From Santa’s Lobster Boat to the Christmas Tree Lighting: Marblehead Christmas Walk 2025

Published on December 8, 2025

From December 4 to December 7, 2025, the picturesque town of Marblehead, Massachusetts, came alive with the magic of the season during its highly anticipated annual Marblehead Christmas Walk. This four-day celebration, organized by the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce, has become one of the most beloved holiday traditions in New England. The event attracted both locals and visitors alike, offering a delightful mix of festive shopping, holiday parades, and community activities, all set against the charming backdrop of Marblehead’s historic streets.

Event Highlights: A Magical Line-Up of Activities

The festivities began on Thursday, December 4, with the Holiday Shopping Preview Night. This early event gave shoppers the opportunity to browse a wide selection of holiday gifts and decorations while soaking in the festive atmosphere. The event also offered a sneak peek at the unique offerings from local artisans and merchants, who showcased their handmade goods, crafts, and holiday-themed items, making it the perfect chance to start preparing for the holiday season. Visitors could enjoy complimentary refreshments, festive music, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

On Friday, December 5, the spotlight was on the Annual Tree Lighting ceremony. Starting at 5:30 PM, the event saw Marblehead’s streets illuminated by thousands of twinkling Christmas lights as residents and tourists gathered to witness the ceremonial lighting of the town’s Christmas tree. This beautiful and heartwarming tradition has been a central part of the Marblehead Christmas Walk for years and marks the official start of the holiday season in the town. As the tree’s lights flickered on, the crowd cheered, and the entire town was filled with a sense of festive joy and excitement.

Saturday, December 6, featured one of the event’s most iconic moments—the arrival of Santa Claus by lobster boat at 9 AM. This quirky and charming tradition never fails to capture the hearts of children and adults alike. As Santa made his way into the harbor, children eagerly awaited his arrival, waving and shouting their holiday wishes. After stepping off the boat, Santa joined the festivities for the Christmas Walk Parade, which kicked off at 11:45 AM. The parade featured marching bands, local school groups, festive floats, and dancers, creating a lively spectacle for all ages. The parade wound its way through the town’s historic streets, and families lined the route to enjoy the celebration of holiday cheer.

The final day of the event, Sunday, December 7, saw the continuation of the holiday fun. Marblehead’s streets remained alive with the holiday spirit as visitors continued to explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and historic attractions. In addition to shopping, the Artisan’s Marketplace was in full swing, offering handcrafted gifts, artwork, and jewelry. The Gingerbread Festival also took place, featuring intricately decorated gingerbread houses made by local residents and schools. The vibrant displays were a feast for the eyes, with each creation telling a unique story of festive creativity. The atmosphere was lively, with holiday music filling the air, and visitors were treated to performances by local musicians and entertainers throughout the day.

A Community Affair: Embracing the Holiday Spirit

The Marblehead Christmas Walk is not just an event—it’s a celebration of community. Throughout the four days, the town transformed into a winter wonderland. Every street and storefront was decorated with holiday lights and garlands, setting a magical scene that visitors could not help but marvel at. Local businesses, community groups, and volunteers all came together to create a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Families, residents, and tourists alike shared in the warmth of the season. The town’s sense of unity was on full display, with people of all ages coming together to enjoy the festivities. Local shops and artisans opened their doors, offering everything from unique gifts to homemade treats, allowing visitors to support small businesses while enjoying the festivities. The event provided an opportunity for both longtime residents and first-time visitors to experience Marblehead’s charm, especially as it showcased the community’s commitment to celebrating the season with love, warmth, and hospitality.

The Marblehead Christmas Walk is not only a time for holiday shopping and family fun but also a reflection of the town’s commitment to maintaining its rich cultural heritage. Marblehead’s historic district, with its cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for the event. The town’s holiday traditions were infused with local history, giving visitors a deeper connection to the place and its people.

A Heartwarming Tradition

The 2025 Marblehead Christmas Walk was a true testament to the town’s holiday spirit and the enduring appeal of New England’s Christmas traditions. For those looking to experience a picture-perfect New England holiday celebration, Marblehead’s Christmas Walk is a must-see. From the magical tree lighting and lively parades to the charming shopping opportunities and community events, the Christmas Walk continues to offer an unforgettable experience for all who attend. As the event came to a close on Sunday, December 7, it left behind a trail of warm memories and holiday cheer. Whether it was the twinkling lights, the laughter of children, or the warmth of the community, the Marblehead Christmas Walk once again proved why it is one of New England’s most cherished holiday traditions.