South Shore Holiday Magic: The Best Events, Light Shows & New Year’s Fun
The holiday season on the South Shore brings out the best of our coastal towns — glowing lights, hometown parades, festive concerts, and cozy New Year’s traditions. If you're looking for ways to celebrate between December 5 and January 1, here are the must-see events that make winter living on the South Shore something special.
🎄 South Shore Celebration of Lights — Marshfield Fairgrounds
The Marshfield Fairgrounds transform into a dazzling, drive-through holiday spectacle featuring over a million LED lights, giant animated displays, themed tunnels, and magical holiday scenes stretching nearly a mile.
Dates: Early December through early January
Why Go: Family-friendly, stay-warm-in-the-car, and perfect for kids of all ages
Learn more & get tickets → https://www.marshfieldlights.com/
Whether it’s a weeknight cruise or a holiday weekend treat, this show is one of the South Shore’s favorite winter traditions.
🚂 Edaville Festival of Lights — Carver
Just outside the South Shore, Edaville’s Festival of Lights is a legendary New England holiday experience. Ride the illuminated narrow-gauge train, visit Santa, stroll through the decorated village, and enjoy hot cocoa under the lights.
Dates: Select nights throughout December
Why Go: Classic, nostalgic, and packed with kid-friendly attractions
Explore Edaville’s holiday calendar → https://www.edaville.com/
If you've never seen Edaville at Christmas, this is the year to go.
🎅 Weymouth Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Festival
This annual town-wide celebration brings neighbors together for music, crafts, food vendors, holiday characters, and — of course — the lighting of the Weymouth Christmas tree.
Date: Saturday, December 6
Why Go: A cozy, community-forward event that shows off the best of Weymouth’s hometown charm
Event details → https://www.weymouth.ma.us/home/events
Perfect for families and anyone who loves classic small-town holiday traditions.
🎶 South Shore Holiday Pops Concert — Scituate
Warm, festive, and beautifully performed, the Holiday Pops is a beloved seasonal show hosted by the South Shore Conservatory. Expect classic carols, orchestral highlights, and a joyful atmosphere.
Date: December 14 at 3:00 PM
Why Go: A perfect date night or relaxing afternoon outing
Get concert info & tickets → https://www.sscmusic.org/
A great reminder that the South Shore isn’t just scenic — it’s cultural, too.
✨ Holiday Light Tours Through Local Neighborhoods
Even outside of major venues, South Shore neighborhoods go all-in on decorating for the season. From Norwell’s backroads to Scituate’s coastal streets, you’ll find everything from synchronized displays to classic candle-lit homes.
Dates: All season long
Why Go: Free, festive, and great for spontaneous weeknight fun
Check your town’s holiday updates
Pro tip: Bring hot cocoa, hop in the car at dusk, and explore a different town each week.
🎆 New Year’s Eve Light Shows & Family Activities
If big-city crowds aren't your thing, the South Shore offers peaceful, beautiful ways to ring in the New Year — including extended light show hours, cozy dinners, and local community celebrations.
South Shore Celebration of Lights often runs through New Year’s Night
Edaville Festival of Lights typically offers NYE options as well
Learn more:
• Marshfield Lights NYE info → https://www.marshfieldlights.com/
• Edaville NYE schedule → https://www.edaville.com/
A quiet, scenic way to welcome 2026.
🥾 New Year’s Day Hikes & Family Traditions
Kick off January 1 with a refreshing local tradition: a coastal walk, forest hike, or peaceful sunrise moment in one of the South Shore’s many gorgeous outdoor spaces.
Some popular spots:
Wompatuck State Park (Hingham)
World’s End (Hingham)
Norris Reservation (Norwell)
Nelson Memorial Park (Plymouth)
Explore trail options → https://www.thetrustees.org/
Starting the year outdoors is one of the best ways to reset before the busy season ramps up.
🏡 Why These Events Matter for South Shore Buyers & Sellers
Beyond the fun, these winter events highlight what makes living here special:
For buyers: These events showcase community lifestyle — the warmth, walkability, and festive energy that define South Shore towns.
For sellers: December’s low inventory means serious buyers are still looking. Pair that with decorated homes and community charm, and winter showings can create powerful emotional appeal.
For relocators: There’s no better way to understand local culture than seeing neighborhoods come alive during the holidays.
🎁 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re exploring light shows with family, enjoying a holiday concert, or planning your New Year's celebrations, December on the South Shore is full of magic. If you're considering a move in 2026, now is the perfect time to experience what each town offers — and start planning ahead.
