The Holiday Season on the South Shore

A Guide to the Best Local Events 

The holiday season on the South Shore has a way of transforming our coastal towns into something truly special. Streets glow with string lights, local businesses open their doors with festive energy, and families gather for traditions that make this community feel like home. Whether you’re kicking off the season or exploring new events, here’s your guide to some of the most popular celebrations across the region.

1. Hingham, Massachusetts

Christmas in the Square
Friday, December 5, 2025 | 5:00–8:00 PM
Downtown Hingham lights up with Santa’s firetruck arrival, ice sculptures, food trucks, a snowfall tunnel, and live performances. It remains one of the most anticipated events of the year.

Holiday Saturdays in Downtown Hingham
Saturdays: November 29, December 7, December 13, December 20
Featuring horse-drawn hayrides, menorah lighting, pop-up activities, and extended shop hours—an ideal blend of festive charm and local shopping.

2. Cohasset, Massachusetts

Cohasset Village Holiday Stroll
Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 5:00–8:00 PM
The village transforms with live music, caroling, hayrides, visits with Santa, and extended shopping hours. A cozy, walkable event that captures the feel of a classic New England holiday evening.

3. Norwell, Massachusetts

Norwell Holiday Stroll
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 1:00–4:00 PM
Held on the Town Common, this event features music, treats, crafts, photos with Santa, and a tree lighting at dusk. It's a favorite for families looking for a simple, community-focused outing.

4. Hanover, Massachusetts

Four Corners Winter Festival
Friday, December 5, 2025 | 5:30–8:30 PM
This popular festival includes luminaries, a Santa arrival, horse-drawn carriage rides, local shopping, live performances, fire pits, and family-friendly craft tables. Arrive at dusk for the full effect of the lights.

5. Duxbury, Massachusetts

Duxbury Holly Days – 20th Annual Celebration
Sunday, November 30, 2025 | 12:00–4:00 PM
A full seasonal celebration featuring festive trolley rides linking Duxbury’s villages, Santa photos, pony rides, crafts, face painting, live music, and opportunities to support local businesses.

Bringing It All Together

From the lively energy of Christmas in the Square to Cohasset’s coastal stroll, Norwell’s community traditions, Hanover’s festival atmosphere, and Duxbury’s family-friendly Holly Days, the South Shore offers countless ways to celebrate the season. Each event showcases the local charm, character, and sense of community that make this region so special.