Boston's Holiday Light Displays in North End, Boston Common and Back Bay

If you're up in Boston during the holiday season, there are some colorful events to visit with friends and family. Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah culminate in a collective celebration in Boston, and there's so much to see and do when it comes to holiday lights and attractions.

For a tree-lighting ceremony reminiscent of Manhattan's own Rockefeller Christmas Tree, you have three choices in Boston to visit. One is in the North End, another in the Boston Common and the third is in the Back Bay. The most historically important of these is the Boston Common Christmas Tree. In 1917 there was an collision and explosion in Halifax harbor killing thousands. Quickly a train carrying help from Boston arrived in Nova Scotia to help and the act of kindness was never forgotten. Ever since, Nova Scotia has donated a tree to erect in the Boston Commons for the everyone to enjoy. To get there you can take the MBTA red line and exit right on Park Street. The tree is typically lit in late November or early December and is a sentimental cornerstone to the Holiday season in Boston.

On 149 Pond Street in Stoneham, you can visit Stone Zoo between Nov. 23 and Dec.30 to see the Zoo Lights attraction. The event is complete with an array of animals, Santa Claus and costumed Holiday creatures. Cost for admission is only $4 per person, and $3 for members. All children under the age of two are admitted for free, making this event accessible to anyone. Zoo Lights is a staple for Boston Holiday spirit and generosity.

For some Christmas plays, carols and fun activities, The Christmas Revels is an event that can't be missed. Held at Sanders Theatre at Harvard, The Christmas Revels offers children singing, elegant chorus performances and even a "Lord of the Dance" piece. So much more can be found at this 36th annual event including lights, games and ongoing instrumental music. The event will be held Dec.15 through the 30 and prices vary between $20 and $45. For more information call: (617) 972-8300.

Boston has a plethora of Holiday exhibits, venues and attractions to pull the family around during this wonderful season. This city is a great example of brotherly love and good will when people need it the most. Visit Boston and find out what makes is such a different spot, or if you are already living there, get out and enjoy the air!