Christmas

Phillips Academy | A Celebration of Carols

The Phillips Academy celebrates Christmas with traditional carols at the Cochran Chapel

The Phillips Academy Department of Music will present a Service of Lessons and Carols—rooted in the tradition of King’s College of Cambridge, England. This service is presented by the chaplaincy and Department of Music. Traditional Christmas readings and carols will be performed in addition to Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols with guest harpist, Caroline Mellott.

When: 
Sunday, December 15, 2019 4:30-6pm

Holiday Adventures of the Misfit Toys | Matinee

Holiday Adventures of the Misfit Toys performed by Jaoppa Dance Company at the Firehousecenter for the Arts

Firehouse Center for the Arts hosts Joppa Dance Company as they present 'The Holiday Adventures of the Misfit Toys', an original dance-theater production that centers around three unlikely friends. One, a stuffed animal that doesn’t fit into any particular species; the second, a doll that prefers an alternative punky-gothic style to the usual pink frills; the third, a Barbie who rejects the normal attire for…men’s suits? Yes!

When: 
Friday, December 6, 2019 8pm
Saturday, December 7, 2019 2 & 8pm
Sunday, December 8, 2019 2pm

Holiday Children's Party at Castle Hill

Kids will meet Santa at the Crane Estate in Ipswich MA!

Make memories with your child or grandchild at our Children's Christmas Party. Set in the magnificent Great House lavishly decorated for the holidays, you'll enjoy holiday songs with children's entertainer Jennie Mack, a craft, refreshments, and of course, a special visit with Santa who will have a gift for every child. Reservations strongly recommended. Your name will be on a reservation list at the door rather than receiving tickets.

When: 
Tuesday, December 17, 2019 4-5:30pm

The Nutcracker at the Firehouse Center

The Nutcracker performed by the Methuen Ballet is a perrenial favorite at the Firehouse Center for the Performing Arts in Newburyport Massachusetts

Long a traditional favorite, Methuen Ballet Ensemble brings the holiday classic, "The Nutcracker" to Firehouse Center for the Arts in Newburyport, Massachusetts. Join us for this very special production of Methuen Ballet Ensemble's The Nutcracker.  Methuen Ballet Ensemble, an established local ballet company under the artistic direction of Vanessa Rae Voter, has staged The Nutcracker for over twenty-five years.  

When: 
Saturday, November 30, 2019 3pm
Gala Reception and Show: Saturday, November 30, 2019 6pm
Sunday, December 1, 2019 1pm

The Nutcracker & Gala Reception at the Firehouse Center

The Nutcracker performed by the Methuen Ballet is a perrenial favorite at the Firehouse Center for the Performing Arts after a Gala Reception in the Lobby!

Long a traditional favorite, Methuen Ballet Ensemble brings the holiday classic, "The Nutcracker" to Firehouse Center for the Arts in Newburyport, Massachusetts. Join us for this very special production of Methuen Ballet Ensemble's The Nutcracker.  Methuen Ballet Ensemble, an established local ballet company under the artistic direction of Vanessa Rae Voter, has staged The Nutcracker for over twenty-five years.  

When: 
Gala Reception and Show: Saturday, November 30, 2019 6pm
Saturday, November 30, 2019 3pm
Sunday, December 1, 2019 1pm

Gingerbread Decorating Workshop at Marini Farm

Kids will learn how to decorate gingerbrad houses at Marini Farm in Ipswich MA!

Celebrate the season with us, friends and gingerbread fun. Decorate your very own gingerbread house and take it home to eat or display as a centerpiece during your holiday celebrations. Enjoy endless decorating options, from frosted roofs, gum drop fences and cookie christmas trees.

When: 
Fridays, November 29 - December 13, 2019 4-5pm
Saturdays & Sundays, November 30 - December 15, 2019 4pm or 7pm
Saturday, December 21, 2019 11am or 2pm
Location: 

Zoo Lights at the Stone Zoo - Stoneham

Stone Zoo for Northshore children and families

ZooLights will shine brightly beginning on Friday, November 22, 2019, Beloved holiday tradition returns to Stone Zoo.

ZooLights is set to once again dazzle visitors of all ages when it opens for the holiday season on Friday, November 22. This winter wonderland attracts thousands of visitors each year who get into the holiday spirit by strolling along tree-lined paths lit by thousands of twinkling lights. Stroll through the beautifully lit Yukon Creek and see black bears, a bald eagle, Canada lynx, arctic foxes, and even reindeer! Enjoy more festive fun by warming up by the fire pits and toasting marshmallows for s’mores (available for purchase).

When: 
November 22, 2019 through January 4, 2020
Closed November 28, 2019
Closed December 25, 2019
Jolly Old St. Nick will be available for photos through December 24.
On December 4, 11, 18 and 24, guests can also meet Mrs. Claus, who will be greeting visitors and spreading holiday cheer throughout the Zoo from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: 

The Polar Express in 4D!

Enjoy the Polar Express 4D Experience at the Museum of Science Boston.

