Editor's Note: Magic of Lights ran its last season in 2022. It will not be returning in 2023.
The holiday season is here in Massachusetts, and this year we're going to need to be a bit creative when it comes to celebrating. For the first time ever, one of the most dazzling drive-thru light displays is coming to our state. Magic of Lights is a 1.5-mile drive-thru holiday lights experience, and you can experience it up close at Gillette Stadium. You might have fond memories of our famous Foxborough stadium, but you've never seen it come to life quite like this. Get your ticket soon, because Magic of Lights is already here.
The Magic of Lights drive-thru lights experience is coming to Gillette Stadium from November 13, 2020, through January 2nd, 2021.
While most people from the Bay State have been to Gillette Stadium for a game, you've never seen it come to life quite like this. Magic of Lights has been around the country for a while now, but this is the first time this light experience is coming to Massachusetts.
Gillette Stadium is most known for being home to the six-time super bowl champions, but for the first time ever these beautiful lights will shine the brightest.
Magic of Lights is happening right now, so purchase your ticket online. You won't want to miss this spectacular drive-thru holiday lights experience in Massachusetts.
Gillette Stadium is adhering to all COVID-19 social distancing guidelines. Tickets must be purchased online. For more information or to purchase tickets you can either visit the Magic of Lights website here, or Gillette Stadium's website right here.
Have you ever been to a drive-thru holiday lights display? What's your favorite part? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
If there's another holiday family attraction we should know about, you can nominate it right here. We may feature it in an upcoming article!
Who doesn't love a parade? The colorful floats, costumed performers, and the rhythmic music of the marching bands are always so much fun to witness! In Massachusetts, we love any excuse to celebrate, and a grand parade is a festive way to kick off any holiday or occasion. From short walks through small towns to elaborate routes that are miles long, Massachusetts has so many spectacular parades throughout the year. Listed below are some of the biggest parades in the state as well as some lesser-known (but equally entertaining) celebrations you won't want to miss.
Boston sure knows how to kick off the New Year right! Whether you view it as the final parade of the year or the first of a new one, the Boston First Night Parade is an annual city tradition that is full of fun. The festive family-friendly celebration occurs on Dec. 31 and features a variety of talented bands, performers, and colorful floats. The fun continues into the night with beautiful ice sculptures, shows, concerts, and a majestic fireworks display. Hotels such as the Boston Harbor Hotel will be offering special deals to visitors wishing to ring in the New Year in the city.
The Boston St. Patrick’s Day parade is a grand celebration of the city’s rich Irish heritage as well as a good excuse for a great party. The citizens of Boston were the first people in North America to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and their dedication to the holiday is still going strong. The energetic parade is full of wonderful music, colorful characters, and lots of green! The annual fun takes place in South Boston.
Commemorate the start of the American Revolution in the place where it all started. The Concord, Massachusetts Patriots' Day Parade is a unique Bay State event that features historic reenactors, fife-and-drum bands, and a special ceremony at the North Bridge. The year 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of the battles of Concord and Lexington and the town is already gearing up for some extra special Patriots' Day festivities.
The state’s most adorable parade takes place each Mother’s Day on the Boston Common. Mother’s Day is also Boston’s “Duckling Day,” a celebration of Robert McCloskey’s beloved children’s book, “Make Way for Ducklings,” which follows the adventures of the local Mallard family. After a celebration of family-friendly events, participants are invited to dress up in duck attire and follow Mother Duck, Mrs. Mallard's route through the Common and into the public garden to the famous Make Way for Ducklings Statue.
Independence Day brings not only patriotism to the Bay State but also a bit of humor to a handful of Massachusetts communities. If you have never attended a “horribles parade,” you might be surprised at what you witness. These satirical parades are filled with floats poking fun at political figures, local issues, and controversial topics. The Gloucester Fishtown Horribles Parade is one of the best-known local horribles parades, and it is quite a sight to see! The parade takes place annually on the evening of July 3.
As the summer season winds down on the Cape, the fun continues in Provincetown at the annual Carnival Celebration. This colorful and festive occasion celebrates the town’s diversity and inclusivity. The parade, which is a much-anticipated highlight of this year's celebration, will take place on Aug. 22.
" target="_blank">Salem kicks off a month-long celebration of Halloween events. The parade takes place on the first Thursday night of October. Creepy characters, spooky floats, and local school children in themed costumes parade down Salem's historic streets to celebrate the city’s most popular season. I have watched and marched in the parade several times, and can tell you that it is an absolute blast. I highly recommend attending in costume.
