It’s that time of year again. Holiday music is already playing in the mall, Black Friday has come and gone, and the first snow of the year has fallen. Even though winter doesn’t officially start until December 21st, now is the time to start taking advantage of the many exciting winter activities Boston has to offer.
Tree Lightings
What better way to get in the holiday spirit than to attend one of Boston’s Christmas tree lighting ceremonies?
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
On November 17th, the launch of Blink!—a 6-week long light and sound extravaganza—took place in Quincy Market. Blink! will run until January 1st, and the kickoff on the 17th included performances by the Boston Pops and the historic lighting of the Christmas tree in the Faneuil Hall marketplace.
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Blue Hills Ski Area
Located just 20 minutes from Boston, Blue Hills Ski area covers 60 acres, has 9 trails, and a vertical drop of 309 feet. They offer discounted rentals and passes for college students as well as reasonably priced lessons, making this a great place to learn. Blue Hills is also open for night skiing 6 days a week, so you can grab your friends and hit the slopes to unwind after class.
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Ice Skating:
On the Common Frog Pond
Nothing says winter in Boston like ice skating on the Boston Common Frog Pond. The winter season kicked off at 10 am on Friday, November 16th, and admission (not including rentals) is only $2 with college ID on select nights!
Kendall Square
If you don’t feel like going all the way to the Common, the Community Ice Skating Rink @ Kendall Square in Cambridge (two T stops from Harvard Square) offers rentals, private lessons, and a café serving hot beverages and snacks.
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The Nutcracker at the Boston Ballet: November 23 to December 30, 2012
The Boston Ballet’s annual production of The Nutcracker has become a must-see holiday event. This year, choreographer Mikko Nissinen has revamped the Tchaikovsky classic with a redesigned set and costumes. And if it’s your first time to the ballet, you can save 10% on your ticket!
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The Arnold Arboretum
Tired of the hustle and bustle of Boston? Escape to the Arnold Arboretum after a snowfall to walk in a winter wonderland. Located off of the Orange Line, the Arboretum’s 265 acres of woodland offer walking trails and many great sledding hills.
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Downtown Boston Holiday Market
Running from November 24th to December 24th, the Holiday Market at Downtown Crossing provides a wide array of artisan vendors, musical performances, and even appearances by Santa. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and browse the many booths to get in the holiday spirit.
Image Sources:
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