South Shore, MA, offers a delightful array of holiday events, from dazzling light displays to Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, historic strolls and festive markets. Here’s a guide to some of the most beloved holiday activities in the area, along with all the details you need to plan a magical season.
1. Cohasset Holiday Stroll
- Location: Downtown Cohasset, MA
- Date: December 14 from 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- What to Expect: Another holiday event in South MA is the Cohasset Holiday Stroll, a fun event to add to your seasonal activities. Local businesses participate with window decorations, offering treats and holiday specials. You’ll find activities like horse-drawn carriage rides, caroling groups, and a tree lighting ceremony to cap the night. Families love the kids’ zone, which features crafts and activities to keep little ones entertained.
2. Festival of Trees in Scituate
- Location: Downtown Scituate, MA
- Date: December 13, 14, 15
- What to Expect: This annual event showcases beautifully decorated Christmas trees donated by local businesses and organizations is a fun holiday event in South Shore MA. Each tree is uniquely designed and available for raffle, with proceeds going to local charities. Scituate Festival of Trees has become a favorite family tradition, offering holiday music, craft activities, and chances to take festive family photos.
3. Marshfield Holiday Light Show
- Location: Marshfield Fairgrounds, 140 Main Street, Marshfield, MA
- Date: Late November through the end of December
- What to Expect: Pack the car and drive through a dazzling display of over a mile of lights set up throughout the Marshfield Fairgrounds. The Marshfield Holiday light show is synchronized with holiday music, making it a fun, immersive experience for all ages. Tickets are sold per vehicle, so bring the family and experience this winter wonderland from the comfort of your car.
4. Hingham Christmas in the Square
- Location: Downtown Hingham, MA
- Date: Second weekend in December
- What to Expect: Christmas in the Square is a festive celebration that fills the historic streets of Hingham with holiday cheer. The event features a countdown to the tree lighting, live music, visits with Santa, and a chance to shop locally for holiday gifts. Kids will love the free treats and seasonal activities scattered throughout the square.
5. Duxbury’s Holly Days
- Location: Downtown, Duxbury, MA
- Date: December 1, 2024
- What to Expect: The Duxbury Holly Days brings holiday cheer. Kids can meet Santa, enjoy face painting, pony rides and crafts making it a memorable day for the whole family.
6. Polar Express Train Ride in Plymouth (Buzzard Bay)
- Location: 70 Main Street, Buzzards Bay
- Date: Late November through December (specific dates vary)
- What to Expect: Experience the magic of the Polar Express with this special train ride. Guests are treated to a reading of the beloved book, and kids can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while wearing their favorite pajamas. Each train ride includes a visit from Santa, making it a truly unforgettable holiday event in South Shore MA.
Tip: Visiting in the evening gives you the full effect, so bundle up and enjoy a thermos of hot cocoa while you enjoy this display!
6. Outdoor Hikes & Nature Walks
Work off that Thanksgiving feast with some fresh air and scenic views on one of South Shore’s beautiful trails. There are plenty of great hiking trails across South Shore, MA. Here are two to get you started:
- World’s End (Hingham) – This Trustees of Reservations property offers easy walking trails with panoramic views of the harbor, making it a relaxing post-Thanksgiving outing.
- Norris Reservation (Norwell) – Known for its beautiful wooded trails, Norris offers a more easy walking hikes with views of the North River.
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