All Aboard for Magic

Unforgettable Holiday Events on the Rails

Commuter Rail Bells ring, are you listening? Just like that, the holiday season is upon us! Soon enough, the sidewalks will be echoing with festive cheer and packed with people on their merry way to holiday events. If you are looking to keep Jack Frost from nipping at your nose, and traffic, climb aboard the Commuter Rail, and let us be your guide to non-stop holiday fun!

Unlock endless holiday fun with our $10 Unlimited Ride Pass! Ride the Commuter Rail as many times as you and your family like, across all zones, to easily explore all the holiday magic Boston and Rhode Island have to offer.

Holiday Markets 

Holiday shopping can seem daunting, so why not make it a fun adventure? Seasonal markets are a wonderfully whimsical way to check some things off your list while supporting local artisans and businesses.

Holiday Markets in Boston

Boston has two markets running through the holiday season, each within walking distance of the Commuter Rail and packed with yuletide treats and glee. If the weather seems frightful, walk around SoWa Winter Festival, an indoor market just under a mile walk from the Back Bay Station.  If you would prefer to spend some time outdoors, take a ride to South Station and take a 0.8-mile walk to explore the Snowport Winter Festival in the Seaport. 

Holiday Markets in Fall River

If you are looking to travel out of the city, Fall River will also be hosting its 5th annual Thankmas Holiday Market on November 15th. Step off at Fall River Depot and take a quick mile walk into the holiday spirit for hot cocoa, handcrafted goodies, and chestnuts roasting on an open fire. 

Holiday Light Displays 

A fun activity for all ages, take the family on a journey, both on the train, and visually to enjoy these showings. 

The Festival of Lights in Worcester 

The annual event offers a merry and bright welcome to the holiday season. Hosted in Worcester Commons, and just .5 miles from the Worcester Station, this is a night of activities and music the whole family will love.

ZooLights at Stone Zoo 

Take a walk through a winter wonderland and visit Stone Zoo for their ZooLights experience. During the holiday season, the Zoo decks the 26 acres of property in dazzling lights. As you travel along the magical path, you can marvel at the lights, see some furry friends, and take plenty of holiday card-worthy photos. If you ride into the Melrose/Cedar Park Station, this is only an 8-minute car ride away. 

Boston Festive Lights 

Nothing says “happy holidays” like a festive gathering to kick off  the holiday season. Across Boston, there are several family-friendly light celebrations and ceremonies, often paired with live musical performances, that will be sure to have you rockin’ around and feeling festive. Check out all of Boston’s Holiday Light Ceremonies, most of which are within walking distance from North Station and South Station, or accessible by the MBTA’s Red, Orange, or Green lines. 

Holiday Strolls

If you are looking to get active, why not also be festive? Gather your friends and family and support some local businesses and enjoy the entertainment. 

Holiday Invitation Newburyport 

Newburyport’s Holiday Invitational takes place over the course of the first three Friday nights of December. Hop off the train at Newburyport Station and take the 20-minute stroll into Downtown Newburyport as local shop owners welcome you in, live entertainment plays, and you revel in the holiday spirit.  

Holiday Stroll in New Bedford 

Take a trip into the New Bedford Station, and join in on the fun of New Bedford’s Holiday stroll. Just a 19-minute walk from the station, and you’ll arrive in downtown New Bedford, where Santa will be waiting to greet you! While you explore, you can ride an antique fire truck, enjoy live music, and explore shops, galleries, and restaurants all decked out for the holidays.

See a Show 

Get ready to have your heart warmed! In their 36th year of presenting A Christmas Carol, the North Shore Music Theater continues to tell the classic tale, sprinkling in bits of humor and holiday magic. To get to the theater and experience the annual tradition, hop on the commuter rail right into the North Beverly Station. From there, grab a rideshare for a quick ride over to the theater. 

Festival of Trees in Wellesley

If you are looking for an indoor activity, check out the Festival of Trees hosted by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. For 17 years, local artists and companies have decorated unique and spirited Christmas trees of all shapes, sizes, and even colors. The fun extends beyond viewing, as you can enter a raffle to set up your favorite tree in your own home. Take a ride on the Framingham/Worcester line, and hop off at Wellesley Square Station for an eight-minute car ride down to the gardens. 

Christmas on the Hill in Providence 

Christmas on the Hill is a two-weekend-long event in Providence that pays homage to the old-world holiday feel. Each weekend offers a variation of music, light shows, and a whole lot of holiday magic. Take the Providence/Stoughton Line to Providence Station and grab a car ride to enjoy the fun! 

First Night Boston New Year’s Eve 

If you are looking to do something fun to ring in the new year, take a ride to North Station and check out First Night in Boston. From activities for kids to events for adults, First Night is sure to have something to keep you entertained and celebrating the New Year in Style. 

Wishing you all a Happy Holiday Season and safe travels!