Wondering what to do in Greater Boston during Thanksgiving break? With the price of a ticket to go back home over the holidays, it can be difficult to afford to go back home for a few days for this short break. For those staying in Boston, here are some events to join in on to celebrate the season.
Here is a list of seven things to do over the week off:
1. Visit the SoWa Winter Festival.
Over one hundred of the Boston area’s best small businesses will be heading over to the SoWa Power Station, where art, crafts, food, and other goods will be sold. Starting on Friday, Nov. 24, this festival will take place over the course of four weekends, concluding on Dec. 17. Entrance is free.
2. Run in the Turkey Trot.
All are welcome at this Thanksgiving day race at Dorchester’s Franklin Park Golf Clubhouse. Starting at 9 a.m., the race follows a loop around the golf course and is full of autumn foliage, with awards at the end of the race. Registration is $35, with multiple early number pickup events to secure your spot in the race.
3. Join the Wampanoag Nation Singers & Dancers in celebrating Native American Heritage Month.
The Wampanoag Nation Singers and Dancers will share their stories and history, culminating in a full audience dance on Friday, Nov. 24 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Reservations are required to attend this event.
4. Go ice skating in the North End.
Enjoy a day at the Steriti Memorial Rink in the North End, with a beautiful view of the charming neighborhood. The rink will be open for public skating starting Nov. 24. The rink’s hours are posted on the website but be sure to check beforehand as this rink has limited hours. Entrance is free, and skate rental is $5.
5. Catch a show at the Boston Ballet to see the “Nutcracker.”
The “Nutcracker” returns to the Citizens Bank Opera House Nov. 24 through Dec. 31, with viewings at 1:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m., depending on the day. Tickets start at $25.
6. Finish up some Black Friday shopping at the Snowport Holiday Market.
The Holiday Market at Seaport returns for its third year, complete with over 100 vendors, a tree market, and a mistletoe arch. The market is open every day with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Dec. 26. Hours vary.
7. Watch the Faneuil Hall Holiday Tree Lighting 2023
The official tree lighting will take place on Nov. 21 from 4 to 7 p.m., featuring performances from the City of Boston Community Choir and holiday singers. This event is free.