Nine Ways to Have Fun in Boston This Thanksgiving Break
Burn off the turkey by wandering Boston’s holiday markets, catch the new Wicked movie, or grab a student ticket to the Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker
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Nine Ways to Have Fun in Boston This Thanksgiving Break
Burn off the turkey by wandering Boston’s holiday markets, catch the new Wicked movie, or grab a student ticket to the Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Let’s face it—not everyone has huge, transatlantic plans this Thanksgiving. Follow our BU Today guide on how to spend your next couple of days off resting, relaxing, and soaking up what the city of Boston offers.
What to watch
See Wicked: For Good
No spoilers ahead, but you better hit the movies before everyone comes back from break—and sees Wicked: For Good before you do. The famed Tony-winning Broadway musical Wicked was turned into two movies, with Part I smashing box office records last year. Following its success, this sequel closes the chapter on Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande).
Find local showtimes here.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
It’s a tradition for a reason. Settle in on Thursday morning with a cup of coffee—maybe even some breakfast pie, if feeling peckish—and watch the Snoopy float go by. For 99 years, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has captivated American families by ushering in the holiday season. Spend your morning with the 34 giant balloons, 28 intricately designed floats, marching bands, and performers, including Cynthia Erivo and the singing cast of KPop Demon Hunters.
Thursday, November 27, at 8:30 am; streaming on NBC and Peacock.
The 2025 National Dog Show
And once the big parade is over, let the TV keep running until you hear the dogs. In its 24th year, the National Dog Show on NBC, sponsored by Purina and hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, showcases only the best of the best from the canine world. See over 2,000 canine competitors split into seven groups, based on their breed, to compete for the Best in Show award.
Thursday, November 27, noon (after the Macy’s Parade); streaming on NBC and Peacock.
Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Choreographed by Mikko Nissinen, Boston Ballet’s adaptation of The Nutcracker has been a wildly popular holiday treat for Bostonians since its was first performed in 1958. The time-honored tradition returns to Boston, dazzling audiences with legacy sets, intricate costumes, and professional dancers. Get into the holiday spirit like many have for generations, and see The Nutcracker, by the world-famous Boston Ballet.
Friday, November 28, through Sunday, December 28, at the Citizens Opera House, 539 Washington St., Boston. Anyone 20 years old and under can save 50 percent on their ticket for select performances (see website for additional information). Prices start at $61. Purchase discounted student tickets here.
What to do
The Holiday Market at Snowport
Need a head start on some December shopping? There’s no better preparation than the Holiday Market at Snowport and there’s no time like now to pay the shops a visit. Browse local favorites like Cheapo Records, Dumpling Daughter, and Crystal Rock Maple, all of which have Snowport booths. Pro tip: best to hit the market before its busiest season begins.
Monday through Thursday, 3 pm to 8 pm, Friday and Saturday, 11 am to 9 pm; Sunday, 11 am to 8 pm, 65 Northern Ave., Boston.
SoWa Winter Festival
Visit more than 125 small business vendors at the SoWa Winter Festival in Boston, open from November 28 to December 28. Ring in the holiday spirit with festive food and cocktails, all in the comfort of an indoor holiday festival.
Runs from Friday, November 28, to Sunday, December 28, SoWa Power Station, 530 Harrison Ave., Boston. Hours vary. Admission is $10.
Downtown Boston Holiday Market
Support small businesses in bustling Downtown Crossing. Shop for art, jewelry, knitwear, and more from New England–based businesses, including Angelina Beauty, Candles by Ares, and Inkasisa Farm. Look for giant animal nutcrackers, Santa, and other entertainment, too.
Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday through December 21, 11 am to 4 pm, Summer Street Plaza, 10 High St., Boston.
2025 Holiday Shopping Market
The Boston Public Market, an indoor year-round marketplace, starts its holiday market the day after Thanksgiving. Sip on a delicious drink from one of the market’s many vendors and peruse the jewelry, candles, unique dishware, flowers and plants, and more for sale.
Begins Friday, November 28, and runs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until December 21, 100 Hanover St., Boston.
Martin’s Park: Ship Lighting
Martin’s Park, named in memory of eight-year-old Boston Marathon bombings victim Martin Richard, is hosting its fifth annual ship-lighting along the harbor. Come and watch as an actual ship will be adorned with over 1,500 feet of blue and white tube lights. Prior to the lighting, attendees can stroll along the Harborwalk and grab a hot chocolate. They can also meet Santa and the Grinch. Park rangers will also be at the lighting with their horses, and there will be a fire truck open for exploring.
Saturday, November 29, 4 to 6 pm, 64 Sleeper St., Boston.