If you didn’t escape to somewhere warm this February vacation, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Luckily, Boston has plenty of fun ways to keep the kids entertained (and keep us parents from losing our minds). Whether you’re looking for an indoor adventure, some fresh air, or just a way to burn off all that endless energy, there’s something for everyone. From hands-on museum exhibits to outdoor ice skating and even a good old-fashioned ice harvesting event, this city has it all. So bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and let’s make the most of winter break!
Saturday, February 15th
Seaport Smalls
(Feb 15 & 22)
Join us Saturdays, from 10AM-11AM indoors at The Paseo at 111 Harbor Way, for a rotating selection of free children’s programming for ages 0-8 years old. Our programming partners include Curious Creatures bringing live animals, Little Groove Music with music and art for kids, Spanish Fun Program, Spanish education, Wiggles & Giggles musical enrichment classes, and Davey the Clown, the silliest entertainer in Boston.
Mask Maker, Mask Maker, Make Me a Mask! at Fall River Heritage State Park (
Feb 15 & 22)
Get ready to celebrate Mardi Gras/Carnival or just fight the winter blues and make your very own colorful mask. We’ll be making two styles of masks. On February 15, create your own African culture-inspired masks. On February 22, we will make Native American-inspired masks with the Pocasset Wampanoags. All materials will be provided. Meet in the Visitor Center. Drop in anytime from 12 to 3 p.m. Great for all ages, children must be accompanied by an adult.
Live Birds of Prey at Holyoke Range State Park
Saturday, February 15, 1 – 3 p.m.
Get a close-up look at owls, hawks, and other birds of prey with Tom Ricardi, licensed rehabilitator and wildlife biologist. Learn about the work of the Massachusetts Birds of Prey Rehabilitation Center, which cares for these injured birds. Ages 7 and up. Meet at Notch Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 413-253-2883.
Bugs Bunny Film Festival at the Brattle Theatre
(Sat, Feb 15 – Sun, Feb 23)
With more than 25 editions under our belts, you’d think we’d be getting tired of the Wascally Wabbit and his crew of hilarious oddballs… Nope! It’s still one of our favorite programs to put together each year. We can’t wait to see you for another round of classic cartoon comedies on the big screen in 35mm!
Monday, February 17th
- Free Admission to the ICA for Presidents Day
The ICA is offering FREE admission for all on Presidents’ Day, Monday, February 17. Tickets will be available to reserve beginning on Sunday, February 16 at 10 AM. Get a first look at the newest exhibitions Sara Cwynar: Alphabet and Believers: Artists and the Shakers! - Take a spin around The Rink at MarketStreet (Feb 17-21)
- February Vacation Week at the MIT Museum (Feb 17-23)
The museum has several activities planned including extended Maker Hub and Learning Lab hours, tours, gallery cart demos, and family workshops. With the exception of family workshops, all activities are free with museum admission.
Discover something new at the The New England Aquarium (Feb 17-21)
February 18th -22nd
- Boston Lyric Opera presents Hansel and Gretel at the Faneuil
(Feb 18-22)
Join the Boston Lyric Opera for an interactive performance of Hansel & Gretel.Learn how the Boston Lyric Opera brings the story of an opera to life through music, acting, and movement. In this dynamic, one-hour presentation, two professional singers, a pianist, and a teaching artist engage audiences in this interactive introduction to opera. - Legacy Littles Kids Taco Workshop at Temazcal in Legact Place
(February 19th, 11 AM – 1 PM)
Kids will enjoy a hands-on culinary experience led by Temazcal’s executive chef! - Children’s Winter Festival on Boston Common
(February 19 11 a.m. to 2 p.m)
The free festival is open to all and offers music, dancing, giveaways, winter activities, treats, and crafts. Featured attractions include large inflatable installations such as the All-Star Challenge, Fun House Maze, and Candy Cane Obstacle Course. Children and their caregivers can also enjoy rides on the Trackless Train, the alpine slide, snow throw, and more. LEGO® Discovery Center Boston will be in attendance with seasonal builds and activities with LEGO experts. Enjoy farm fresh milk from New England Dairy’s Mobile Dairy Bar. Try your musical skills at Boston Music - Make Your Own Art at the Museum of Fine Arts (Feb 19-22)
Discover the heart of art during February Vacation Week! All are invited for free activities exploring the connections between art, love, friendship, and care.Group’s instrument ‘petting zoo.’ - Boston Parks Department Softball Hitting & Fielding Clinics
(Feb 20 & 21)
Hitting and Fielding Clinics with UMass Boston Softball Players and Coaches - Maple Sugaring Weekend at Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park
- (Feb 22 & 23 11:00 am – 3:30 pm)
- Park staff and our volunteers will take visitors through the art and science of producing maple syrup including identifying maple trees, tapping trees, gathering sap, and watching syrup being made at the sugar house. Children’s activities include a craft and a Junior Ranger activity.
- Lego Maritime Festival at the USS Constitution Museum
Count down to the Navy’s 250th Birthday by introducing special edition LEGO Kits of USS Constitution, USS Cassin Young, and USS Nantucket! Let your creativity flourish as part of our Ship Shape Challenge!
Ongoing Activities
- Take a walk through history on the Freedom Trail
- Throw tea into the Boston Harbor at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
- Visit Springfield Armory National Historic Site
- Lace up those bowling shoes at Boston Bowl
- Library Fun at the Boston Public Library
- Let’s Go Skating at Devine Rink
- Snowshoeing Safari at Franklin Park
- Ice Skating Party at Steriti Rink
- Let’s Make Art at the ICA
- Go Wild at Franklin Park Zoo
Boston is a city full of history and culture, and with these free activities, you can enjoy a day of adventure without breaking the bank. Whether you’re playing in the park, exploring a library, or walking through history, Boston has plenty to offer families looking for fun and affordable outings.