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Top Free Things To Do with Kids in Boston in January 2026, According to Mommy Poppins Editors

The Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra will perform at the Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration in January 2026. Photo: ©Michael J.Lutch for the BYSO
The Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra will perform at the Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration in January 2026. Photo: ©Michael J.Lutch for the BYSO
12/28/25 - By N Ferreira

Can you believe it’s already 2026? We can barely keep up either. January is the perfect time to hunt down free things to do around Boston, especially after December did a number on our wallets. Bundle up in your coziest hats, scarves, and long underwear and head out to celebrate history, culture, and community. Catch the 250th First Flag Raising in Somerville, take part in the Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration, or ring in tradition at a Japanese New Year Celebration. Cold days, warm vibes, and plenty of reasons to get out of the house.

These are just a few of our favorite things to do in Boston this January—We’re adding more events to our Boston Events Calendar every day.

More Things To Do in Boston This January with Kids

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Get out for free family fun with First Day Hikes in Cape Cod in January 2026. Event photo courtesy of the Barnstable Land Trust.
Get out for free family fun with First Day Hikes in Cape Cod in January 2026. Event photo courtesy of the Barnstable Land Trust.

Fun Free Activities To Do in Boston January 2026

250th First Flag Raising in Somerville

Somerville— FREE
Thursday, January 1, 2026
This year's milestone 250th anniversary expands the traditional military ceremony to reflect better the full diversity of people whose labor, courage, and aspirations shaped the Revolution. READ MORE

First Day Hikes Cape Cod

Various locations across Cape Cod — FREE
Thursday, January 1, 2026
Start the New Year on the right foot (and then the left foot) with an easy hike at a number of locations throughout the Cape. READ MORE

The Enchanted Castle (A Hand Puppet Show)

West Roxbury—FREE
Sunday, January 10, 2026
Meet Godmother Glitter as she protects the Enchanted Castle from the dragon. Enjoy a selection of fun stories and meet all kinds of puppets from a unicorn and a rabbit to a prince and a frog. READ MORE

Japanese New Year Celebration at Bow Market

Somerville— FREE
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Nagomi Bento hosts a Japanese New Year Celebration at Bow Market, featuring traditional food, music, and cultural activities. READ MORE

Russian Folk Tales and Embroidery with Zahra at BPL Copley

Boston— FREE
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Kids and their caregivers will listen to a traditional Russian fairy tale, then do a simple embroidery project together. READ MORE

Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration

Boston— FREE
Monday, January 19, 2026
Celebrate MLK Day and help amplify the bold voices of youth who challenge, inspire, and lead the way toward a more just future. READ MORE

MLK Day Open House at the MFA

Boston— FREE
Monday, January 19, 2026
The MFA once again opens their doors for the annual MLK Day Open House. This year, the MFA offers free admission—including access to “Georgia O’Keeffe and Henry Moore”—for Massachusetts residents. READ MORE

Science Exploration with MIT at BPL Copley

Boston— FREE
Saturday, January 24, 2026
Explore science with the MIT Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Kids will tackle different science questions each month with hands-on learning and demonstrations.  READ MORE

An Exploration of 20th Century Flute Music

Brookline—FREE
Friday, January 23-25, 2026
Enjoy a concert by Brookline Music School faculty member Leah Kosch (piano) and guest artist, Ceora Jaffe (flute) at the Brookline Village Public Library. READ MORE

WinterFEST Newton

Newton—FREE
Sunday, January 25, 2026
This three-day, family-friendly event features ice sculptures, live music, dance, a soup social, art activities, author readings, and other interactive activities at multiple venues across Newton. READ MORE
Take to the slopes in winter 2026! Wachusett Mountain photo courtesy of the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism
Take to the slopes in winter 2026! Wachusett Mountain photo courtesy of the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism

More Fun Things To Do in Boston this Winter

Best Snow Tubing Near Boston for Families in 2026

Find amazing snow tubing within driving distance from Boston! READ MORE

Best Indoor Water Parks in New England for Easy Family Getaways

In any kind of weather, New England indoor water parks mean family fun! READ MORE

10 New England Ski Resorts That Cater to Families

With lessons starting at age 2.5 and plenty of kid-friendly amenities, these New England ski resorts are perfect for family ski trips. READ MORE

Boston Winter Vacation Guide: Best Getaways and Activities for Families

We know where and how to have fun throughout Boston's chilly winters. READ MORE

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