Boston Area Christmas Activities for Kids551

Whether there's snow on the ground or flurries have yet to fly, Boston comes alive during the holiday season with tree lightings, Nutcracker performances, outdoor activities, and other festive events.

Here's a sampling of some of our favorite family activities:

Lace up the skates and head out for skating on the Frog Pond and at the Charles Hotel, and other area rinks.

Traditional holiday performances include the Holiday Pops with the Boston Pops, the Boston Ballet's Nutcracker, Ballet Rox's Urban Nutcracker, Black Nativity, and the Christmas Revels.

The Mayor's Enchanted Trolley Tour travels to different neighborhoods the first weekend in December where, accompanied by Santa, Mayor Menino flips the switch on 15 trees.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace hosts traditional holiday events like the annual Tree Lighting and Tuba Concert.

The annual Sparklefest in Harvard Square features Santa and other costumed characters offering treats, music, and holiday readings. Shops, restaurants, and cultural venues offer in-store entertainment, treats, and discounts to kick off the holiday season.

Each year from December 14 to January 5, thousands of families have made a tradition of taking part in the Audubon Christmas Bird Count. The data collected allow researchers, conservation biologists, and other interested individuals to study the long-term health and status of bird populations across North America. Visit the website to find the count closest to you.

Do you a favorite holiday event happening in Boston? Feel free to add it to the comment section below. Also, don't forget to check our event calendar - we're constantly updating it with the latest holiday happenings.