The New England Holiday Bucket List: 54 Merry Ways to Celebrate the Season

Making a list of favorite things to do and see in New England at this time of year is a tall order. Countless seasonal events have delighted New Englanders from one generation to the next, from the illumination of Maine’s Nubble Light, begun more than three decades ago, to the 50-plus-year run of Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker. And as Christmas approaches, we can’t know whether all the events in these pages will go forward as planned (websites are included throughout for the most up-to-date news). But we still celebrate them here with appreciation for how they’ve brightened our lives in the past, and with faith that they will continue to shine in the years to come.

—The Editors

The New England Holiday Bucket List:
54 Merry Ways to Celebrate the Season

17 Magical Christmas Light Displays

Brighten up a winter’s night at a seasonal light show.

9 Festive Mansion Museums

Test your knowledge of New England’s famously decked-out mansion museums.

6 Can’t-Miss Christmas Celebrations

Get into the community spirit at a downtown celebration.

8 Special Celebration Foods

Savor the holidays with signature foods from both near and far.

14 Merry Live Performances

Get a front-row seat to the joyful return of live performances.

Individual State Lists

Don’t miss our top holiday events in all six New England states! Check out Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

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