What better way to celebrate Thanksgiving than by visiting the town of Plymouth? The top-ranked America's Hometown Thanksgiving Parade is a historically accurate celebration that is both fun and educational. The parade is held on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and begins at historic Plymouth Rock.
Several festive Christmas parades take place across Massachusetts every holiday season, but the Lynn Christmas Eve parade is one of the biggest and best. The annual parade which began in 1986, is five hours long and spans 23 miles! Featuring lots of lights, floats, music, and appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, this celebration is a special North Shore family tradition.
Do you love a parade? Which is your favorite? To find out about the fun festivities in Massachusetts, check out the Only In Massachusetts event page.
It's hard to believe that the Fourth of July is only a short week away. Independence Day is one of my favorite days of the year. All year long, I look forward to the parades, the picnics, and of course the fireworks. Due to safety concerns, it is illegal to set off fireworks in the Bay State. However, there are many amazing displays taking place throughout Massachusetts in July 2024. If you have been wondering, "Where is the best place to watch fireworks near me," don't sweat. Only In Your State has you covered with our list of the best July Fourth fireworks displays in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts' biggest Independence Day Celebration takes place at Boston’s Charles River Esplanade. The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is a must-see event if you live near the city. This year’s celebration features music by The Mavericks & Kelli O’Hara, Darlene Love, and the spectacular Boston Pops. The Fireworks explode over the Charles on July 4 starting at 8 p.m., but if you want to snag a seat, you will want to come much earlier in the day.
2. Plymouth 4th of July
Is there a more patriotic place to celebrate the Fourth than Plymouth? The city hosts an all-day Plymouth 4th of July celebration on the Fourth with a 5K road race, a colorful holiday parade, food trucks, and a concert by the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra. The jaw-dropping fireworks display takes place at DCR Pilgrim Memorial State Park and begins around 9:15 p.m.
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3. Star Spangled Springfield
Star Spangled Springfield has been going strong since 1991. This family-friendly celebration takes place in 2024 on the Fourth from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Come to Riverfront Park for an evening of music, entertainers, food, and fun. The fireworks launch at 9:30 p.m. and are free to view.
4. Salem's July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza
The patriotic fun in Salem takes place at Salem's July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Children’s activities kick off the celebration at 4 p.m. and are followed by some fantastic live music, opening ceremonies, a concert by the 40-piece Hillyer Festival Orchestra, and a fireworks extravaganza starting at 9:15 p.m. There is no fee to view the fireworks and concert.
For a unique fireworks experience, be sure to attend the Fall River Fireworks Display celebration at Battleship Cove in Fall River. During this special event, you will be able to view the colorful sky from the deck of the battleship USS Massachusetts. The fun takes place on the night of the Fourth. The gates will be open from 7:30-8:45 p.m. The admission price is $15 per person (children under two are free). Tickets must be purchased online in advance.
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6. Amherst Independence Day Fireworks And Celebration 2024
The town of Amherst will be celebrating America’s birthday early this year. Amherst Independence Day Fireworks And Celebration 2024 will take place on July 2 at UMass Amherst's McGuirk Alumni Stadium. The fun starts at 6 p.m. with lawn games, live entertainment, and food trucks. Fireworks begin at dusk. This event is free (including parking) for all.
7. Six Flags New England July 4th Firework Celebration
Enjoy three nights of fireworks this year at Six Flags New England. The Six Flags New England July 4th Firework Celebration displays will take place at 9:30 p.m. July 4-6, 2024. Spend the day riding the coasters and other amusements and then sit back and relax and view the show. Admission to the display is included in your regular Six Flags ticket. However, you can rent Premium Fireworks Seating for an additional fee.
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8. Falmouth Fireworks
The Falmouth Fireworks celebration is considered one of the most spectacular displays in all of the nation! This magnificent volunteer-run event takes place on the Fourth at 8:30 p.m. at Falmouth Heights Beach. Attending this classic oceanfront event is always a great way to kick off a summer on the Cape.
Where do you plan to view the fireworks this Fourth? If you know of another great spot that isn't on this list, please tell us all about it. Be sure to check individual event pages for the most up-to-date information as the weather may impact dates and times. And don't forget to pack a comfy blanket to lie on while you gaze up at the magnificent light show in the sky.
