Weekend Picks – December 5th

Need plans this weekend? We’ve got you covered!
USSC Christmas Tree Lighting
Friday, December 5th from 3 to 5 p.m.
“Old Ironsides” and her crew invite the public to join us for our annual tree-lighting ceremony, taking place from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on December 5, 2025. Tour the ship, snap a photo with Santa, and enjoy festive holiday lights aboard USS Constitution! Guests can also witness evening colors—a ceremony marking the lowering of the American flag at sunset—scheduled for 4:12 p.m. This free event will feature:
- Visits and photo opportunities with Santa
- Holiday music
- Ship tours
- Remarks from the ship’s commanding officer
Winter Fest returns to The Yard
Weekends December 6-7th, 12-14th, and 19-30th from 5 to 9:30 p.m.
Boston’s most magical holiday tradition returns as Winter Fest 2025 transforms The Yard at Hood Park in Charlestown into an enchanting winter wonderland. Running on December 6-7th, 12-14th, and 19-30th (closed December 24 & 25), this year’s event has been completely revamped to deliver a new immersive, family-friendly experience.
Produced by Giancarlo Natale, Founder of the Boston Pizza Festival and one of Boston’s most recognized event producers, Winter Fest 2025 introduces a refreshed layout, new attractions, with a focus on community, comfort, and fun. Guests can enjoy an immersive amusements, classic carousel, and carnival-style arcade games, combining the charm of a traditional fair with the magic of the holidays.
Tickets are now on sale for $5 per person, available online! Now in its second year, Winter Fest continues to grow as one of Boston’s most anticipated holiday events, blending festive fun, interactive experiences, and family-friendly entertainment for all to enjoy. Winter Fest 2025 offers three hours of free parking at the Hood Park Garage.
Charlestown Christmas Stroll
Saturday, December 6th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
It’s back! Visit the Training Field at Winthrop Square on Saturday for Charlestown’s Annual Christmas Stroll! Thanks to Bunker Hill Associates, Friends of the Training Field, and many more sponsors, you can enjoy:
- Pictures with Santa!
- ‘Bees and Thank You’ Grilled Cheese Truck
- Face Painting
- Pony Rides
- Petting Zoo
- Photo Booth
- Letters to Santa
- Cookie Decorating
- Airbrush Tattoos
- Local Vendors/Makers
- Special performances by: Mini Movers at 11:15am, Warren Prescott Chorus at 12pm, and NEMPAC Community Holiday Choir at 1pm
Gardens for Charlestown Wreath Sale
Sunday, December 7th from 12 to 4 p.m.
Gardens for Charlestown will once again be having a wreath sale. These beautiful balsam wreaths will be lovingly decorated by their Members and all proceeds will benefit Gardens for Charlestown!
Warren Tavern’s annual Toys for Tots Holiday Open House
Sunday, December 7th from 4 to 8 p.m.
Join Warren Tavern for their annual Toys for Tots Open House on Sunday, December 7th from 4 to 8pm! Bring an unwrapped toy and enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres along with awesome giveaways! Every toy and gift card donated goes right back to supporting families in the Charlestown community.
MYSTRYDE’s Member Perk of the Month at VUORI
Sunday, December 7th at 9:30 a.m.
MYSTRYDE Members can enjoy a private shopping event at VUORI on Newbury St this Sunday! Members receive 30% off their purchase and will get refreshments while they shop. RSVP at the link in your membership email!
Do some (local) holiday shopping!
You don’t have to leave Charlestown to check gifts off your holiday shopping list! Check out our roundup of Charlestown shops and gift ideas! Also, Junebug and Place & Gather are doing giveaways on Saturday!
Dedicate time (or funds) to give back to the Ctown community
Charlestown has always taken care of its own, and there are plenty of ways—big and small—to make sure no one goes hungry or without gifts this holiday season. Whether you can donate canned goods or gifts, volunteer your time, or give a few dollars, your kindness will go a long way. Here’s your guide to giving locally!
SPORTS
Bruins vs. Devils – Saturday, December 6th at 7pm
Celtics vs. Lakers – Friday, December 5th at 7pm
Celtics vs. Raptors – Sunday, December 7th at 3:30pm
Pats have a by week!

Abbey is the face behind Caught in Charlestown. In 2023 she migrated from Southie to Charlestown and brought the spirit of the ‘Caught In’ community with her. She is a new momma, creator, real estate agent, yogi, and so much more.


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