Things To Do in Boston This Weekend: December 26-December 28

All types of visitors can enjoy the best of Boston’s seasonal festivities. Attractions range from the classical nature of Boston Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” to the lively entertainment of the Harlem…

Harlem Globetrotters

(Photo by Kelly Defina/Getty Images)

All types of visitors can enjoy the best of Boston's seasonal festivities. Attractions range from the classical nature of Boston Ballet's "The Nutcracker" to the lively entertainment of the Harlem Globetrotters to the warm atmosphere of a candlelight concert. All events celebrate Boston's deep connections with various forms of artistry and the vigor of the wintry months.

Boston Ballet's "The Nutcracker"

As a classic Boston weekend event, watch ballet bring this story to life:

  • What: Beloved holiday ballet classic
  • When: Friday, Dec. 26, 2025, and Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.
  • Where: Citizens Bank Opera House, 539 Washington St., Boston
  • Cost: Tickets start at $95

Boston Ballet's "The Nutcracker" features world-class dancers, dazzling sets, and beautiful choreography with Tchaikovsky's enchanting score and a timeless story. The audience will join Clara as she travels to a winter wonderland filled with Sugar Plum Fairies and more. "The Nutcracker" ballet is an annual Christmas tradition and always provides joy and wonder for young and old alike, bringing many people together for the upcoming holidays.

Harlem Globetrotters

Include some amazing basketball as part of your weekend plans in Boston:

  • What: Action-packed basketball entertainment
  • When: Friday, Dec. 26, 2025, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
  • Where: TD Garden, 100 Legends Way, Boston
  • Cost: Tickets start at $46

The Harlem Globetrotters have entertained and captivated spectators for almost 100 years with their remarkable athleticism, humorous antics, and unbelievable trick shots. The Harlem Globetrotters were founded in 1926 and have become an international phenomenon that entertains fans with gravity-defying stunts, fun, and interactive entertainment, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone.

Candlelight: Christmas Special Featuring "The Nutcracker" and More

Another great Boston activity to celebrate the holiday season includes:

  • What: Immersive candlelit concert experience
  • When: Friday, Dec. 26, 2025, at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.
  • Where: Simmons Theater, New England Aquarium, 1 Central Wharf, Boston
  • Cost: Tickets start at $50.50

The Candlelight: Christmas Special Featuring "The Nutcracker" is a live concert with accomplished musicians. Concerts take place in stunning venues filled with thousands of candles, creating an inviting, intimate environment for music enthusiasts. Artists produce a wide variety of music, ranging from classical to contemporary styles, and create unique versions of familiar musical works, representing many different types and tastes of music.

Other Events

Boston has something for everyone this holiday season. There are family-friendly entertainment options, cozy holiday-themed experiences, and beautiful winter lights. You can find exciting performances, special dining venues, decorated trees, and many different ways to celebrate the holidays:

  • Disney on Ice: Frozen & Encanto: Friday, Dec. 26, 2025, and Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, at 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, at noon and 4 p.m. (additional dates available) at Boston University's Agganis Arena, 925 Commonwealth Ave., Boston
  • Heated Igloos at Sam: Friday, Dec. 26, 2025, at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.; and Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, and Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, at noon, 2:30 p.m., and 5 p.m. (additional dates and times available) at Samuel Adams Boston Brewery, 30 Germania St., Boston
  • Boston's Winter Fest: Friday, Dec. 26, 2025, through to Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (additional dates available through to Dec. 30, 2025) at The Yard Charlestown, 100 Hood Park Drive, Boston