Go on an extraordinary 4-D adventure this holiday season on THE POLAR EXPRESS! When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. THE POLAR EXPRESS 4-D Experience is based on the inspiring and beloved Caldecott Medal children's book by Chris Van Allsburg.

When: 
Multiple Shows Daily thru January 6, 2019

Pages

Adirondack Leadership Program at Gordon College’s La Vida Center

April Vacation Week at Ipswich Library

sapring Vacation Activities at Ipswich Public Library in Massachusetts
Come to Ipswich Public Library during April Vacation week for family fun. We'll have 4 days of family activities from Tuesday - Friday! Schedule as follows:
10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Weather at Sea at Maritime Gloucester

Kids will learn about Weather at Sea during April Vacation at Maritime Gloucester in Massachusetts. Image is AI Generated
Join Maritime Gloucester's educators for fun hands-on activities exploring different marine life found in Gloucester while discussing the importance of the ocean. Some of the most extreme weather on Earth can be credited to the ocean. From underwater earthquakes and tsunamis to hurricanes and water...
10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Sing & Dance with the Music Man

Sing & Dance with the Music Man Brian Doser in Hamilton visit Massachusetts
Come join the fun at Community House Of Hamilton & Wenham Monday, Thursday and Saturday mornings at 10am for 30 - 45 minutes of great music with Brian Doser! Sing and dance with the Music Man during a family concert, featuring familiar and original tunes, performed by local dad and musician,...
10:00 am to 10:45 am

DIY Birdfeeders at NPL

Kids are invited to come to NPL to make their own custom birdfeeders at the Newburyport Library in Massachusetts
Kids are invited to come to NPL to make their own custom birdfeeders. Make your neighborhood birds happy! We’ll create super-simple feeders with pipe cleaners & cereal.
10:00 am to 11:30 am

All Family Field Trip | Early Spring Woods & Wetlands Walk

Come explore the woods with Joppa Flats and see if you can find the signs of Spring in Newburyport Massachusetts
Come explore what nature has in store at some of our most amazing wild places on the north shore. Our engaging and experienced staff will introduce families to local beaches, forests, and wetlands to make observations in nature, identify wildlife, and enjoy hands on science activities outdoors....
10:00 am to 12:00 pm

CraneExplorer: Animals in the Estuary

Families are invited to join us for an exploration of the Castle Hill grounds in Ipswich Massachusetts
Take in beautiful views of the Crane Wildlife Refuge while learning about estuary flora and fauna and environmental conditions at the Crane Boat Dock. Families will conduct measurements of water quality and weather, census native vs. Non-native crabs, collect and observe plankton using field...
10:00 am to 12:00 pm

April Vacation at PEM 2024

PEM has a great lineup for kids and families during April Vacation 2024
Looking for things to do during your April Vacation on the North Shore? Peabody Essex Museum has a fabulous line-up of fun activities, performances, and tours for kids and families. Celebrate the 20th anniversary of the cultural exchange project that brought Yin Yu Tang to Peabody Essex Museum !...
10:00 am to 3:59 pm

Aleppo Shriners Circus

Aleppo Shriners Circus in Wilmington Massachusetts is a great time for the whole family!
Fun for the whole family! Let us help you make memories this April Vacation with a show they won't forget!The all-new Aleppo Shriners Circus thrills during April school vacation week. Enjoy elephant rides, clown photos, and all sorts of exciting acts - right up close.
10:00 am to 10:00 pm

April Vacation at CAM | Celebrate Spring

Cape Ann Museum has some great April Vacation programs for school aged kids! Photo: Still life by Harold Rotneberg
Celebrate the return of spring with a visit to the Cape Ann Museum during April School Vacation Week! The Museum will be free for school-age children, 18 and under, and their guardians from Tuesday, April 16 – Friday, April 19. Explore the galleries with a scavenger hunt and family-friendly...
10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Swan Boat Rides in Boston Public Garden

Swan Boat Boston North Shore Parent, North Shore Parents Summer Activities Guide
The Public Garden may be one of the most ideal picnicking locations in Boston. Well-groomed and overflowing with tulips, cherry-trees, with willows cascading over the duck pond, the Boston Public Garden is a great place to relax during Boston's most beautiful season.
10:00 am to 3:59 pm

Padro the Lucky Racing Pigeon Storytime at NSCM

Padro the Lucky Racing Pigeon Storytime at North Shore Children's Museum
North Shore Children's Museum hosts the local author of Pedro the Lucky Racing Pigeon as she reads her b
10:00 am to 10:45 am

Vacation Week: Solar Bugs at APL

Kids are invited to craft their own solar bugs at the Amesbury Public Library in Massachussetts during April Vacation
Come by the side lawn of the Library to create a solar powered bug! Find out why bugs are attracted to light and how solar energy works to move your bug!
10:00 am to 11:00 am

1-Minute to Win It Challenge at HWPL

Science Fridays with Ms. Katie at the Hamilton-Wenham Public Library in Massachusetts
Do YOU have what it takes? Join us over April Vacation on Thursday, April 18 at 11:00am for a variety of 1-minute S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) challenges and compete against the clock for fun prizes! Designed for children ages 5 and up. No registration is necessary.
11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Under the Sea Storytime: Tales & Touch

