Boston's biggest New Year's events for 2025–26
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Photo: Matthew J. Lee/The Boston Globe via Getty Images
It's not too late to make plans for ringing in the New Year with your fellow Bostonians.
- Here's a rundown of some options for Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.
It's Boston's free, city-wide signature arts festival with performances, ice skating shows, music, ice sculptors, fireworks and more on New Year's Eve.
- Events take place all over: across Downtown, the Common and through Back Bay.
- Two fireworks displays cap off First Night — an early show for the kids (and olds who can't stay up) at 7pm and one for the late-night countdown at midnight.
Illuminate the Harbor Fireworks Celebration
- The other big fireworks show of the night launches over the harbor between Eastie and Downtown at 8:30pm.
Boston Pops — New Year's Eve with Seth MacFarlane
The Pops ring in the new year at Symphony Hall with animator, actor and New Englander Seth MacFarlane.
- An accomplished singer, he's blending Broadway standards, oldie classics and holiday favorites.
Boston Harbor NYE & New Year's Day Cruises
Several cruise operators offer New Year's Eve dinner and midnight countdown cruises, as well as New Year's Day brunch sailings on the harbor.
- Indoor seating, food and drinks, and skyline views in a nice, cozy boat could beat out crowded street celebrations.
One of the highlights of First Night, a free skating showcase, features elite local and national figure skaters doing choreographed routines on our iconic rink on the Common.
- Shows are timed for families earlier in the evening, but expect crowds.
Envoy Rooftop New Year's Eve Party
One of the hardest NYE tickets to get is Envoy's rooftop party in the Seaport.
- Features DJs, dancing, cocktail service and views of the harbor fireworks.
- Tickets typically sell out in advance.
Game On! Fenway New Year's Eve Party
It's not just a ballpark, folks: the party at the Lansdowne Street megabar/indoor game center features multiple rooms, DJs and a dance floor.
- If you're looking for a nightclub vibe, this is the ticket.
Boston Harbor Hotel New Year's Day Brunch
The luxury waterfront hotel has a New Year's Day brunch with a seasonal menu and champagne-forward offerings to greet the new year, or dull the pain of the night before.
L Street Brownies Polar Plunge
One of the long-running Boston New Year traditions, members of the L Street Brownies and other brave souls take a dip in the icy waters of Dorchester Bay.
- Spectators are welcome. The event often draws a crowd to cheer on the frozen swimmers.