experience & Frostival-friendly hotels
4* The Godfrey Hotel Boston
A stylish Downtown Crossing property offering sleek rooms, creative dining and a fantastic location, steps from Boston Common and the Theatre District. Perfect for clients visiting the Saturday drone shows or planning to explore the city’s winter markets and festive attractions.
4* The Westin Boston Seaport District
A modern, wellness-focused hotel in the heart of the Seaport District, offering spacious rooms, harbour views and great dining. Its location provides easy access to Snowport’s winter attractions, waterfront walks and Frostival experiences across the district, making it ideal for seasonal city breaks.
4* Fairmont Copley Plaza
This Back Bay landmark delivers grand architecture, luxurious rooms, and exceptional service. Its position beside Copley Square makes it ideal for guests attending February’s winter activation, shopping along Newbury Street, and discovering Boston’s seasonal dining, galleries, and cultural events.
4* Hyatt Regency Boston Harbor
Known for its sweeping waterfront views, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a relaxing atmosphere and easy transport into downtown. It’s a smart choice for travellers wanting scenic surroundings while staying close to Frostival events, museums and harbourfront activities.
4* The Colonnade Hotel
A contemporary Back Bay favourite offering spacious rooms and an unbeatable location near shopping, dining, and seasonal experiences. Guests enjoy easy access to Copley Square attractions, theatres, and the historic South End – ideal for a cosy and convenient winter stay.
4* The Langham, Boston
This beautifully restored luxury hotel blends heritage elegance with modern indulgence. Close to the Greenway, it offers refined rooms, sophisticated dining, and a serene atmosphere – perfect for visitors planning to enjoy February’s Ferris wheel and nearby winter festivities.
Tips for Travel Agents
- Promote weekend stays during Saturday drone shows (29 Nov–20 Dec) – they’re a major seasonal highlight.
- Push February breaks, when the Copley Square activation and Greenway Ferris Wheel generate added interest.
- Recommend hotels based on Frostival and winter experience proximity – especially around Seaport, Back Bay, Downtown Crossing, Beacon Hill, and the Greenway.
- Use Stuba’s curated collection to quickly match clients with luxury, boutique, or best-location properties.
- Add value by suggesting theatre tickets, skating sessions, Snowport visits and holiday light tours.
- Encourage early booking for the Femme Fête Festival on 28 February – it’s likely to sell out.
- Position Boston as a magical winter alternative for UK and Ireland clients looking for a seasonal city break without a long-haul feel.