Salem Sound Coastwatch, Essex Heritage and Salem Public library host a Tales & Touch session in Salem Massachusetts
Join Salem Coastwatch during April school vacation week for a special family event where we will be “diving in” to all things under the sea! Come enjoy some ocean-themed stories, songs, and games, followed by a craft and the chance to meet and learn about real Salem sea creatures from Salem Sound...
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm

Reading to a Therapy Dog at NTL

Kids can sign up to read to a therapy dog at the Newbury Town Library in Massachusetts
Children can register to come and read to a certified therapy dog. This program encourages reading confidence and is a fun way for kids to practice literacy. Sessions last for 15-minutes, and we ask that you please arrive for the time slot that you register for.
3:30 pm to 4:30 pm

LEGO Club at Danvers Library

LEGO club at Danvers Library Massachusetts
Peabody Institute Library - Danvers invites kids to an afternoon of building and fun! Activities will include free build, themes and instructional design. All structures will remain on display in the Children’s Room till the following weeks's session
3:30 pm to 4:30 pm

Lego Club at MPL

Children in grades 2 and up are invited to come to the Manchester Massachusetts Library's Lego Club
Drop in from 3:45-4:45 to make your own Lego creation! This program is for kids in grades 2 and up.
3:45 pm to 4:45 pm

Wednesday, April 24

Swan Boat Rides in Boston Public Garden

Swan Boat Boston North Shore Parent, North Shore Parents Summer Activities Guide
The Public Garden may be one of the most ideal picnicking locations in Boston. Well-groomed and overflowing with tulips, cherry-trees, with willows cascading over the duck pond, the Boston Public Garden is a great place to relax during Boston's most beautiful season.
10:00 am to 3:59 pm

We Walk the Woods!

Walk the trails in a group at Harold Parker State Forest Every Wednesday at 10am
Walk the trails with a group at Harold Parker State Forest every Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. – Meeting location varies weekly. Email trek.reef@mass.gov for location.
10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Home & Food Truck Show | Topsfield

Home and Food Truck show at the Topfield Fairground in Massachusetts
April 20th & 21st. FREE admission and FREE parking. All INDOORS & Enjoy the Food Trucks outside. Speak to leading home industry professionals to plan your spring home projects.
10:00 am to 6:59 pm

D&D (Tween Session) at Amesbury Library

Dungeons and Dragons for Tweens at the Public Library in Amesbury Massachusetts
Come play in a Dungeons and Dragons ongoing campaign! You'll create your own characters and build the story session to session. Come if you're a beginner or if you know the rules. All are welcome!  Registration is required and is for all 7 weeks.
10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Wonder Workshop for PreK at North Shore Children's Museum

Pre-K Wonder Workshop at North Shore Children's Museum in Peabody Massachusetts
Join us this Wednesday at 1:30 PM for the Pre-K Wonder Workshop at the North Shore Children's Museum. Led by retired transitional kindergarten teacher Norma, each week explores a different question through hands-on activities.
1:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Wonder Workshop for PreK at North Shore Children's Museum

Pre-K Wonder Workshop at North Shore Children's Museum in Peabody Massachusetts
Join us this Wednesday at 1:30 PM for the Pre-K Wonder Workshop at the North Shore Children's Museum. Led by retired transitional kindergarten teacher Norma, each week explores a different question through hands-on activities.
1:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Open Door Empty Bowl Circus

Proceeds from the Open Door Empty Bowl Circus benefit community programs sponsored by tthe Open Door in Gloucester Massachusetts.
The Open Door hosts a new twist on an old tradition.  The Empty Bowl Dinner has been reimagined with a new twist—a circus-themed event at Cruiseport in Gloucester.
4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Process Art Workshop at HW Library

Preschool and older kids will express themselves artistically at Hamilton-Wenham Library in Massachusetts!
The Hamilton-Wenham Public Library invites kids to get creative and have some fun! Join Ms. Eva of Early Childhood Partners for a themed story and activities that practice process art methods. The Process Art Workshop is designed for children ages 2 - 6 years old and their adult. Older children are...
6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Science & Lore: Full Moon Walk at Appleton Farms

Hike at the Trustees Appleton Farms with your family under the Full Moon in Ipswich Massachusetts!
Join us as darkness settles on the farm to immerse yourself in a nighttime adventure, guided only by the glow of the full moon. On our journey, we will learn about both the science and the mystery that the full moon holds, celebrating her presence through a sharing of knowledge. We will venture out...
8:30 pm to 9:30 pm

Thursday, April 25

Swan Boat Rides in Boston Public Garden

Swan Boat Boston North Shore Parent, North Shore Parents Summer Activities Guide
The Public Garden may be one of the most ideal picnicking locations in Boston. Well-groomed and overflowing with tulips, cherry-trees, with willows cascading over the duck pond, the Boston Public Garden is a great place to relax during Boston's most beautiful season.
10:00 am to 3:59 pm
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