Boston Common Tree Lighting
Hosted in Boston Common adjacent to the Visitor's Information Center, this signature holiday celebration centers on the illumination of a tree gifted by Nova Scotia in thanks for relief efforts following the 1917 Halifax Harbor explosion. Civic leaders gather for the historic tree lighting tradition in America's oldest public park. Immediately following the ceremony, the celebration continues with the lighting of the Commonwealth Avenue Mall from Arlington Street to Charlesgate.
What to Expect
Features an annual holiday tree given as thanks by Nova Scotia.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Boston Parks and Recreation Department
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday tradition enthusiasts
Vibe
Civic and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free.
- Hours: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Tips & Advice
- Check Boston.gov/parks and @bostonparksdept before heading out for event news and updates, since details may change.
- Call (617) 635-4505 for more information about the festivities if you need details before making your trip.
- Dress warmly for the outdoor ceremony, since you’ll be standing outside in cold winter weather.
- Stay after the Common ceremony to see the Commonwealth Avenue Mall lights switch on from Arlington Street to Charlesgate.
Special Events & Promotions
- This year Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston joins Mayor Wu, marking the 55th year of Nova Scotia's tree gift.
- Right after the Common celebration, the Commonwealth Avenue Mall lights are switched on from Arlington Street to Charlesgate.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the tree come from?
Nova Scotia gives it to the people of Boston to thank the city for its help after the 1917 munitions ship explosion in Halifax Harbor. Within 24 hours of the disaster, a train full of supplies and emergency workers left Boston for Nova Scotia. This is the 55th year of the gift.
Who takes part in the lighting?
Mayor Michelle Wu hosts with the Boston Parks and Recreation Department and the Province of Nova Scotia. Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston joins her.
Is there anything after the tree lighting?
Yes. Right after the celebration on the Common, Mayor Wu joins the Friends of the Public Garden and the Committee to Light Commonwealth Avenue Mall to switch on the Mall lights in the Back Bay. They run from Arlington Street to Charlesgate.
Is it a good outing for families?
Yes. It's a free, family-friendly outdoor celebration on Boston Common.
How can a business get involved?
Boston Parks and Recreation takes sponsors for the celebration, and you can pay by check or credit card.
More Christmas Events Near Boston
More Christmas Events near Boston
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.