The festive season is one of the best times of the year to visit Boston. With twinkling holiday lights and, if you’re lucky, a blanket of snow, nothing is more magical than the holidays in Boston. Here are just a few of the things you can do this year.

Attend the Boston Common tree lighting.

Since 1961, Nova Scotia has gifted Boston it’s stunning Christmas tree. Head to Boston Common (139 Tremont St.) for the annual lighting ceremony on December 5.

Get into a festive mood with a seasonal snow.

Beat the notoriously cold winter weather by taking in one of Boston’s excellent arts and culture offerings. There’s “The Nutcracker” at Citizens Bank Opera House (539 Washington St.), holiday pops by the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Boston Symphony Hall (301 Massachusetts Ave.), and, for the kids, Disney on Ice at Agganis Arena (925 Commonwealth Ave.).

Take a holiday-inspired harbor cruise.

Jazzy Christmas tunes by the Benjamin Young Jazz Trio set the mood for an evening cruise, on which you’ll take in the best sights along the Boston waterfront.

Shop in one of the city’s holiday markets.

Skip the mall or big-box stores you can find at home. The best Boston holiday markets are sure to have something unique for everyone on your list.

Ready to celebrate the holidays in Boston?

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