Portsmouth Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Portsmouth and surrounding areas
Winter 2025 brings Portsmouth festive celebrations around the main district with both Christmas lights and Holiday lights shining along Market Square during events like Vintage Christmas in Portsmouth, First Night Portsmouth, and the Portsmouth Illuminated Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting. The waterfront and historic streets become seasonal playgrounds. Visitors can enjoy holiday attractions, seasonal entertainment, and festive events that make downtown Portsmouth a lively holiday destination full of things to do.
Find the best Portsmouth Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Christmas Markets
35 eventsHistoric street walk with a Lobster Trap Tree lighting
Christmas Lights
18 eventsThousands of decorated trees by the ocean
Christmas Shows
14 events35th anniversary production of a holiday classic.
Christmas Parties
5 eventsHoppin' New Year's Eve party at Doubletree Hilton
Christmas Activities
28 eventsNew Year's Eve celebration with fireworks and ice sculptures.
Editor's Picks (6)
-
Sea Festival of Trees
(Salisbury Beach)
Thousands of decorated trees by the ocean
-
Doubletree Hilton Danvers Hoppin' New Year's Eve Party
(Danvers)
Hoppin' New Year's Eve party at Doubletree Hilton
-
Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude
(Kennebunkport)
Iconic Santa arrival by lobster boat
-
Merrimack Valley Celebration of Lights
(Methuen)
Longest drive-through light tunnel in New England.
-
A Christmas Carol at Merrimack Repertory Theatre
(Lowell)
A classic holiday tale brought to life on stage.
-
A Christmas Carol at North Shore Music Theatre
(Beverly)
35th anniversary production of a holiday classic.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Portsmouth Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Portsmouth
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Portsmouth!
Portsmouth Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual events include the Illuminated Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting in Market Square and the Candlelight Stroll at Strawbery Banke Museum, both drawing large crowds to celebrate the season.
Portsmouth’s unique traditions include the historic Candlelight Stroll, which features costumed role players and lantern-lit homes, and the Vintage Christmas celebration that combines historic tours with modern festivities.
Downtown Portsmouth and the Puddle Dock neighborhood near Strawbery Banke Museum are among the best areas for festive light displays and holiday decorations.
Christmas markets and local artisan vendors are typically found in downtown Portsmouth and at community events during December, including craft fairs and holiday markets near the city center.
Free activities include attending the Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting, exploring neighborhood light displays, and enjoying the festive atmosphere in Market Square and downtown Portsmouth.
Family-friendly options include the Candlelight Stroll with its historic storytelling, the Holiday Parade, and seasonal shows at The Music Hall, all offering engaging experiences for children.