Holiday Events in Springfield You Won’t Want to Miss!
Once temperatures begin to fall, Halloween clears out, and the clocks get set back an hour, we begin to refocus on the upcoming holiday season. In and around the Springfield area, one can find many diverse opportunities for celebration that you’d expect from the accepting and widely varying communities of western Massachusetts. Some will be traditional, while others may feel more innovative and fresh. Some might be about fun, and some might be about holiday giving. Some may be family-friendly, while others require an ID. Bottom-line, there’s something for everyone – and it’s an amazing time of year to be part of an amazing community.
So, with that said, let’s explore some of the Springfield-based holiday warm-up events that we have to choose from!
Bright Nights at Forest Park: Opening Night – November 27th
For those ‘in the know’ Bright Nights in Forest Park is one of the most celebrated holiday lighting experiences in the Northeast. In fact, the visual spectacle has made the list of Top Ten holiday lighting experiences across the entire U.S., featuring 400 displays consisting of over 650,000 illuminated bulbs. Since 1995, this mainstay of the area has attracted visitors from far and wide, and this year prices are being rolled back to $6 per car to enjoy this three-mile stretch of festive holiday visuals.
Six Flags, Holiday in the Park – November 28th
The onset of holiday weather conditions doesn’t slow down the fun at Six Flags, with ‘Holiday in the Park’ kicking off on the 28th and running through New Years Day. With over 50 rides, holiday lighting, and all kinds of seasonal treats, it’s a great chance to get celebrate in a fun, family-friendly way.
Annual Festival of Trees – November 29th
The Festival of Trees actually runs from November 23rd through December 9th, but we’ll let you get through Thanksgiving before we start making more plans for you. During that two-week span, you can enjoy the visuals of 130 eye-catching Christmas trees, decorated and donated by various individuals, families, businesses, and organizations throughout our community. Valued as high as $3,000, many of the trees include trimmings, gifts, and surprises. And for $10, guests receive 25 raffle tickets to win the trees of their choice (including whatever surprises they may hold).
Lighting of the Quadrangle – November 29th
Another opportunity for the community to gather takes place at the Springfield Museums Quadrangle from 5 PM – 7 PM on November 29th. Featuring a “dazzling outdoor lighting display,” guests can enjoy the visuals of holiday lighting juxtaposed against the stunning architecture found at the Quadrangle. Train rides, treats, and live holiday music provide even more reasons to enjoy the spectacle. And yes, there will be visitors clad in red velvet and white fur, as well! So whether you prefer Santa and Mrs. Claus or the Grinch, the team at the Quadrangle have you covered.
Holiday Craft & Annual Touch a Truck Event – November 30th
Following the success of last year’s event, this family-friendly event features a wide array of trucks and activities bound to grab the attention of children (of all ages). The event will run from 10 AM – 3 PM on November 30th, at Raymour & Flanigan Furniture and Mattress Store in West Springfield. And from 11 AM – Noon this event will be sensory-friendly (devoid of any sirens or loud noises) to ensure that it can be enjoyed by any and every child.
3rd Annual Downtown Springfield Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl – December 5th
In recent years, cocktails and ugly sweaters have become a mainstay of the holidays. And for the 3rd year in a row, they combine in the name of charity, with all proceeds being donated to Christina’s House. Your $25 admission will go to provide transitional housing for women and their children, and will even get you started with a pre-game beverage. Then arrive between 5-5:45, and follow carolers to Nosh, Nadims, Smiths, 211 Worthington Street Pub and The Student Prince to enjoy whatever Christmas Spirits tempt your palate!
Lights of Love – December 7th
Purchase a light to be placed on the Lights of Love tree to honor one or more special people in your life, and your donation will go to support the children and families of the Ronald McDonald House of Springfield. Visit their Facebook page to learn more, or for the secure link to make a donation, then join in for 4:30 PM refreshments and photos with Santa followed by the tree lighting at 6 PM.
Culture & Cocktails: Hollywood and the Holidays – December 12th
From 5 PM – 8 PM, this 21+ costumed event is held by the Springfield Museums. Come dressed as your favorite holiday movie character. Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, attend a special planetarium show, and even watch a special gingerbread decorating demonstration. Admission is $20 ($10 for members).
Army Band Holiday Concert – December 15th
This free event takes place at Springfield Symphony Hall at 2 PM and features the 215th Army Band of the Massachusetts Army National Guard, regaling your ears with musical holiday fare. Even though there’s no charge for admission, advance tickets are recommended to ensure seating.
What Holiday Plans Are You Making?
These are just a few of our ideas for how you can make the most of celebrating the holiday season in the greater Springfield area. At Quality Fleet Service, our staff values the time we spend with our families, and we value your time. The services we offer, like 24-hour emergency services for your heavy equipment, keep you running on time, so you can be home when you need to be.